I don't want to put any added pressure on the Chagrin Falls boys track team this year, but I will.
Based on what they did last year, the Tigers have the potential to accomplish even more this season.
The Tigers are led by senior Mike Hageman who finished in a tie for sixth place last year in the Division II high jump.
Also leading the group are seniors Bill Cale and Anthony DeCamillo. Cale was 13th last year in the 400 dash. DeCamillo was a state-qualifier in the 4x400 along with junior Bradley Munday.
That state experience is significant for the Tigers who have a strong core of returning letterwinners in the sprints and a good group of young athletes.
"We have athletes who advanced to the regional and state levels last year," said Chagrin Falls' 19-year coach Dave Kirk. "We have several athletes returning with state experience and All-Ohio performances, but we need to do it again.
"We must build on these successes and move forward."
Kirk said his younger athletes must accept the culture at Chagrin Falls of "expecting to win." They must also accept the "culture of work" that comes with success.
The Tigers had 13 regional qualifiers last year, seven state qualifiers and one All-Ohio finisher in Hageman.
This year, they have the talent, dedication and motivation that is needed to not only return to state, but come home with even more medals than last year.

-Theresa Neuhoff Audia