2000 Poland Boys Track and Field State Champs

The 2000 Poland Seminary High School Boys Track and Field team enjoyed a remarkable season, marked by numerous achievements. Even before the season started, there was a sense that this year could be special, and the team set ambitious goals. As the season progressed, these goals began to materialize into accomplishments: invitational championships, League and District championships, Regional runner-ups, seven school records, and qualification for the State meet in eight different events. The team that competed at the State Championships was made up of 10 athletes: senior Andy Colella (4x100), senior Nick Dalesandro (4x100), junior Drew Frum (3200, 4x800), junior Andy Fusselman (4x800), senior John Jeren (800, 4x800, 4x400), senior Pete Modelski (100, 200, 4x100, 4x400), junior Pete Perry (relay alternate), junior Joe Simko (4x100), senior Tony Villanueva (400, 4x400) and senior Jeff Wiery (4x800, 4x400). The team was guided by three outstanding and dedicated coaches: Dave Dirienzo, Mike Simington, and Don Smaltz.

At the State Championships, the team excelled, scoring points in seven of the eight events in which they competed. The championship came down to the final event - the 4x400 relay. With the need for a finish better than 4th place to win the state championship, the senior quartet delivered a great performance by winning the relay and clinching the State championship for the Bulldogs. It was Poland’s first Track and Field State Title in half a century. This team will be remembered as one of the greatest teams in Poland athletics history.