Eleven area girls began practicing last week in preparation for the upcoming cross-country season. This team is talented and experienced, returning seven varsity letterwinners from last year's team. The captains are seniors Carin Frenchick, Tiff Rausch, and Erin Aagesen.Leading the runners were Brooke Schmidt, left, and Trisha Wendlandt, right.
Summer practices are conducted twice daily. A typical morning practice includes a two- or three-mile jog and a running game such as tag. Freshman Danielle Lieser admits that it isn't always easy waking up for the 7 a.m. runs. "It's tough to get up that early, but it's worth it. We always have a lot of fun in the mornings," she commented.
At 7 p.m., the main practice is conducted. The workouts vary from day to day. For example, this year the girls have done distance runs in the country, a hill workout, and timed miles. All are geared to preparing themselves for their 4,000-meter races. "The practices are difficult, but it feels good to get in shape," explained freshman Mesa Frenchick.
Coach Darryl Carstens is, as usual, enthusiastic about the upcoming season. His goals for this year's team are to "go to state, win the conference, improve times for everyone, and have fun."
Their first meet this season will be Tuesday, Aug. 31, in Morris, at 5:30 p.m.