The Track Coach Who Runs a Community
Robert Dice coaches Camilla Spillmann on West End Secondary’s track team, which he started more than six years ago. The newcomer team is already competing — and holding its own — against some of New York City’s strongest teams. Photo by Sabrina DuQuesnay
“I remember we were on Long Island for one of their meets, and their coach came up to me and was like, ‘Who are you guys?’ ‘Where’d you guys come from?’ because he was just impressed with us.”
By Camilla Spillmann
Many high school track teams boast long histories of championship titles, top-tier equipment and state-of-the-art facilities. West End Secondary has none of that — only a devoted coach and a tight-knit community.
Together, coach Robert Dice and his students have built a track program that is now challenging much larger schools. This episode follows their rise from underdogs to Public Schools Athletic League contenders, showing how grit and teamwork can rival tradition and resources.
Camilla Spillmann is a junior at West End Secondary School in Manhattan. She is an artist, writer, and active member of her school’s track and green teams. She loves bubble tea, good books, and cozy, fuzzy socks.
The Summer Youth Podcast Academy is The Bell’s immersive beginner podcasting workshop for New York City public school students. This year’s academy was made possible by support from the Spotify Studios Union.
