The Munising Mustang track and field team is looking forward to getting in competition. With a large team and notable returners from last year’s regional championship squads, this is another opportunity for a successful season in Munising.

“At U.P.’s last year, the boys took second and the girls took third. We want to build on that,” Munising Head Coach Matt Mattson said. “We want to compete for conference and regionals again and place high at the U.P. finals.”

The team has 47 student athletes this season, with 20 boys and 27 girls. To help with that many athletes, Mattson has a large staff including Ed Goings on relays, Ty Nesberg on hurdles, Jeff Tebear for throws, Matt Peramaki for pole vault and sprints and Ann Peramaki on distance, long jump and high jump.

A number of familiar faces are involved as well. Micaiah Peramaki returns after winning four individual events in the regionals and finals last year while his brother Josiah Peramaki will attempt to break his own school record at pole vault. St. Norbert football commit Riley Murk is listed as the top thrower while underclassmen Trevor Nolan and Danny Goss will lead the way in distance events. Joe Kelly on hurdles and the sprint relay teams with the Peramakis and Reece Coty are also expected to bring in points.

On the girls side, Monique Brisson and Hattie Cota will be leading the charge in the distance events. Ireland Anderson and Elizabeth Wing look to take care of the throws, while Dayne Behning is listed as the top hurdler for the Mustangs. Kate Mattson sets up as a relay specialist while Sabryna Smith will score in the sprints.

Coach Mattson said that freshmen will make an impact on the squad. Middle distance will provide starting spots for some of the underclassmen that competed strongly in both the boys and girls cross country teams this year, while throws and relays will see freshmen compete immediately. With other athletes missing competitions for other spring sports, opportunities will be consistent for the underclassmen.

Track and field is the second sport for most of the student athletes behind baseball, softball, golf and boys tennis. Mattson said the team takes it in stride, focusing on growth during the regular season so the athletes are ready when it counts the most.

“I’m not worried about winning every meet, but there’s a couple where you want everyone there,” he said. “Conference and regionals, where you qualify for the U.P. Finals, that’s where we will be all there and ready to go.”

The Mustangs will get their first chance to hit the track today at Manistique.