The winter season is a little slower than the fall season, as Old Rochester offers less athletic options in the winter. Some athletes who are not dedicated to basketball, swimming, or hockey decide to choose indoor track as a means to stay in shape between the fall and spring seasons. This boost of athletes is one of the key advantages for the boys’ and girls’ track teams.
Both the boys and girls have a lot to live up to this season, as they each won their respective SCC championship titles last year. With nearly 50 athletes apiece, the boys’ and girls’ teams are stacked with talented runners, throwers and jumpers.
The boys, coached by Bill Tilden, bring back several experienced athletes. Senior Aaron Holick will most likely be the top shot-putter for the Bulldogs, and junior Mike Wyman will lead the distance runners. Sprinters Dan Donahue and Colin Knapton will be key components for the Bulldogs, with Knapton also high-jumping and Donahue throwing shot put. There are also several new prospects, including freshman Darien Dumond, who will most likely be a sprinter. Captain Fred Murolo commented on the team’s goals for the winter season.
“We want to be undefeated SCC champs again, but we’d also like to place in the top three at states,” said Murolo.
The girls’ team is just as stacked with talent, the most obvious being hurdler Ally Saccone. Saccone placed 5th in all of New England last year, and she will provide many points for the girls’ team. Sprinters Hannah Walsh and Arden Goguen will also provide speed for the Bulldogs, and thrower Abby Robinson and high-jumper Paige Santos will provide points in the field events. Junior Morgan DaSilva will also be a key as a mid-distance runner for the Lady Bulldogs. Coach Cindy Tilden commented on the strengths of her team, and potential challenges they will face.
“We have some strong, athletic freshmen and sophomores,” said Tilden. “Dighton-Rehoboth and Apponequet will be our biggest threats, but I think we have a really good team. Our goal as a team is to have a strong, successful season.”
The boys and girls kick off their track season with a meet against Case and Bourne at GNB Voc-Tech on Saturday, December 8 at 9:30 am.
By Michael Kassabian