Catasauqua senior Will Aguirre can personally attest to the adage of how a year can make a difference.

Last season, Aguirre joined the Catty track team, but he realized that it may be a tough task. But, he was confident that his cross-country background could help him along the way.

“It was my first year of track, and I really didn’t have a clue to what I was doing,” stressed Aguirre. “I was immediately placed into mid- and long-distance [runs] due to my cross country background. But due to me not training during the prior winter, track hit me like a truck.

“I can say for sure this year has been completely different from last year.”

This season, the Rough Rider senior recently qualified for the district meet with a mark of 9-3 in the pole vault at the Colonial League meet that was good for a 15th finish. He also ran the mile (season best 5:13) and two-mile (season best 12:30) as well as being part of the team 4 x 800 relay team.

Aguirre saw this season as the proverbial 360.

“This year, I was able to get in shape quicker and had a head start compared to last year, even placing in my races and a first for my senior night when that seemed impossible before.

“I also picked up in pole vault, which I excel, qualifying for leagues and districts. As a figure on the team, I am glad I’m able to be a senior who helps underclassmen below me and guide new runners and pole vaulters.

“That being said, they also help me in a way to keep me driven and motivated in every aspect.”

Head coach Kyle Rusnock soon recognized Aguirre would be an invaluable asset. Aguirre plans to attend Moravian University in the fall, but he is still unsure about a future cross country/track career.

“Will is an awesome kid that every team would benefit from having on its team,” beamed Rusnock. “He qualified for leagues and districts in the pole vault. Will also helped his team running the 1,600 and 3,200, He would do anything we ask him to do.

“Will had a bright future ahead of him. We are so lucky to have him as a Rough Rider.”