Great Falls High School Cross Country Season Preview

A new era is beginning for Great Falls High School Cross Country as longtime assistant Dave Kilian takes over as head coach following the retirement of Bob Stingley. With a mix of returning talent, fresh leadership, and a vision for growth, the Bison are poised to make strides in both team culture and competition. Offseason Focus: A Fresh Approach With Coach Kilian stepping into the head coaching role, the biggest focus this offseason has been implementing new training philosophies while building on the strong foundation left by the previous staff. Some of the key priorities include: Adjusting offseason training goals to improve endurance, strength, and racing strategies Developing leadership among returning athletes to inspire younger runners Laying the groundwork for future team camps to enhance team bonding and race preparation While the transition brings change, the team is embracing the challenge with determination and optimism. Training and Team Development: Strength in Unity One of the major themes this offseason has been team togetherness. The Bison Cross Country program is emphasizing: General fitness-based summer training, incorporating body-weight strength exercises with supplemental weight training where needed Group workouts and time together to foster a strong team culture that supports younger athletes and builds camaraderie By creating a positive and competitive atmosphere, Great Falls hopes to build not just fast runners, but a lasting program culture. Roster Overview: Who to Watch in 2025 Boys Team Zaiden and Sander Reeves, Seniors – These twin seniors will be key leaders and point scorers Ryland Crane, Junior – A rising runner with the potential to push the Bison up the state rankings Deep supporting cast – Several up-and-coming runners will need to step up to fill the gaps left by last year’s graduates Girls Team Aizalyn Flaten and Lucciana Baarson, Seniors – The experienced duo will serve as the foundation of the girls' team Maren Marshall and Ella Woldvedt, Sophomores – After strong freshman seasons, they are expected to break out as key contributors Both teams have talent and potential, and if younger runners step up, Great Falls could surprise some opponents this season. Biggest Challenges: Overcoming Legacy Programs One of the biggest hurdles for Great Falls will be competing with the state’s powerhouse programs. Many schools in Montana have deep, established cross-country legacies, making it a challenge for the Bison to break into the top ranks. However, Coach Kilian and his athletes are determined to grow the program by: Highlighting individual and team success to build recognition and excitement Inspiring future runners to take cross country more seriously in the community Shifting the mindset that the Bison can compete with the state’s best programs We have some talented runners worth recognizing, Coach Kilian stated, and we aim to bring them to attention anytime we can to inspire both current and future runners. Fan Engagement and Community Involvement The Bison Cross Country team is committed to giving back to its community with initiatives like: Neighborhood and campus cleanup days to foster community pride Fundraising efforts to connect with local supporters Promoting individual and team achievements to increase awareness and support for the sport The Great Falls community has always been supportive, and strengthening those ties will be key in growing the program’s reputation. Looking Ahead: The Road to Success With a new head coach, a motivated group of runners, and a vision for the future, Great Falls Cross Country is ready to take on the 2025 season. This year will be about laying a foundation for long-term success while proving that the Bison can be contenders in Montana's competitive cross-country landscape. Stay tuned. This season is just the beginning of something special for Great Falls Cross Country.