'First-Time Ever' Moments Highlight Spring For Deerfield Track Team

DEERFIELD, IL — This spring, the Blue Jays flew to new heights with a memorable season for the Caruso Middle School track and field team. The accolades are vast, including the first-ever win at sectionals for a team at the Deerfield school, as well as sending the most student-athletes in school history to the Illinois Elementary School Association state meet with 11 qualifiers.

"This spring, our athletes gave it their all, and it paid off in a big way," Melissa Signa, coach and athletic director, tells Patch. "... The Caruso coaching staff — Coach Signa, Coach [Jacqueline] Padal — couldn't be more grateful for this incredible season. It was a joy to watch our track and field family grow, compete, and succeed together."

The state qualifiers were Chris Bennie, Enzo Jimenez, Samuel Pastoral Martinez, Zachary Adolph Wes Bailey, Ethan Moran, Maria Pastoral Martinez, Annabelle Witenko, Audrey Klerman, Eleanor Merrick, and Emma Hanson. The two-day meet was held last weekend at the EastSide Centre sports complex in East Peoria.

"The weekend at State was filled with excitement, energy, and even more personal records," Signa said. "Chris Bennie earned a spot on the podium with a third-place finish in the 1600-meter, running a time of 4 minutes, 54.9 seconds. Annabelle Witenko also hit the podium with an eighth-place finish in the 100-meter dash, clocking in at 13.45 seconds."

Earlier in the month, Caruso "proudly" hosted the IESA sectional meet at Deerfield High School, Signa said the athletes not only set "countless" personal records, but also brought home a mountain of place ribbons — and a sectional championship plaque. The seventh-grade boys team took first place overall at sectionals.

"We extend a heartfelt thank you to all the parents who made this season such a success — from your generous donations for the concession stand to the countless hours volunteering to help the sectional event run smoothly. Your support was truly appreciated," Signa said.

With the spring sports season concluded, and the school year also nearing the end, Signa is quick to point out that it's not too early to start thinking about next fall.

"We're already looking ahead to next season and hope to see all of our athletes return — along with some new faces," Signa said. "If your child is looking to stay active and strong, don't forget that cross country is in the fall and track and field returns in the spring. Let's keep the momentum going, Caruso."