The Mehlville High School boys track squad  is looking to build upon last season’s success after qualifying for the sectional meet in five different events.

“So many of our 64 team members are in their first season,” coach Mark McNamara said. “So, they have to learn the sport and events and unite as a team.”

McNamara said the goal for this season is for every team member to set new personal records, and earn points in every event at the district meet and qualify at least one event to the state meet. 

Mehlville has 13 runners returning this spring, as well as five new participants.

With the number of returners, along with the new athletes, McNamara has been impressed with the focus of the team early on in practice.

“We are showing focus and energy,” he said. “There is good competition within the team. Kids are having fun and seem happy. All of the  coaches and all team members are in sync.” 

Being in sync early on is important, due to three coaches on the boys’ coaching staff this season. 

McNamara said the strengths of the team should include a little bit of everything.

“Field events, sprints and sprint relays, along with a couple individuals in distance events will be our strengths,” he said. 

As far as what he is hoping to see from his squad this season, McNamara said he will be looking for mental toughness out of his runners and field event participants. 

“It will be important for our athletes to have self-awareness of where each team member can compete best and succeed,” McNamara said. “They will need to take the mental focus and physical effort up a notch, where training is hard and exhausting, but it’s all worth it because of the success it leads to.”