The Merrill Boys Varsity Track and Field Team kicked off their season with an invitational at Merrill on Tuesday, March 30, 2023. Eight schools participated: Edgar, Prentice, Rhinelander, Rib Lake, Waupaca, Wausau East, Wittenberg-Birnamwood, and Merrill.
“In a fierce contest that saw top-notch performances from all participating schools, the Merrill High School Boys Track Team finished third overall with a respectable score of 82 points,” said Alec Oestreich, Merrill’s new Varsity Head Track and Field Coach.
“Edgar took the top spot with 137 points, followed by Wausau East, who earned 131 points,” he said. “Waupaca, Rib Lake, Rhinelander, Wittenberg-Birnamwood, and Prentice rounded out the competition, earning 79, 72.5, 52, 36, and 14.5 points, respectively.”
“The Merrill High School track team showcased their talent with several individual accomplishments,” Oestreich said.
“Hunter Stadler secured second place in Pole Vault with a remarkable 9’6” effort. Jace Olson leaped to third place in Long Jump, covering an impressive distance of 18’9”.”
In the relay events, the 4x152m team, made up of Adam Bares, Erik Mann, Galen Franke, and Clayton Evans, sprinted their way to a third place finish, “displaying excellent teamwork,” he said.
“Additional standout performances included Brian Ball’s first place finish in the 200m race and Ian Schuetze’s third place finish in the 3200m race,” Oestreich said. “These achievements reflect the hard work and determination of the athletes and their coaching staff.”
The Merrill High School Track and Field Team and its supporters can take pride in the boys’ strong showing during this competition, he said.
“As they look ahead to future events, the team will undoubtedly continue to strive for even greater success on the track.”