March 26, 1997 — The Tamaqua track and field teams, coached by Phil Houm, open their seasons with sweeps over both Marian and Panther Valley. The Blue Raider boys, who defeat the Colts 83-63 and the Panthers 92-53, receive firsts from Jon Hafer (400), Corey Mueller (300 hurdles), Chris Nice (long jump), Matt Bobick (triple jump) and Eddie Koch (high jump). The girls, who down the Fillies 90-50 and the Panthers 90-51, gain individual wins from Katie MacDonald (400), Brenda Lazur (800), Monica Johnson (1600), Amy Putalavage (100 hurdles), Nicci Schock (long jump), Leah Williams (triple jump) and Kelly Naylor (shot put).