The Lincoln-Way West girls track and field program is gaining recognition, with a significant increase in its roster size over the past decade and leadership from three college-bound seniors. The Warriors are on a path to success.
For senior pole vaulter Reese Geiger, the journey has been both personal and impactful. “I want to break my own school records,” Geiger said. “I have the indoor record, but I’m chasing 12 feet both indoor and outdoor. Coming back from an injury, that first meet was tough, but having my teammates and coaches there pushing me gave me the validation I needed.” Geiger, who transitioned from gymnastics, will continue her athletic career at Davenport University next year.
Sprinter Alana Smith is recognized as the most decorated sprinter in the program’s history, holding all school records in the 100 and 200 meters for both open and relay events. “I’ve grown the most in self-confidence,” Smith said. “Knowing what I’m capable of on the starting line, and seeing my teammates beside me, it gives me that extra edge every race.”
Distance runner Sophia Mikolajczak has committed to St. Francis for her collegiate running career. She reflected on a pivotal moment during her sophomore season: “There was a meet at Lockport where we all came together as a team,” she said. “No matter how anyone performed, we supported each other. That’s when I realized how much I love this sport and the people in it.”
According to head coach Dom DeLuca, now in his 16th year at Lincoln-Way West (LWW), the team has expanded from 30 to over 65 athletes and continues to grow. “We’re building something real here,” DeLuca remarked. “And we’re just getting started.”