Coupeville Sports

Coupeville seniors lead the way. (Photos by JohnsPhotos.net)

Track and field are booming in Cow Town.

Coupeville High School coaches have 70+ athletes on their opening day roster, with an astounding 34 of those coming from the freshman class.

With the Wolves led by a pack of returning state meet veterans, there’s both depth and talent, creating an air of excitement as a new season dawns.

“Track is unique in that we don’t know what each year brings us when it comes to ‘top players’,” said CHS coach Elizabeth Bitting.

“Athletes progress throughout the season and the more years they participate in track the more work and effort they put in which results in improvement.

“Our top returning players would be those who are returning from a previous season. However, with 70+ athletes we don’t know what the season will bring.”

Based on past performance, senior Lyla Stuurmans, who has three state meet medals to her credit, should be a key performer, however.

Toss in Cael Wilson, Carly Burt, Axel Marshall, and Zac Tackett and CHS has five active athletes who know what it’s like to earn a medal at the season-ending state championship meet.

Carson Field, Davin Houston, Liam Blas, Marcelo Gebhard, Marquette Cunningham, Preston Epp, and Thomas Strelow are also noteworthy names.

As are Noelle Western, Katie Marti, Lillian Ketterling, Ayden Wyman, Mikayla Wagner, and Aleksia Jump.

But, as Bitting noted, part of the fun of a track and field campaign is seeing who steps up, who makes their big breakthrough, and who is still standing weeks into competition.

“As always, our goal is to prolong the season as long as we can and to continue seeing improvement and PRs,” Bitting said.

“This is an impressive group. They have already shown us their willingness to follow through and be present.”

As Coupeville battles always-tough Mount Vernon Christian and La Conner for Northwest 2B/1B League domination, roster depth is always important.

“Our strength is in our numbers,” Bitting said. “Each and every athlete is working hard to perform their best.

“Having competition within the team helps them to push themselves and each other.”

Wolf coaches and managers present a united front.