This past weekend, the boys’ track and field team competed in the highly anticipated Harold Scott Invitational at Lincoln High School, where they faced off against some of the region’s top contenders. With strong individual performances across multiple events, the team showcased their depth, resilience, and athletic ability, ultimately securing a third-place finish overall. The meet featured tough competition from powerhouse programs, but the Warriors held their own, displaying grit and growth in nearly every event. Several athletes turned in standout performances, contributing valuable points to the team total and showing their readiness for the challenges ahead. The result marked a solid showing for the team, underscoring their potential as they move further into the season and set their sights on the postseason.
On the track, the sprint group continued to deliver consistent results. Senior Keynan Cotton led the way in the 100-meter dash, earning a 4th place finish against a stacked field of sprinters. Cotton, a veteran presence on the team, continues to be a leader both on and off the track. Freshman Will Urosevich had a breakout performance, placing 2nd in the 200-meter dash and following it up with a 3rd place finish in the 400-meter. His versatility and poise under pressure have been a major asset for the team this season, as he continues to rise to the occasion in big moments. Senior Ryan Kugler added to the team’s scoring in the distance events, placing 3rd in the 1600-meter run. Kugler’s steady improvement throughout the year has been key to the team’s depth in middle-distance races.
The relay teams also made their mark at the Harold Scott Invitational. The 4×100 relay team, composed of Tay Tay Jenkins, Keynan Cotton, Maurice Purify, and Bryson Williams, delivered one of the meet’s most exciting races, earning a 2nd place finish with sharp handoffs and strong anchor speed. Their chemistry continues to develop with each meet, giving the Warriors a dangerous sprint relay team heading into the latter part of the season.
In the field events, the throwers delivered one of their strongest performances to date. Junior Owen James earned 3rd place in shot put, showcasing his power and technical growth after missing the early part of the season due to injury.
“It’s been great,” James said. “Having to sit out at the start was pretty hard on me as I love to compete, so just being able to go out and compete against others has felt really good.”
Although he was satisfied with his placement, James has higher expectations for himself.
“The third place finish at the last meet was a solid performance, but I’m confident I’ll be able to keep improving and hopefully finish higher in meets to come,” James said.
He’s been locked in on fine-tuning his technique.
“I’m just trying to find one thing to perfect and run with it. Right now it’s staying closed off in the middle of my throw and really exploding through my hip. If I can get those things down, I believe I can really improve my PR,” James said.
Junior Hudson Mead also made an impact, placing 3rd in discus with a strong series of throws that demonstrated both power and control. Mead has been a consistent contributor in the throws this season and continues to make gains with each meet. Senior Connor Wane rounded out the throwers’ success by placing 5th in shot put, adding valuable points to the team total while showcasing the kind of experience and technique that only come with years of competition. The throwers’ performance was crucial in helping the Warriors secure their team placement, and their continued development will be important moving forward.
In the jumping events, the Warriors had several athletes step up. Junior Ryker Jensen delivered a strong effort in the high jump, finishing 5th and narrowly missing the podium. His consistency in the event has made him a reliable scorer throughout the season. Junior Maurice Purify, showcased his athleticism in the long jump with a 4th place finish, continuing to build on his strong all-around track resume. Senior Davin Wang earned 4th in pole vault, adding another important scoring result for the team. Together, the jumpers contributed essential points that helped round out the team’s third-place finish.
The Warriors now shift their focus to the upcoming Metro Conference meet at Burke High School, where they will once again face off against tough competition from across the Omaha area. The Metro meet is always one of the most competitive events of the season, and the team is preparing for another high-stakes opportunity to showcase their talent. With momentum building from their recent strong showings, the athletes and coaches alike are aiming to carry that energy forward. The team will be looking to sharpen their techniques, improve seed times, and compete for top spots in both individual and relay events. The Metro Conference meet will not only be a test of performance but also a chance to fine-tune strategies before heading into the final stretch of the season. With confidence growing and performances trending upward, the Warriors are ready to embrace the challenge and continue their pursuit of excellence.