Staff Writer
If the Springfield College women’s track and field team dominating their first meet is an indication as to where things are headed, then the 2011 indoor season could be one to remember. However, a quirky schedule will not allow the team to carry any momentum into their next meet, not for a long while anyways.
The Pride’s next meet is not until January 21, meaning it will be up to the team as individuals to stay in shape over winter break. Coach Jim Pennington is not a fan of the long layoff and knows in order to succeed Springfield must come back from their long vacation in shape.
“It’s a shame we don’t have another meet,” said Pennington. “It’s going to be five weeks that we don’t get to see the kids for practice. We’re the only team that has to do that.”
Despite that bump in the road, Pennington is looking forward to the rest of the season and has some goals in mind he would like to see met.
“We obviously would like to get as many kids qualified for championships as we can and a few to nationals. Finishing in the top five in New England is a goal every year, and it might be a challenge this year but it might not be.”
When the time comes, the Pride figure to be well represented in both the Division III championships and at nationals.
In senior co-captain Kelly Curtis (pentathlon) and freshman Amanda Martin (triple jump/long jump), Pennington believes he has two national-caliber athletes. He believes the 4×4 100-meter relay team also has what it takes to make it to nationals as well.
Others being looked upon to play big roles are senior co-captain Michelle Mirti (middle distance) and senior sprinter Katie Schumann. Also, juniors Laurie Jenkins, Crystal Davis (sprints), Colleen Brague (weight throw) and senior Michelle Angelo (shot put) will hope to lead the Pride to success.