There is a new leader with the Newtown High School boys’ track and field program. Charlie Taubl, a former runner at Central Connecticut State University, succeeds Coach Becky Osborne to guide the Nighthawks.

In addition to competing in Northeast Conference and NCAA Division I Championships, the former collegiate cross country and track competitor went on to coach at a private school in Waterbury. He is a Spanish teacher at NHS.

“Being given the head role is something I have looked forward to for probably a decade. Being able to grow alongside the program is something I am very excited for. In my new role I have the confidence and motivation to do right by my athletes day in and day out,” Taubl said.

The new coach is optimistic for a successful run with the Nighthawks beginning this winter with participants striving to come out on top in the South-West Conference.

“We have a small but capable roster growing every day. With almost half the team being freshmen our ceiling is nowhere near being hit,” he said.

Captains are Noah Masotta (distance), Soheib Dissa (middle distance), Aydyn Gonzalez (sprints), Gabriel Appiah (jumps), and Zach Clouden (throws).

“Our main goal as a team is to cultivate a place where athletes can thrive. Teamwork and camaraderie are essential parts. We have athletes who are looking to win the SWC in their respective events which will carry us to a solid placement overall,” Taubl said.

“To succeed it will take trust. We are starting from the ground up in many places and need to trust our team mates to work as hard as they can to improve every day. The whole team is ambitious and looking forward to the season,” he added.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.