For the last 10 years, the KHS unified track team has given students a place to belong. Though the season has just started, the team has already set their goals for the season. Coach Angie Lovegrove hopes the team can compete well enough to make it out of sectionals.
Junior Macy Rakestraw has competed with the unified track team the last three seasons.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how much our team is going to grow and succeed over the next couple of months,” she said. “It’s always so inspiring to watch my peers and I accomplish new feats together.”
Teammates Dakota Hildman and MJ McColl both agreed that “getting better” is something they’re looking forward to, while Karson Huffman is looking forward “to making connections and making many memories.”
As a captain, Rakestraw wants to be an example for the rest of her team.
“My goal for this season is to display as much positivity and ambition as I can as a captain. I want to be a shining example to the team of what we can accomplish if we work together and work hard,” she said. “I plan to work towards my goal by uplifting not only my teammates but also myself. I will work diligently during our workouts and give 110% at all times. We have a large team so if one person can do their absolute best at all times eventually the whole team will.”
Even though the season is just beginning, Lovegrove enjoyed being able to celebrate the seniors at their first home meet last week. The Kats hosted teams from Western, Twin Lakes and Fishers for a meet.
“Having everyone back out on the track together (was a highlight). It is always amazing to see how much our athletes and partners miss each other from season to season,” Lovegrove said. “Another highlight is how many new faces we welcomed this year.”
For Rakestraw, unified track is about more than winning.
“Unified Track is more than just a sport. It’s a place where people can find positivity and comfort where many find discomfort,” she said. “You won’t find better coaches or teammates on any other team. Everyone there also wants to be there, and they show it. That’s not something I’ve got from a team before.”
The Unified Kats travel to the West Lafayette Invite on Saturday.
