Boys and Girls teams are racking up first, second, and third place finishes
BY TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
WVC Girls True Team 2023
On Tuesday, May 2, 2023, the Girls Varsity Track Team traveled to DC Everest Stiehm Stadium to compete against teams from Marshfield, Stevens Point, Wausau East, Wausau West, and Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln.
“The Merrill Bluejays Girls Track Team once again demonstrated their athletic excellence … with Madison Crossman and the 4×400-meter relay team leading the charge,” said Alec Oestreich, Head Varsity Track and Field Coach.
“In an awe-inspiring performance, Madison Crossman secured a second-place finish in the 100-meter race, setting a new school record, and also outpaced her competition in the 300-meter event, claiming the top spot,” he said. “Crossman’s remarkable speed and determination have made her a key figure in the Bluejays’ success this season.”
“The Bluejays also showcased their collaborative strength in the relay events, with the 4×400-meter relay team earning a commendable second-place finish,” he said. “The team’s performance underscores their tenacity and the exceptional coaching they have received throughout the season.”
“As the Merrill Bluejays Girls Track Team continues to participate in high-level competitions, their performances serve as an inspiration for their teammates and the entire community,” Oestreich said. “Their achievements at the WVC Girls True Team 2023 Championship are a testament to their perseverance and hard work, and they will surely strive to maintain this momentum in future events.”
Otto Bacher Invitational
On Friday, May 5, 10 area teams traveled to Merrill to compete in the Otto Bacher Invitational Girls and Boys Track Meet, and the Merrill Girls came out on top with a first place finish. Merrill Boys finished in sixth place.
Including Merrill, 11 teams competed: Antigo, Crandon, Lakeland Union High School, Medford, Merrill, Mosinee, Newman Catholic School, Northland Pines, Three Lakes, Tomahawk, and Wausau East.
“The Merrill Bluejays Girls and Boys Track Teams displayed their athletic prowess at the prestigious Otto Bacher Invitational,” Oestreich said. “Out of 11 participating teams, the Girls squad took home the first-place trophy, while the Boys Team secured a respectable sixth-place finish.”
“The Girls Varsity Team had several outstanding performances, propelling them to the top of the podium,” he said. “Madison Crossman, a star for the Bluejays, dominated the competition by winning the Girls 200-meter and 400-meter races. Meanwhile, Norah Schmidt showcased her endurance by taking first place in the Girls 800-meter event.”
“In relay events, the Bluejays displayed exceptional teamwork and coordination,” Oestreich said. “The Girls 4×400-meter relay team and the 4×800-meter relay team both earned second-place finishes.”
“Merrill also boasted exceptional field event achievements,” he said. “Jalie Severt earned second place in the pole vault, while Elexa Emmer secured the second spot in the discus and third place in the shot put.”
Several Merrill guys made significant achievements for the Merrill Boys Varsity Track Team, as well.
“Brian Ball put up a strong performance by taking third place in the 200-meter race,” Oestreich said.
“The Boys 4×800-meter relay team also showcased their potential, coming in third,” he said.
In other events, “Jace Olson contributed to the team’s success by claiming third place in the long jump,” Oestreich said.
“The Merrill Bluejays Track Team will undoubtedly look to continue their momentum as they prepare for upcoming competitions,” he said. “Their impressive performance at the Otto Bacher Invitational serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work put in by both the athletes and the coaching staff.”