Spring has come, signaling the start of spring sports at Lincoln High School. Among these sports, the Lincoln High School boys track team has already begun to make a name for themselves. Under the guidance of returning coach Corey Gaskell, the team has already looked like their mid-season form at the first two dual meets. Showcasing their talent at the first co-ed meet, placing 2nd in the 4×100 beating division rival Cumberland. I observed several standout runners, including Samuel Rodrigues, Jayden Rodrigues, Finley Stebenne, Reed Fortier and Conor Johnson . Samuel Rodrigues delivered an impressive performance in the 800 meter race, finishing 2nd in his heat and 2nd overall with a time of 2:08.8. In the 4×100 meter dash, Jayden Rodrigues and Finley Stebenne led the Lions to a second-place finish with an outstanding time of 47.8 seconds. Additionally, Reed Fortier took the audience by storm with his exceptional sprinting in the 200-meter dash, securing second place in his heat and second place overall with a time of 26 seconds. Lastly, Conor Johnson showcased his skills in the boys 800 meter race placing fourth in his heat and fourth overall with a time of 2:17.3.
What Obstacles Stand In Lincoln’s Way?
It can be confidently stated that Lincoln is undoubtedly one of the most skilled and well rounded teams in the state. However, are there any challenges that may hinder their path to success? The response to this question is yes. When asked about their toughest opponent this season, star runner Samuel Rodrigues expressed “ I think that our toughest opponent this season will definitely be Cumberland, they have some of the most skillful and strategic runners in the state, it’s always a fight against them”. I then later asked him what he believes this year’s outdoor team’s biggest weakness is, he replied “ I haven’t really noticed any weaknesses with this year’s team, everyone always gives 110 percent at practice and always tries their best in meets… I would say our only real weakness is the size of our team, we have a very small team which makes it harder for us to score points during dual meets’ ‘.
What are Lincoln’s Strengths?
Despite having to face challenges on their journey to success, there is no question that Lincoln possesses several strengths that will lead them forward. Among these strengths, one notable aspect is the presence of superstar runner Jayden Rodrigues, who is considered one of the top sprinters in the state. In the second dual meet of the season, Rodrigues secured a first place finish in his heat and first overall winning the boys 100 meter dash with an outstanding time of 11.5 seconds. Lincoln’s exceptional 4×400 team also showcased their prowess, securing 1st in their heat and 1st overall. The team, led by Finley Stebenne, Conor Johnson, Samuel Rodrigues and Reed Fortier demonstrated their outstanding skills. When asking returning head coach Corey Gaskol this year’s team greatest strength, he said “ I would say this year’s team’s biggest strength is the friendships the runners have with one another, everyone here gets along really well with one another and helps each other which is a big boost for the team.” I then spoke with star runner Finley Stebenne on what he felt like what was different about this years outdoor team than last years he replied, “ I would say the amount of improvement is the biggest difference from last year, we have so many runners that are so much better and have improved so much since last year”. It can be confidently stated that the collective bond among the runners of Lincoln’s team will guide them towards achieving success.
What’s Next for Lincoln?
It is safe to say that Lincoln’s team this year is quite impressive, but what is next for them may you ask? Lincoln has a lot of young talent on this year’s team that will steer them to success for years to come. Lincoln has two very talented freshmen by the names of Connor Giguere and George Ackerman, both have been performing very solid through the first couple of meets. Giguere participated in the 100 meter dash at the first two dual meets, running a 12.4 at Dual meet one and a 12.3 at dual meet 2, and he’s just a freshman! Ackerman also had a standout performance for a freshman running a 10: 47. 9 minutes 3000, and he’s only gonna get better. It is safe to say these youngsters will lead Lincoln to success for many years to come.
