Men’s and Women’s Track and Field have increasingly depended on individuality in their past seasons. Ten Gustie women and three men were part of the Winter-Spring Academic All-Conference Team last season. With the loss of 16 seniors last year, the season, so far, has not been shaping up to their standards.

“Our numbers are down a bit, we have a smaller team this year. We have many returners who we are hoping to get some points out of, as well as newcomers,” Track and Field Coach Dale Bahr said.

The track and field staff are still recruiting interested runners in the areas of sprinting and jumping events. They are strong in long distance events and shot-put.

“We have some strong throwers who are returning this year. Sam Fischer, Jesse Scheiterlein, Alex Logan, Nick Carlson. They should all do well.”—Coach Dale Bahr

Senior Leighton Becher competes in the 3,000 meters, 5,000 meters, and the mile run.

“The biggest things for me this year are learning how to be a leader, going out there and working hard everyday, and setting a good example for the newcomers. Working hard for yourself, having it all pay off, is what they instill in the track program,” Becher said.

This season, Gustavus track and field is feeling the void left by last years seniors, but is sure to bring back points with the the season heading towards them.

“We have some strong throwers who are returning this year. Sam Fischer, Jesse Scheiterlein, Alex Logan, Nick Carlson…They should all do well. With the loss of the senior class, talent can always be replaced. I have no doubt that veterans and newcomers will do exceptionally well,” Bahr said.

Sophomore Will Neuenfeldt  finished in tenth out of twenty-four at Saint John’s Invitational meet in the shot-put event. Senior Jesse Scheiterlein finished second out of twenty-seven in the weight-throwing event. The statistics show much individuality within the field events area, but the track team hopes to see better results in the sprinting area.

Coach Craig First who works primarily with sprinters, multi-eventers and relays says, “Last year in certain areas, we didn’t have the depth we wanted to but the people who were in that area stepped up and performed well. I think this year we are in a similar position where some people really have to step up to get us those points.”

Although the Gustavus track team will not be hosting a meet until the outdoors season has come into full effect, the support of Gustavus students, staff, and family members is highly recommended. Supporters make a big difference and enhance performances. Their next meet will be held in Saint Paul at Macalester, today, Feb. 27. The home meet is on April 11.

-Jessica Yang