Potential is endless for Alpena High boys track team in 2022
ALPENA — The Alpena High boys track team is determined to be the best it can possibly be this year. The team has already shown it has the talent and capability to be great after its first few track meets.
But the team hopes to improve and take things to the next level.
“They’re all working hard, doing well at the meets and we have a ton of potential,” Alpena coach Rick Voltz said.
This year’s boys track team has a variety of athletes ranging from all different grades which could mean a big developmental year for the Wildcats to continually improve. With the team being younger, Voltz is anticipating the upperclassmen to be the leaders and guide the team in the right direction.
“We’re really expecting a big year from our seniors and juniors in Cooper Bright, Ryan Voltz, Hayden Allen, and Elijah Allen,” Voltz said.
The Big North Conference is always challenging but, according to Voltz, he feels confident his team will be a contender.
Leading the way in the sprinting events is Bright, who returns for his final year. Bright competed in the state finals in the 400 dash during his junior year and hopes to improve from last year to finish his career as a Wildcat.
In addition to Bright, Alpena’s sprinters include sophomores Elijah Chism, Easton Srebnik, Joe Schuh, Julian Stevens, and freshman Carson Najmowicz.
Voltz is looking forward to seeing how Stevens develops as a runner throughout the season and moving into the future.
Thrower Ethan Johnson is also expected to perform at a high standard with it being his last year at Alpena. Other throwers for Alpena include Ashton Mill, Brady Carlson, Aidan Weitting, and Owen Kocan.
When it comes to distance events, Alpena is very strong as it is led by upperclassmen Jacob Kochanski, Andrew Dargis, Hayden Allen, Elijah Allen, and Hunter Hitzelberger.
Voltz has some lofty expectations for all of his distance runners, but is expecting his senior leaders to have an especially great season.
Leading the hurdles this year will be Ryan Voltz and sophomore Joe Sheridan. Voltz along with Sheridan have both shown the ability to compete with any school this year and have already indicated that in their first few meets.
Alpena’s competitors in the long jump include Devin LaMay, Abe Brege, and Jack Cook.
The Wildcats competed in their first home meet on Wednesday.