Past, Present, and Future of WESS Track

The spring athletic season is approaching, and so is the opportunity to get involved with one of WESS’s founding sports teams: Track and Field! Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned runner, the WESS track team offers an environment for runners of all levels to thrive. Here is why you should check out the team and make your mark on the track this season!

Standout Athletes and Must-See Events

The distance events are looking to be competitive on the track this spring, “on the boys' side, we have Thomas, Julian, Declan, and Jack in the longer distances. On the girls' side, Jordan, Avery Leibowitz, Avery Fury, and Nora are really strong,” says Coach Robert Dice. The standout athletes on the boys’ side have made their mark on the Armory track this winter season by qualifying for cities with their 4x800 relay, as well as Thomas qualifying for cities in the 1000, Julian in the 600, and Jack in the 3200.  On the girls’ side, they were ready for the 4x800 after qualifying for boroughs, and Jordan qualified for the 1000m and 1500m in city championships.

But distance isn't the only place where athletes shine! Sprint events are on the rise, and the team has “some strong sprinters as well…people like Antonio and Sasha” according to Robert. The team is also looking to strengthen its field events, notably hurdles, long jump, triple jump, and shot put, allowing athletes to compete in the “field” part of Track and Field! 

However, juniors and seniors are not the only grades where athletes shine. There are also some new athletes such as Vaughn Liss, Noah Katz, Camilla Spillman, and Celine Lukose. Vaughn, Noah, and Camilla were standout athletes during Cross Country and Winter Track. Celine, a freshman, is a new addition to the sprinter roster, is making excellent progress in the 300. We are excited to see what’s in store for them in coming seasons on WESS track and what they will bring to the team.

All are Welcome: No Experience Needed

Are you a new runner? No problem! One of the best things about joining this team is that no experience is necessary. Runners of all levels are welcome, and with personalized plans, you can succeed in sprints or distance. The supportive environment allows anyone to gain confidence and skills to excel on the track. 

Champions: Legacy of WESS Track

The WESS Track team has achieved incredible success in the six years since its founding, growing from six athletes to over 40. Robert emphasizes how he’s led the team to become “CPSAL champions in cross country for boys and girls, three years in a row… [with] near-perfect scores pretty much every championship.” More recently, the boys' team outscored other big schools from around the city at the Donald Douglas games.

The team constantly competes against top-tier schools such as Bronx Science, Stuyvesant, and Hunter. These schools have decades of track history, and their defeats attest to WESS’s success in such a short period of time. 

Lasting Friendships: On and Off the Track

What sets this team apart isn't just the medals and titles. It's the community that has been built. This team is said to have “amazingly positive team chemistry.” This atmosphere has been created by lasting traditions of bonding over team dinners and making lasting friendships in practice. 

This energy really shines through in team relays and the supportive atmosphere at meets. From cheering on teammates and pushing each other toward excellence, athletes of all levels come together to form this team spirit and positive energy. 

The Outdoor Track Experience

Track is the perfect way to get involved with spring sports as the weather warms and the outdoor season brings on new scenery.  Coach Robert says, “The nice thing about outdoor track is you get to be outside when the weather’s great… We get to go to cool meets in the Hudson Valley, Long Island, and even Icahn Stadium, where professional athletes compete.”

The perk of outdoor track is that the meets are generally shorter, accommodating for athletes' busy schedules. Coach Robert supports athletes when it comes to managing academics, other sports, and athletic goals.  Spring track allows you to challenge yourself and your teammates and enjoy sunny weather all at once!

Join the Journey

The track is more than just running–it's about dedication, teamwork, and pursuing personal growth on and off the track. “I’m proud of our athletes, no matter where they are on their running journey. They always strive to meet their goals and support each other,” says Coach Robert. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a beginner, you will find that you will be supported and uplifted, and your achievements will be celebrated when you join. You will find that with the team's values of “accountability, humility, and sacrifice,” you will grow as an athlete and a person.

Ready to start your journey?  Join WESS Track and Field this spring and make your mark on the track!

For any questions or concerns,

Email Robert Dice: robert@westendsecondary.com or visit him in 307!