Spring sports are underway, and across the board coaches are expressing a level of optimism for the season. Early results, returning talent, and a wave of promising newcomers have combined to create what many believe could be one of the strongest spring seasons in recent years.

Track and field is already setting the tone. At the Southeast Invitational, the girls finished sixth out of 13 teams while the boys placed fifth, a performance that coach John Wright says reflects potential. 

“Track will have a very successful season based on the incoming freshmen and experienced seniors,” Wright said.

The boys sprint group is adjusting to fill in some big shoes after DeJuan Colbert won the state championship in the 24-25 season, but the next wave appears ready. Michael Cooks (12) opened the season by winning the 100 meters, his twin Sean hit a personal record, and newcomer Chris Makobo, a recent convert from the soccer team, placed eighth overall in his first meet. On the girls side, sprinters Sia Johnson, Tiana Hartwell, and AJ Montgomery have all delivered strong early performances, giving the team confidence in its speed on both sides.

Softball enters the season with a different kind of storyline, one centered on development and steady improvement. With a roster that blends returning players and a large group of newcomers, coach Sydney Thurlow says the focus is on building skills and confidence. 

“We’re trying to improve skills every day, and maybe we’ll get a couple of wins under our belts,” Thurlow said.

Across all programs, coaches emphasized that academic accountability remains a priority. 

“Nothing happens on that track unless it’s backed by positive momentum with grades, attendance, and behavior,” Wright said, thanking teachers and administrators for supporting athletes both in and out of the classroom.

Track and softball are not the only sports to expect during the spring season as Southeast also has girls soccer, boys golf and baseball. As hopes for the track and softball seasons are high, the same hopes apply to the other sports, hoping to have an outstanding season. With early momentum, standout performances, and a shared commitment to improvement, this spring season is shaping up to deliver possibly some of the strongest results the school has seen in years.