Minerva boys look to contend for another EBC track title

Forty-four years. That is a long time. So long, in fact, that a person, if they desired, could discuss it in Gettysburg Address terms.

Two score and four years ago …

For that is how long the Minerva boys track team had gone without aconference title. Forty-four years. Well, at least until last season.

After years of steady improvement, the Lions broke through last season, and not only captured the team’s first EBC title, but also placed sixth at the OHSAA Div. II Muskingum Region meet while sending two relays and two individuals to the state meet.

A year later, Minerva is back, and the Lions are leaning on experienced returners, emerging young talent, and a strong competitive culture as they prepare for another spring in the tumultuous EBC.

Second-year head coach Arin Rettig believes his group has what it takes to contend again.

“The EBC is always tough for competition all around,” Rettig said. “This year, our boys have grown immensely, with nearly all of our top men returning. We have set our sights on the EBC title, working for a back-to-back championship.”

It should come as no surprise that a major strength for the Lions lies in their distance group, which conflates veteran leadership and promising youth. Seniors Owen Yoder and Rowen Hoffee headline the unit, bringing experience across all the distance events, from the 800 to the 3200. The duo is joined by a deep supporting cast that includes Fox Johnson, Kaden Knappenburger, Brady First, and Tyson Fetty.

The emergence of younger runners like Anderson Scott, Landyn Wade, and Zach Norris adds even more depth, making Minerva a threat capable of consistently dominating in distance events and relays.

“Our distance squad will be a group to watch for breaking records and stacking points up,” Rettig said.

In the sprint events, the Lions return key contributors Nate Linkous and Owen Shick, who will anchor the 100- and 200-meter races. They are supported by a versatile group that includes Skyler Lab, Caden Stewart, Caleb Becker, and Samuel Blum, along with freshman Aiden Cassidy in the hurdles.

Minerva’s relay teams also appear poised for success, with three of four state qualifiers returning from the 4x200 relay and multiple regional qualifiers back in the lineup.

“Our relays will be strong again this year,” Rettig said.

Field events provide another area of stability, particularly in the throws, where senior Sean Scott and Ben Herstine lead the way. Freshman Daniel Herstine adds depth and potential to the group.

With experience across the board and depth in nearly every event, expectations are high for the Lions as they look to defend their conference crown.

“Our boys are led by seasoned juniors and seniors this spring,” Rettig said. “We have high expectations and goals in our underclassmen as well.”

If Minerva can build on last year’s success and continue its development, the Lions could once again find themselves at the top of the EBC standings and prepared for another run at regionals on the way to Columbus.