Both teams finish strong overall with great performances in multiple events

BY TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR

Wausau East Sawmill Invitational
On Tuesday, April 25, the Merrill Varsity Track and Field Team traveled to Wausau East to compete in the Sawmill Invitational. Seven other teams–from Wausau East, Crandon, Lakeland Union, Mosinee, Rhinelander, Tomahawk, and Wausau West–were scheduled to attend.
“The Merrill Bluejays track team put forth a strong effort,” said Alec Oestreich, Head Varsity Track and Field Coach.
Ultimately, the Girls Team took third place out of seven participating teams and the Boys Team finished fifth out of seven teams.
“The meet saw many individual accomplishments as well as impressive relay team results,” Oestreich said.
“Among the individual achievements, Madison Crossman sprinted to victory in the Girls 200m race, setting a new personal best time of 26.05 seconds, with Brian Ball matching her performance by finishing first in the Boys 200m,” he said.
“Bailee Sommer showed impressive endurance by finishing third in the Girls 400m race,” Oestreich said.
“In the field events, Elexa Emmer secured third place in shot put, while Amber Winter and Dafney Yates made a powerful duo in the discus event, claiming the first and third positions, respectively,” he said.
“Jace Olson leaped to a third place finish in long jump, and Hunter Stadler vaulted his way to a third place finish in pole vault.”
In the relays, the Boys 4×200 team took first place, the Girls 4×200 team took second place, and the Girls 4×400 team and Boys 4×100 team both finished in third place.
“The long-distance runners shone,” Oestreich said. The Girls took first place in the 4×800 race and the Boys took second place in that same event.
“Overall, the Merrill Bluejays Track Team displayed their athleticism and dedication in the competition, achieving notable success in both individual and relay events,” Oestreich said. “The team, coaches, and community can be proud of their accomplishments and look forward to the continued growth and success of the athletes in future meets.”

Stevens Point Conference meet
On Tuesday, April 11, the Merrill Track and Field Team headed to UW-Stevens Point.
“The Merrill Bluejays Track and Field Team showed grit and determination as both the Boys and Girls squads fought hard at the indoor conference meet in Stevens Point,” Oestreich said. “Unfortunately, a string of key injuries took a toll on the overall standings, but several team members stepped up and delivered impressive individual performances.”
“One standout athlete was Elexa Emmer, who placed third in the shot put event,” he said. “Emmer’s powerful throw garnered her a well-deserved spot on the podium and showed that she is a force to be reckoned with in the competition.”
“Meanwhile, Jalie Severt proved her skill in the pole vault, taking home fifth place with a height of 8’00”. Severt’s determination and technique helped her achieve a remarkable result, displaying her dedication to the sport and her team,” Oestreich said.
“Madi Crossman stole the show by not only winning the 200m dash but also setting a new school record in the process,” he said. “Crossman’s blistering speed allowed her to excel in the event, earning her the top spot in conference. In addition, Crossman demonstrated her versatility by placing third in the 400m dash, proving that she is an all-around powerhouse for the Bluejays.”
Despite the challenges of injuries, the team made some great showings and showed their tenacity.
“… the athletes’ resilience and individual successes showed their potential to excel in the future,” Oestreich said. “With the track season still underway, the Bluejays will undoubtedly continue to strive for greatness and represent their school with pride.”