What happens when a program that many had written off gets a fresh start?
After coming off a season last year with many ups and downs, the Caravan track program looks to start off 2026 in great fashion with coaching changes and a squad that is fully committed.
Mount Carmel’s track team is preparing for the upcoming track season with a new coach and something to prove. After struggles last year with some lack of structure and practice, the athletes are already saying the season feels different. With a new coach giving structure and better practice schemes being added, the Caravan look to rebuild credibility in the Catholic League.
New coach Mr. Adebowale Olaleye looks to be the main shift for this year’s Caravan track squad. This will be his first year coaching track at MC, and he will be looking to make and impact right away and help the kids succeed. This season is not all about the success at meets but also putting MC track back on the map and influencing more kids around to school to join.
Being a new coach brings some challenges for “Coach O.” One problem that he says isn’t too big is the fact he doesn’t even know his team yet. He said this shows how much work he has to put in as a coach to keep the program thriving.
“We actually have a coach now,” senior sprinter Aaron Young said when describing the offseason changes. “Someone who understands the science behind training, not just endless running.”
Last season athletes felt frustrated and lost, practices were unstructured, and the team did not have the success they wanted.
“We kind of felt like a joke to other schools,” Young said. “That’s not how a Mount Carmel program should be seen.”
Young is really excited about this year’s team, mentioning junior Michael Valerio as a kid to look out for. He also added how his training regime has changed from just overworking himself to a structured weight room plan as well as running plan.
Coach O knows the program needs some rebuilding but he’s looking to give it his all to be able to leave a legacy on the track program.
“The program isn’t established yet,” Coach O said about his first year. “We don’t even really have equipment, so the goal is to build a foundation.”
Despite all these challenges, Coach O is ready for it and knows his team will be good and prepared.
“Here, you know you’re getting athletes,” he said. “People play sports here in one way or another.”
For other returning athletes the coaching change is exciting and brings a great vibe for the team.
“Having a new coach brings energy,” senior hurdler Victor Friar said. “It feels like a fresh start.”
Friar spoke on how the team will adjust well and everyone will be ready to buy in right away.
He also spoke on the Valerio twins, Gabriel and Michael, how they will be a key part. as well as senior Carson Braggs and others. The team looks to do damage this year and be a true threat.
There are also goals to make sure to stay healthy and qualify a lot more. There is confidence going into this season, the Caravan are ready to put themselves on the map.
For kids who are borderline on considering joining track or even want to get faster for their sport, the team says they should not be afraid to join.
Coach O not only wants to leave a legacy on this track program but also wants kids to come out and run. He wants it to be known it is okay if a student is playing another sport. If they want to get faster, they should join the track team.
