Albion track teams will open the N-O League season at Akron on Thursday

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Albion will begin defense of its Niagara-Orleans League boys track title at Akron on Thursday. The Purple Eagles went 6-0 last spring and have now won six straight N-O championships compiling a 36-0 record during that stretch. Anchoring the Purple Eagles lineup is this veteran group. In front are sophomores Garret Jones (Long Jump, Triple Jump), Nate Wehling (800) and Yohanel Harris (100, 200). In back are junior Noah Harrison (Long Jump, Triple Jump), junior Ezra Bloom (High Jump). senior Tyler Cody (High Jump), senior Tristian Tilbe (Distance) and senior Hunter Huscher (100, 200). Missing are juniors Adam Burgio (400) and Jon Money (Discus). Huscher placed second in the 200 at last year’s N-O All-League meet while Tilbe was second in the Steeplechase, Cody third in the High Jump and Burgio fourth in the 400.

Looking to improve on last year’s 2-3-1 record, the youthful Albion girls track team will also open the N-O season at Akron on Thursday. The Purple Eagles are led by this group of veterans. In front are freshmen LaDereon Griffin (Long Jump, High Jump, Hurdles), SeMya Tilford (Shotput, Discus) and Cierra Johnson (100, 200). In back are freshman Hannah Olles (Pole Vault, Long Jump), junior Loralei Gailie (Long Jump, Triple Jump, 400) and Aubrey Bruning (800). Missing are junior Izzy Truelson (100, 200) and senior Mia Standish (Hurdles). Standish won the 400 Hurdles at last year’s All-League meet.