Franklin Central High School’s Girls Track and Field team is kicking off the season with a strong sense of unity, determination and growing confidence. Through early practices and meets, athletes are already showing that teamwork and perseverance are at the heart of their success.

For many runners, the experience goes beyond just experience. Freshman Simer Dhillon, a 4-year track runner, shared that her favorite part about being on the team is, “Building new friendships and learning new things.” Although track seems like an individual sport, Dhillon emphasizes the importance of team support, explaining that teammates, “push each other at practice and cheer each other on.”

This support is especially important as athletes face the pressure of competition. Dhillon admitted that she was “Very scared and nervous.” during her first meets and still experiences this before races. Despite this, she continues on with the support of her teammates and has described herself and her team in one word, “resilient.” a quality that  reflects her determination to grow throughout the season. 

Freshman Lisa Frederick, who competes in long jump and high jump, brings a slightly different perspective as someone newer to the sport. Frederick said that she started track after running in gym class and being encouraged to join track. While she has not yet competed in a meet, she is already already setting goals and developing her skills. 

Frederic also highlighted the importance of preparation and mindset, she explained that before meets she plans to get plenty of sleep, eat well and stay hydrated while also focusing on her confidence. Like her teammates, she values positivity, saying she expects others, “to cheer us on,” and believes being supportive and staying positive are key qualities for success on the teams.

Even as a newcomer, Frederic is optimistic about the season. She expressed excitement about trying a new sport and improving over time, adding that she looks forward to seeing how far she could go by her senior year. She also showed confidence in the team as a whole, saying they could, “definitely break school records this year.”

As the season progresses, Franklin Central’s Girls Track and Field team continues to build a foundation rooted in teamwork, positivity, and resilience. With strong bonds between teammates and a shared commitment to improvement, the group is setting the tone for a promising and successful season. Good luck to the girls track and wild team and go Flashes!