By Matt Browning

The Smoky Valley boys track team was voted the Salina Area Preseason Boys Track Team of the Year. In 2019, the Trojans took second at the 3A meet.

“We anticipate having quality depth in the middle and long distances as well as some strength in the 4×4 and 4×8 relays,” Smoky Valley coach Jay Myers said. “We had been developing some quality in the throws and hope that continues to work out. There is certainly potential in the throws.”

The key returners for Smoky Valley are 2019 state qualifiers: Ryan Heline, who qualified for the 1600, 3200 and 4×800 relay team and Stephen Peterson and Garret Huffman, who also ran on the 4×800 relay team.

Myers said there is also optimism with some of the younger athletes as well.

“We were pleased with our younger guys’ attitude and work habits in the early going last year and thought we might have some potential in the sprinters, hurdlers and jumpers and that is true again this year so far,” Myers said.

The Trojans have 27 athletes participating in track this year, which only adds to Myers’ excitement for the season.

“I am excited to be back at it after getting shut down after two weeks of practice last year,” Myers said.