Cross Country

Cross Country 2011 Season Outlook

The 2011 Wildcat cross-country programs enter the fall campaign with confidence, inspired by a keen focus, shrewd preparation, and the unwavering desire to put everything on the line come late October.

The men’s squad is in the enviable position of returning all runners from last season’s 3rd place team finish, including defending Conference Champion and Runner of the Year, Bill Steele. Steele, a junior, looks to become the first ever two time CACC champion, and improve upon his impressive NCAA Regional finish at Boston’s Franklin Park course in November. “Bill has taken nothing for granted this offseason…His training and discipline have been incredible. I feel certain that this is the year Bill will compete with the leaders in Boston,” coach Jones said enthusiastically.

The supporting cast behind Steele is equally as impressive, led by last year’s Rookie of the Year, and All-Conference Runner Austin Knight. Knight, the team captain, is ready for a season of personal bests. His leadership will prove invaluable as the incoming freshmen look to find their way over the 8k/10k distance.

Sophomore James Pascoe has a season of experience, and a ton of good training behind him as he heads into this fall. “I think James is ready to run extremely well this fall, and will end up being a very pivotal figure in our team’s overall success.” Coach Jones said, reflecting on what Pascoe will do this season.

Joining Pascoe is junior Vinnie Trotta, fully healed from an injury last season, and eager to return to his All-Conference form from his freshman year. Vinnie has the talent to push the top runners, and will likely be in the hunt on October 23rd.

Danny Segars returns to the Wildcat roster with the wisdom and focus that a few years of maturation often brings. “We are thrilled to have Danny back with us, and are instantly that much better with his presence.” Jones stated. Senior Jeff Sammons is finally running at his best, which means he will likely fight for a varsity spot as well, while sophomore Andrew Koppel is poised to improve upon last year’s solid season.

The Wildcats have brought in an excellent freshman class, led by first team All-State selection Richie Mitten, who gives the Wildcats depth at the front, which will be vital to the team’s chances of earning a conference title. Along with Mitten, Brandon Parker and Matt Mossman may very well contend for a top five spot by the end of the season. Rounding out the freshman, Mike Wright brings an excellent work ethic that could place him in a key scoring position by season’s end.

This could be the year the men’s team puts it all together…only time will tell.

The Lady Wildcats are also in a coveted position this fall, as the top two runners, Danielle Riley and Whitney Hora, are back and ready to improve upon a very impressive season last year.

Riley, the team captain and a senior, is ready to contend for CACC honors in October, while Hora is heading into her sophomore season fit and focused on capturing the title as well. “Having Danielle and Whitney back is exactly what we need. They are both fierce competitors and will be in the mix for runner of the year,” Coach Jones said.

Joining these two is Jeanette Halliburton, a first year runner who has the potential to run with anyone in the conference, giving the Wildcats a potentially formidable front three.

Kristy McCrea, a junior, is ready for a breakthrough year, while sophomore SaraBeth Oppermann has her sights set on pushing the top folks on the team. “We are really excited for Kristy and SaraBeth to have a great season, which I believe both are ready to do.” Coach Jones commented.

A pivotal presence for the Ladycats, Brittany Anthony will enter her final year of competition fueled by her best off-season training to date. If Brittany continues to remain healthy, she will give the women the needed depth to challenge any program in the CACC.

Senior Stacey Hamilton has worked hard to return from injury last fall, and will be counted on for her leadership role, while two freshmen may prove to be the X-factor this fall...Brianna Glen and Althea Davidson. Both Brianna and Althea are eager to tap into their running potential when they race with college competition.

In summarizing the women’s chances for this fall, Jones was positive in his comments. “The ladies are going to need the entire team to find that singular focus, and if they do, then good things will happen on October 23rd.”