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A local non-profit track and field club, the Dayton Wolverines, is causing a sensation in the world of athletics. Under the guidance of Coach Keith Ways and co-founder Dwayne Coker, this remarkable club is shaping the future stars of Dayton's track and field scene.
Drawing inspiration from the renowned Dunbar High School, the Dayton Wolverines embody the mission of "Optimal Performance," aiming to cultivate well-rounded athletes who excel in every aspect of their lives. As Coach Ways passionately declares, "You can't settle for just one or two pieces; true completeness comes from uniting the spiritual, physical, and mental elements." In essence, they strive to develop athletes who shine holistically. The team's recent triumphs at the AAU Nationals stand as a testament to their unyielding commitment and extraordinary accomplishments.
Unleashing the Stars
At the AAU Junior Nationals, the Dayton Wolverines overcame incredible challenges and emerged as champions. Eleven-year-old Chloe Chappel achieved an exceptional feat, bringing home the AAU Junior title in the 80-meter hurdles and the pentathlon, becoming a national champion. Coach Ways commends Chloe's outstanding performance, stating, "it was a great victory.” Chappell has proven herself to be a rising star in the world of track and field.
Nia Poole and Faith Brown, two exceptional athletes from the Dayton Wolverines, showcased their immense talent at the Nationals, securing a remarkable achievement as they were honored as All Americans in the fiercely competitive 200-meter hurdles event. Coach Ways couldn't hide his admiration for their accomplishments, proudly stating, "We won 13 medals in hurdles; we do hurdles very well." Their relentless commitment and unwavering dedication have propelled them to the pinnacle of their event, serving as a shining example of the immense potential thriving within our esteemed club. Nia Poole and Faith Brown's achievements stand as a testament to the extraordinary talent nurtured by the Dayton Wolverines. Damari Smith, a sensational athlete, secured double medals in both the 80-meter hurdles and the pentathlon, earning an All American title. Coach Ways describes Damari as a true force to be reckoned with and acknowledges his outstanding performances as a testament to the team's versatility and talent.
The youngest member and most memorable of the team, nine-year-old Aliyah Walker, blazed through the 800-meter and 1500-meter races, securing double medals for Dayton on a national stage. Aliyah's remarkable achievements at such a young age highlight the bright future ahead for this talented athlete.
A Flawless Victory
The Dayton Wolverines have triumphantly returned home, adorned with a remarkable collection of medals that speaks volumes about their outstanding performance. Boasting an impressive tally of eight All-Americans, two top 10 finishes, and three top 15 finishes, their success is undeniable. The team's exceptional dedication and unwavering work ethic are best encapsulated by Coach Ways, who declares, "Winning is a by-product of hard work." This resounding statement underscores the relentless efforts put forth by the Wolverines throughout the year, as they consistently strive for excellence. With their unwavering commitment and a resolute desire to succeed, the Dayton Wolverines exemplify the true spirit of champions.
Building Upon Success
The AAU Nationals Championship All American is a testament to the unwavering dedication and outstanding achievements of the entire Dayton Wolverines team. Coach Ways reflects on their journey, saying, "We had kids that weren't in the top, they were the fastest they had ever run at a personal record. Hitting a PR is a big deal and rare to you don't make it to the top, such as a national champion. Even though some didn't make it to the top or nationals, they still set national personal records, also known as Personal Bests."
The Dayton Wolverines have firmly established themselves as rising stars in the world of track and field. Their recent achievements at the AAU Junior Nationals demonstrate their unwavering dedication, outstanding talent, and strong team spirit. With Coach Keith Ways leading the way, the Dayton Wolverines are shaping the next generation of track stars and inspiring aspiring athletes everywhere.
The Dayton Wolverines have proven that with hard work, perseverance, and a passion for greatness, anything is possible. Let’s Go WOLVERINES!
