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Teams' depth will be put to test

Last update: May 13, 2008 - 5:45 PM

The great Sade Pollard single-handedly delivered St. Paul Harding's sixth-place finish at the Class 2A state track and field meet last season, a testament to her sprinting skills in three events.

But it will take much more than the efforts of one elite athlete to capture a coaches association True Team state track and field championship. Governed by an "every athlete counts" philosophy, the True Team state meet rewards determination and depth.

The championships take place Friday and Saturday at Stillwater High School. Class 3A competition begins at 4 p.m. Friday. Class 1A competition begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, followed by the Class 2A competition at 3 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults and $2 for students and senior citizens. Every athlete contributes to the team score, and here are four who will be important to their respective teams' chances.

BOYS

Paul Blaske, Mounds View

Senior co-captain helped the defending True Team state champion Mustangs win the Class 3A, Section 6 crown by scoring points in four events. "He's a lunch-pail guy who earned his way," coach Ross Fleming said. "He is indispensable."

Vince Shaw, Forest Lake

Four-year team member finally made the varsity lineup this season in the 110- and 300-meter hurdle events. Helped Forest Lake to its first True Team state meet appearance since 1994. "He is the kind of athlete any coach is fortunate to have in their program," coach Paul Kendrick said. "He is our No. 3 hurdler, but he was the real difference in getting us out of our section."

GIRLS

Shannon Sorensen, Mounds View

Her multi-event prowess helped the Mustangs win the Class 3A, Section 6 title and allows them an opportunity to repeat as True Team state champions. She set a personal-best mark in the triple jump at the section meet while adding points in the long jump and the 4x100 and 4x200 relays. "Some girls feel overwhelmed by four events," coach Aaron Redman said. "She is a great athlete who is willing to do what is needed."

Clare Jensen, Roseville

Roseville secured a Class 3A state meet appearance by taking the wild card spot, and Jensen picked up key points as part of the 4x100 and 4x200 relay teams. Jensen, a senior co-captain, is "one of the kids the True Team format is for," coach Mark Sotebeer said.

DAVID LA VAQUE

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