Munster High School Cross Country Season Preview

The cross-country team at Munster High School is gearing up for a new and exciting season. With a mix of returning players and fresh talent, they are ready to make an impact in the competition and achieve their goals. We spoke with Coach Sarah Kocinski to get a preview of what to expect from the team this year. New players can often bring fresh energy and drive to a team, and Coach Kocinski believes that this will be the case for Elora Bliss and Giana Bartusiak. These two young athletes have been working tirelessly during track season and the summer to reach their full potential for the upcoming cross-country season. Their dedication and hard work have already impressed the coach, and they will make an immediate impact on the team. When it comes to choosing team captains, Coach Kocinski looks for specific qualities in her players. For her, it is important to have athletes who not only excel on the track but also possess strong leadership skills. This includes being able to lead by example, motivate their teammates, and bring a positive attitude to the team. This year, the team captains are Eva Olsen, Teah Pierce, and Elora Bliss. As upperclassmen, they have the experience and leadership qualities that will help guide and support the team through the season. This year, the team has also welcomed a few new additions, including Julia Casey, Mary Nyhan, and Ellis Choi. These young athletes have joined the team with a strong drive and determination to fill in any gaps from the previous season. Coach Kocinski believes that their hard work and dedication will have a positive impact on the team's overall performance. Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial elements for a successful season. Coach Kocinski understands the importance of team bonding and plans to implement various activities and team-building exercises to foster a strong sense of unity among the players. This includes regular team dinners, group workouts, and other fun activities outside of the track. Through these interactions, the players will learn to trust and support each other, which will undoubtedly lead to a stronger team both on and off the track. Coach Kocinski has also made significant changes and improvements to the team's training and conditioning program. She understands that running is not just a physical sport, but also a mental one. Therefore, the team is placing a strong emphasis on mental preparedness and focus leading up to the season.