The Libby Logger’s track and field athletes had one week to get their techniques dialed in before they host the Northwest A divisional meet this Friday and Saturday.

“In our track program we have been stressing the importance of this week’s practices,” said head coach Jim May. “Working on one little thing, keeping on improving the muscle memory needed for proper technique and stabilizing our conditioning. The athletes that have taken this approach will stand the best shot of doing something in their events that they have not done all season.”

To earn a spot in state, competitors must finish in the top five in their events against their division rivals Whitefish, Polson, Columbia Falls and Frenchtown. It will be the last time the Loggers will face this lineup of foes before moving to Class B next year.

In addition to conducting a divisional meet, Class A also uses qualifying standards as an approved method to qualify athletes for the state track and field meets.

An athlete who meets or exceeds the qualifying mark in a given event at a regular season qualifying meet may enter that event at the state meet.

May said the divisional meet can weigh heavily on some competitors. “The state track meet often has less stress than divisionals because you have already qualified,” he said. “The athletes that have been coasting will get passed up by others.”

May expects the girls’ team will score very well for having so few involved and the boys should have much more success than in recent years.

“There will be some surprising and entertaining performances this weekend. I encourage everyone to come out and watch these kids in their events,” May said. “Watch them celebrate as they perform at their best level ever and qualify for state.”

With a number of dedicated volunteers the meet should run like a well-oiled machine, said May. “Libby runs great track meets. This weekend will be of the highest quality.  Come out and enjoy,” May said.  

The field events begin at 3 p.m. today, with track events beginning at 4 p.m.