West Branch Spring sports season is coming up. Along with baseball and softball, track and field is preparing for its season. There are many returning athletes from last year and a lot of new ones eager to compete. Last year, Marley Croyle made it to states, setting a high standard for others this year. The team has started practices and is working hard to prepare for the season.

The team lost many seniors: Marley Croyle, Braden Brown, Jessica Batcho, Sage Carr, Cierra Condon, Jacob Alexander, Logan Kolp, and Drake Witherite. This year’s members will have to fill the spots of those who left. However, there are also many returning athletes. Last year, Skyler Hebel competed in javelin and discus. Emma Petriskey ran the 300-meter hurdles and the 4×400 relay. Natalie Yingling ran the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter. Evan Emigh competed in javelin and the 300-meter hurdles. Gavin Dunlap ran the 100-meter sprint. The returning members can continue to participate in these events or choose something else.

Last year, the team was successful, with Marley advancing to states and many athletes achieving personal records in their events.

The coaching staff consists of Adam Carr, his brother Josh, and his sister-in-law Tabytha. Mr. Carr coaches the field events. Josh focuses on long-distance and mid-distance runners, while Tabytha coaches sprinters and hurdlers. Carr says,

Good luck to the track and field members this season. Their first meet is on March 21 at Tyrone.