Coming off the most successful season ever in boys track, the Chesterton Trojans expectation level has raised as they open the outdoor season tonight at Highland.

“We lost some considerable depth,” Chesterton coach John Snyder said. “But, our top returners are as good as anyone in the Region in their respective events. The key to our success will be how our young athletes adapt to our high expectations.”

The Trojans should score a lot of points in the field events this season. Returning after participating in the IHSAA State Finals last season are Kody Galloway (high jump, long jump), Dan Dellumo (shot put, discus), Justin Zosso (pole vault) and Peter Fouts (pole vault).

“We’re counting on them to score big points for us this year,” Snyder said. “They’ve shown that they are very consistent performers.”

Other throwers that should help score points include Nathan Brock, Ryley Harlow, Sean Matheny and Andrew Holba.

On the track, the Trojans return seniors Jon Watson (400, 4x400) and Ryan Cutter (distance) to lead a young, talented group.

“Cutter is as good as anybody,” Snyder said. “Watson will help us in the 4x4 and 4x8 and his personal race is the 400. According to the State Meet, he’s the fourth fastest returning guy, but there are a lot of good guys in the area. His goal is to break the school record and there are several that we could break.

“It’s exciting to have kids of that caliber. You cheer for those kids and they’re really motivated.”

Other Trojans that should help on the track include Joe Troop, Justin Moore, Manny Orlich and Austin Palombizio.

“The key to the season will be can guys like Joe Troop and Justin Moore and if they can step in and score second and third place points,” Snyder said. “Distance-wise, I’ve seen Manny Orlich and Austin Palombizio step in and do a really good job.”

After winning DAC, Sectional and Regional team titles, Chesterton will have a target on its back with several area teams taking dead aim.

“I feel like Valparaiso and Portage are the Conference favorites,” Snyder said. “Crown Point, Merrillville and LaPorte are all really close to that group. We will have to stay healthy and have a couple of newcomers step up if we hope to repeat.”

Posted 4/7/2011