Despite the restrictions of the pandemic, the YISS Varsity Track & Field team had a very fun and successful 2021 season. With more than 30 members, the team was able to host three competitions: two intraschool meets with YISS staff from all divisions, including Headmaster Dr. Zickefoose, and one virtual meet with five other international schools.

For the first time ever, the YISS field hosted a “meet.” The YISS facility was modified into a 300m oval track (regulation is 400m). Although this meant that times were slower because of more curves and fewer events possible, the team was still able to enjoy quality competition, and the YISS athletes performed strong and set many personal bests. The team even had its first home javelin competition this year.

Some individual highlights included: In the virtual meet against all of the other participating schools (HHS, SFS, KIS, SIS, CDS), Harrison O. (12) took first overall in the 1600m and Alex L. (11) took 2nd overall in the 400m. Ethan C. (11) also set a new javelin record at 21 meters. Coming off of an injury, Anna F. (10) also made top 2 in school ranking in the high jump.

The team and coaches especially enjoyed the intraschool meets where staff volunteered to join into three teams with the students and compete together. These events built school spirit and camaraderie amongst the students and staff. It meant so much to the athletes to have staff members see their hard work and join them in the fun. As the team normally competes at HHS for all competitions, this was the first time since the program started six years ago that parents and staff could freely watch and cheer for our athletes as there were no personnel restrictions like on the military base. 

Special thanks to Mr. Hale and all of the YISS coaches (Paul Dwight, Sara Dwight, Greg & Terri Atkinson, Craig & Amy Mooi) who made the season possible by hosting and scoring the competitions.