Zeeland West lost to Zeeland East at home on a chilly Tuesday night. The Dux lost 21-116. Despite their relentless efforts in both field events and running, they ultimately ended up losing.

Stand-out performers for the Dux included Fr. Lucy Budnik and Sr. Jordin Robelin, who both scored points in the 200m. Jr. Evie Kleinheksel, who scored points in the 1600m. and Klaasen, who scored points in the 800m.

Coach Kenemer stated, “We didn’t come out with the win today, but I couldn’t be prouder of how hard our girls competed. They showed resilience and true team spirit.”

Sr. Jordyn Klaasen said, “My 800m wasn’t my best, but I felt good while running. Even though it wasn’t the outcome we hoped for, every meet is a chance to learn and grow.”

The Zeeland West Boys Varsity Track team started their season off with a double dual win against Hamilton 84-53, and Holland 123-14 on Tuesday evening at Zeeland Stadium. The DUX placed first in all the sprinter events and swept first and second place in the 1600. They also took all first, second and third place finishes in long jump.

Winning the 110m hurdles with a time of 14.85 and the 300m hurdles with a time of 39.77 was Sr. Keaton Hendricks. Alongside Hendricks, Jr. Keagan Smith placed first in both the 1600 with a time of 4:43.72 and the 800 with a time of 2:05.39. 

Varsity Boys Head Coach Phil Hoover commented, “The effort level within our boys team was good coming into our first meet of the season. The team warmed up well despite the weather being cold but we competed well and came out winning against both teams.”

Smith mentioned, “Going into my 1600 I knew the opponent from Hamilton was really good so my goal was to beat him. I started off slow and started to take off faster and faster which led me to end up winning.”

The DUX began their season off strong and have another invitational varsity meet up at Rockford High School on Friday this week. 

Zeeland West beat Hamilton and Holland at home Tuesday night in cool and windy conditions. The Dux beat Hamilton 86-50 and Holland 87.5-49.5. With a balanced attack in both field events and running the Dux were able to beat both opponents rather one-sidedly. 

Stand out performers for the Dux included Sr. Jordin Robelin, who scored points in the 100m and long jump. Soph. Sam Koppenol who scored points in the 400m, 4x800 and high jump.

Coach Kenemer stated “Today was a good learning opportunity. The athletes got to see what events they like to run and us coaches can see where they fit best. Overall I think we did great for the first meet and came out with a win for both girls and boys” Soph. Sam Koppenol said “My 4x800 did not go as planned but it was fun and a good learning experience. I also think my jump went well.”