Every spring, when the track heats up underfoot, one meet stands above the rest in Hamilton County: Mudsock.
For the athletes of Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers High School, this isn’t just another dual meet, it’s the defining moment of their season.
“The Energy is so fun,” said Junior Ava Kashani. “You can feel the adrenaline as soon as you walk into the stadium.”
The annual girls and boys track and field showdown between the Royals and the Tigers draws crowds, intense competition, and lifelong memories. From sprint relays to long-distance events, every race feels a little faster, every cheer a little louder.
“The atmosphere is different, so I have to mentally prepare more than I do for other meets” said Sophomore, Zachary Christopherson. “There’s pressure, sure, but it pushes us to be the best”
Coaches and athletes both know that the Mudsock has a mental edge.
“There’s something about this meet that makes you want to focus more,” said Junior Kallen Hoeft. “I want to beat the red school”
But despite the nerves and noise, the Mudsock meet is about more than points or medals. It’s about tradition. About community. About coming together under the lights to show what months of hard work can do.
For many seniors, it’s a final chance to run in front of the biggest crowd of their high school careers. For underclassmen, it’s a taste of something they’ll chase in seasons to come.
The Memories it what stick with most of the athletes. Especially ones of winning Mudsock.
Senior Tyler Tholen says, “My favorite memory was winning the 4 by 400 my sophomore year.”
From the track events short and long distance to the field events winning means even more at mudsock.
Similarly Senior Pole Vaulter, Olivia Maynard said “Freshman year I got first place.”
At the end of the day the rivalry of the Mudsock track and field meet reminds us of all what makes high school athletics unforgettable. And the little things are truly unforgettable.
“My favorite part is the bus ride back after the meet,” said Junior Riley Williams. “We all then take a team trip to Canes after we are back.”
