Tuscarawas Central Catholic Athletics

Tuscarawas Central Catholic competed at the Larry Cogan Warrior Invitational on May 1, 2026, in cold, rainy conditions that made for a challenging day across all events. Despite the weather, Tuscarawas Central Catholic athletes showed toughness and versatility, with several strong performances and multiple athletes stepping into more than one event. On the boys side, the distance group led the way. Alex Mercier turned in one of the strongest efforts for Tuscarawas Central Catholic, running a 5:10.67 in the 1600 meters (PR) and coming back with a 2:19.75 in the 800, handling both races well in difficult conditions. Collin Virag also delivered a solid double, finishing the 1600 in 5:27.49 (PR) and the 800 in 2:25.59 (PR), giving the team consistency and depth in the distance events. In the sprints, Steven Simpson led Tuscarawas Central Catholic with a 58.42 in the 400 meters and a 27.17 in the 200, grinding through the rain and cold in both races. The younger athletes gained valuable experience in multiple disciplines. Sidney Dugger ran 13.71 in the 100 meters and also competed in discus, while Alex Utuy took on a full slate with the 100 (15.91), 200 (30.34), and discus (77-10). Rylan Rogers added versatility with the 200 (30.34), long jump (13-3.25), and shot put (25-8.5). In the hurdles, Lukas Kelley ran 52.64 in the 300 hurdles, continuing to expand his event range. On the girls side, Tuscarawas Central Catholic showed similar grit and effort throughout the lineup. Sophia Cronebaughhad one of the busiest days on the team, competing in four events: 100 (16.39), 200 (35.95), discus (59-11.5), and shot put (23-7). Sybil Cronebaugh also contributed across multiple events, finishing the 200 (35.95) and adding marks in the discus (63-5.5) and shot put (17-10). In the sprints, Elna Torres competed in both the 400 (1:23.99) and 200 (36.39), continuing to battle through the tough conditions and gain experience for the team. While Tuscarawas Central Catholic did not place near the top of the team standings, the meet was defined by effort, resilience, and development, with many athletes doubling and tripling events in less-than-ideal weather. A major highlight for the program came away from Carrollton. With no pole vault contested at the meet, Nolan Pughcompeted at Tusky Valley’s Thrilla in Zoarville and delivered a standout performance, winning the pole vault with a clearance of 14’0”. Overall, it was a demanding but productive day for Tuscarawas Central Catholic, marked by perseverance in poor weather and several strong individual performances that will carry forward into the rest of the season.