NTL TRACK & FIELD: IN MIDST OF PROGRAM REBUILD, SAYRE HAS SOME BRIGHT SPOTS IN 2025 (2025-04-01)

Valley Sports Report
ATHENS — Numbers are on the rise for the boys team, but the girls numbers remain low for the Sayre track & field team as the 2025 season begins to hit high gear.

The Redskins have 15 boys in uniform, and five girls.

"We had a couple seniors bag it on us, so that's disappointing," said Sayre coach John Stevens. "Now, we just have to hope the 15 we have stick with us.

"I was hoping to have a couple relays, and right now we'll have a 4-by-8 and a 4-by-1, and we might even have a 4-by-4.

"Obviously, we don't have enough girls to do anything but concentrate on their individual events," he added.

Stevens said he's struggled to get kids out, but said the future is bright.

"It's been a struggle to get kids out. I've been walking the halls, and just haven't had a lot of luck.

"We do have some good junior high kids coming up through," he noted. "I think in a couple years we'll be alright.

"Like I told (assistant coach) Matt (Bryan), it took me 10 years to become an 'overnight sensation' at SRU," laughed Stevens. "It's going to take us about five years to turn this around."

This year, Stevens believes he has a number of athletes to keep an eye on, including state qualifier Marco Quiros, and District 4 medal-winner Rose Shikanga.

"Obviously, Marco (Quiros) and Rose (Shikanga) have shown what they can do, and I expect a lot out of them this year.

"Dante (Rubeck) is coming along,' he said. "He should help our 4-by-8.

"I think Hudson (Malanoski) is also one to keep an eye on," added Stevens. "I think he will improve in every event this year."

Stevens believes his creation of an indoor track & field team will also benefit the spring program.

"We had a decent turnout for our indoor team, and with a little luck, I'm hoping we'll become a certified sport next year," he said.

"Glenn VanBenthuysen began this season running what he did last year, and that's a benefit of having an indoor team.

"Glenn had a good season last year, and I think he'll be even better this year," added Stevens.

Sayre runs at Troy today in a tri-meet that also includes Northeast Bradford.



Print Friendly Version