Grafton track standout Emily Viani aims for return to state meet in 2023

Viani also teamed with Hadley Horne, River Sipes and McKenzie Flohr to form both the 4x400 and 4x800 meter state qualifying relay teams that finished sixth and fourth-place finishes with a times of 4:36.63 and 10:24.77, respectively.

“I’m excited as the track season inches closer. My biggest goal as of now is probably to shave roughly about seven seconds off my 800 time. I always plan on working hard throughout the season to record better times,” Viani said.

During the offseason, Viani found a way to stay engaged by setting aside time to stay in shape.

“I put in a lot of work in my down time. I made sure to go on increasingly longer runs to stay in shape over the past year. I have prepared for a big season, now I just have to go out and show people what I can do on the track,” Viani said.

The junior runner has built up strong bonds with her coaches and teammates over the course of her three years in coach PD Louzy’s Grafton High School track program.

I would say that I share a great relationship with both my coaches and teammates. I enjoy being around them and have made many memories with them. I couldn’t ask to be surrounded by a better group of people. I know they will always push me to be my best,” Viani said.

Being a part of the Grafton track team has meant the world to Viani, as she credits coach Louzy for making a positive impact on her both on the track and in the classroom.

My teammates and coach Louzy have been helpful in pushing me to reach my running goals. One thing I will take away from coach Louzy is the importance in always giving an honest effort. Louzy and being a part of the Bearcat track team has also helped me academically by teaching me that you always get out exactly what you put into it,” Viani said.