PREVIEW: State qualifiers, fast runners on Eagle squad

BOYS TRACK

     Two seniors who are two-time state meet qualifiers will lead the Midland High School boys track and field team this season.

     Alex Martens, a two-time State qualifying high jumper; and Trace Jensen, who made State last year in the 1,600-meter run; hope to become three-time qualifiers.

     “We have a very strong senior class leading the team into this season,” second-year coach Eric Smith said. “We will be leaning on our seniors to get us most of our points.”

     There are 14 boys out for the team, including nine returning letter-winners. Besides Martens and Jensen, those include seniors Landon Hunter and Dawson Paulsen, juniors Hunter Rushford, Brady Pestka, Jacob Shoaff and Austin Smith; and sophomore Brett Schoenherr.

     “I believe points will come from all areas this season,” coach Smith said. “We have talented athletes in all events. My hope is that we will be able to score more points in relays this year. We have a wide selection of fast runners to place on relay teams.”

     With a relatively small roster, Midland may struggle to place high as a team.

     “There are a lot of talented teams out there in our conference (Tri-Rivers),” the coach said. “Our team has some fast athletes, but we do not have the numbers to compete with some of these other schools.”

     Still, there are plenty of attainable goals for this year’s Eagles, Smith said.

     “Some of the team goals are to win at two meets, set new PRs (personal records), develop my younger athletes, and take four or more athletes to State this year.”       

 

Category:

Subscriber Login