The program, founded by Andrea Rayson-Hernandez in 2003, has more than 300 athletes from Temple, Belton, Little River-Academy, Salado, Killeen and Rogers competing in six age groups.
That number is up from the more than 200 youths who participated last year.
Given the program’s yearly growth and the popularity of track and field among youths, Rayson-Hernandez isn’t surprised with the rising turnout.
“I think track and field is very contagious,” she said. “We try and run a really good program and I’m just thankful for all my coaches and all the athletes that keep coming back and telling their friends and telling their friends.
“I’m just proud to be a part of something that’s so fun for the athletes.”
The Flyers kick off their 2008 season today at Wildcat Stadium. The meet begins at 9 a.m., with running events beginning at noon.
As the Flyers open their season, it’s all about giving area youths a chance to engage in friendly competition.
“It’s about having fun and having their family and friends watching them and just to bring out as many kids as possible,” Rayson-Hernandez said.
Today’s meet is the first in what Rayson-Hernandez hopes to be another successful summer for the Flyers. They sent 153 athletes to the 2007 Texas Amateur Athletic Federation’s Games of Texas, up from 80 in 2006.
Chloe Lewis, who won a gold medal in the girls 12-and-under shot put, is the Flyers’ lone returning winner from last season.
This year’s state meet is July 24-27 in San Antonio.
The TAAF, which features age groups ranging from 8-and-under to 18-and-under, sponsors statewide competition for various types of participants.
The Flyers roster has youths of all ages - from children getting their first crack at track and field to high school athletes looking to stay in shape for fall sports.
“You have to be able to run to do basketball, to play volleyball, soccer,” Hernandez said. “It’s great for endurance and encouragement and it’s just a good thing all around.”
For the Flyers’ youngest members, the program offers a chance to try various track and field events before they can compete at the middle school level.
“We start them out young so when they get to middle school they already know how to long jump, they already know how to high jump, they already know how to run the (400-meter relay) and pass the baton correctly,” Hernandez said.
With nightly practices and kids of all six age groups practicing various events at the same time, Hernandez is quick to point out that the Flyers’ program wouldn’t be possible without help from 12 volunteer coaches and parents.
“Working full time and then coming over here every evening to spend 2 hours with the athletes, then doing track meets on Saturdays, it’s very time consuming,” Hernandez said. “But I wouldn’t trade it for the world."
rschneider@temple-telegram.com
