As senior Michael Papper geared up for a sprint at track practice, his teammates clapped, cheered and chanted his name. “Papper, Papper,” echoed throughout the fieldhouse. He grinned as his teammates ran up and surrounded him, still cheering to encourage him before his next sprint.

According to Papper, he has been developing his commitment to track since he first began the sport.  He currently competes in long jump and sprints.

“I got kicked off the team freshman year,” said Papper. “I played too much soccer.”

Scott Lasky, head boys track coach, said Papper’s work ethic has made a “180-degree turn” since his freshman year. He has developed a more open attitude toward improvement and has become committed to track.

Lasky said Papper approached him and asked him to recommend a nutritionist. Papper also started working out at TCBoost, a sports performance facility designed to increase overall athleticism.

Papper primarily worked with sports performance trainer Michael Drach at TCBoost.

“He did tons of research on the ins and outs of the sport,” said Drach. “It was clear he loved the sport and learning every aspect [of it].”

Drach said Papper works on making little improvements until he gets more results, even sending Drach texts and videos to ask about a new approach to his jump or run technique.

During his junior year, Papper was one of two Glenbrook North track athletes to attend the state competition. He placed eighth, with a 22’1.5” long jump, his personal record at the time. This year, he has been able to add another nine inches to his jump.

Papper said he would still like to improve before state this year, which is scheduled to take place from May 26 – 28.

He also competes in sprinting events, and he holds school records with a 6.61-second time in the 55-meter dash and a 7.14-second time in the 60-meter dash. 

Papper said he always finds ways to make the most of his workout at practice and to be more efficient.

“I think it’s more important to focus on quality over quantity in the workouts,” Papper said.

His teammates also have noticed his commitment during workouts.

“Track is what he thinks about 24/7,” said junior TJ Weinzimmer. “He eats, sleeps and breathes track.”

Senior Mason Rosenberg said that when they both first began track, Papper was usually doing his own thing, but he has recently become more involved in the team.

“When [Papper] is there, he is completely present with the team,” Rosenberg said.

Papper said he often gives teammates tips or helps them with their running technique because he likes to see his teammates improve.

Weinzimmer said Papper is always optimistic about the potential of his teammates. Weinzimmer currently has a high jump personal record of 6’3” and was told by Papper that he is within reach of a 7-foot jump by the end of his senior year.

Papper said this year he is hoping to finish in the top 10 in the 100-meter dash at state and first in long jump. He also would like to compete in track at a Division I school next year, which he keeps in mind as he is considering colleges to attend.