Lowell, Mich. – Marshall Huhn, a senior at Lowell High School, is chasing two of the highest honors a student can earn: a state championship in cross‑country and the title of class valedictorian. The 4.553‑point weighted GPA places him at the top of a class of more than 200 peers, and his record‑setting performances on the course have already rewritten the school’s athletic history.
Track record of excellence
Huhn first laced up his running shoes in middle school, and his talent has only grown. He is a three‑time all‑conference runner and has already set several Lowell High School records in both cross‑country and track. Coach Brian Smith, the school’s cross‑country head coach, says Huhn’s drive “has been evident since his freshman year – he wants to be the best of the best.”
Smith added that Huhn is aiming to defend his conference title this season, become a regional champion, and ultimately compete for a state title in November. “He continues to challenge the school’s record books,” Smith told FOX 17 reporter Paige Meyer at the conference jamboree held at Allendale High School. “When he breaks a record, our athletic director asks if we should hold off on updating the boards until the end of the year.”
Academic leadership
Beyond the trail, Huhn excels in the classroom. He has served as team captain since his junior year, leading by example both on the course and in his studies. “I feel like in everything I do, I really try to pursue excellence,” Huhn said. He credits his family – especially his grandfather and parents – for instilling a strong work ethic. “My grandpa and my parents taught me the value of hard work,” he explained.
His academic achievements have earned him Academic All‑State honors in both track and cross‑country, underscoring the balance he maintains between athletics and scholarship.
Looking ahead
As the senior season progresses, Huhn’s goals remain ambitious. In November, he will compete for a state championship with Lowell while also targeting top finishes at upcoming regional meets with his club team, hoping to qualify for a national meet. He also plans to continue his running career in college, stating, “My trajectory is going high, so wherever I go running collegiately, I will be a good asset.”
Huhn believes the mental toughness he has built through running will serve him well beyond high school. “There’s a lot of time in your mind to reflect after a hard race. It creates mental toughness and it’s a lot of fun,” he said.
Community pride
Lowell residents have rallied around Huhn’s dual pursuit, seeing his story as a testament to the values of hard work, family support, and personal responsibility. The school’s athletic director and faculty have praised his dedication, noting that his achievements bring positive attention to the community and set a high standard for future students.
Marshall Huhn’s journey illustrates how a commitment to excellence in both sport and scholarship can inspire a whole town. As he prepares for the state championship and the valedictorian ceremony, Lowell High School and the surrounding community look forward to celebrating his successes.
Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.
