Hackley Student-Athletes Record Top Times and GPAs in Fall

Emma Curran lowered her personal best time by 18 seconds at the Manhattan University Cross Country Invitational held at Van Cortlandt Park. The Hackley School senior ran the 2.5-mile course in 2 minutes, 11 seconds and 17 hundredths to secure a medal. This performance added to her record as a student who competes in cross country, swimming, and track and field.

Curran has practiced triathlon since age seven. She is scheduled to compete in age-group nationals in Germany. Her coach, Dawn Crainer, described Curran as a top-notch leader who motivates teammates during difficult training sessions. Crainer noted that Curran often cheers runners on the back hills of Van Cortlandt Park while also handling logistics such as hauling snacks and organizing merchandise. Curran serves as team captain alongside Caitlin Morrow.

In the classroom, Curran maintains a weighted grade-point average of 4.15. She takes advanced math classes whenever possible. She has committed to Cornell University for track and field, stating she is honored to continue her athletic journey. Curran said her three-sport schedule teaches her that she can do hard things even when her mind says otherwise.

Classmate Charlie Napach also competes in three sports: soccer, squash, and lacrosse. Napach estimates his grade-point average at 3.9. He described the shift between sports as invigorating because he plays new things with new people. He said this approach helps him connect with more people in the community despite the challenge of competing against specialists in single sports.

Soccer coach Noah Knopf said Napach is driven by team connection and camaraderie. Knopf described Napach as an awesome teammate and leader who leads by example. The coach said Napach always does his best, so teammates never have to worry about his effort or commitment. Napach intends to play club sports in college and is currently narrowing his choices to the Northeast region.