Making it to sectionals can be an exciting and nerve-racking experience. At sectionals, athletes have to compete well to advance to state. These runners are representing Joliet West, going against many other surrounding schools such as Minooka, Plainfield (Central, East, North and South), Ottawa and many other schools. To make it to sectionals, it’s all up to the coaching staff. They can only put two people in each event (100m dash, 200m dash, 800m, mile, 2 mile, shot put, triple jump, pole vault, long jump, etc.), so they have to choose wisely for the top girls.

Sectionals will be held on Thursday, May 14^th at Naperville North High School, 899 North Mill Street with field events will start at 3:30 pm and running events will start at 4:30 pm. Admission will be $5.00. Medals will be given for 1st-6th place for each event.

Junior Kiersten Perry, who is a 1600m runner, will be competing at sectionals, making this her third time. She explains, “Well, they are pretty interesting. I always tend to enjoy myself running as always, and watching other races because there are so many girls with so many different speeds, and it is very interesting.” She is very excited about running this year’s sectionals, and seeing this year’s finishing results and how many girls make it to state. Making it to state is a big accomplishment. Freshman Jessica Orr, who is in high jump states, “I am nervous because I am the youngest one in my relay group.” Her first time at sectionals was in 6^th grade.

Other girls that are going to sectionals are Melzina Johnson who is in 100 dash, Brandy Teague in 200 Dash, Charlotte Youell in 800 run, Kristine Bourg in pole vault, Jackie Rocha in 3200 run and Jackie Krolikowski in pole vault.