By Blake Chadwick
The Republic County track and field program continues to build a culture centered on daily improvement, strong finishes and consistent competitiveness across boys and girls events.
Now in his 10th year coaching track, head coach Blake Erkenbrack has shaped the program around steady growth and accountability.
“My coaching philosophy is to try to get better every day,” Erkenbrack said.
That mindset has helped the program take meaningful steps forward each season, including a strong performance last year when Republic County athletes combined for 10 state medals. The focus now is on continuing that upward trend and competing at an even higher level this spring.
“Last year we had 10 athletes medal at the state track meet. We hope to improve on that this year,” Erkenbrack said.
On the girls side, the team is led by a strong core of upperclassmen who bring experience and state meet success.
Senior Kylie Stone leads the group in the throws, competing in discus and javelin after placing fourth at state in discus last season. Seniors Dakota Clausen-Peters and Ava Thumann are key pieces in the 800, 4×400 and 4×800 relay groups, with both helping the 4×800 relay earn a sixth-place finish at state last year. Junior Kymry Hoesli also returns as part of that relay group while contributing in the 4×400.
The boys team features a balanced mix of returning state performers and emerging athletes across sprints, distance, hurdles and field events.
Senior Aden Morris competes in high jump, long jump and relays and was part of the 4×800 team that placed seventh at state. Senior Brekyn Gaither returns in the 800 and relay groups, while junior Levi White brings speed to the 100 and 200 and adds value to the 4×100 relay after earning a state medal in 2024. Sophomores Grady Siemsen and Owen Harms continue to develop in distance and hurdles, with Harms coming off a sixth-place finish at state in the 110-meter hurdles while also competing in the 300 hurdles and relays.
Through all events and levels, the program identity remains consistent.
“We always want to finish strong, whether it is daily at practice or throughout the season,” Erkenbrack said.
