Liam Schmidt and Owen Weissert Lead McGivney State Surge

The Griffins got key sectional titles from Schmidt and Weissert, while relay teams and runners-up across several events added to an impressive qualifying haul.

Dan Brannan, Content Director

May 22, 2026 10:58 AM May 22, 2026 11:18 AM

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McGivney pole vault sensation Caleb Payne. (Photo by Dan Brannan).

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GLEN CARBON - Father McGivney Catholic’s boys track and field team turned in a strong showing Wednesday, May 20, at the Gillespie 1A Boys Track and Field Sectional, finishing third in the team standings with 98 points and advancing multiple athletes and relays to the state meet in Charleston.

Litchfield won the sectional with 106.33 points.

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The Griffins claimed four sectional championships, including two individual titles and two relay victories. Liam Schmidt won the 800 meters in 1 minute, 58.52 seconds, and Owen Weissert took first in the 400 in 50.99 seconds.

McGivney also won the 4x800 relay, where Gus Range, Connor Schmidt, Eric Rybak, and Will Rakers posted a first-place time of 8:08.53 and set a new school record. The Griffins’ 4x400 relay team of Liam Schmidt, Eddie Foppe, Gus Range, and Will Rakers also finished first in 3:29.94.

In addition to the sectional titles, McGivney earned three more state-qualifying performances. Caleb Payne placed second in the pole vault at 12 feet, 8 inches. Weissert added a second-place finish in the 200 in 22.91 seconds, and Eddie Foppe was second in the 300-meter hurdles in 41.85 seconds.

“From record-breaking relays to individual sectional titles, the Griffins are soaring into Charleston with momentum and confidence,” Father McGivney Catholic head boys coach Joe Shannon said. “Congratulations to all of our athletes and coaches on an unforgettable night!