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Notre Dame vs. Mount Saint Dominic Rivalry Heats Up

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 4:14 GMT by NJ.com
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

Rivalry Renewed: Notre Dame and Mount Saint Dominic Set to Clash at Non-Public A Relays

Lawrenceville, NJ - February 9th, 2026 - The stage is set for a thrilling showdown at the Non-Public A Girls' Indoor Track Relay Championships. As the indoor season hits its stride, anticipation is building for a competition that promises a blend of established powerhouses and potential dark horses. This year's championship, scheduled for this coming weekend, features a compelling narrative centered around the perennial dominance of Notre Dame of Lawrenceville and the surging challenge presented by Mount Saint Dominic Academy. But don't count out Dwight-Englewood, consistently competitive and always ready to make their mark.

Notre Dame, a program steeped in New Jersey track and field tradition, enters the championships as the team to beat. The Fighting Irish boast a roster brimming with experienced runners and promising newcomers. Their strength traditionally lies in the sprint events, and early season performances suggest their 4x200m and sprint medley relay teams are poised for top finishes. Beyond those core relays, their overall depth - the ability to field strong teams across multiple events - will be a critical factor in their pursuit of the championship title. Coaches have emphasized a focus on versatile training, preparing athletes to contribute in various capacities. This strategic approach aims to maximize point accumulation and withstand the pressure from rivals.

However, Mount Saint Dominic Academy is not backing down. The Lions have been diligently working towards this moment, implementing a rigorous training regimen designed to push their athletes to new heights. While Notre Dame has historically held the upper hand, Mount Saint Dominic's coaching staff believes they have closed the gap. They understand that challenging Notre Dame requires a near-perfect performance across the board, with every athlete needing to deliver their personal best. Sources within the team indicate a particular focus on strategic pacing and relay handoffs, areas where even marginal gains can translate into significant advantages. The 4x400m relay is shaping up to be the marquee event, a potential head-to-head battle that could decide the championship. The Lions have specifically targeted this race, believing they have the speed and endurance to contend with, and potentially surpass, Notre Dame's strong lineup.

Dwight-Englewood, while often overshadowed by the two giants, consistently proves to be a competitive force. Their success isn't built on a single star but rather on a consistent level of performance across all events. The Bears' coaching staff has fostered a culture of teamwork and dedication, resulting in a well-rounded team capable of scoring points in multiple relays. They won't necessarily challenge for the overall title, but their points will be vital in keeping the championship race interesting and potentially preventing a runaway victory for either Notre Dame or Mount Saint Dominic. Expect to see them factor heavily into the scoring in events like the 4x800m and distance medley relays.

Key Storylines to Watch:

• The Notre Dame vs. Mount Saint Dominic Rivalry: This is the central narrative of the championship. The competition between these two programs is not just about winning; it's about pride and establishing dominance in New Jersey girls' track. Expect a high level of intensity and tactical racing.
• The 4x400m Showdown: This event is poised to be the highlight of the meet. The speed, endurance, and strategic teamwork on display will be captivating.
• Potential Breakout Teams: While Notre Dame and Mount Saint Dominic are the clear favorites, keep an eye out for lesser-known teams to potentially surprise. The unpredictable nature of indoor track means that a strong performance on the day can propel a team into contention.
• The Role of Freshman Talent: Several teams have integrated promising freshman athletes into their relay lineups. These newcomers could provide a spark and challenge the established order.

Predictions and Outlook:

On paper, Notre Dame appears to be the strongest team, boasting a deeper roster and a proven track record of success. However, Mount Saint Dominic's dedication to their training and strategic approach cannot be overlooked. Their ability to execute their race plans flawlessly will be crucial. While Notre Dame is favored, a slight misstep could open the door for an upset. Dwight-Englewood's consistent performance will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the overall outcome. They'll be looking to disrupt the top two and potentially capitalize on any weaknesses. Ultimately, the championship is likely to be decided by a combination of individual brilliance, strategic relay execution, and the ability to handle the pressure of competition. Fans should prepare for a day filled with fast times, thrilling finishes, and the emergence of future track and field stars.