Never say ‘never’ to these athletes

At this time of year with end-of-school events, graduations, starting new careers and other new beginnings, it might be worthy to take a few lessons from our Lady Longhorn track team.
    All of the state’s sportswriters and pundits who make guesses on who’s going to win which state title didn’t even have Chase County in their top five picks in last week’s big event in Omaha. They likely look at just district times and marks, as well as teams with individual athletes who themselves will score a lot of points. They certainly don’t consider heart and hard work.
    That’s where teams like Chase County’s have the edge.
    The Lady Longhorns had just one event, the 1600m relay, that was fastest at districts compared to the other 15 teams in that event, but it was by the slimmest of margins. Chase County’s team ran their hearts out at state to win by just .14 hundredths of a second to take the gold and assure their team of a Class C runner-up finish.
    None of the other Class C events in which the Lady Longhorns qualified had them as a leader coming in. There were so many efforts last weekend, an extra point here and there, that allowed Chase County to finish as runner-up.
    That shows what teamwork means, and an important part of Head Coach Troy Hauxwell’s philosophy.  The program’s great assistant coaches, along with those in the junior high program, are vital to the success, too. A look over the past four seasons that include two state championships, this year’s runner-up and last year’s 4th place is good evidence that philosophy works.
    The girls came home with 17 individual medals and another trophy to display. But, more importantly, they should realize what’s even more valuable is knowing that hard work gets results. And, that’s something that will last a lifetime long after the medals are put away.
    Our Longhorn boys too, had a great season and showing at state with seven medals to their credit last week and, under the guidance of Head Coach Carl Zuege, is also building a very strong track program for which Chase County is known. Congratulations to all the coaches and athletes for another great season!