By Shaun Rabot

Staff Writer

    The UC High Track and Field Team has made their return to the track in order to prepare for a pandemic-affected season by following numerous health and safety guidelines.

  According to a youth sports website, “The CIF has determined, in collaboration with our 10 Sections, that education-based athletics for the 2020-2021 season will begin with a modified season of sport schedule. It is anticipated that most Section start dates will commence in December 2020 or January 2021” (ncasports.org). With this announcement, track and field was allowed to return.

    Special protocols have been put in place to ensure the safety of the community and everyone involved. The UC High athletics website released a statement that said, “Athletic participation will require completed athletic clearance and a hard copy of the daily COVID-19 checklist or completed clearpass. If an athlete tests positive for COVID-19, they will need a medical referral form filled out by a doctor prior to returning to practice” (uchscenturions.com).

   Everyone has been working their hardest to ensure everyone’s safety during practice. Senior Wesley Clarkson said, “We wear masks, social distance, and fill out a survey everyday to make sure that everyone is healthy enough to run.” Clarkson continued, “No sacrifice is too great when it comes to our safety. Even though protocols can get in the way of training, we all follow every rule.” Senior Carson Troung said, “Although our practices are shorter and different compared to last year, I feel confident about our upcoming meets.”

    Clarkson shared, “Hearing the announcement that we would be allowed to return was a massive weight off of my shoulders…[I’ve] worked hard for everything and I am finally able to see the fruits of my labor.” Junior Colin Banta is just as excited and cannot wait for competitions to start. He said, “I feel incredible about this upcoming season. I am excited because of how hard the whole team has been working. We have been waiting for the season to start for a long time and it has finally come.”

   Regarding the team’s ambitions this season, Clarkson said, “Our goal is to win League. Last season, we were the favorites to win but unfortunately the season was cut short due to COVID-19. This year, I feel great. I am confident in our team and feel safe during practices.” Troung added, “Everyone is all in for this season. We are fully committed and ready to give it our all and get the best possible results.”

   Troung said, “In order to stay in shape for this season, I have gone out to play basketball. It kept my body ready so that when I came back I was feeling good and not out of shape. Everyone had to work out and stay fit alone which was a big challenge, but it paid off and we will see if we get rewarded for our hard work.”