Shady Side Academy boys track has high hopes

By: HSSN Staff
Monday, March 26, 2018 | 4:39 PM

Last spring, the Shady Side Academy boys track team finished with a 5-4 mark and did not qualify for the WPIAL playoffs. Despite losing distance runner Gannon Leech and sprinter Brian Foster to graduation, coach Adam Janosko enters the season optimistic.

“I am optimistic that this group can come together and win some key meets,” Janosko said. “I am looking forward to another winning season.”

Key returnees include junior Michael “Dino” Tomlin (300-meter hurdles, 110 high hurdles, 100M), sophomore Mason Tomlin (long jump, triple jump), junior Leo Liu (1,600 and 3,200), seniors Alex Stabile (400, 1,600), Garrett Cleveland (800 and 1,600), Derek Wu (shotput, discus), Zeke Roberts (long jump, high jump, triple jump) and Nathan Boyd (pole vault) along with junior Brendan Gaffney (100M, 200M).

Promising newcomers are junior Skyy Moore (100M, 200M, 400 M), sophomore Drew Fergus (800 and 1,600) and freshman Adam Lauer (1,600 and 3,200).

“Our distance squad is always solid,” Janosko said. “With Dino hurdling, we should get plenty of first-place finishes in those races if he can stay healthy.

“I'm a bit concerned about throwing due to lack of athletes, but I know my captains have been recruiting some athletes who can make a splash in the throwing events.”

Janosko feels Freeport again will be a tough foe.

“They are always strong. They are certainly the team to beat.”

Marty Stewart is a freelance writer.

Tags: Shady Side Academy