Catasauqua head track coach Kyle Rusnock had the date of March 24 circled on his calendar for a long time.

It was scheduled as the Rough Riders first meet of the season at Saucon Valley. Rusnock saw it as the launchpad to a soaring year for the Roughies.

Unfortunately, we know how this story turned out.

“I think we had the right atmosphere here and their attitude and work ethic was outstanding,” said the ever-upbeat Rusnock, before schools were closed and the season was canceled. “It really was great.

“They all took care of their own business and were very anxious to compete. They really were working and getting better day-by-day. We have close to 90 kids on the team this year.”

Rusnock was pleased with the continuous efforts of the underclassmen.

“I was surprised by the number of freshman and sophomores that came out,” stated Rusnock. “Our numbers have been getting better each year.

“They made a mark for themselves and they can compete.”

Seniors Maddie Hicks, Montana Muller, Shaziya Roberts, and Tory Simmons would have anchored the girls’ unit.

“All of them have shown leadership,” said Rusnock. “Maddie Hicks has really helped out with the younger athletes and she should [have done] well with the jumps. Montana Muller [was expected to] have a good year in the pole vault and she also had been helping some of the younger ones in that area.

“Tory Simmons placed in the javelin at both leagues and districts, and she [was expected to] have a strong season. Shaziya Roberts [was expected to] do well in the javelin and hurdles.”

On the boys’ side, seniors Lavonte Bouie and Zach Scheirer were hoping to be back in the field events, and Joe Merkel was expected to excel in the hurdles.

Sophomores Trisha Bloszinsky, Aidan Gerhard, Taylor Hicks, and Kyra Jackson looked to be major contributors, along with junior Lexi Rushatz, who was hoping to continue her mastery from the cross country season.

Sophomore Cole Brown was expected to improve his times in sprints and short distances.

Rusnock at least knows his team was ready to take the next step.

“We can see and hear from other teams about how our kids have raised the program,” said Rusnock. “We have had compliments from coaches and ADs on how our program is relevant again.

“This has been effort by the whole community.

“It’s really disappointing about what has happened. We were hoping to have a couple of weeks off. They have a great work ethic and are doing what they can on their own to stay in shape.”