Top-Ranked Teams
Division 1
The battle for the top spot in Division 1 is fierce, with several teams showcasing exceptional talent and depth. Oak Park, led by their dominant sprint relays and standout hurdler Akilah Lewis, currently holds the number one ranking. However, they face stiff competition from Rockford, whose distance squad, anchored by state champion Ericka VanderLende, is among the best in the nation. Other contenders include Saline, known for their balanced attack across all event areas, and Ann Arbor Pioneer, with a strong core of sprinters and jumpers.
Division 2
In Division 2, the Grand Rapids Christian Eagles have soared to the top of the rankings, thanks to their well-rounded team. Their strength lies in their middle-distance and distance runners, led by the dynamic duo of Sarah VanderKooi and Natalie Blake. However, East Grand Rapids and Holland Christian are hot on their heels, boasting impressive depth in the sprints and field events. Keep an eye on Dearborn Divine Child as well, whose young team is rapidly improving.
Division 3
Pewamo-Westphalia, a perennial powerhouse in Division 3, once again claims the top spot. Their dominance stems from their exceptional field event athletes, including state champion high jumper Audrey Pohl. However, Grass Lake and Kent City are formidable challengers, with strong contingents in the sprints and distance events, respectively. The race for the championship in Division 3 is sure to be a thrilling one.
Division 4
In Division 4, the Hillsdale Academy Colts have established themselves as the team to beat. Their balanced roster, featuring standout performers in the sprints, hurdles, and throws, makes them a force to be reckoned with. However, Fowler and Johannesburg-Lewiston are close behind, with impressive depth in the distance events and jumps. Expect an exciting battle for supremacy in Division 4 as the season progresses.
Athletes to Watch
Numerous talented athletes are making their mark on the Michigan high school track and field scene. Here are a few standout performers to keep an eye on:
* **Akilah Lewis (Oak Park, Division 1):** A dominant force in the hurdles, Lewis is a state champion contender in both the 100m and 300m hurdles.
* **Ericka VanderLende (Rockford, Division 1):** A distance running phenom, VanderLende is the reigning state champion in the 3200m and a top contender in the 1600m.
* **Sarah VanderKooi (Grand Rapids Christian, Division 2):** A versatile middle-distance runner, VanderKooi excels in both the 800m and 1600m.
* **Natalie Blake (Grand Rapids Christian, Division 2):** A rising star in the distance events, Blake is a strong contender in the 3200m.
* **Audrey Pohl (Pewamo-Westphalia, Division 3):** A state champion high jumper, Pohl is also a talented long jumper and sprinter.
* **Megan Kowalski (Hillsdale Academy, Division 4):** A standout sprinter and hurdler, Kowalski is a threat to win multiple state titles.
Upcoming Events
The excitement of the Michigan high school track and field season continues with several key meets on the horizon:
* **Regionals (May 17-18):** Athletes will compete for a chance to qualify for the state championships.
* **MITCA Team State Championships (May 25):** The top teams in each division will battle for team supremacy.
* **MHSAA State Championships (June 1-2):** The pinnacle of the season, where individual and team state champions will be crowned.