The Emmaus girls track team continues to impress as the 2019 campaign unfolds, claiming lopsided victories en route to a 5-1 record, and taking first place in the Pirate Invitational held April 18 at Palisades High School.

The Green Hornets stung Allentown Central Catholic 107-43 on April 15 and Bethlehem Catholic 122-28 in two dominant performances that showcased the depth and talent on the roster.

“The girls performed better than expected,” said Emmaus track head coach Kami Reinhard. “Especially since we were missing numerous athletes who are on the choral and language school trips to Europe.”

The absences required a change of strategy and a leap of faith that some new Green Hornets were ready to sting.

“We were able to give a majority of the athletes on the team the opportunity to compete this week,” the coach said. “It was exciting to watch some athletes compete for the first time at the varsity level.”

The roster’s depth proved the difference.

“There are too many athletes to name,” she said. “Every single event group has multiple athletes step up to perform for the team.”

That noted, a few girls stood out. Alanna Smith, Kayla Smith, Mackenzie Dries, Halle Jennett and Julia Rakowsky were consistent producers not only against Central Catholic and Bethlehem Catholic, but throughout the spring. They have competed in three to four events each meet and have consistently scored.

Reinhard has also been pleasantly surprised by the productivity in two areas not expected when the season commenced last month.

“Our throws team and pole vault team were area of weakness on our team that we have taken steps to improve,” the coach said. “They have already exceeded our expectations, as we have nearly all of our pole vaulters are clearing opening heights and are now winning meets, thanks to our pole vault coach, Kristen Susens.”

Emmaus’ Morgan Belisle took second place in pole vault, followed in third by teammate Abby Sommer.

In the recent weeks, the throws squad had also flexed their muscles.

“I can’t say enough about the throws team,” she said. “We have a very young and inexperienced throws team overall, and nearly every meet they are improving.”

Anna-Scott Hand took first in discus against Vikings, with Lillian Shields taking third.

It’s hard for Reinhard to designate just one leader, however a few girls have emerged.

“We look who at who is working hard and also helping others to work hard,” she said.

Hannah Lingold, Kayla Kisthardt, Kristen Zellner, Abby Heilenman, Amanda Lavana and Edna Creelman are leaders in their respective event groups.

In looking ahead, Emmaus will battle Freedom.

“We are looking forward to another competitive meet against Freedom,” Reinhard said. “It will be our first time at their new track.”

The Green Hornets will also embark on trip to the Penn Relays.

“This will be the first time in many years that Emmaus is sending several relays to the Penn Relays, so we have our fingers crossed that all goes well,” said Reinhard.