Sean Bryan is This Week's Whiz Kid

Stoneham Patch Whiz Kid of the Week

• Sean Bryan, 17
• Accomplishment: Bryan runs the 400-meter hurdles and the 4x4. He is also on pace to break the school’s hurdle record by next spring.

Key to Awesomeness: Bryan runs track in winter and spring for the Spartans and attributes all of his success to his two coaches Xavier and Jonathan Garcia as well as his teammates.

“Coming into the season I didn’t know what to expect because it was my first spring season as a track athlete,” Bryan said. “I felt a little bit behind the rest of the team because I only had one winter track season under my belt, but it was a very successful season because of the training I went through. I was very happy with how I performed then and I’m having an amazing spring season.”

Bryan explained that his biggest strength on the track is his determination and toughness.

“I know that I have the strength to power through each of my races, but without a strong mindset that says ‘If these kids aren’t looking at the back of my head, I’m not running fast enough,’ my strength and endurance would mean nothing,” Bryan said.

Bryan reiterated the importance of the addition of the Garcia brothers as the teams’ coaches.

“Without them, I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I stand today,” Bryan said. “Their training has qualified me for states for the 4x4 in the winter, and also for the hurdles and 4x4 this spring.

"I actually made the states in my first hurdle race which I wasn't expecting. My 4x4 team (consisting of my brother Austin, Anthony Aidonidis and Alex Brown) went 6-0 this season and are Middlesex League All-Stars because of it, all credited to our coaches.”

Bryan said that his practice regimen is specifically tailored to the individual’s race.

“For me, that ranges from hurdle drills and workouts to extensive endurance work to help me get through that last 100 meters,” Bryan said. “Every little thing I do in practice is key to my success.”

While Bryan enjoys his individual success, he said he is most proud of his 4x4 team success.

“Together we won two medals at the state individuals and state relays,” Bryan said. “We brought our time down from 3:45 to a 3:37. I will always remember my junior year 4x4.”

Bryan will also participate on the soccer field for his senior year. He is a peer leader, as well as a National Honor Society inductee.