Rockets Secure Second Place at District Track and Field Championship

The Rockets displayed remarkable athleticism and strategic prowess at the D2 Northeast District Track and Field Championship at Perry on May 24, 2025. Despite their small roster, this team showed immense heart, securing an impressive second-place finish with 80 points in a highly competitive meet. It was a phenomenal day for this young group of athletes! The Rockets' performance was highlighted by a cross-disciplinary effort in both running and field events. The team excelled particularly in the running events where the 4x800 Meter Relay team, consisting of Kieran Ripley, Brennen Lyons, Liam Jager, and Michael Hanselman, kicked off with a promising second-place finish. In the 100 Meter Dash, Jayden Perrine earned notable acclaim by securing second place with a stellar time of 11.04 seconds. The 200 Meter Dash was a landmark event for Perrine, who broke a 43-year-old school record with a breathtaking finish in 21.56 seconds. Field events also added to the team's impressive tally. In the Pole Vault, Elliot Trefz claimed fourth place, qualifying for the regional meet, while Danny Zipfel and Lute Harmon showed their prowess in Discus Throw and High Jump, respectively. Full Recap: 4x800 Meter Relay: The team of Kieran Ripley, Brennen Lyons, Liam Jager and Michael Hanselman kicked off the meet with a thrilling second-place finish and regional qualifier, clocking 8:23.66, just behind Chagrin Falls. Their teamwork and endurance set the tone for a great meet. 110 Meter Hurdles: Max Fischer ran a solid race, finishing fourth with a time of 16.28, showcasing his agility and determination. This earn Max a spot in the regional championship next week. 100 Meter Dash: Jayden Perrine was a standout, taking second place with an impressive 11.04, narrowly missing first. 4x200 Meter Relay: The team of Max Fischer, Ben Kamm, Colin McAlea and Jayden Perrine secured third place with a time of 1:31.68, to qualify for the Regional championship meet. 1600 Meter: Kieran Ripley ran a fantastic race to grab 2nd place and moves on to the Regional meet next week. Spencer Grace stepped up for the Rockets and was able to grab 9th place for the team. 4x100 Meter Relay: Bay continued their relay success, finishing fourth with a time of 44.60, proving their depth and teamwork. Team of Cooper Brauxes, Ben Kamm, Colin McAlea and Jayden Perrine. Another regional qualifier! 300 Meter Hurdles: Max Fischer and Elliot Trefz placed seventh (43.88) and sixth (43.67), respectively, highlighting Bay’s strength in hurdles. 800 Meter Run: Brennen Lyons and Liam Jager ran competitively, finishing eighth (2:07.61) and tenth (2:08.42), respectively, contributing valuable points. 200 Meter Dash: Jayden Perrine shone again, taking first with a blazing 21.56, breaking the school record set back in 1982, one of the meet’s top highlights! 3200 Meter Run: Michael Hanselman and Kieran Ripley delivered strong performances, finishing second (9:28.57) and sixth (10:15.44), respectively, showcasing their endurance. Michael earns his position next week at the regional championship. 4x400 Meter Relay: The team of Max Fischer, Will Curran, Ben Kamm and Mikey Taylor wrapped up the relays with a fifth-place finish (3:34.80), just missing a regional qualifier. These guys are all juniors and hungry to come back next year! Discus Throw: Danny Zipfel threw 121-2 for eighth place, adding to the team’s point total. High Jump: Lute Harmon and Jackson Smith both cleared 5-6, tying for seventh, demonstrating their leaping prowess. Shot Put: Braeden Egan and Sully Knaack placed ninth (40-9.75) and tenth (39-10.75), respectively, rounding out a solid field event performance. Pole Vault: Elliot Trefz cleared 10-0 for fourth place and moved on to the regional meet next week, adding to Bay’s impressive showing. The team is now gearing up for the Regional Championship at Austintown Fitch, carrying forward the momentum from their substantial achievements. This year, the Rockets have demonstrated a resurgence in both team spirit and individual excellence, reshaping their legacy in track and field.