PANORA — The Panorama girls were second in the 1A state cross country meet in 2017 and seventh in 2018, months after a third-place finish at the state track meet.
With the Panthers girls grabbing headlines, it might be understandable in the boys teams might be more than a little eager to grab some recognition of their own.
If new head coach Mike Kauzlarich has his way, the Panther boys will be making noise this spring. Kauzlarich takes over boys duties from Greg Thompson, who has chosen to focus on what remains a powerhouse girls squad.
Returning for the Panthers are multiple-event state qualifying sprinter Spencer Hunt, who figures to be a lead figure in 100, 200 and 400 races and relays.
Gracen Welberg will be a key relay member, as with Zach Rizzuti, Levi Richey, Allias Stahl and others. Welberg reached the state meet last year in the high jump and will be seeking a return, and could factor into the hurdles as well.
The Panthers should be most competitive in the 4×400 and distance medley relays, though other relays are certainly capable of threatening once the proper mix is found.
Rizzuti is likely the lead candidate for the top spot in the long jump, but Panorama will be searching for candidates to step up and secure spots in both the shot put and discus. Colten Boatman and Jared Henderson are two of those in competition for the varsity nods.
Kevin Cogil will focus on distance runs (1600 and 3200), with Dillon Bennett and Preston Prince among those who will figure into the shuffle in the sprint races.
Kyle McClatchey, Logan Hutchens, Jayden Howard, Kade Kemble, Paul Hansen and Avery Norman are among a group of athletes who will have their opportunity to make varsity contributions.
As with most track coaches, Kauzlarich was reticent to assign the majority of duties, noting that the success of the season will depend not on the results early in the season but on whether those times and distances can be steadily improved as the campaign progresses.
“Overall I am very excited to get out doors and see our guys compete in some exciting team races,” he said. “We have a lot of quality runners and should make for an entertaining outdoor season!”
Panorama will be in action Tuesday at the Earlham Earlybird before visiting Perry for the Davis Relays Thursday.
