Indy Star

 

By Nat Newell

 

The Hamilton Southeastern High School girls track and field team's success could hinge on some unusual events.

Like drawing.

"We're having poster parties where the girls make posters to hang on each others' lockers and doing other team-building exercises," said coach Julie Alano, whose roster includes a number of talented seniors and freshmen. "We're trying to help them get to know each other.

"It's difficult (with the difference in age), especially when freshmen are beating out seniors. It's been kind of stressful."

Alano believes the roster includes the talent to post the program's first- top-five finish at the state meet -- the Royals never have been in the top 10 -- in the more traditional track events if it can master its chemistry.

The seniors are led by Indiana University recruit Portia Bailey, who placed second in the 100-meter hurdles, seventh in the 100 and qualified for the 300 hurdles in last season's state meet. Kara Kinsley (high jump), Paige Smith (shot) and Jackie Lauer (pole vault) also qualified for the 2008 state meet. Classmates Brittany Lonberger (400) and Jessica Postlewaite (distance) also contribute.

The freshman class includes four athletes having an immediate effect: Allison Grace (400), Mallory Slyder (200), Jordan Tatom (800) and Brittany Wells (sprints). Sophomores Valerie Keller (high jump) and Walker (sprints), a transfer from Lawrence North, show potential.

Depth should make the relay teams more competitive against elite teams. Freshman distance runner Brooke Morgan also will be a contributor after she addresses a fainting condition.

"We'd like to win a few more dual meets," said Alano, whose team already has beaten No. 2 North Central in a three-way meet that also included No. 1 Warren Central. "I think we have the elite athletes to be in the top five (of state) with Portia and the freshmen. We've got a great combination of seniors and freshmen."