MUS assistant cross-country coach Kyle Smith definitely knows what the key is to having and maintaining a successful cross-country program.
“The goal of the cross-country program is to train young runners so that when they are seniors they can run the team," says Smith.
This year the cross country team looks as if it has already fulfilled that goal with the talented group of seniors on the squad. The seven seniors that will be leading this year’s team are Hunter Adams, David Deaderick, Philip DeBardeleben, Matt Dowling, Oliver Green, Aaron Khouri, and Donald McClure.
To spend four years with one sport, especially one as grueling as cross country, student athletes have to have a certain motivation for and dedication to that sport. Whether it is waking up early to go for a run before school or going to a practice in the intense afternoon heat, these senior runners on the cross-country team have shown dedication on all levels. And of course, experienced runners will help get the job done at races as well as practices.
Senior Oliver Green, who has been on the team for three years, appreciates his classmates and knows the value of a good senior class.
“We have a very experienced team this season, and I believe that our senior leadership will greatly contribute to our successes,” says Green, who will be looked to to have a fine year.
The coaches also see the great potential for success with the maturity this season. Smith states, “With this group of seniors, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish this year.”
Cross country has already started its season with two league meets, in which the J.V. Owls ran. The Varsity Owls, including many of the aforementioned seniors, will make their debut under the lights in the Twilight Meet. The meet will be held at 8 p.m. on Saturday, September 10, at the Mike Rose Complex. The Varsity Owls will look to the senior team leaders for consistent performances throughout this year.