This year, the cross country team at Batavia High School is determined to make a mark in their league and return to regionals as a team. Led by Coach Jennifer McElveen, the team is filled with young, determined athletes who have put in a lot of work over the summer to prepare themselves for the upcoming season.
When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach McElveen mentioned a few names. For the boys’ team, Junior Aiden Stith, Junior Preston Young, Sophomore Jaxson Hendricks, and Senior David Flandermeyer were highlighted. These players have shown great improvement and determination to push themselves to the next level.
On the girls’ team, Junior Lauren Cravens and Sophomore Megan Ranly are expected to lead the team, with Cravens taking on a leadership role as the only upperclassman. But it’s not just the returning players that are expected to make an impact. Coach McElveen is excited about the young talent joining the team this year, with freshmen joining in and strengthening the program.
On the girls’ team, there’s Lily Dacey, Lexi Crouch, and Chloe Meyer, while Nate Dasilva, Axton Stith, and Levi Sorg are making a name for themselves on the boys’ team. Team chemistry and camaraderie are vital for the success of any team and Coach McElveen recognizes this. She believes in instilling a sense of teamwork and support among her athletes, rather than promoting solely individual success.
This is evident in their summer team bonding activities such as working out together, kayaking, and pizza parties. Motivation is another key aspect of the team’s success. Coach McElveen and her coaching staff have created a positive and encouraging environment, where individual successes are celebrated and discussed as a team.
The team also reflects on their goals and discusses the work that needs to be done to achieve them. Of course, no team goes without facing challenges. For Batavia High School’s cross country team, it’s been injuries. With athletes pushing themselves to improve and go faster, it’s important to find a balance and avoid injuries.
The team is learning to pace themselves and gradually increase their training to avoid setbacks. The team’s schedule for this season includes tough opponents such as Moeller, Lebanon, and Centerville Night Lights, who push them to be their best.
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