New season, new coaches

The new 2017 spring season brings changes in the head coach positions for two girls spring sports: track and tennis.

Longtime boys track coach Megan Berry contacted former track star Chris Scott, who agreed to take on the job as the new girls coach. Scott, a 2012 Utica track alum, hold school records in 1600, 4×4, and 4×8. He was a two-year captain in both cross country and track, and went on to run track after graduation at Oakland University, where he was a repeat conference champ in the 800.

“He is dedicated and kind and passionate about running,” Berry said. “He is changing around his work schedule to take this position and is very excited about it.”

Senior Kiah Anderson had a very good season and was a state qualifier last year. She is hoping to be able to continue her success in this upcoming season.

“We had a great coach in the past, but I believe everyone will benefit from the change,” Anderson said. “I’m super excited to end off my senior year hopefully on a good note by breaking another record.”

The entire track team had great success this past year. Last year’s girls track team had only loss in one of their dual meets.

“I’m super excited for track to start up this year,” junior Hannah Gerhke said. “I believe we can have a strong team with many of the returning runners we have coming back this year.”

Last season the girls tennis team finished their year strong with a 8-4 record in the season.

“I really hope we can continue our success in tennis this year, under our new leadership,” sophomore Kathleen O’Connor said.

The previous girls tennis coach was recently retired teacher, Christine Dabrowski, so the new coach is current boys tennis coach, Annemarie Michol.

In her first year coaching, Michol led the boys to an undefeated season.

Everyone involved in the girls track and tennis programs are excited for this season with their new coaches and hope to continue their successful sesasons.