The Baltimore Sun ranked the Maryvale Track and Field team 11th overall in the preseason and the Maryvale Lions proved them wrong by placing second in the IAAM A Conference Championships. The athletes at Maryvale put up a strong fight and it came down to the last race. Maryvale has been a powerhouse team in track and field and in championships they proved this through 17 personal records broken, 15 medals, setting 8 new Maryvale school records, and finishing second place overall with a total of 149 points only coming 12 points behind McDonogh who ultimately won only after a admirable fight by the Lions.
Friday, January 24, at Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex, the Maryvale Lions track and field team came together and showcased their talent and hardwork at championships. The girls competed in every event both on the track and the field and placed top 8 in the majority of the events. The team is a “melting pot” of athletes from all different athletic backgrounds giving the Maryvale team an advantage over the other teams, diversity. Though most of the members of the team don’t hold track and field as their main sport, each and every girl put their hearts and spirits into that second place finish making it an incredibly memorable meet for the lions. Avery Cutair, class of 2025, described the team’s “positive energy and outlook that made the experience special for her.” Avery went into track her senior year and was an influential member of the team. Other teams may have recruited athletes, or specialized facilities but they will never be able to buy the heart that the athletes on Maryvale’s track and field team possess. Friday at championships there were girls finishing in tears, collapsing after races, jumping past their physical limitations, competing in multiple events, and pushing through the pain to succeed. All of that is due to the determination and heart this team has and it’s the main reason why the program is so successful. Those on the team that didn’t compete in championships showed up to support their teammates and friends and they made the atmosphere electric. All throughout the complex Maryvale’s signature red jackets could be spotted and the team dominated in both the competition and in support.
The Lions continue to impress coaches from opposing teams and the team’s hard work, spirit, heart, and loyalty to the program will continue to benefit them and guide them to be champions in future seasons. Coming in second by only 12 points to McDonogh will only aid the team in future successes by motivating them to come out on top next season. This team is optimistic for the outdoor season, and will continue to display their talents, as well as break many more school records in the following seasons.
