Breaking News
Local News

Alpena News holds 20th annual Track and Field Honor Roll Invitational

By LESLIANNE JOHNS 5 min read

ALPENA-- On Wednesday, the Alpena News hosted its 20th annual Honor Roll Invitational featuring athletes from all around Northeast Michigan, giving them a chance to compete against teams they normally might not have the chance to.

The event saw several medals handed to the top three athletes in each event and also watched as the coaches came together to decide this year's Male and Female Athletes of the Year.

The Male Athlete of the Year, John Kurowski, took a moment to reflect on his senior year, sharing valuable insights and cherished memories that resonated with both athletes and fans.

"I think the most rewarding part of my senior year of track and field was finding ways to have fun and make memories with my teammates," Kurowski said. "Whether it was making a slip and slide, listening to music on long runs, or just hanging out, I think it's really important to have a good time no matter what you're doing, and we did a really good job at reaching that goal.

Being recognized as the Male Athlete of the Year in his final season was a testament to his dedication and hard work.

"It's an honor to be recognized as the athlete of the meet in my final season," Kurowski said. "It feels like all the hard work and long practices paid off, and my career ended well."

Emma Dickins, the Female Athlete of the Year, also shared her perspective on her journey and the honor of receiving the award.

"I always try to focus on doing my best, be a good role model, and encourage my teammates to do their best," Dickins said. "I was surprised but very honored to receive this award because I wasn't expecting it. I haven't had many struggles but have been struggling to improve my times and striving to be the best I can be."

Alpena coach Trevor Roznowski highlighted the standout performances of several athletes.

"We had four athletes that shone especially bright today in the competition," he said. "John Kurowski was named Male Athlete of the Meet after earning first place finishing in the 800m, 1600m, 4x400m, and the 4x800m. Also turning in great performances for the boys were Thorin Rogers (first place in the 200m, 4x100m, and 4×200 and third in the 100m) and Braeden Mathis (first in the 400m, 4x400m, 4x800m, and 3rd in long jump). Emma Dickins completed her final high school meet on the girl's side with four first-place finishes in 400m, 1600m, 4x400m, and 4x800m. We are proud of each of these athletes."

The meet saw impressive season records from several senior athletes. Brady Carlson of Alpena set the track on fire in the 100-meter dash, clocking in at 13.39 seconds. Not far behind, Alexis Hurst of Mio Asuable finished at 13.61 seconds, showcasing their speed and competitiveness.

In the 400-meter dash, Liberty Prevost of Alpena led the pack with a time of 1:11.89, closely followed by junior Elizabeth Barnhill, also from Alpena, who finished at 1:13.50. Rachel Barringer of Mio Ausable dominated the 1600-meter run with a time of 7:11.28, while Claire Mitchell of Alpena completed the race in 8:26.62

Taylor Hefele from Rogers City impressed everyone in the 3200 meters, finishing at 14:48.24. Hailey Lucas of Posen showcased her agility and endurance in the 300-meter hurdles, clocking in at 1:00.31. In the field events, Braelyn Durfee of Alpena excelled in the shot put with a throw of 26' 2.25, and Melody Kauffman, also from Alpena, demonstrated her skills in the discus with a throw of 106' 3.

Roznowksi expressed pride in the team's overall performance.

"So many athletes made phenomenal progress this year," he said. "When I think of team members who made the most progress, athletes like Ty Dever, Thorin Rogers, Charles Renard, Elizabeth, and Amelia Roznowksi come to mind. They come to practice every day ready to work, improve, and grow alongside their teammates, and it truly shows in how they compete."

The track meet saw notable performances across various schools. Alpena emerges as a dominant force for the boys, with 16 personal records, followed by Lincoln-Alcona with 8, Posen with 6, and Fairview and Rogers City with 4. Mio Ausable and Hillman finished with 4 and 0, respectively, while Hale finished with 3.

In the girls' events, Alpena led again with 15 personal records, closely followed by Lincoln-Alcona with 7. Rogers City and Mio Ausable with 7 and 3, with Fairview, Posen, Hillman, and Hale also making their mark.

Looking ahead, Roznowski shared his excitement for the future:

"Considering the goals for the remainder of the season, we are excited to support Joe Sheridan as he pursues All-State accolades in the 100m hurdles and 300m hurdles," he said. "Joe will be competing at the MHSAA DI State Finals at East Kentwood on Saturday, and he is in a great position to perform at a high school level. He embodies a commitment to his craft and a dedication to improvement that are unmatched in our program."

Starting at /week.