A test result determining if the Lakeland track and field team can compete is the new normal, for now
SHEBOYGAN, Wis. (BVM) — In light of the craziness, the Lakeland University track & field team was ready to compete.聽聽
The Muskies were happy to be able to compete again and the team overall was happy with their success at the meet.聽
A COVID-19 negative test was required prior to competition.聽 One positive would disrupt the entire team from getting to compete.聽
Head Coach Pete Barth did not believe his team was nervous awaiting test results to return, but he did make it clear to the team that they would stick together.
鈥淚f someone tests positive and causes our whole team not to be able to compete, we will not blame or shame that person or those people, Barth said. 鈥淲e are a team, and we rise together, and fall together.鈥�
Junior, Makayla Bruton, said she was pretty nervous and anxious awaiting her test results.聽聽
鈥淔irst off, you don鈥檛 want to test positive in general,鈥� Bruton said, 鈥渂ut you also are wanting to be able to compete and if you do test positive, all the work you put in goes away.鈥�
The team overall handled the testing procedure with great maturity and all were able to compete in their lone fall outdoor track & field meet.
The most challenging part might be upcoming.
鈥淥ur bigger challenges await,鈥� Barth said.聽 All of Lakeland鈥檚 sports will be fighting for indoor space due to COVID-19 pushing all of the sport seasons to the late winter and spring seasons.聽
Spring is where these coaches and athletes are looking.
Junior, Nathalie Cairo, is working on her positivity during this time.
鈥淲ith all the down time, I am working hard to keep my grades in check so there are not any issues with eligibility,鈥� Cairo said.聽 鈥淚 am also trying to stay positive and optimistic since nothing is certain for the upcoming spring season.鈥�
Bruton is also trying to stay positive through this pandemic.
鈥淚 really hope there is a season so that I get the chance to work hard and be able to compete,鈥� Bruton said.聽 鈥淢y personal goal is going to try and work harder and start getting ready for the season even earlier so that I feel ready and confident.鈥�
Mental health has been a major concern for many coaches during this time with their student-athletes, but being able to be together is helping.
鈥淏eing together, in and of itself, is mentally healthy for me,鈥� Barth said, 鈥淚 believe, the athletes, as well.鈥澛犅�
Time will tell what things change for athletics in the near future, but these Muskies are ready to get back in action.
