MARION, WI – The Marion-Tigerton co-op track and field team has been named Team of the Week, fueled by a strong start and a group that continues to show rapid improvement. Head Coach Ward Much says the season has gone “really well” so far, pointing to the team’s commitment to growth and goal-setting from the very beginning. “These kids have really grown from just the start of the year already, they’ve been pushing themselves really hard,” Much said, noting the team established clear goals early and has been working toward them ever since.
That hard work has translated into results on the track. The co-op swept both the boys and girls titles at the Gresham Bowl and followed it up with another sweep at the Menominee meet, showcasing depth across the roster. Competing against familiar conference opponents like Menominee Nation and Gresham-Bowler, the team has handled business early while preparing for tougher competition ahead.
One of the biggest storylines this season has been how well the Marion and Tigerton athletes have come together. Much admitted there were initial concerns about blending two programs with a history of rivalry, but those worries quickly disappeared. “We had a talk with them, we’re a team now, and they bought into that right away,” Much said, adding that athletes have embraced each other like family and compete as one unified group.
That unity is strengthened by a roster filled with multi-sport athletes, something Much says has been a major advantage. Athletes coming from football, basketball, and other sports bring a competitive edge and year-round conditioning that carries over to track and field. The result is a team that continues to improve and push each other, even as the level of competition rises.
Looking ahead, the focus shifts to bigger meets and ultimately a conference championship. Much says that goal is front and center for the team, especially after last year’s near miss and this year’s strong pre-conference showing. With a young roster and only a handful of seniors, the program is not only competing now but building for the future.
“We want to show we’re here to compete,” Much said.
With early success, strong team chemistry, and clear goals in place, the Marion-Tigerton co-op is positioning itself as a program to watch as the season continues.
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