SACO — The Thornton Academy boys indoor track team had another solid season in 2016-17, capping off the Winter by taking home fourth place at states.

One of the most consistent performers for TA was thrower Jason Montano, who took home second at states and later fourth at the New England finals in the shot put competition.

It is uncommon for sophomores to place atop the standings as regularly as Montano has, however, TA coach George Mendros was not surprised by the young thrower’s season when considering his hard work.

“Obviously it helps having a kid that can finish second in states as a sophomore. He works very hard — he doesn’t look for shortcuts, he’s there every day practicing, he’s always one of the first kids there for the meets. Also in practice he’s always one of the last kids to get done,” said Mendros.

Despite already being one of New England’s top throwers, Mendros believes there is room to grow for Montano, and has confidence that he will … especially when looking at the progress he has already made in his young career.

“He has very good potential — he improved a lot from last year to this year,” said Mendros. “He was at 42 (feet) in indoor and now he’s at 53 feet this season. He’s definitely worked hard and there’s room for improvement.”

The Trojans turn the page to the Spring season. As a freshman, Montano placed seventh at states in outdoor track, and Mendros expects him to finish even better this time around for TA.

“I think top four is an attainable goal for him,” said Mendros. “There were a couple of kids right behind him in the state meet so there’s definitely people chasing him.”

 Associate Sports Editor Alex Sponseller can be reached at asponseller@journaltribune.com or at 282-1535 ext. 323. Follow the Journal Tribune Sports Department on Twitter @JournalTsports.


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