Escalon traveled to nearby Riverbank for the TVL (Trans-Valley League) Relays on Tuesday, March 22.

“The Relays at Riverbank gave us a chance to see where the talent is in the league,” said head track and field coach Roger Beeman. “Hughson boys and girls looked strong again. Ripon’s girls are solid. Riverbank boys and girls will be right at the top, too. “

For the Cougars, Beeman said there were some strong performances and the league itself should be very tough.

“We saw big improvement with our girls’ team, and we have four or five of the top individual boys,” he said. “Mountain House has a lot of speed, Hilmar is much improved, and MC has their usual handful of exceptional athletes. League competition will be very good.”

On Thursday, the Cougars headed out to the Linden meet and Beeman said they were able to utilize is “as sort of a novice meet” to get some of their new athletes a chance to get in some work.

“We got some good early season marks, and kids got to try some events for the first time,” Beeman said. “There are several young kids and first year athletes who showed they’re ready for varsity spots.”

No meets are slated this week during spring break. Escalon will open the league dual meet season on Wednesday, April 6 at Riverbank.