With the 2024 track and field season approaching, the Talawanda High School Boys and Girls Track & Field teams seek to expand upon last year’s success with an eye toward breaking school records and state qualification. With a number of graduating seniors to replace, the coaching staff looks to not only restock the roster but also improve team culture and mindset.
Second-year head coach Brad Hoblitzell has brought in new assistant coaches to help focus on growing his athletes as leaders and runners.
“I want the kids to be happy and healthy…it’s about watching kids achieve things, and that looks different kid to kid,” said Hoblitzell.
Girls’ team aims to “run” away with the SWOC title once again
The girls’ team captured Talawanda’s sixth consecutive SWOC conference title in 2023. A talented group of returning athletes are now ready to defend the championship.
Returning distance runner Lucia Rodbro placed first in the 1600-meter and 3200-meter runs in 2023, qualifying for the state championship. Robro’s fall training included a SWOC season best in cross country at the 2023 district meet. Sophomore teammate Adriana Luking had a breakout 2023 season in the 1600 meters, qualifying for the state finals.
In field events, the team’s best thrower, Hannah Hoblitzell, graduated last year. Hoblitzell finished the season with the third longest conference throw in the shot put (34′ 04.00”).
All-around event athlete Olivia Andrews has been training year-round for her senior season with hopes of competing at the collegiate level. Andrews posted the seventh best conference time in the 100-meter dash as a junior (13.45).
“I lead by example, I’m close with the [Hoblitzell] family. I know what to expect and what they’re looking for…one step at a time. Anything that’s good for you is good for everybody,” Andrews said.
Boys’ team looking for leadership
Talawanda’s boys’ track and field team finished the 2023 season in second place in the SWOC. The team is now challenged with replacing a number of graduates who led the team last year, including sprinter Logan Howard who recorded the fastest SWOC team in the 100-meter dash (10.88).
With only a handful of seniors this year, junior Clayton Bennett has an opportunity to help lead the Brave boys.
“I wanted to improve myself and watch other people improve themselves,” said Bennett.
Bennett saw action during the 2023 season, including a shot put throw of 34 ‘08.00, 14th longest of the season in the SWOC.
Returning distance runners, including sophomore Garrison Franks, who qualified for the regional finals in 2023, look to pace the team on the track.
Culture change
As the team approaches the upcoming season, Hoblitzell sees it as an opportunity to instill a more inclusive and supportive culture.
“I want more than anything to be happy and healthy. Who knows where we’ll end up? I want to win more than anybody, but more than anything, I want to see growth,” said Hoblitzell.
The Wildcat Opener is the season’s first competition on March 23, at SWOC rival Harrison High School. Talawanda will host its only home meet, the Dale Plank Invitational, on April 16.
