Pentwater is excited for its coming season, with nine boys and nine girls on the roster, including three returning state qualifiers.
“We’re excited about the balance and the energy this group brings,” Falcons’ coach Erika Fatura said. “Twelve of our athletes are returning from last year, and we have six freshmen or athletes who are brand new to the program. We always enjoy introducing athletes to the sport of track and field. It’s rewarding to watch them discover their strengths and grow throughout the season.”
For the boys’ team, Logan Fatura is back after qualifying for state in both throwing events and in the 400-meter relay. Chase McGuire-VanGills was also on that 400 relay team. Lauren Davis leads the girls as a returning qualifier in the 300-meter hurdles - with extra motivation after falling during that race at the state meet.
“Having experienced success at the state level gives them confidence and perspective, and they’ve set some ambitious goals for themselves this season,” Fatura said. “We’re looking forward to seeing how their leadership and drive help elevate the entire team.”
Those three naturally project as team leaders for the Falcons, and they will continue to be leading contenders in their showcase events. Fatura said McGuire-VanGills, who already has set a personal best in the 100-meter dash in 2026 at 12 seconds flat, is eyeing the school record in that event. He and Fatura will hope to boost the sprint relays as the team looks to replace graduated top runners Kaleb Brown and Trey Johnson, who helped that group reach the state meet a year ago. Davis, too, is a strong sprinter and will race the relays for the Falcons in addition to her work in the hurdles.
Pentwater has several other experienced athletes to watch. Bailey Case leads the Falcons’ distance runners and hopes to build on a good cross-country season last fall. Lexi Smith and Karina Olivarez are looking for big results in high jump and in discus, and the Falcon boys are also looking to compete well in pole vault; Fatura said the over 60-year-old school record of 10 feet is on the team’s radar.
Also back are Lily Smith, Michelle Smith, Tyler Zimmer, Michael Smith, Rodney Grondsma, and Anthony Acosta, who will fill out the lineup in a variety of ways along with six newcomers.
“We’re just getting started in identifying the events where they will excel, which is always one of the most exciting parts of the season for us as coaches,” Fatura said.
The clear schedule highlight for the Falcons is a meet they will host. Though Pentwater does not itself have a track facility, the Falcons will borrow the Mason County Central facility to host the Falcon Flash meet Saturday, May 2.
“Their support makes this milestone possible for our program,” Fatura said in gratitude to the Spartans. “We look forward to making the Falcon Flash a special event and setting a new tradition in Pentwater track & field.”
