Track has high hopes heading into season

The Columbia Falls track and field team is gearing up for another promising season after coming tantalizingly close to glory last year. Head coach Jamie Heinz reflected on the previous campaign with pride and optimism, setting the stage for what should be an exciting spring for Wildcats athletes.

Last season, the boys’ team fell heartbreakingly short of clinching a state trophy, finishing just one spot behind Corvallis. Despite the narrow miss, Heinz praised the team’s performance, saying, “I never felt that way. Our boys performed exactly like they were supposed to and even better. There’s nothing we could have done differently; we just needed Corvallis to do a little bit worse.”

On the girls’ side, the Wildcats were relatively young and faced stiff competition across Montana. Heinz noted the remarkable speed statewide, highlighting that even standout sprinter Allie Sempf, despite being the fastest girl in the state, missed placing at the state meet.

“The state has been loaded with talent the last few years,” Heinz explained.

As Columbia Falls moves forward, they bring back significant talent. Senior Lane Voermans returns to anchor the throwing events, poised to be in the mix for state championships. 

Voermans, a discus champion his sophomore year, also looks set for success in the shot put.

In pole vault, the Wildcats return two strong competitors, Oliver Kress and Isaac Soyland, both previous state placers. Another notable returner is Banyan Johnston, who claimed the high jump title last year and will aim to repeat that success.

The girls’ team, while young, features exciting prospects. Heinz is particularly enthusiastic about Chloe Savoy, who is switching up events this year, potentially unlocking even greater potential. 

Additionally, the Wildcats welcome back junior hurdler Tia Baker, who was unable to compete last season due to injury.

“Getting Tia Baker back is significant,” Heinz said. “She’s a junior now and a strong hurdler.”

The Wildcats’ strength this season is their balance and depth. Heinz believes the boys’ team will shine, particularly in field events.

“Our throws and jumps are definitely our strong suits,” Heinz noted.

Although they graduated a record-setting sprinter who dominated the 100 and 200-meter events, Heinz sees opportunities to develop new talent in the sprinting categories, ensuring the Wildcats remain competitive on the track.

The girls’ team is expected to excel in hurdles and jumps, creating opportunities for crucial points throughout the season.

“I think our hurdles are going to bring nice little track points,” Heinz said. “We also have good jumpers, but it’s early to tell exactly where we will ultimately land.”

Turnout for track and field remains high at Columbia Falls, indicative of the robust program. With 125 athletes already out for track this season, including 64 girls and 61 boys, Heinz acknowledges the challenges of managing such a large team but views it positively.

“We have a lot of kids, and that’s a lot to manage, but our program every year remains strong,” he said.