The Joliet Junior College men’s and women’s track teams opened their outdoor season March 28, 2026, at North Central College, qualifying six athletes for nationals in their first meet.
On the women’s side Gabriela Zid qualified in the 5,000 meters and set a school record. Vivienne Forte, the defending national champion of the 3,000 meter steeplechase qualified as well in the same event.
For the men Gavin Carlson ran a personal best time in the 5,000 meters to qualify for nationals. He was joined by Logan Schmidt, Eric Gomez and Adrian Castillo, who all qualified in the 10,000 meters.
As the outdoor season begins, the Wolves are finding their rhythm following a strong indoor season in which many athletes improved
“I thought the indoor season went very well,” Coach Jeff DeGraw said. “With only five outdoor meets, having that indoor season is absolutely huge for the opportunity for these kids to go to the national meet.”
Despite unpredictable weather and fewer opportunities, DeGraw said the team is off to a strong start.
“I thought our distance people ran very well,” he said. “We had quite a few qualifiers for the first outdoor meet, which was good considering the weather wasn’t the greatest.”
Among those qualifiers was distance runner Schmidt, who is planning to qualify for even more events.
“I want to make it for the 5K and then the 1500,” Schmidt said. “For the 5K, I just want to go sub 16 (minutes). For the 1500, maybe sub 4:05 if I can get there.”
For Schmidt, improvement starts with consistent preparation.
“Usually we meet around 7 or 7:15 and run five to seven miles,” Schmidt said. “Then we find time during the week to come back and do harder workouts on the track.”
That balance between endurance and intensity has helped athletes push toward personal records. Schmidt said mental preparation plays a key role as well.
“You just got to know you put in enough hard work,” Schmidt said. “If you don’t have confidence, you’re not going to perform well.”
For sprinter Ka’Mhary Scott, resilience has come from overcoming adversity. After being sidelined by injury for several months, Scott said she has shifted her focus to discipline and growth.
“I feel like the way you practice is going to dictate the way you perform,” Scott said. “Now I focus on the small things needed to strengthen my body.”
She also credited her teammates for helping her stay motivated.
“Corrine walks through every step with me, Caleb reminds me to be patient, and Val brings energy every day,” Scott said. “That support gives me comfort and pushes me forward.”
Team chemistry has become a defining strength for the Wolves, with athletes consistently supporting one another in practice and competition.
“I feel like we all get along,” Schmidt said. “We all have a goal in mind, and we’re determined to get it.”
DeGraw said the team’s success is rooted in both its work ethic and environment.
“Their work ethic is phenomenal,” he said. “Whether it’s a 7 a.m. practice or 2 in the afternoon, they show up and get their work done. They’re positive.”
He added that enjoyment is just as important as effort.
“We joke around, we have fun, that’s key,” DeGraw said. “This isn’t a job. This is something they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.”
As the season progresses, the Wolves stay focused on improvement and making the most of their opportunities.
“Our goal is to finish in the top three,” DeGraw said. “But that only happens when every individual does their job.”
