As the spring season begins, the boys track and field team is entering the year with strong leadership and high expectations. Led by senior captain Jonas Ma, junior captain Jake Matty, and sophomore captain Kellen Reed, the program is predicated on resilience and hard work, all while retaining a tightly-knit culture. 

Ma, a senior sprinter, competes in the 100m, 200m, and 4×1 relay while serving as captain for the second consecutive year. He views his role as one that encompasses both responsibility and an uplifting influence: “To me, being a team captain means I have an added sense of responsibility for my actions. I try to maintain a positive and encouraging attitude to set a good example for the team.” The four-year sprinter believes his biggest responsibility is to ensure that every track and field athlete is putting his best foot forward and offering maximal effort. 

Matty, who also runs in the 100m, 200m, and 4×1 relay alongside Ma, shares a similar mindset regarding his leadership role. “I am honored and blessed to be the captain of this amazing, talented group of kids,” the junior sprinter said. Reflecting on his own experience as an athlete, he added, “My role models helped me grow significantly, so I strive to do the same thing to these kids.” Jake hopes to build a team culture focused on “family and drive,” where the team can work hard while feeling supported and encouraged. 

Reed, the sophomore captain, serves as the team’s long-distance leader, helping spearhead endurance workouts and setting the pace for the distance group. Even as a younger captain, he leads by example through consistent effort and commitment at practice.  

  As a whole, the team features a strong mix of upperclassmen in leadership roles and promising underclassmen who continue to grow in experience. Early practices have emphasized conditioning, explosive sprint work, and plyometrics, with these improvements expected to make a profound difference in the long run through daily determination and effort. 

With eyes set on district and state competitions, the focus remains on steady improvement and team unity. If the resilient effort and uplifting positivity that have been evident in the beginning weeks of the season continue throughout the spring, the DC boys track and field team is positioned for a highly successful season.