Another One! Dayton Wolverines Storm Region 4 with Unstoppable Fire

In the sweltering July heat at Wittenberg University, 120 Dayton Wolverines surged across the track, their spikes flashing as they clinched over 60 spots for the AAU Junior Olympics Nationals in Houston, Texas (July 26–August 2, 2025). The Dayton Wolverines Track Club, a 14-year powerhouse founded by Coach Harry “Keith” Ways, rules Region 4 (Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Kentucky, Michigan, Lake Erie). With over 200 athletes, ages 3 to 18, this squad stacks victories like champions, fueled by a relentless heart and an unbreakable mindset that screams, “Another one!”

Coach Keith Ways, the visionary behind the club, ignites the team’s spirit: “The girls’ determination to win every season leaves room for improvement. They start from the ground and level up with a strong mind.” Coach Floyd doubles down: “Their mindset drives them. A stronger mind makes them win!” Coach Dayton Boyd, known as the “Vertimax King,” pushes the team to new heights, barking, “Stop talking and train harder!” His intense Vertimax training drills have propelled the Wolverines’ relay teams to #1 in Region 4. The coaching staff prioritizes athlete health, ensuring early arrivals to meets so muscles are rested and ready for explosive performances. Whether it’s 90° summer sprints or year-round training, the Wolverines are built for greatness.

The team’s stars light up the track with jaw-dropping performances. Amari Mattison, a four-year veteran ranked #2 in the region, led the charge in Houston. The Wolverines boast an elite roster of AAU All-Americans: Faith Brown (100m hurdles, 400m hurdles), Nia Poole (400m hurdles), Zion Payne (800m), Alayah Walker (800m, pentathlon), Kaniyah Taylor (200m), Kendrick Goff (1500m), Te’Yone Strodes (National Champion, 100m hurdles; All-American, pentathlon), and Damare Smith (2x National Champion, 100m hurdles, pentathlon; All-American, high jump, 200m hurdles). These athletes embody the club’s mantra: run hard, win big, and keep stacking podium finishes.

Beyond the medals, the Wolverines are a family. Junior Stacy Brown says, “The Dayton Wolverines are my second family, supporting me academically and athletically, on and off the track.” Freshman Kelis Mayberry reflects, “This team has made me a better person, teaching me discipline and resilience.” Senior Maya Welch, who’s been running with the club since childhood, adds, “The Wolverines are a blessing. They’ve shaped me into a better person and taught me life lessons that go beyond the finish line.” This tight-knit bond pushes the team to excel, creating a legacy of growth and unity.

Coach Keith Ways sums it up: “Seeing our athletes compete at Nationals is the reward for grinding in 90° heat!” Be part of the Wolverines’ unstoppable journey—donate, cheer, or run with us! Reach Coach Keith Ways at harry.keithways@gmail.com to help these young stars soar to the next victory. Another one? You bet!

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Founded to make track accessible to all, the Wolverines never turn kids away for financial reasons, ensuring every young athlete has a shot at greatness. As they gear up for Nationals, they need community support for travel, uniforms, and equipment. You can fuel their fire by donating via Cash App (#DWTC2025) or contacting Coach Keith Ways at harry.keithways@gmail.com.

Want to join the pack? Practices run Monday–Thursday, 6:00–7:30 PM at Deweese Park, and Sundays, 2:00–4:00 PM at Dunbar High School, with indoor sessions starting November 2025 due to daylight savings.