LuciaAmbrose

After covering more than 84,000 miles as a team this summer, the Cross Country team offically started its season on Aug. 12.

Of the 51 athletes on the team, 10 achieved 300-mile club status and 38 runners completed at least 100 miles miles in the pre-season. 

The coaching staff includes Roger Wright, Greg Golka, Alee Cotton and Scot Rainbolt. Coach Wright said that “the runners did a great job of preparing for the season this summer. They are also working very hard in their practices. With that combination we have an excellent chance to have a great season.” 

The JV and Varsity will be competing in 13 meets. The girls have some ambitious goals for the season ahead. 

“We are working really hard and we all came into season ready to give it our best shot,” senior Nora Coffey said.

The team looks to have a lot of young talent with 25 freshmen out for the sport. Freshman Mabel Henningsen, who has made her mark on the varsity squad early, said, “I am excited to see what we can do.” 

The team’s motto for this season is “Marian Cross Country will soar in 2024.” After competing in Class of the Metro, the Seward Invite and the Heartland Preview, the Varsity girls are ranked sixth in Class A. 

Henningsen is also ranked second in the State in the individual polls. 

The JV squad also has started their season strong getting second place at the Titan Cross Country Classic and 10th at the Platte River Rumble.