Monday morning brought more than just rising temperatures; it marked the return of the 14th Annual Hart Games track and field meet, where hundreds of student-athletes gathered to compete, connect and celebrate.

Patti Miller, an adapted physical education specialist and founder of the Hart Games, said participation has remained strong since the event’s inception, typically drawing between 300 and 400 student-athletes each year. While logistics and organization have improved over time, Miller said one thing has never changed.

“The joy comes from seeing all the smiling faces of the athletes,” she said.

The event continues to serve as a unifying experience across the district, something Canyon High School special education teacher and boys basketball head coach Ali Monfared emphasized.

“To me, it’s all about the kids who are out here today,” said Monfared. “To see our kids competing out here in the spirit of togetherness is cool.”

Monfared added that he doesn’t view the event as separate schools competing against one another, but rather as a single district coming together to celebrate its student-athletes.

Preparation for the Hart Games begins well in advance, with students training for nearly two months leading up to the event. While the anticipation builds, Monfared said he occasionally has to remind his students to keep things in perspective.

“Our kids get pretty excited for it, and sometimes they get a little too serious,” he said. “I have to remind them that we’re having fun out here.”

Even in the classroom, the excitement is evident.

“I teach math, but when we start talking about the Hart Games, they all light up,” said Monfared. “The genuine excitement that they have is really fun to see.”

For Valencia High School senior Ellie Cox, the event offered both competition and connection. Participating in the long jump, hurdles and softball throw, Cox said the inclusive environment stood out most.

Valencia High School senior Ellie Cox running the hurdles at the Hart Games. Steven Barrera | KHTS

“I think it’s really amazing to have everybody working as a team and competing with each other,” said Cox.

Competing in her first Hart Games, Cox said the experience goes beyond athletics.

“It’s good for so many different things,” she said. “It’s good for the school, but it’s also good to socialize and for exercise too.”

Among her favorite events was the hurdles, which she said provided an adrenaline rush as she sprinted and cleared each barrier.

As the Hart Games continue to grow, the event remains rooted in its core mission of bringing students together through sport, inclusion and shared experience.

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