New coach ready to guide Clark Fork track team
CLARK FORK — First year Clark Fork head coach Nellie Lutz Wolf admits she’s got some big shoes to fill in taking over the Wampus Cats track program from longtime coach Frank Hammersley.
But the former University of Montana triathlete is eager to get busy trying.
“He knew his stuff. He’s been here a long time and knew all the kids and families,” said Lutz Wolf of Hammersley. “I hope to do him justice. I’m excited to be part of the team.”
So far Lutz Wolf loves the makeup and attitude of her team, calling them dedicated and willing to work.
Leading the way is senior Brandan Bowen, who returns with state experience in the 300 hurdles. He’ll also do the pole vault and run on the 4X100 team, and might try the 100 meters as well. His goal is to break 42 seconds in the 300 hurdles and medal at state.
“He’ll go far. He’s very dedicated and astute about what he needs to do,” predicted Lutz Wolf, noting he ran a PR of 43 seconds in the season opener. “He’s got big goals, and he’s willing to do what he needs to achieve them. He’s always wanting to practice longer.”
Senior Geoffry Boudousquie will run the 800 and 400, and join Bowen, Hunter Boudousquie (200) and Max Icardo (1,600) on a strong 4X100 relay team.
“They were third in the first meet,” said Lutz Wolf of the sprint relay team. “They’ll only get faster from there.”
Junior Tyler Hammack (discus, shot) and sophomore Conorey Vogel round out the boys team.
Leading the girls team will be sophomore thrower Nona Young, who hopes to be one of the top shot putters in the North Star League.
“Her passion for the sport makes it work,” said Lutz Wolf, noting former Bulldog throwing coach Laura Alamillo is helping the team out. “Nona is always looking to improve, always reviewing her technique.”
Senior Emily Garman (hurdles, jumps), junior Leslie Kiebert (1,600, discus) and Lia Crumpton (800) round out the girls team.
“A lot of them have goals for state in their line of sight,” said Lutz Wolf of both the boys and girls.
Clark Fork hosts a North Star League meet on April 7 after Spring Break.