April 15, 2024
By Emily Reed
Editor-in-Chief
The girls track and field team began its season with wins at home against North Arlington and Secaucus High School on April 5.
Senior pole vaulter Kayla Turano, who has been on varsity since her sophomore year, said she expects the team to set new personal records this season.
She said the athletes prepared for their first meet by practicing six times a week.
“It can be rough, especially with having practice right after a long school day, but these athletes are motivated and work hard every practice to the best of their abilities,” Turano said.
She said she was especially looking forward to the Aviator Relay Meet at the Hasbrouck Heights Football Field on April 12.
“It is one of the bigger meets, and I always have good memories from this meet,” Turano said.
Senior Julia Tozduman, who has been on varsity since her freshman year, competes in high jump, long jump and triple jump. Tozduman said she enjoys these events because they are challenging.
“I love how different these events are and that they require different types of skills. They require speed, coordination and drive,” Tozduman said.
“It is nice to get to know other people and hear about what track is like for them.”
In the fall, Tozduman will continue her track career as a Division I athlete at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut.
She said she is ready to compete this season.
“My personal goals are to feel confident and strong running down the runway or in any of the events that I do,” Tozduman said.
Senior Samantha Cardo, who joined varsity last year, competes in discus and shot put. She said she is especially looking forward to the home meets.
“Since there are not as many people at home meets and it is not too chaotic, I tend to have conversations with the other teams,” Cardo said. “It is nice to get to know other people and hear about what track is like for them.”
Cardo said the season opener was important because it allowed the athletes to assess their abilities.
“The first meet always gives us an idea of where we are starting [and] where we can improve so that we can work more on that during practice,” said Cardo.
