Speed, power, and precision—three qualities that define Parkway South’s sprinters as they explode off the starting blocks and race toward the finish line. Whether it’s the 100-meter dash or anchoring the 4×100 relay, these athletes embody determination and discipline, pushing themselves to shave milliseconds off their times.
Parkway South’s track and field program has a strong tradition of producing talented sprinters, and this year’s group is no exception. Led by Coach Joseph Rosewell, who has guided the Varsity team for over 20 years, the Patriots’ sprinters are setting a high bar for success. Rosewell’s emphasis on technique, strength, and mental toughness has helped develop a core group of runners determined to make their mark this season.
“Our focus is on getting better every day,” said Coach Rosewell. “Track is all about competing against yourself. The goal is always beating your previous best.”
He also highlighted several standout athletes this season, noting that senior Cam Harris, junior MJ Houston, and senior Nathaniel Kim have been pushing the pace in practice and setting the standard for the team.
As the season kicks off, Parkway South’s sprinters are prepared to put their hard work to the test. Harris will be the anchor in the 4×100 relay and a consistent leader in the 100-meter dash. His explosive speed and dedication to improving his craft make him a force on the track.
“My favorite event to run is the 100-meter dash because I’m more of a speed guy than distance,” Harris said. “I also love the 4×1 because everything has to be perfect—perfect handoff and everyone has to be fast,.”
Harris’ commitment to staying in top shape is driven by both track and football.
“Football and track are literally the perfect combo because football is in the fall and track is during the spring,” Harris said.
Junior Joey Dix is another athlete to watch after making the switch from long-distance to sprinting this year. The transition hasn’t been easy, but Dix has embraced the challenge.
“Switching from distance to sprinting was a big change for me,” Dix said. “The workouts are so different, and the mental approach is completely opposite. I had to focus a lot more on explosiveness and short bursts of energy rather than pacing myself over time.”
Dix said he is excited about the opportunity to improve and contribute in his new role.
“I’m really enjoying sprinting because it’s more intense and everything happens so fast,” Dix said. “My goal is to keep improving my times and hopefully help the team in the 200-meter dash and the 4×200 relay.”
Sophomore Gabe Burtch is another runner to watch, focusing heavily on improving his sprinting technique.
“My technique is one of my key focuses this season, which will provide that .1-second difference in my times,” Burtch said.
Even during tough workouts or when progress seems slow, Burtch stays motivated by trusting the process.
“The workouts aren’t easy, but if I want to get that .1 second faster, I’m going to have to keep pushing and trusting in the hard work I put in,” he said.
The 4×100 relay team, anchored by Harris and supported by a mix of experienced and rising talent, is poised to make an impact this season. Their chemistry and commitment to mastering baton exchanges could give them a real shot at breaking the school record.
“My goals this season are to get in better shape for college football, win a lot of races, go to state in the 100-meter dash or 4×1,” Harris said.
Dix is also optimistic about contributing to the relay teams.
“I’m working on getting faster out of the blocks and improving my turnover… If I can get that down, I think I can help the team in the relays,” Dix said.
Success in sprinting takes more than just raw speed. Parkway South’s sprinters are putting in countless hours in the weight room and on the track to maintain their competitive edge.
“My training regimen to maintain and improve speed includes front and back squats, lunges, box jumps, block starts, and cleans,” Harris said. “On the track, I do repeated 100 or 200-meter dashes to improve endurance.”
Burtch also focuses on staying active beyond the track.
“Going to the gym and working out has been a great way for me to not only stay in shape but get faster as well,” Burtch said.
With their first meet behind them, Parkway South’s sprinters are ready to test their speed and put their preparation to the test. Their ultimate goal? To improve their times, dominate in key events, and qualify for the state championship.
“We’ve put in too much work not to aim high,” Burtch said.
