With over 200 athletes, Indoor Winter Track and Field is one of Hopkinton’s most popular and successful winter sports. The program pools students from a track and cross country running background as well as Fall and Spring athletes trying to stay in shape for their seasons.

“My favorite part about track is the people. There’s a lot of different people from different grades, so it’s nice to see everyone together,” boys’ captain Declan Mick said.

The boys are led by head coach Mike Donahue, and Jean Cann leads the girls’ team as head coach. They are both supported by assistant coaches Daniel Collins, Michael Webb, Laura McKenzie, Brian Prescott, who is out on paternity leave, and new coach Shaye Ellard.

Indoor track athletes compete in the hurdles, sprints, mid-distance, jumping, distance, and throwing events.

“Our biggest strength is obviously depth with 200 plus athletes. I think we have good depth across the board in all events,” Collins said.

The team has produced some successful alumni come out of the program in recent years, like Olivia Jones who competes at the University of Florida, and Kate Powers at the University of Kentucky.

Now, the program looks to its newest leaders.

The girls’ team is captained by Ellie Driscoll, Autumn Tumbleton, Bridget O’Connor, Sinead Herr, and Shelby Jones. The boys’ team is led by Declan Mick, Sean Golembowski, a returning All-American, Craig Salois, Neil Abraham, and Kavin Prasanna.

“It means a lot to be a captain. I’ve been really dedicated to this sport since I first got hooked freshman year, and I’m very excited to take on the challenge of connecting with people from all age groups, and hopefully being a positive role model that encourages the young kids to keep doing track,” Driscoll said.

Hopkinton competes in the Tri-Valley League against Holliston, Ashland, Medfield, Norwood, and Westwood during the regular season. They also compete against Medway, Bellingham, Dover-Sherborn, Norton, Dedham, and Millis for the TVL Championship.

“The goal is to always win the TVL. I think we have the chance to do something special this year, and maybe go to states, ” Mick said.

Even with depth and many other strengths, the team, like any program, still faces some challenges.

“It’s always facilities. It’s really hard to fit 200 students in one space and give every athlete what he or she might need… like noticing something about someone’s form…and give every athlete equal attention,” Collins said.

Hopkinton sealed their first victory against Holliston on Friday, December 9, at the Reggie Lewis Center in Boston, and the program looks forward to more.