Success on the track is often measured in seconds, inches, and medals. But for the 2026 Spring Lake High School Girls Track & Field team, this season was about so much more than the numbers. It was a year defined by hard work, leadership, and a culture that inspired every athlete to become the very best version of themselves.

Now in her fourth season as head coach, Marina Samp entered the year knowing this group had the talent to accomplish something special. With returning record holders, experienced leaders, and the possibility of competing for a state title, expectations were certainly high. Yet, despite the impressive potential, Coach Samp kept her team's focus grounded in something much deeper.

"Specific to this season, the possibility of a state title was on our mind as well as returning record holders likely breaking their records," Coach Samp explained. "But honestly, our goals were focused more around team culture, connection with athletes, and bringing out the best in each one as a coaching staff."

Those values became the foundation for one of the program's most memorable seasons. While competing at a high level remained a priority, including qualifying for the MHSAA Team State Finals, earning Academic All-State honors, sending as many athletes as possible to the MHSAA State Finals, and competing for championships within the OK Black Conference and Regional meets—it was the athletes' commitment to one another that truly set this team apart.

Coach Samp credits the team's continued success to the relentless work ethic displayed throughout the season.

"This year's success has been the realization of the progress our athletes have displayed each year of their track careers," she said. "Each athlete set individual goals this year, and many had goals outlined before we even asked that of our athletes. Our upperclassmen and captains did a great job setting the example for our team to stay on track."

That leadership was evident from the very first practice until the final meet of the season.

Senior captain Megan Guczwa once again demonstrated why she has been such an important part of the Lakers' program. As a second-year captain, Megan's leadership extended well beyond her athletic accomplishments, helping cultivate a positive, encouraging environment for her teammates.

"Megan Guczwa continued to show the leader she is," Coach Samp said. "She was a second-year captain this year and leaves some big shoes to fill in addition to her athletic contributions to the team."

Another athlete who made a lasting impact was Macy Subka, whose willingness to mentor younger teammates embodied the selfless spirit of the program.

"Watching Macy Subka give advice and support our younger hurdlers and sprinters was fun to see as well," Coach Samp shared.

As remarkable as the 2026 season was, the future appears equally bright for Spring Lake Girls Track & Field. With five of six MHSAA State Finals qualifiers returning, along with nearly the entire MHSAA Team State squad, the Lakers are well-positioned for continued success.

Coach Samp is also excited about the program's depth and the talent waiting in the wings.

"I would expect a strong senior class followed by sophomores and juniors looking to make their mark and have bigger roles on the team," she said. "The incoming freshman class had a strong showing at the middle school level this spring and should be fun to see join the high school team."

While records may eventually be broken and championships won or lost, the legacy of this year's team extends far beyond the podium. The 2026 Lakers demonstrated that when athletes commit to one another, embrace hard work, and lead with character, success naturally follows. It's a culture that has become the hallmark of Spring Lake Girls Track & Field, and one that promises an exciting future for the red, grey, and white!