Jaxson Wanza, a HSE Boys Track and Field Varsity runner that competes in the 200-meter and 400-meter race, has high hopes for this upcoming outdoor season: To win state. 

With the indoor season winding down, the team is preparing for an explosive entrance to the outdoor season, rebounding back after losing a significant number of seniors the previous year.  

“My mindset is just to make a name for us,” Wanza elaborates. “I feel like we have lots of eyes on us since we lost a bunch of seniors. Coming into the first meet, we will make ourselves known again.”  

Personal goals transferring out of indoor into the new season are weighing on their shoulders, Wanza’s personal goals included. Aiming for a personal placement at outdoor state in the 200 M, a PR of breaking 21 seconds, and a team placement. 

Winning is hard, but by being an encouraging leader you can help your teammates to greatness.  

“I encourage my teammates by setting the example of doing the right thing. Having been around the team for three years now, I feel like leading if the best encouragement I can give.” 

Team growth can only come from personal growth, a skill Wanza is working on himself. Endurance and speed, the most important, yet hardest skills to progress in, are at the top of the list for him. Wanza hopes that his training during the indoor track season will transition into better times and placements during the outdoor season. 

The competition is looking fierce, although for Wanza there are only a few competitors that he is looking forward to. 

“The only competition I’m really looking forward to racing is obviously Fishers just because they’re the Mudsock. And then Avon, just because they came out and really showed something at conference.” 

What is Jaxson Wanza most hopeful for this upcoming outdoor season? 

“We win state.”