Adrian Padilla, the head coach for Stanton's boys and girls track and field teams, is anticipating the upcoming season with enthusiasm.
According to Padilla, there is a renewed energy surrounding the program, and he is passionate about helping young athletes grow. He expressed excitement about seeing his athletes reach new heights. "Track and field is a great sport for athletes of all backgrounds," he said. "It allows them to showcase their individual strengths while still being part of a team. My goal is to help these athletes become the best versions of themselves, both on and off the track."
Padilla's commitment to coaching extends beyond athletic performance as he finds joy in helping students earn scholarships and prepare for future success. "The discipline and work ethic required in track can translate into success in all aspects of life," he explained. This year, Padilla is particularly excited about the leadership of his senior class and the potential of the underclassmen. "The future of our team is incredibly bright," he said.
Taking over as head coach this season, Padilla aims to contribute in new ways to the team's success. "There’s a fresh energy surrounding the program, and I’m excited to see where it takes us," he added.
Several athletes are poised for strong performances this season, including sophomore sprinter Joshua Roman, thrower Kolie Madison who recently broke the school’s discus record, hurdler Alysson Barrera, and dual-sport athlete Jake Benedict. "These athletes are just a few examples of the talent we have, and they all have bright futures ahead," Padilla said.
Padilla's motivation for coaching stems from witnessing his athletes' growth. "It’s incredibly rewarding to see these kids grow not just as competitors but as young men and women," he shared. He emphasized that while winning is important, the growth and development of athletes drive him every day.
As Stanton's track and field team enters a new season, Padilla focuses on fostering an environment of pride, determination, and confidence with strong leadership and work ethic.