Today I want to celebrate the Western Massachusetts State Champions and the Massachusetts State runner up in Division 1 Unified Track the Wahconah Regional High School Warriors. I want to talk about a group of young students who taught me what it means to never give up even when the odds say you have no chance. When you face the Goliath of Division 1 Unified track Natick High School who is twice the size of you and you as David come with depleted numbers and there is little chance of winning you compete in the belief you will overcome the odds and win. We did not win but what I witnessed on that day from Wahconah was the true heart of a champion. They gave their all and left everything they had on the track and field at Natick High School.
Even though we did not have our full team we beat last year’s overall score. We have 5 individual event state champions and numerous personal best times on the track and personal best distances in the field events. The Wahconah Warriors gave their all and I am blessed that I had the opportunity to be part of this amazing team. They did not allow their challenges to define them. They push beyond what others told them was not possible to turn possibilities into reality. They decided that they would define who they are and what they are capable of.
If you want to know where their drive and determination comes from it is from their family and amazing coaches. Their family and friends were at every track meet cheering them on. Many even made the two-and-a-half-hour drive to Natick to support their loved ones and the team. The coaches would challenge the team and individuals, always cheering them on and encouraging them. Teaching the kids to step out of their comfort zone and try something new. I could see what being part of this team has done for many of the students. They are thriving because they are part of a community who see them as more than just their disability. They are getting opportunities to be part of a team and community who believe in them and are helping them move those mountains that are in the way.
Since April of this year, I have been part of something amazing. The Wahconah Unified Track team. Their never give up attitude is infectious and that could not have been clearer than the last race at the state championship when our 4X400 relay team came within ten meters of beating the state champions Natick. We pushed them beyond what they expected and even though we came up short it was a defining moment for a team that never gives up.
I want all my teammates from Wahconah Regional High School Unified track that you have given me so much more then I could give to you. You gave me my first medals in track and field. You taught me that when things get hard to never give up. The medals I received are more than just prizes. They represent the hearts of true champions. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your team and for helping me believe that in life all things are possible.
Wahconah Regional High School Unified Track are the Champions of Heart, Resiliency, Determination, and the never give up attitude.
Charles Redd RN and the Wahconah Regional High School Unified Track Champions
Dignity Freedom Fighters
Dignity Freedom Fighter 