2008 Woodie Awards
Track and field teams ready to run (and throw and jump) into the 2005 season
Veronica Whitmore
After training hard for three months, Western’s track and field teams will start their official indoor season with a meet at the University of Washington on Jan. 14.
Coached by Mike Johnson, both the men’s and women’s squads aim to have a season just as impressive as the last year.
“We have a very solid team,” said distance runner Ethan Barrons.
Both teams finished first outdoors in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) last season. The men also placed first and the women second in the conference’s first-ever indoor competition.
For their efforts, both the men’s and women’s squads earned many end-of-season accolades: Coach Johnson was named GNAC Coach of the Year for both squads in his first year at the helm; hurdler Sam Hobbs was named Male Freshman of the Year; and a number of athletes were named to the GNAC Academic All-Conference men’s and women’s teams, including Isaac Frederick, Derek Gitts, Brad Satran, Spencer Walsh, Leah Trutna, Kristin Wiese, Monica Smith, Kristin Hepler and Jaci Cederberg, who was also an All-American in the discus last season.
The Wolves track teams have placed higher than expected in past seasons, and hope to do the same this year. There are a lot of veteran athletes on the women’s team, and some very talented new additions to the men’s team.
“Watch out for the many young guys who have joined the team,” said senior Monica Smith, who competes in the heptathlon, hurdles, sprints and high jump.
It is not surprising that the teams compete so well, as they practice as often as possible.
“We practice everyday, but not always with one another,” said Barrons. “There are days I just rest, but I consider it a form of practice.”
With practices held five days a week through winter and spring terms, it appears that these Wolves are very dedicated to the sport and eager to win. Electing team captains is not a priority with such an enthusiastic group of athletes.
“Leadership comes from all team members,” explained Coach Johnson. “Those people who have provided special leadership are recognized by their teammates at the conclusion of the season.”
During the course of the indoor and outdoor seasons, which wrap up in March and May, respectively, the teams will compete in 14 meets. They will compete at the GNAC championships on May 7, which, according to Coach Johnson, “will add a focus point for the season.”
Athletes who meet qualifying standards will compete in the NCAA Division II National Championships in late May. Western has had great groups of athletes travel to nationals in recent seasons following outstanding finishes in the GNAC championships, and is looking forward to repeating that success this year.
A few athletes on both teams are expected to go far this season. The men’s team displays overall balance with team members able to cover a wide range of events, which include sprints, distances, jumps, throws, hurdles and multi-events.
“Derek Gitts, Nelacey Porter and Kevin Johnson [are looking to stand out in their events],” said Smith. “So are Jerret Mantalas and Lee Clarkson.”
Gitts and Porter run the sprints, Johnson throws, Mantalas runs middle distances and Clarkson hurdles.
On the women’s team, watch for a number of veterans, including Smith.
“I think Smith will have a great year,” said teammate Bridget Johnson. “She high jumps, hurdles and is coming on really strong in the heptathlon.”
Bridget Johnson is no slouch herself in the heptathlon. The junior qualified for and competed at nationals last year.
Also look for Stephanie Upshaw and Kristin Wiese, who, according to Smith, “are going to work hard and do well.” Upshaw and Wiese run distance and sprints, respectively.
Track and field is a complicated sport to show support for, as there are always multiple events taking place at one time, but the teams do appreciate the support they get.
“Fans always help,” said Barrons.
“We have a lot of loyal fans and enjoy their support,” added Bridget Johnson. “Fan support can definitely make a difference in the relays and running events. Fans are important to us!”
When the long winter ends, everyone should enjoy an afternoon in the spring sunshine by attending a track meet to cheer on fellow Wolves, because they always welcome new support. Home meets include the WOU invite April 9, and a three-way dual against Portland and Portland State on April 30.