Photo by Kristian Fearon ’25: Athletes setting up their blocks.
By Kristian Fearon ’25
As winter sports approach, so does the indoor track season. Now coached by DHS health teacher Matthew Nicolari, the 2023-24 DHS track team officially started with practices on Nov. 30. New and former athletes are all ready to start the season.
Practices have been mentally and physically challenging but the team is determined and motivated to push through and improve. Coaches and athletes believe the new season has had a great start and are excited for more upcoming events.
Nicolari addresses his plans for the season and how he is feeling about taking over as the new coach. Nicolari states, “I am really excited to take over as the new head coach… I have really high expectations for both the boys and girls and previous head coach Dillugo did a great job getting the track program to where it is today; and my goal is to propel it even further.” Nicolari also went on to say that he wants to see the team compete for state and league championships.
New athletes were interviewed about their overall experience, why they joined the team, and their plans for the indoor season. In an interview, student-athlete Sophia Chajchic ‘27 says, “I joined indoor track because I used to run in middle school and to be ready for the outdoor track season.” Chajchic also spoke about her adjustments to the practices and how she likes the sport so far. She commented, “My plans with this season are to get stronger and faster; I do like indoor track so far, but it can be very hard sometimes, though I am adjusting to the practices more every day.” Chajchic also explained how she will continue to do track in the future.
Student-athlete Malachi Fearon ‘27 was also asked and stated, “I joined track for fun, to stay active and to set goals in the future.’’ Malachi states how practices are very challenging but he is adjusting by making sure he is at practice every day and is working his hardest.
Existing athletes were also asked about their thoughts and plans for the new season. Student-athlete Jaylen Titus ‘25 stated, “I run track because I like running and I like being with my friends; my goals for the season are to make it to the top 10, to make NVLS, be #1 in ‘Class S’ and to make nationals for jumping and sprinting.” Titus also adds on that he enjoys track and sees himself running track in the future. Student-athlete Sebastian Amaya ‘25 was also interviewed. In the interview, Amaya stated, “My goals for this season are to get first in states for pole vaulting, and possibly get top 10 in CT again.’’ After recovering from his injuries Amaya hopes to join the season again.
Overall, the team hopes for the same kind of success Derby track has seen in the past.
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