Newtown High School’s indoor track program has a new leader as Coach David Warren takes over this winter. Warren, a former collegiate athlete, brings 15 years of coaching experience to the team. He previously coached track at St Joseph High School in Trumbull for a handful of years. He ran and played football at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven. Warren’s experience includes work as a private coach with USA Track and Field and speed/plyometrics coaching in West Haven.

“I’m very excited about the direction of the indoor track and field program and the way the student-athletes have approached training,” said Warren, who has been impressed by the team’s focus, work ethic, and goal-driven mindset. “The commitment and energy these student-athletes bring every day has been outstanding.”

Warren is looking forward to building something special while continuing to raise the standard for the program. The indoor track and field team enters the season with a strong mix of experienced leadership, multi-sport athletes, and emerging talent, with more than 128 athletes combined across the boys’ and girls’ teams participating this winter, one of the largest rosters the program has seen.

Leading the team are a group of captains who bring excellence both on and off the track. Natilie DelCampo, a multi-sport athlete who also plays soccer, is known for her steady presence and balance beyond athletics, including her love of baking and travel. Marcela Corral, a hurdler and high jumper, has been involved in track since first grade and brings a deep appreciation for teamwork, along with talents in music and a passion for exploring new places. Violet Assante-LaBash, a sprinter and jumper entering her third year in the program, pairs athletic success, including first-place finishes, with creativity as an accomplished artist, and will continue her academic and athletic career at Bates College.

The team is also supported by experienced senior leaders. Nadia Andrew, a four-year indoor track athlete and future college tennis player, provides consistency and competitiveness. Natalie McLean, a three-sport captain committed to Division I lacrosse at LIU, brings elite leadership and a winning mindset across all seasons.

On the boys’ side, Bryce Maddox anchors the sprint group as a proven state-level competitor. A co-president of the National Honor Society, Maddox is an All-State athlete with two school records and brings a high level of focus and maturity to the team.

The boys’ team features a strong senior core, including Grady Marks, Justyn Gonzalez, and Danniel Teixeira, all multi-sport athletes who also played football and are key contributors in the sprints. Will Speiser adds strength and depth in the throws as a dedicated shot-put athlete. Together, the sprint group has the potential to challenge school records and contend for a state title in the 4x200 relay if they can put all the pieces together.

“With strong leadership, depth across events, and a culture centered on accountability and continuous improvement, the outlook for the indoor season is optimistic as the team looks to compete at a high level and peak as championship season approaches,” Warren said.

The season begins with a visit to Bethel on Saturday, January 3.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.