Goddard High School Cross Country Season Preview

As the Goddard High School Cross Country team gears up for the upcoming season, there is an air of excitement and high expectations surrounding the team. With a strong group of returning players and some talented newcomers, the team is looking to compete for a league championship on the boys' side and for their top runner, Olivia Brownell, to qualify for the state championship on the girls' team. Leading the pack for the boys' team are Seniors Luke Griffith and Gavin Weaver. Griffith, a state qualifier last season, and Weaver, a talented newcomer, are expected to make an immediate impact on the team. Both athletes possess the qualities of hard work, determination, and dedication that make them stand out as leaders. On the girls' team, Senior Olivia Brownell, who was Goddard's top runner last season, will be looking to continue her success and qualify for the state championship. Coach Blake Andrews believes that team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial in motivating players to push themselves to their full potential. To foster a strong team dynamic, the team will partake in team dinners and off-campus runs at Lake Afton. These activities will not only build team unity but also help the players bond and grow together as a team. However, preparing for this season has not come without its challenges. The biggest hurdle has been getting the team together for consistent summer conditioning. With players having busy schedules over the summer, it was a struggle to get everyone on the same page and fully committed to training. But with determination and hard work, the team has managed to overcome this obstacle and is ready to tackle the upcoming season head-on. To push the players to their full potential, Coach Andrews has implemented a weekly mileage goal for each runner. Those who meet their weekly goals will be rewarded with BombPop popsicles at the end of the week, adding some fun and friendly competition to the team's training. This new approach not only motivates the players to reach their goals but also teaches them the importance of discipline and dedication in their sport. In terms of the team's schedule, there are a few tough opponents to watch out for, but Coach Andrews is focused on one goal – improvement. With a group of experienced and dedicated seniors leading the way, the team is looking to grow and develop each week, with the ultimate goal of making it to the state championship. Besides the physical aspect of the sport, Coach Andrews also recognizes the importance of the mental aspect of the game.