Mondays with Mike: Inside PCA’s Track Team – Grit, Growth & Faith!

Dear PCA Community,

I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support of our school, our students, and the many ways we grow together in faith and learning. As we look ahead, I’m excited for PCA’s 30th Annual Auction, coming up this Saturday, March 15th.

This year’s theme, “Pearls of Wisdom,” is a celebration of God’s faithfulness and the generosity of this community through many seasons. I look forward to seeing many of you for this special day at Portsmouth Christian Academy! As we enter the Easter season, I also want to recognize the joy and reverence of this time. Across Christian churches and denominations in our region, we reflect on the greatest gift of love ever given—Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection. It is my prayer that this season would have a deep impact on our students and school community, drawing us closer to Him.

Speaking of seasons, we’re in that transition from winter to spring, and what better way to mark it than with our Winter Track recap and Spring Track preview? With over 30 athletes competing this winter, it was an incredible season of growth, perseverance, and teamwork. As we move forward, our student-athletes share their reflections, faith, and excitement for what’s ahead. It’s inspiring to hear how God uses athletics to shape individuals and build community, and I invite you to listen to our latest episode featuring PCA track athletes and Coach Teeter! 

Photo by Michael Griffin of Michael Griffin Photography

Podcast Highlights & Community Impact

🌟 Top Moments from the Podcast

1. Brady’s Underdog Story 🏃 – Initially placed last in his qualifying heat, Brady pushed through illness and nerves to set a personal record by 11 seconds, showing incredible resilience and determination.
2. Caterina’s Team Growth 🏅 – Her excitement over the formation of new relay teams and breaking school records emphasized the growing strength of PCA’s track program.
3. Israel’s Humbling Journey 💪 – After placing top five in most races last year, Israel faced tougher competition this season, reinforcing the values of perseverance and humility.
4. Christian’s Mental Battle 🏔️ – He shared how training alone in the winter cold tested his discipline, but ultimately, faith and encouragement from teammates kept him pushing forward.
5. Adelynn’s Leadership & Encouragement 🙌 – A natural encourager, Adelynn lifted teammates up with high-fives, fist bumps, and words of affirmation, making sure no one felt discouraged—even on the toughest training days.
6. Gage on Faith & Friendship ✝️ – Gage highlighted how faith, friendships, and community at PCA make track about more than just competition—running alongside friends has deepened both his spiritual life and motivation.
7. Coach Teeter’s Rock Tumbler Analogy – The idea that each athlete is like a jagged rock being refined through training and challenges was a memorable and faith-filled perspective that resonated deeply.

📢 What This Means for Our Community

• For Students: The track program is more than just a sport—it’s an opportunity to challenge yourself, build friendships, and grow in faith.
• For Parents: The character development, encouragement, and perseverance displayed by these athletes affirm the value of PCA’s athletic programs.
• For Faculty & Staff: The teamwork and growth mindset in PCA track align with our school’s mission to develop students holistically.

🚀 Looking Ahead: Spring Track Preview

• ☀️ Excitement for Warmer Weather – Many athletes highlighted how training in the sun boosts motivation and morale.
• 👟 Opportunities for New Athletes – Team leaders emphasized that anyone can join and find their hidden talent in track, whether sprinting, distance running, jumping, or throwing.
• 🎯 Team Growth & Goals – Coaches and captains discussed aspirations for the spring season, including individual improvement, team bonding, and even state-level competition.

📌 Outdoor Track is also available for Middle Schoolers! Many of the same benefits our Upper School students experience—discipline, teamwork, character-building, and faith-based encouragement—also apply to our Middle School track athletes. If you or your child are interested, now is a great time to join! 💬

As we wrap up, I just want to say how grateful to God I am of our PCA track and field athletes. You compete with excellence, but more than that, you run with joy, you push through challenges with resilience, and you support each other with real, Christ-centered encouragement. For those of you listening—whether you’re a student thinking about joining or a parent cheering from the sidelines—track and field is an incredible way to grow, challenge yourself, and be part of something bigger. If you’re interested, reach out to one of these athletes or a coach and come try it out.

Thanks to our athletes and coaches for being part of Mondays with Mike! We’re excited to see what God has in store for the spring season. Go Eagles! 🦅

Special thanks to PCA Parent of Alum and amazing Volunteer, Michael Griffin. Michael has been serving our community by providing excellent photographic coverage to many of our athletic events. You are amazing, Michael! You can find more at his website: Michael Griffin Photography. Photographs below are used by permission. 

To hear past episodes, share with your loved ones and friends, follow, and even review us, check out our PCA Podcast on these platforms: