Launching into Westmont College’s 2024 track and field season, athletes have dedicated the fall semester to rigorous preparation. Both the men’s and the women’s teams are setting the stage for rapid strides, impressive speeds and unforgettable moments that promise a lasting impact.
Anticipating the hurdles of heightened competition in Division II this season, the journey is not only marked by a shift in competitive landscapes but also characterized by a series of positive transformations for the team.
From recovery focused regimens to mindset enhancement, track and field coaches Derek Masterson and Russell Smelley are leaving no stone unturned. The ongoing spring season places a significant emphasis on mobility and dynamic training, ensuring that athletes can push their limits in training while maintaining optimal health and well-being.
The overarching goal is not only personal excellence but also fostering a stronger sense of unity within the team. As the competition intensifies, athletes are working collaboratively to elevate the entire team’s performance. The team collectively strides to become a closely-knit community where senior members serve as illuminators, setting positive examples and contributing to a culture of encouragement. One senior heptathlete, Sonja Sween, remarks on her experience of team bonding. “I really enjoy that the first ten minutes of each practice is dedicated to team-building exercises such as walks and talks or pods,” Sween shared. “It helps me meet with other parts of the team I don’t practice alongside.”
As the upcoming season unfolds, there are some large names to look out for. Narindra Rafidimalala, who previously represented the Madagascar national team, is approaching his senior season with Westmont College. Alongside him, Zola Sokhela is also wrapping up his college career this semester, aiming to add to his collection of 11 NAIA All-American Honors.
In this last stretch before the season officially starts, track and field athletes jitter with excitement to showcase the skills they have been fostering all year long. The addition of promising talents like Gabe KaBorin, Miriam Griffin and Noella Breytenbach, adds an exciting and fresh dimension to the team, promising a captivating spectacle for spectators to watch out for.
As Westmont’s 2024 track and field season commences, the stage is set for a semester of dedication and unity. From seasoned athletes leaving an indelible mark to the exciting contributions of new talents, each race and jump promises unparalleled achievements.
Join us on Feb. 9 and 10 to witness this journey unfold on our home turf, as we celebrate a season of triumphs, personal bests and the unwavering spirit that defines Westmont’s legacy in athletics.
