#United States #Frankfort #GameAbove Sports #Frankfort High School #Nike Nationals

Frankfort High School's Impressive Track Journey

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Northern Michigan, Frankfort High School is a small yet extraordinary institution with an enrollment of just 131 students. This unassuming school has recently captured the spotlight on the national track scene, thanks to its record-breaking girls track team and a fruitful partnership with GameAbove Sports. The team's stellar performance at the prestigious Nike Outdoor National Championships in Eugene, Oregon, has not only brought home medals but also showcased the potential of small-town athletes.

A Record-Breaking Season

The Frankfort girls track team made headlines throughout their season, not merely for participation but through remarkable achievements. They secured the MHSAA Division 4 State Championship and set new state records in both the 4x100 and the 4x200-meter relays. Competing in Division 4, which features Michigan's smallest high schools, the athletes set times that surpassed competitors from much larger institutions, proving that size does not determine success. Even at the Greater Traverse City Honor Roll Meet, where schools topped 2,000 students, the Frankfort team left an indelible mark.

Competing on a National Stage

The much-anticipated trip to the Nike Outdoor Nationals became a reality when the Frankfort squad qualified for four events at the pinnacle of high school track competitions. Competing in the Emerging Elite division, their determination and athleticism shone brightly. The radiant performance in the deluge at Eugene included:

• - 4x100 Relay: Gwyneth Dunaway, Sofia Alaimo Schindler, Alice Luther, and Addison Jarosz earned commendable 3rd place, clocking in at a personal best of 49.66 seconds.
• - 4x200 Relay: This same talented quartet notched a 4th place finish with a time of 1:45.50.
• - Sprint Medley Relay: Alaimo Schindler, Luther, Dunaway, and Jarosz exhibited their prowess with a 7th overall placement and 2nd in their heat, achieving a new personal best time of 4:23.73.
• - 4x400 Relay: The team, composed of Dunaway, Willa Roth, Jarosz, and Riley LaVack, matched a school record with a national ranking of 20th at 4:10.05.

Despite the exhausting 2,280-mile journey, the team returned not only with medals but also with three personal records and a renewed sense of community and accomplishment. The resilience and teamwork of these student-athletes reflect the core values of what it means to be a competitor.

Heartfelt Support and Recognition

Coach Ed Schindler, who has led the girls throughout this historic season, expressed immense pride in their journey. He noted, "All of their hard work and dedication were rewarded by having a chance to compete at the Nike Outdoor Track and Field Nationals. We so appreciate the support of GameAbove in helping us make this dream come true."

Riley LaVack, a member of the 4x400 relay team, articulated the joy of the experience, stating, "We had an amazing experience in Oregon. It was filled with fun, and we created many memories along the way. We're extremely grateful for GameAbove's support. We can't thank them enough!" Alice Luther, a standout who participated in three events, echoed this sentiment with gratitude, asserting, "Thank you for letting us prove that small towns can do big things! It was an amazing experience. We are all so thankful!"

GameAbove Sports: A Pillar of Support

GameAbove Sports played a crucial role in facilitating the national trip, further demonstrating its commitment to empowering aspiring athletes and nurturing athletic programs that often fly under the radar. Ashley Beal, Senior Vice President at GameAbove, articulated their motivation: "We are incredibly proud to support this remarkable group of student-athletes. Their achievements both on and off the track are exactly the kind of inspiration we aim to elevate. These young ladies from Frankfort prove that greatness can come from anywhere."

Conclusion

As we reflect on the accomplishments of the Frankfort girls track team, it becomes evident that their story transcends sports. They exemplify the power of determination, teamwork, and community support. Frankfort High School's girls are indeed champions in every sense, leaving a legacy of excellence that will inspire future generations. The collaboration with GameAbove Sports has not only helped them reach the national stage but has also set a precedent for what small schools can achieve with the right support. This partnership is a testament to the idea that greatness is not solely determined by size but by heart, effort, and resilience. The journey is far from over for these athletes, and the sports community eagerly anticipates their next chapter.