Sunrise Mountain High School Cross Country Season Preview

It’s no secret that cross country is a physically and mentally demanding sport, with hundreds of miles to run and hours of training and conditioning. But for Coach Torin Lattie and his team at Sunrise Mountain High School, it’s the consistency of their efforts in practice that will ultimately determine their success. As we approach the beginning of a new season, Coach Lattie shares his thoughts and insights on the team, strategies for success, and the importance of academics. One of the key factors for any successful team is the strength of their returning players. For Sunrise Mountain High School, the top returning player is junior Andrew Fastrup. Fastrup had an impressive season last year as a sophomore, finishing 4th in the state. According to Coach Lattie, Fastrup’s hard work and commitment to constantly improving have made him a standout teammate and potential state champion this season. Not only is Fastrup a talented runner, but he is also a student of the sport, always eager to learn and improve his techniques. He will undoubtedly be a key player for the team this season. In addition to Fastrup, the team also has several new players who are expected to make an immediate impact. Sophomore Alex Behnam and freshman Boris Rabinovich are both talented runners with a fair amount of potential. With a mix of experienced and new players, the team has a strong foundation for success this season. When it comes to team captains, Coach Lattie looks for players who not only excel in their running abilities but also possess qualities of dedication, leadership, and a strong work ethic. With a young team this year, the captain role is still up for grabs, but players like Behnam and Rabinovich are potential candidates for the position. As for the team’s schedule, Coach Lattie explains that getting up early during the summer to avoid the scorching Arizona heat is a challenge for some. However, those who are truly committed to the sport will make the necessary sacrifices to improve their skills and endurance. Facing tough opponents is always a challenge, but Coach Lattie believes it will only make his team stronger and more prepared for the district and state meets. In terms of coaching style, Coach Lattie focuses on creating a supportive and encouraging environment for his runners. He treats each athlete as if they were his child, showing that he truly cares for their well-being and success.