MEEKER I The Meeker Cowboy track team has a new head coach this year, actually co-head coaches Hallie Blunt and Kris Casey. Blunt has been helping with pole vault and track for a few years now, and was also the junior high track coach for eight year, Casey also coaches junior high track and has been coaching junior high cross country and assisting her husband with high school cross country.
“I surround myself with a great staff so all I have to do is ride the bus,” commented Blunt. “Kris and I are joined by John Strate, Kirk Hossack, Shane Phelan, Terrence Casias, Dana Pollock, Clea Steerman, and Greg Cravens.”
Cowboy Track has over 60 kids out this year, including seniors Kelton Turner, Porter Hossack, Zach Eskelson, Owen Hanneman, Zagar Brown, Damon Dade, Hailey Knowles, Aspen Merrifield, Savannah Mendenhall, Morgan Schacht, and Sarah Kracht.
The Cowboys have their first meet this Friday in Rifle, and then Wednesday the Pole Vaulters have the opportunity to go to be instructed by Pat Manson in Denver. Following this open weekend there are nine additional varsity meets and a handful of JV meets, plus some pole vault only dates.
This year the team has had more opportunity for a preseason and we are ready to go,” commented Blunt, “the throwers have had a lot of time indoors and we have been able to work on strength and running, reducing the injury we saw last year.”
“We are looking forward to a great season, and have so many opportunities and a great staff to help the kids be successful,” wrapped up Blunt.
By TIFFANY JEHOREK – Special to the Herald Times
