**This was a story originally written last semester. Please accept Ms. Woodward’s apology in publishing this late. Students in Productions hope you still enjoy the story.
The boys cross country team has competed in 5 meets. Their first one was at Discovery on Sept. 16, their second meet was at home on Sept. 18, the third was at Raytown on Sept. 23, Sept. 25 they went to Grain Valley for their fourth meet, and the last meet was at Ray-Pec South on Sept. 30.
Howard is the assistant coach of cross country. She thinks all of the athletes did a great job this season. She encourages her runners to swing their arms and keep their eyes on the runner in front of them. She enjoys coaching so she can get to know kids outside of the classroom.
”… Like getting to know who they are as a person and not just a student,” Howard said.
Josh Friedrich is a seventh grader on the Trailblazer team and runs to stay in shape. His personal record is an 8 minute mile. His favorite course was Grain Valley which is 1.7 miles.
“It’s in the woods and shaded,” Friedrich said.
Jared Fox is an eighth grader on the Pioneer team. This is his second year as a runner with a personal best of 11:03. His focus is passing people while he runs a race.
“My mind is on winning the race and not worrying about any other people,” Fox said. “My motive is to win and feel good about the race.”
Isaac Underwood is an eighth grader and this is his second running. He also plays football and has been able to balance the two sports. He was selected as athlete of the week for cross-country.
“Isaac is always positive and not afraid to ask questions or for help. He shows his leadership in his actions and his words.” Coach Kelly Rumpel said.
The remaining meets include the Bridger Stampede on Oct. 2, Oct. 7 at home and Oct. 9 at Ray-Pec.
