GAMES
RANKINGS
STATE WRAP: TWCA delivers gold finishes at TAPPS Championship
Warriors Track & Field turned up the heat to cap off a stellar Spring season.
After advancing through Area and Regionals, Coach Tom Earle’s group of qualifiers set off to Hewitt, TX this past weekend to contend with the best in Texas private school at the TAPPS State Championship.
TWCA made a strong introduction in the competition, during Friday’s series of Field events, as sophomore Taylor Makiya started the show off in style, by being crowned as the 5A Girls Shot Put State Champion after throwing for just over 39 feet. This gold medal will pair nicely with the one from 2022 she has at home.
TWCA's Taylor MakiyaBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Later on Friday, the Warriors also enjoyed two more top placements from Andrew Cockrill (So.) who finished in the No. 3 spot for the Boys Pole Vault (12-00), while senior AJ Belser took bronze in the Boys Discus with a throw of 143’4”.
Saturday’s events were even more impressive, with juniors Zoe Calamani and Sarah Chappelle, in particular, being the stars of the show.
TWCA's Zoe CalimaniBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Not only did the pair have integral roles in the third-place finish for the Girls 4x200 Relay (4:04.69), but Calimani would conclude the Meet with another bronze in the 400m (57.14s), as well as a State Title in the 800m (2:18.67)
Similarly, Chappelle would become a State Champion after showcasing her premier speed in the 300m Hurdles (45.75s), while placing third in the 100m (15.22s).
TWCA's Sarah ChappelleBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
The final tally listed the TWCA Girls in the No. 5 spot with 65 points, and the Boys at eleventh overall (23.5 points).
While the composite team results weren’t as high as the Warriors would have hoped, the individual successes speak for themselves.
Considering the majority of the group will be returning a year from now, who’s to say they can’t change that next time around?
No Hurdle Too High: TWCA's Chappelle Going for Gold
WHAT CAN’T SARAH CHAPPELLE DO?
She can fly around a volleyball court and sprint around the oval with some of the best in the state of Texas.
The junior will defend her TAPPS 300m hurdle title this Spring with hopes of leading the Warriors to the team title.
“Volleyball and track really complement each other,” said Chappelle. “Volleyball has helped me bring that team aspect into track, teaching me the importance of encouraging your teammates. Track has given me the endurance for those long, five-set games on the court, while also giving me a quick and explosive edge.”
Chappelle has learned from one of the best. Her older brother, Caleb was also a multi-sport athlete for TWCA, playing football and baseball. He now plays receiver for Troy football.
Sarah feels that learning from her brother has played a significant role in her drive to compete.
“Caleb showed me what a real work ethic looked like,” she said. “Before I had even touched a barbell, he was going in for early morning lifts, staying late after practice, and getting one-on-one sessions with his coaches to perfect his craft. He really led the way for me, athletically and spiritually, showing me what godly leadership looked like.”
The TWCA junior is banking on another big year from Chappelle and Warriors track and field.
“I’m expecting to see us do really well as a team,” Chappelle said. “Really, we have talent in every event, and we aren’t lacking in depth. I’ve enjoyed the offseason, coming into my second year as a captain. I’m doing my best to lead all my fellow athletes closer to God and encourage them. I’ve battled my annual track season hamstring injury, but thankfully by the power of God, I’m fully healthy and ready for the season. I’m striving to get some gold medals when the postseason comes around.”