Sunday, August 10, 2008
Despite the loss of some proven runners on both the boys and girls side, the Webster County cross country team expects to compete for a chance to go to state.
Last season the boys finished 10th overall in the state and the girls narrowly missed qualifying, but both intend to reach the mark this fall.
Both teams’ success helped coach Todd Whitsell increase his roster size.
“Any time you do well and can get recognized a little bit, it’s going to have other kids open up interest for you,” he said. “That’s what I looked at for a recruiting tool.”
The boys team grew by three while the girls added four individuals, so now each team sports 10 runners.
“The girls that came in have stepped up real nice,” Whitsell said. “I think the girls are going to be real competitive.”
The Lady Trojans lost the leadership of seniors Emily Patton and Brandy Shoulders, but Whitsell said he feels he knows a runner who can fill the void.
“We’re going to have to find somebody new to step up this year,” he said. “I think Ellie Steiner, that ran for me last year, will be able to provide that for us.”
For the boys, junior Chase Stone and seniors Mykel Stanley and Drew Osborn will return to lead the squad in an attempt to reach state in consecutive years.
All three of the boys set personal records at last year’s state meet.
Stone, in just his first year with the team, had the lowest time among the three, finishing at 18:00. Stanley finished at 18:36 and Osborn came in at 19:00.
Now, with a year under his belt, Stone said he’s ready for this season’s challenges.
“It’s going to be a fun season,” he said. “All three of us are leaders this year and that’s going to be a change, but I think we’re all ready to step into that role.”
Stanley has participated individually at state for the last three years, but has even more drive now in his final season.
“I’m a senior, I want to go out with a bang,” he said. “That’s pretty much what I’m focused on.”
Osborn, who has impressed Whitsell with his development during the summer, said his key to success during a meet is focusing on one goal at a time.
“Just trying to catch the person in front of you,” he said. “Just always trying to get that one spot better.”
Stone has his own thoughts, however, when he’s on the course.
“I just keep telling myself I can (do it),” he said. “Pain is natural. I also think about water.”
One thing all the boys agreed on though was that each runner
tries to occupy his mind with music.
“Everybody listens to their own song in their head,” Stanley said.
With music on the mind during a race, it may sound like the Trojans aren’t focused, but the team has been practicing since July 15.
The team has been trying to build endurance, especially for those new to the squad, Whitsell said.
During practice the runners will alternate workouts by either practicing strength on hills or long-distance. Later in the season, the runners will advance into speed workouts.
With a core of talented returning runners and dedicated beginners, Whitsell said the team’s drive will determine its future.
“I feel like if we can stayed focused and continue to work together, and to push each other every day in practice and believe in one another, I think those are the keys right there to a successful season,” he said.
The Trojans begin the season with their first meet Sept. 6 at Madisonville-North Hopkins High School.
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