Hemlock High School is proud to recognize seniors Izzy Krueger, Lillian Martinez, and Klaira Salo, who each qualified for the MHSAA Division 3 State Finals in track and field all four years of their high school careers. Their dedication, versatility, and competitive spirit have made a lasting impact on the Huskie program — and their journeys are a testament to hard work, strong teamwork, and unwavering commitment.
Izzy Krueger:
For Izzy Krueger, the journey to four straight State Finals appearances was built on relay chemistry, individual drive, and faith. She competed at States in a range of events including the 4x100m, 4x200m, 4x400m relays, and 400m dash. Her proudest achievements came from shaving seconds off her times year after year and standing on the podium twice in her sophomore season alongside her teammates.
“Track might be considered an individual sport, but I wouldn’t be here without my relay teams,” Krueger said. “I’m just really thankful for all of it.”
A dual-sport athlete who also played varsity soccer each spring, Krueger managed a demanding schedule with grace and gratitude. “There were times I’d leave a track meet and go straight to a soccer game,” she said. “It was hectic, but I wouldn’t have changed a thing.”
Krueger will continue her track career at Indiana Wesleyan University this fall while exploring her options for a major.
Lillian Martinez:
Lillian Martinez balanced a deep love for softball with standout success on the track. She credits the journey to State Finals all four years to her teammates and coaches, and the drive to push herself outside her comfort zone.
“Making it to States every year was never something I expected,” Martinez said. “It just shows what’s possible when you commit to your goals, trust your teammates, and don’t limit yourself to one path. Track became a second passion for me.”
Martinez competed at States in the 4x100 and 4x200 relays, with top moments including double podium finishes during her sophomore season and the energy of night meets filled with teammates and cheers.
“What made track so special wasn’t just the competition — it was the people,” she added. “Coach John and Diana Martinez and Coach Kyle Coblentz worked with my schedule, pushed me, and always believed in me. I competed for them every time I stepped on the track.”
She will attend Valparaiso University in the fall to continue her softball career while studying engineering.
Klaira Salo:
Klaira Salo leaves Hemlock as a versatile and driven competitor who reached the State Finals in events ranging from the 100m dash to multiple relays. Her sophomore year podium finishes in both the 4x100 and 4x200 remain highlights, while qualifying individually in the 100m and capturing a regional title as a junior stands as her proudest individual moment.
“My favorite event has always been the 4x100,” she said. “Everyone gives it everything they’ve got, and there’s nothing better than doing that with your teammates.”
A dual-sport athlete as well, Salo also played softball during the spring and credited her coaches for supporting her complex schedule. “They always wanted what was best for both teams,” she said. “I could bounce between sports depending on where I was needed, and that kind of support meant everything.”
Salo will attend Saginaw Valley State University this fall to study Occupational Therapy.
A Legacy of Dedication
All three athletes exemplified what it means to be a Huskie — relentless in their work ethic, resilient in the face of challenges, and rooted in team-first values. Their legacies will inspire future generations of Hemlock track athletes to aim high, compete hard, and chase greatness together.
“To qualify for the MHSAA State Finals in all four years of high school is an exceptional accomplishment,” said Hemlock Director of Athletics Angela Pohl. “To have three athletes do it in the same graduating class is a reflection of their work ethic, dedication, and love for competition. They’ve raised the bar for what’s possible at Hemlock.”
As they take their next steps beyond high school, Izzy, Lillian, and Klaira leave behind more than results on paper. They leave behind a legacy of excellence, leadership, and what it truly means to wear the Huskie uniform. Their commitment will continue to echo through the track lanes, locker rooms, and hearts of Huskies for years to come.