Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Kimball cross country coach Tiffany Johnson expects it to be a very competitive season for her 2015 team.
"Our numbers are looking good," she said. "It takes four people to make a team, six for a really full team, and this year we have 10 boys and seven girls going out. We're packed. It is going to be a very good season."
The boys team lost state qualifier Ryan Muneio from a year ago. Johnson said he was the leader of last year's team and will be missed. However, the coach added that there are others that will step up to fill that leadership position nicely on the team. Johnson said that she also feels sure that a good number boys will place high in meets in the upcoming season.
Returning from last year's team include sophomore Kaden Adrian, who had several strong performances a year ago. Joel Evertson and Brandon Barker also return to the squad after putting together solid seasons last year.
Johnson also has high hopes for the girls team, and return three runners with varsity experience from last season.
Kailey Dickerson, a senior, had top 10 finishes as a junior, while senior Arica McCloud and sophomore Kennedy Lewis are also back after solid performances in 2014.
Johnson said the rest of the girls team members are working hard and learning fast. There will be many newcomers on the team to fill out the squad. Johnson said they are showing a lot of potential at this point.
The cross country team's practices began by running four to six miles per day, and included additional drills as well.
Johnson said is was very excited and enthusiastic about her team and is confident in its ability to succeed in the 2015 campaign.