Grafton High T&F team building on a tradition of excellence
GRAFTON, Wis. — The Grafton High School Track & Field team has had a rich tradition of producing strong athletes who qualify for and place at the State Meet in UW-La Crosse. Jason Meinen, the Head Coach for Grafton’s Track & Field program, has 21 years of experience coaching track鈥攕ix of which have been at Grafton High School.
Meinen explains, “Many Grafton athletes have won State titles throughout the years, and some have even held State records for several years.”聽In fact, he adds, “Some of our relays have the potential to break some school records if things fall into place for us throughout the season.”
While the team’s number one goal is to always have fun, Meinen says, “The 2022 Grafton Track & Field team would like to add to the tradition of qualifying as many athletes as possible for the State Meet 鈥β燭he 12 athletes that experienced the State Meet last season as either a competitor or as an alternate are bound and determined to make it back to La Crosse. Seeing the State Meet in person can be one of the biggest motivations for an athlete, and I feel that will push many of our athletes this upcoming season.”
Overall, the team is hoping to improve upon its finishes during the 2021 season. To accomplish this goal, Meinen explains that the team will lean heavily upon its seniors and previous state qualifiers. He says, “They show leadership in their respective event groups and for the team in general. These athletes will also be our big point getters at meets and will be looked upon by the underclassmen for guidance.”
Coach Meinen’s message to the rest of the state this year?聽 “When you see a Grafton athlete in your event, you best bring your ‘A game.’ Go Black Hawks!”
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