This Saturday at Boston’s Reggie Lewis Center, dozens of top-tier indoor track and field athletes from around the Commonwealth will put their skills to the test at the annual Meet of Champions.
It’s an event that features only the best of the best — and Gloucester’s Aili Spencer is one of them.
A Rockport native competing for the GHS co-op squad, Spencer will be the lone athlete from Cape Ann at the marquee meet. The senior captain qualified in the long jump and will go in as the sixth ranked competitor, although she has achievable goals of shattering that mark.
“I’ve dedicated countless hours to training and honing my skills throughout the season, and I’m eager to showcase my hard work,” said Spencer, who will also serve as team captain for the outdoor track this spring.
“My aspirations extend far beyond (sixth),” she continued. “I’m determined to break into the top three, a goal that will undoubtedly require immense focus, perseverance and mental toughness. While I recognize that this is a significant challenge, I’m resolute in my commitment to push myself and aim for at least a bronze medal by the end of the meet.”
Steadfast journey
Earning the opportunity to once again compete at All-States — she did so last year and qualified for Nationals in the process — is something Spencer doesn’t take for granted. And when you consider the daunting road she took to get there, the feat is that much more impressive.
Aside from the obvious pressures of being one of the program’s top performers and everyday leaders, Spencer was forced to power through a hip injury last season. More recently — just last week, in fact — she was in a serious car accident, spending the night in the hospital, only to show up the very next day and shine at the Division 4 state meet.
Her intrepidity and overall dedication to her craft has been unmatched throughout her stellar career.
“This season has posed significant mental challenges for me, as I’ve fallen short of many of my objectives,” admitted Spencer. “The pressures in my personal life have taken a toll on my mental resilience; from the car accident I experienced on Valentine’s Day to the hip injury last season, each incident has contributed to a series of setbacks.
“However, qualifying (for All-States) has truly been a revelation, signaling a fresh beginning,” she added. “The thought that I might not even reach the state level makes it hard to believe that I’m now part of the All-State competition.”
Needless to say, she’s ready to give it her all in what could be the last hurrah for her high school indoor track career.
“I anticipate that once I walk through the doors this Saturday, I will fully appreciate the privilege of this opportunity and the importance of not taking it for granted,” she said. “My primary goal is to qualify for Nationals, but I’d also be content concluding my senior indoor career with one final All-State appearance representing Gloucester High School.”
As it stands, Spencer currently holds a personal record of 18 feet 6 inches in the long jump. She’s also shined in such events as the 55 hurdles (finishing 7th overall with a school record of 9.08 seconds at states), as well as numerous team relays.
In order to reach the podium at All-States, Spencer will likely have to hit a high water mark of at least 18 feet. A leap of 18 feet 3 inches or more would garner her an automatic spot at Nationals. She’s done it before, and considering her work ethic, professionalism and commitment to the grind, there’s no question she’s capable of doing it again when the lights are brightest.
“I am fully aware of the hard work that lies ahead,” she said, “and I’m prepared to give it my all in pursuit of this goal.”
A larger purpose
Regardless of what happens on Saturday, Spencer can rest easy knowing she always put her team first.
As a senior captain, regular point earner and irreplaceable leader, she relishes the opportunity to represent GHS and said she wouldn’t trade her experience for the world. Yes, she admits having her teammates there with her at this stage would certainly be tops on her wish list, but also realizes the sheer significance of being the only Fishermen athlete to qualify.
“I take great pride in representing Gloucester. Being a member of this co-op team is a privilege for which I will always be thankful,” Spencer said. “I wish I could share this meet with more of my teammates, as they truly deserve it. But I understand that one of us qualifying will hold significant value for Gloucester as a school.”
In addition to her teammates, Spencer also credits her head coach, David Coleman, for his endless support on and off the track.
“Without coach Coleman, this meet would not carry the same importance for me. He has instilled in my belief that every opportunity is a stepping stone toward the future,” said Spencer.
Saturday’s competition will begin at 10:30 a.m. at The Reggie Lewis Track and Field Center in West Roxbury. Live results will be posted online at Athletic.net.
Sports Editor Nick Giannino may be contacted at 978-675-2712 or ngiannino@northofboston.com.