The cross country season is quickly approaching.
New No. 1s are being given the keys to their programs, others are emerging within the top five, and even more are vying for spots in the scoring unit throughout the season. Upperclassmen, more than ever, know their roles within the team.
But it's also time for freshmen to emerge on the scene, to generate new careers as high schoolers, and even to surprise.
Among the nation's best XC eighth-graders a year ago are a smattering of athletes who progressed well in the track and field season. Three runners return having run sub-4:30 in the 1600m, including Noah Ward of Hanahan, South Carolina (4:29.07), Geno Uhrbom of Coleraine, Minnesota (4:29.66) and Gabe Smit of Prior Lake, Minnesota (4:29.70).
In the 3200m, just three runners recorded performances under 10 minutes, including Austin Montini of Gainesville, Florida (9:47.55), Mitchell Curtis of Mount Dora, Florida (9:48.27) and Ward (9:57.95) mentioned in the paragraph above.
That should spell ...
