"Maybe today the accomplishment is starting to sink in for Hemlock's girls' track team. After all, sometimes it takes a few days to realize that you're the best in the state," wrote MLive staff writer Gretchen Flemming, almost 40 years ago. Those words, preserved in Coach Lori Griffing’s scrapbook, still resonate today as Hemlock Public School District prepares to honor the 1985 Girls Track Team with their induction into the 2024 Hall of Fame. The ceremony will take place during halftime of the varsity football game tomorrow, September 27th, where the community will celebrate this extraordinary team’s remarkable achievement—winning the state championship in 1985.
The Hall of Fame induction ceremony recognizes individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to Hemlock Public Schools and the wider community through alumni achievements, notable contributions, or exceptional athletic accomplishments. This year, the 1985 Girls Track Team was chosen for their outstanding performance and enduring impact.
The 1985 season was nothing short of historic. Under the leadership of Coach Griffing, the team earned All-State honors through standout athletes Julie Watson, Sue Breternitz, and Beth Burdo. Their success came after an already stellar season, as Griffing’s Huskies also captured the Tri-Valley Conference Championship, boasted a perfect 7-0 dual meet record, and finished second in the Regional.
This legendary team included Joanie Royal, Daleane Walton, Morica Pollard, Sue Arie, Kathe Pollard, Jill Rohn, Julie Watson, Liz Rye, Cathy Tyra, Pam House, Molly Morrison, Kim Gay, Lisa Allen, Linda Smelley, Angie Knapper, Mia Kaski, Camie West, Laurie West, Suzette Gray, Tami Wilkins, Beth Burdo, Geeske Visser, Kristi Flewelling, Sue Breternitz, Becky Breternitz, Darla Yaggie, Tracy Stone, Karen Riefe, and Lori Erskine. Under Griffing’s guidance, they worked tirelessly to bring home the State Championship title, an achievement that still resonates within our school’s history.
Coach Lori Griffing reflected on her team’s journey to becoming champions: "This group of athletes had the right mindset for winning. From the start, they knew that reaching the top would require discipline, sacrifice, and a little ‘no pain, no gain’ song we would sing. What was it like? It felt like every other year because from 1981 to 1985, we built a dynasty in girls’ track. When I first started in ‘78, nobody wanted the track team—Hemlock hadn’t won a meet before that. But we changed that as a team. These girls embraced the expectation that we would win, and they committed to it. Early morning practices, weight lifting, goal setting—they took it upon themselves to focus and get it done."
Matt Wesener, Board President of Hemlock Public School District, echoed those sentiments: "We are thrilled to announce the induction of the 1985 Girls Track Team into the Hemlock Hall of Fame. Their dedication and achievements have left a lasting legacy, and we look forward to honoring them and the impact they’ve had on our school and community."
The district is proud to host this special event, which marks an important chapter in Hemlock’s rich athletic history. The team's state championship remains a landmark moment, setting a standard of excellence for future generations. The upcoming Hall of Fame induction ceremony will honor not only their success but the spirit of teamwork, perseverance, and community pride that defined their journey.
Event Details:
What: 2024 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Who: Honoring the 1985 Girls’ Track Team
When: Friday, September 27th, during halftime of the varsity football game
Where: Wallace Field at Hemlock High School
We invite the entire Hemlock community to join us in celebrating the 1985 Girls Track Team’s incredible accomplishments. This event will be an unforgettable opportunity to reflect on their legacy and the values they represent for Hemlock Public Schools.