At a school known for its physical, team-first identity, Upperman Bees track and field head coach Adam Caine is embracing a different kind of challenge this spring with the team.
Caine said track strips competition down to the individual, and that is exactly what makes it unique.
“It’s a little more of an individualized deal,” Caine said. “You try to provide an opportunity or a space for the kids to train and, we’ve got some kids that have had some success here in track.”
One of those athletes is Kevin Willman, a shot putter who has begun to make his mark in the throws circle. Willman recently turned in an eighth-place finish at a meet and has shown steady improvement, including stronger marks in postseason competition.
Upperman’s success is not limited to the field events. Elijah Fitts returns after finishing in the top 10 in sprint events last season. Caine said the nature of track and field puts the responsibility squarely on each athlete.
“The ones that are serious about it and really want to work at it are going to find a way to do that and find a way to be successful,” Caine said. “We practice them and work them out and get them in shape and put them in position to be the best and give them a schedule where they need to go compete.”
That mindset is already showing up in a younger group. Caine said freshman Jet Long has flashed early potential, while Keenan Durham brings experience after competing last season.
Caine said the roster, much like Upperman’s other athletic programs, is built on versatility, something he sees as a foundation for future growth.
“They can run and they can jump and they can throw,” Caine said. “We hope to really build this thing out over the next few years.”
With a mix of emerging talent, returning contributors and a coach accustomed to building competitive programs, the Bees are working to carve out their identity, one event at a time.