Competing in the Spring: Yuba College Track and Field

Stephanie Hahn competes in the Shot Put, Discus, Javelin and Hammer Throws events for the Yuba College track team. She went to high school locally and was recruited by Yuba College Throw Coach Howdy Atkinson. Joining the Yuba College track team is a new experience for her as she “always competed in school sports but never liked running much.” Under the calming influence of new Track and Field Coach Eric Fremd, she is now training to run the 200-meter dash as well.

Team goals are always stressed over individual performance in any sport. The choices are common in any discussion with an athlete. The real question should be, “is the knowledge and experience at the sport rewarding?”

According to Fremd, “If you have a group of athletes willing to come here every day and work hard, it makes the job worthwhile. The happiness and success of each and every athlete promotes the unity of the team game.” Team goals are always stressed over individual performance in any sport but athletes are driven by personal achievement as well. His outlook is personable and refreshing. Fremd brings a breath of fresh air to the Yuba College track and field program which shows in the character and spirit in his athletes.

Fremd came to Yuba College on August 12 of this year from Sacramento City College, where he was the Assistant Track Coach. An alumni of that school, where he obtained his master’s degree, he also attended California State University, Northridge to earn his degree in kinesiology. Fremd’s goal is to “increase athletics, bringing the program to the level of achievement it can be.” He just might do that, considering his own former coach, Gimithee Banks, still holds the long jump record for Yuba College track and field.

Hahn is one of thirteen women on the 49er team, a team which had no women at all just two seasons ago. She has two sons, ages nine and eleven and would like to come home to Wheatland to teach math after attending Chico State University. Hahn likes the environment at Yuba College and personifies the integrity of her coach. She says, “We have a great training regimen and Coach Fremd is building an incredible foundation. I look forward to competing in the Spring!”

The season starts February 17, 2013 with Javonne Bradford competing in the long and triple jumps. Mikaela Sawaya will run in the 800 and 1500 meters. Wade Debartolo is training for the throws competition, hammer,shot put and discus. Cori Shatz, will compete in the hammer throw, discus and triple jump. Shatz is a multi-sport athlete, also playing for the Yuba College Women’s Basketball team.

The outdoor environment of the track and field arena should provide for great family entertainment. Yuba College and the athletes would appreciate the fan support.

Note: This article was featured in The Prospector, Winter 2013 print edition.