Finley Boys’ Track Races Past Opponents

The J. Taylor Finley Middle School boys’ track and field team enjoyed a successful spring season as renewed interest in the program allowed the squad to compete in all the events.

Finley head coach Christopher Helmke was assisted by Jonathan Garland. A series of home and away meets were held with Deer Park, Kings Park, West Babylon, Bay Shore, Elwood, East Northport, Oldfield and Brentwood.

The top seventh graders included Alex Castro (100m, 200m, high jump), Jacob Boxer (55m, high jump) and Rasiere Blizzard (55m, 55m hurdles, 100m).

“Alex is an excellent high jumper who continues to improve,” Helmke said. “Jacob is a hard worker who improved at distance running and high jump. Rasiere works hard and has shown improvement as a sprinter.”

Finley’s leading eighth graders included Eric Heinze (400m, 800m, 1500m, high jump), Greyson Henderson (400m 800m, 1500m, long jump), Townsel Henry (55m, high jump, long jump), Michael DiVencenzo (100m, 200m, high jump) and Jordan McClary (400m, long jump).

“Eric Heinz excels at distance running and is an excellent high jumper and team leader,” Helmke said. “Greyson is hardworking and determined to improve as a distance runner. Townsel excelled in long jump this spring, improving with each meet. Michael DiVencenzo excelled in high jump. Jordan is another hard worker who has improved at distance running.”

The spring saw 35 boys turn out for the team, “with lots of enthusiasm and participation,” Helmke said. “There was healthy competition in the high jump between Eric Heinz and Alex Castro as the two athletes battled for first place wins, jumping over five feet. Thanks to our coaches, dedicated athletes and supportive parents we had a successful season that allowed our boys to improve at their events.”

Individual event times continued to improve throughout the season. “The boys showed excellent sportsmanship as they supported each other during events as well as cheering for the opposing team’s athletes,” Helmke said.

With a restocked roster, the future of the team looks bright. “We will continue to recruit new members to the track team and intend to add to our roster for next year,” Helmke said. “We expect our remaining athletes to return as we continue to advance and improve upon our speed and team depth. I am looking forward to next year.”