As the spring sports season kicks off, Pennridge track and field athletes look forward to another successful season. The Rams have been a dominant program in the Suburban One landscape recently, with the boys losing only one meet in the last six years. The area has come to expect Pennridge to be league champions year in and year out. As they continue their quest for another championship, there are some fresh faces on the track. With longtime men’s coach Bob Hozier retiring, Craig Stephens takes over as head coach. With 135 athletes on the boys and girls rosters combined, there will also surely be some breakout stars.

The team brings great success from the winter indoor track season, with triple jumpers Nick Rosica, a state qualifier, and state champion Jared Hess looking to capitalize off their strong performances. 200-meter state runner-up and Princeton commit Joey Gant, one of the fastest runners in Pennridge history, has a highly anticipated senior campaign ahead. Carter Arnaiz, one of the most athletic jumpers in the state, is also in a good position to receive some championship hardware for the high and long jump. Coach Kevin Wills’ team of jumpers looks to be one of the best in the state. Keep an eye out for the 4×400, 4×800, and throwing teams to make headlines as well. Cael Doster, a runner in the 800 meter, 1500 meter, 3000 meter, and 5000 meter events, shared his thoughts on the culture of the team. “I’m gonna miss the team and the lighthearted nature of high school sports, the jokes, the atmosphere and overall vibe of meet days.” He also acknowledged that being a member of the team is difficult and exhausting, but ultimately fun. This balanced team attitude is certainly a contributor to the constant success of the program. Doster and the rest of the boys’ team will take that winning culture and hope to reach new heights this year.

On the girls’ side, Coach Bill Smith heads a talented program. Pole vaulter and jumper Lauren Knapp, who is committed to Towson University for track, seems poised for success once again. After accomplishing the goal of qualifying for districts last year, she has big goals for her season ahead. As the season approaches, she has taken time to reflect on her career at Pennridge. “It’s bittersweet; I’ve loved the experience and all the amazing people and opportunities that came with it but I’m also excited to start the next chapter and continue on in my journey,” she stated. Look to see her name in the leaderboards this year. The Lady Rams will rely on athletes from several different events to score points for the team this year. Some distance runners to watch for are Ava Pultorak, Nora Ritting, Ashley Landis, Anna Teliska, and Maria Lera-Lozano. Also keep an eye out for sprinter Emma Pyne and distance runner Tori Angelo, who both run hurdles as well. On both the boys and girls teams, there are also several talented freshmen and newcomers who could also make major impacts. Behind good coaching and strong athletes, it seems it will be another banner year for the Pennridge track and field squads.