Blackburn, Roche split track duties

Willie Roche and Kelliann Blackburn are the new head coaches of the Bulldogs track and field team.

Roche will coach the boys while Blackburn coaches girls, filling the shoes of longtime head coach Derek Schulz, who retired last year after capping off his 24-year career with a girls state championship.

“The timing was right, and transitioning from an iconic coach that’s done so many great things for track and field and for our community felt like it was a lot to take on,” WHS Activities Director Aric Harris said.

Blackburn teaches English at WHS, while Roche teaches Business. Both served as assistant coaches to Schulz last year.

“Kellian’s been involved with Whitefish track for over 20 years and she’s eager to step up to take over the girls program. We’re building off of last year’s success, so we’re excited to have her be the girls coach,” Harris said. “Willie is just young, eager and loves track and field. We’re excited to have him and look to continue to grow our boys program with him at the helm.”

Spring sports start March 9.