HAMMONTON—Setting a high expectation level has been one of the keys to maintaining a strong boys track and field program at Hammonton High School.
Head coach Jeff Dey asks a lot of his athletes, and after more than a decade of leading the Blue Devils, they have developed into one of the most competitive programs in the Cape Atlantic League.
A strong indoor season this winter has Hammonton feeling that this spring can be a successful one.
Among Dey’s goals for the Blue Devils this season are a top five finish at sectionals, sending multiple athletes to states and the Meet of Champions, strong performances at the weekend invitational meets, and a top-three finish at the Atlantic County Championships.
Those are high expectations, but ones that Hammonton’s athletes are more than capable of reaching.
“The team has been extremely positive and supportive of each other; this will continue to push the team to be strong and accountable,” Dey said.
Hammonton is strongest in sprint and throws, as several athletes are coming off MOC appearances this winter.
Senior Aaron Mull is an indoor record-setter who is looking to translate that success to the outdoor season. He should be among the region’s top sprinters, handling the 100 and 200 meter dashes, while also running on the 4x100 and 4x400 relay teams.
Aaron Lasasso also runs the 200, will compete in the 400 and race with the 4x400 and 4x800 teams. CJ Handy had an excellent indoor season and adds depth in the 100 and 400, as well as 4x400 and 4x100 relays. Handy is also a strong long jumper.
Lucas Iuliucci will compete in the 800-meter dash as well as the 1,600 meters, and runs on the 4x400 team.
Matt Martino, a Holy Cross commit, anchors Hammonton in distance races, the 1,600 and 3200-meters.
Hammonton’s throwers rank with the best in the state. Anthony Liakhnovich is fresh off competing at the indoor MOC, while Christian Medina also enjoyed a strong winter season. Both are focused on setting records this season in shot put and discus. Alex Grasso will be one of the team’s top javelin throwers.
Jayden Smith made an appearance at the MOC this winter and is one of Hammonton’s top high and long jumpers.
Sean Fudala, Justin Harms, Matt Gehres, Gabe Ramirez, Rolison Turpin and Josiah Miller also return to the roster, adding depth in several events. Deandre Clemons, Joe Golini and Azzir Smith-Bey join the team this year and should contribute.
“Sprints and throwing are the big strength, but together as a full team we are filling in the gaps and becoming a well-rounded team this spring,” Dey said.