Troy, Mo. – For Troy Buchanan’s boys and girls track teams in 2021, it was about just enjoying competition again after not doing it for nearly two years due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
In 2022, it’s about winning medals.
“The kids are excited to compete,” Trojans boys coach Jared Stumpe said. “We have a lot more guys this year, and that boosts morale.”
“I think we’re going to look very similar to last year,” Troy Buchanan girls track coach Jessica Dukeman said. “We lost a lot of seniors, but we’re returning a lot of leaders.”
Two of those leaders are Kinsey Dueker and Jlynn Humphrey. Dueker, who will be running for Lindenwood University’s track team after signing a letter of intent last month, was a state finalist in the 100 and 300-meter hurdles, as well as the long jump. Humphrey, a sophomore, qualified for state in the discus, and looks to return and medal in 2022.
On the boys side, the Trojans are looking to improve on its record-setting season with its 4x100 squad. However, Stumpe said what makes the entire squad unique is the familiar faces.
“Setting a school record last year in the 4x100 was special, and we have a lot to look forward to this year,” he said. “We have a lot of kids on this team who also play other sports. At least 75% of the kids on our team play other sports.
“Getting the multi-sports athletes only helps everybody, because it gets them ready for the other sports.”
