By Jeff Nations - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

James Wood track and field coach Matt Stegmaier knew the Colonels were in the midst of something of a drought in terms of Northwestern District success, but really -- 1968?

True enough, that was the last time James Wood had claimed a district championship before Stegmaier's boys squad accomplished the feat last year.

"It had been awhile," Stegmaier said.

Now that the Colonels are finally back on top, the trick is to stay there. Stegmaier thinks his team can do that this year.

"We're looking pretty strong," Stegmaier said. "We should put up a pretty good fight to repeat. We have a lot of key losses from last year, but I think in the field events and sprints, especially, we're going to score a lot of points." Sophomore John Simms headlines that sprint crew. Last year, he claimed district titles in both the 100- and 200-meter dash events, and so far has avoided the shin splints that somewhat hampered him as a freshman.

"As long as he stays healthy, he can be an elite sprinter in AA if he works for it," Stegmaier said. "We'll see."

Sophomore Mason Smith is also a returning double-district champion from last season after winning both the high jump and triple jump. He, along with seniors James Thorne and Harlan Robinson, form a strong group.

Senior Aaron Shiffler and junior Jamel Johnson are the Colonels' top hurdlers, sophomore Cody Wright paces the distance group, and junior Chase Tyler and sophomore Joey Bynog are the top throwers.