We are almost here. Cross Country is just around the corner. It's sure to be another exciting year of PR's, fast times, and, as always, drama. To get you prepared for this year, here are 7 things to think about throughout the entire cross season.
- Did you know it's the 60th year of XC?
Like the NFL in their 100th year and College Football entering its 150th season, high school cross country in Washington will begin it's 60th year. From Ferris High School winning the very first team state championship, to Lou Allison and Denise Mueller becoming the first female state champions in 1973, to the Pat Tyson-Mead Era, and to national powerhouse North Central. We have seen a lot these last 60 years, and we can't wait for more to come in the next 60.
- Second year of "new" state course
One of the most beloved courses in Washington has now become an enemy for some. With the changes of the state course at the Sun Willows Golf Course, many opinions were broken out as to whether people liked the new course, or in fact hated it. If you are a fan, you love it. As a coach, you kind of hate it. As an athlete, just depends on what type of mentality you bring to race day. Could this course be permanent? Interesting to see how everyone performs again this year at state. Some feel like they are running a dreaded 3,200 meter in track.
- Is the "Mead Machine" on the rise again?
Welcome back to the state meet, Mead. The Panthers placed seventh overall at last years 3A state meet, and return five guys for this upcoming season. According to the Hypothetical meet based on grades, Mead is ranked fifth in the entire state from last years results. From 1988-2008, the Panthers finished no lower than third place. A young Panther squad is hungry and ready to make some noise this year.
- Make if four for Novie McCabe
Liberty Bell's Novie McCabe could accomplish something that has never been done in state meet history this season. McCabe looks to win her fourth consecutive 1B/2B state individual state title and become the second runner ever in the state to do so (Maddie Meyers, Northwest). But, no one who has won four state individual titles has ever been part of four state team championships. The Mountain Lions have dominated the 1B/2B level for the last few years, and another state title is in the making for them.
- The Mariners that know how to win
Seven years. Yes, seven years since the last time the Sehome boys were not on top of the 2A cross country mountain. Injuries were a question last season for the Mariners, but they pulled out a narrow 14 point victory over Washougal at state. With five of the seven runners from last years state team, and an incoming freshman with incredible numbers from eighth grade, the Mariners Regime looks to continue on and the quest for eight begins.
- NC girls have taken over the state
Do I need to say a lot? This is one of the most dominating girls programs in the history of Washington, let alone on the West Coast. Led by Allie Janke and the Hill twins, North Central will be up there with some of the nations top teams. State championship is nice in their eyes, but how about a National Championship? To early to say, but it's not out of the question.
- The (Jonas) Price is Right
If there is one thing coaches Phil English and Robert Price haven't had accomplished at Eisenhower High School, it's an individual boy state champion. Jonas Price, son of Robert, is destined to win the 4A individual crown this year. He has finished top five at the state meet the last two years, with last season being his closest to winning it all as placed second behind a certain runner who is now at the University of Washington.
Comments