Despite a shortened winter season, the members of the girl’s indoor track team still managed to compile an impressive resume of results this year, none more so than Cassidy Weimer. Weimer, a junior and three season varsity runner had a break out winter campaign this year. After claiming 2nd Place at the Central Jersey Group III Sectional Meet and 5th at Group III Meet, Cassidy went on to be South’s only athlete to compete in the Meet of Champions this year. At the MOC, Cassidy ran her fastest time of the year, completing the 3200 meter event in 11:16, which earned her 14th place in the state of New Jersey. These times also earned Cassidy South’s MVP award, as senior Sharon Kim took home the Coaches Award.
Cassidy was also part of the girl’s 4×800 meter relay team, which was ranked 13th in the nation in mid January. The team’s unparalleled success came after winning the Varsity Classic Meet in January, with a time that put them in the rankings on the national level. While Weimer ran anchor for this relay team, junior Briana Haspel, sophomore Sylvie Evarts, and senior Laura Watters were all essential components of this relay group. This same relay team will hope to achieve similar success as they take to the track for the outdoor season, with their first big test coming in April, when the girls will compete in the Penn Relays.
For some senior girls, this winter season marked the last time they would lace up their shoes for South’s program. But even for those who bid farewell to the program they have been a part of for so many years, this season was a great way to go out. “Winter has always been my favorite season” says Kirsten McLaughlin, one of the seniors who finished her career after 11 consecutive seasons of running. “I think it really shows you the determination and strength of our team. Anyone can go for a run on as nice day, but it takes true passion to run in the cold and snow. It is the dedication that unites our team, and I will forever be proud to have been a part of it.”
“It has been a great season” says Cassidy. “Although we may compete in individual events, it really is a team effort, and this season all the girls were phenomenal at pushing each other to the limit and coming ready to run every day.”