The St. Edmond girls track and field team is set to make waves this season, boasting a mix of seasoned athletes with state-level experience and emerging talents ready to shine. With the guidance of head coach CJ Tracy and support from experienced mentors like Kevin Astor, the Gaels are poised for an impressive campaign culminating in a strong showing at the 2025 state championships. The team’s senior leaders, combined with returning letterwinners and promising newcomers, create a formidable lineup that aims to secure numerous spots at Drake Stadium.
This year's squad features standout athletes such as Mariah Myers, Josie Harvey, and Anna Lursen, each bringing accolades from previous seasons. Myers, who excelled in shot put and discus, joins Harvey, known for her hurdles performance, and Lursen, whose versatility in sprints and relays adds depth to the roster. Alongside these veterans, younger athletes will play crucial roles, supported by a challenging schedule designed to test their mettle.
Leadership and Experience Drive Success
At the heart of the St. Edmond team lies its experienced core, led by seniors Mariah Myers, Josie Harvey, and Sasha Hess. These athletes bring not only individual achievements but also invaluable leadership qualities to the group. Myers, having committed to play softball at the University of Iowa, demonstrated exceptional skill last year with a second-place finish in shot put and seventh place in discus at the Drake Relays. Similarly, Harvey’s third-place performance in the 100-meter hurdles underscores her potential for further success.
Coach Tracy emphasizes the importance of this trio in shaping the program's direction. Their commitment and dedication serve as examples for younger teammates. Additionally, juniors like Anna Lursen contribute significantly, recovering fully from past injuries to regain peak form. Lursen’s fourth-place finish in the 800 meters and her contributions to relay teams highlight her role as a key player. Together, these athletes aim to maximize their impact on the team’s overall performance, ensuring a competitive edge in both regional and state competitions.
New Talent and Mentorship Shape the Future
Beyond the seasoned athletes, St. Edmond boasts a promising crop of underclassmen eager to fill critical gaps within the roster. Juniors Laryn Ferris, sophomores Lily Eslick, Breeanna Kalvig, McKenna Kvale, Alex Leiting, Myrah Lemon, Emmersyn Peters, and freshmen Ava Bradley, Charlie Stucky, and Naomi Valles bring fresh energy and potential to the program. Coach Tracy acknowledges the hard work and rapid progress shown by these young athletes, anticipating significant contributions throughout the season.
In addition to internal development, external expertise enhances the team’s preparation. Former Fort Dodge Senior High coach Kevin Astor lends his extensive knowledge to assist Tracy, providing insights gained from years of leading successful programs. Cory Naughton continues working closely with throwers, refining techniques essential for competitive advantage. This collaborative approach ensures all athletes receive comprehensive training tailored to their needs. As they embark on their outdoor schedule starting April 1st at Earlham, the St. Edmond girls track and field team looks forward to building momentum through rigorous competition and continuous improvement.