The William Floyd High School boys’ varsity track team has clinched the League I winter track championship. Under the leadership of head coach Ed Noll described the achievement as a “total team effort,” noting that every athlete played a role in securing the overall title.
Not only did the team win the championship but it thoroughly entertained their fans along the way. Social media posts said of the team "Such an exciting meet to watch!", while another fan said, "such an exciting season and ending."
The meet concluded in dramatic fashion and marked the closest finish in league championship history. Trailing by 5.5 points entering the final event, the Colonials needed at least six points, or a third-place finish or better, to capture the championship. They delivered under pressure, finishing third in the 4x800-meter relay to earn the necessary points and claim the league title by just a half point.
William Floyd’s distance runners were instrumental throughout the meet. Vidal Macchia placed third in the two mile and fourth in the 1,000 meters. Holden Lentini and Duncan Mahnken followed with strong performances, finishing second and fourth, respectively, in the 1,600 meters. The Colonials’ sprinters and jumpers also contributed critical points. Zavier Jenkins had an outstanding meet, finishing second in both the 300 meters and the 55 meters, validating his placement among the preseason top 50 runners.
Christian Hobson added significant points with a fourth-place finish in the 55 meters, along with second-place performances in both the long jump and high jump. Temarr Burwell placed third in the high jump, while Isaiah Taylor also scored in the event to further boost the team total. William Floyd earned points in all three relay events, a key factor in securing the championship.
“Winter track is an absolute grind, training outside in the elements and pushing through cold conditions,” said Coach Noll. “The boys stayed focused, worked hard, and did what was necessary to earn this league championship.”
The Colonials now turn their attention to the upcoming county championships and state qualifying meets.