Oro Valley Ironwood Ridge has a rich history of track & field success and the school will take advantage of some of that history this spring.

Manny Padilla coached the Nighthawks in 2010 and he will return to coach the boys and sprints. Lauren Pierce was one of his runners and she will take over the girl's program along with distances. Joining the duo will be award-winning wrestling coach Tim Berrier.

The school has won three team championships and is expected to compete for several relays and distance races this spring.

"It's awesome to be back," said Padilla. "The kids understand the work ethic involved and we are young but we have 25 seniors who have become excellent leaders. As far as our strength, I think our distance runners will be in good shape."

Padilla pointed out an incredible coaching staff in charge of each event and is glad to have Pierce join him.

"The transition for the team has been smooth once we got the distance runners back on campus and on the track," added Pierce.

"Coaching at my old school presents a new challenge but we are going to try new things like pace bands to help them improve. The main point is working to make sure each of them are coached as individuals and treating them as individuals. That can be difficult in a sport like track."

 

Ironwood Ridge Team Championships

GIRLS

2009: 5A-II

2010: 5A-II

BOYS

2009: 5A-II