logo
Cross Country Boys
US National High School Preview Series
Sat, August 31, 2024 at 10:08 AM . New Jersey
The Voorhees High School boys' cross-country team is gearing up for another successful season. With a talented group of returning players and promising recruits, the team has its sights set on winning sectionals and making a name for themselves in the state. Coach Nick McFarland is confident in his team's abilities and believes that they have a strong chance of achieving their goal this season. When asked about the team's top returning players, Coach McFarland named Austin Fritz, Anothy Giello, Ben Damiano, Kyle Beers, and Avery Innis. These boys are now Juniors and have had impressive performances in both outdoor seasons and summer races. However, what truly sets them apart is their incredible work ethic and drive to continuously improve. They are always pushing themselves to do more reps and run more miles, and Coach McFarland's job is to balance their intense dedication with rest and recovery. In addition to the returning players, Coach McFarland is excited about the new players joining the team. He believes that they will make an immediate impact with their skills and determination. However, Coach McFarland stresses that success for the team is not just about individual talent. He plans on implementing team chemistry and camaraderie to create a positive and supportive environment for the athletes. This is where the team captain plays a crucial role in leading by example and aligning with the team's values and goals. Motivation is also key to pushing the team to their full potential. For Coach McFarland, this means incorporating Fun Fridays into the training schedule, where the team plays a friendly game of another sport. While the team's training regimen follows a scientific approach, Coach McFarland also emphasizes the importance of rest and mental well-being. With a small shift in training to accommodate individual needs, he believes that this will help the team excel. Preparing for the season has not been without its challenges. Coach McFarland emphasizes the need for continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest research in the sport. As young athletes these days ask a lot of questions, Coach McFarland makes a conscious effort to educate them about the science behind their training. He wants to not only coach them but also teach them about the body's response to different stimuli. This knowledge not only helps the athletes understand their training but also builds trust and confidence in their coach.