The cross-country team took to the trails of Ney Park on August 17 working to build upon last year’s success. “I’d like to see us make it to the Section Meet again,” said Head Coach J McClelland.
Hard work in the off-season coupled with experienced runners, make this goal achievable. Nineteen athletes are competing this season and all but five runners have previous cross-country experience. “It’s nice to have experienced runners guiding the way,” said McClelland. “They make my job easier.”
Much of the guidance is provided by seniors Allison Ameluxen, Heather Couette, Mike Fritz, and Adam Hill who have been with the program since it was revived in 2001. “I think it is rewarding over time to watch the runners improve,” said McClelland.
New to the team this year is senior Rachel Hudek. Other varsity team members are Amy Muenkel, Rachel Bryce, Leah McBrady, Victoria Metz, Alana Ballweber, Hope Karja, Jeana Renier, Kelsi Pawelk, Josh Pribyl, Sam Muller, Andrew Brinza, Dillon McBrady, Joey Juetten, and Allison Thomas.
McClelland and junior high coach Ben Youngs are trying to push the squad to improve and get stronger during their pre-season practices. “I think if they do a little more quick stuff in the first two weeks, the races will be a little less stressful on the body,” said McClelland.
Ameluxen agrees. “We jumped into it which is better with only two weeks of practice.”
The team will see how much their hard work pays off when they suit up for the first meet of the season, September 2. The meet will be hosted by the Irish at Ney Park.