Colts team looks to strike gold

Talk from coaches in and out of Region 6 would leave you with the impression that Cottonwood's boys track and field team is headed for a big season. The favorites to win region has also garnered some attention as a team that might challenge Timpview and Box Elder for the state title.

With state champion sprinter Mikey Payne back and standout long jumper Daney Nelson on board, the Colts are talented enough to start thinking about more then just a region title.

"We're looking for a state championship this year," says boys coach, Ed Christy.

Helping to make that goal reality might include having all-state defensive lineman Simi Fili on the roster. The senior could fill a major gap in the Colts throwing line up but he's academically ineligible, so for now, it's just a dream.

Rival Murray should provide the most competition from the region. The Spartans are strong in the distance events led by Colton McComb who runs the 3,200 and 1,600 meters. Sprinter Clayton King is tops in the 100 and 200 meter dashes.

The Spartans did lose a lot of points from last year's team (Paul Holman) and it's not clear if or how coach Ashley McSwain will make up for the loss.

East's girls return as the region champions and most coaches give them the nod as the favorite to repeat. East coaches say the girls team is pretty strong but young. However, they do have experienced athletes that will bring a high level of competition to the track.

The best of the bunch could be distance runner Lauren Spence. Even though it's early in the season, East coaches are raving about the 800 meter runner. Sophomore Alina Fong is also going to have a big year for the Leopards distance team.

East's girls have talent in several key areas but lack consistency in the sprints and throws. Granger's Maria Halton is back to defend her state title in the 200-meter dash and avenge a photo finish loss to Orem's Natasha Martin in the 100 meter. Halton is easily the region's best sprinter and should demonstrate that at next month's region championship.

Here's a look at the region: