The Isabella track team received a check for $5,280 from Harold Jarman with Modern Woodmen of America during a presentation on March 8.

The check matched the funds that the track team raised during its annual camp stew sale last month.

According to Isabella head coach Rex Littleton, the only way that the track team has to bring money in is through fundraising. That makes donations from groups like Modern Woodmen of America extremely important.

“It’s going to be a very challenging year because they’re young,” Littleton said. “We’ve got some chances to win at state, and that’s all you can ask for.”

Eight track meets are on the 2018 schedule for the Mustangs, which does not include sectionals and the state competition in Cullman.

Meets involve traveling to locations around the state, such as Sylacauga, Oxford, Selma and Tuscaloosa.

The donation will help pay for hotel rooms and other travel-related expenses.

Finding creative ways to raise money has become a way of life for Littleton and the track program prior to each year.

“These kids have an opportunity to work and hone their skills,” Littleton said. “Every time we go to a track meet, we want to be better when we leave then when we got there. If they do that, they’re winners.”

Littleton said.

Thirty-nine members make up this year’s track team at Isabella that will compete in a variety of track events and field events.

“Some are brand new seventh and eighth graders that have never done anything like this before, but they’re learning,” Littleton said. “This is not just going out there and jumping in a sand pit. We actually practice the technique to get better, whether you’re throwing or running.”