By DELBERT PETERS

Staff writer

Goessel’s head coach Brian
Lightner emphasizes a family atmosphere for the cross-country team.

“With commitment and solid training, each runner will experience their own version of success,” Lightner said. “These kids are either here because they like running or they want to be a part of a team. Each one will encourage others on the team so they are comfortable taking risks and challenging themselves physically, mentally and socially.”

There will be 10 boys and seven girls on this year’s team.

The top three runners for the boys have all eclipsed the 10-minute barrier. Dawson Duerksen, a sophomore, led the team year for most of last season. Jerah Schmidt, a junior, ran his fastest time of the season at regionals. Senior Nate Impson again has hopes to finish his 5k in under 20 minutes. Also returning is letter-earner Zackary Guerrero.

The girls’ team will also consist of four letter winners from 2017. Edel Miller will lead the team as a senior. Elyse Boden and Proclein Unruh, both juniors, will try to improve their times from a year ago. With a fourth place finish at League last year, Cassandra will contend for a top spot on this year’s squad.

Both boys and girls train for the 5,000-meter distance, with some of the earlier season races being a bit shorter.

Goessel’s season begins Aug. 30 at Pretty Prairie.