Influx of freshmen gives hope for Smith-Cotton boys cross country

The future looks bright for the Smith-Cotton boys cross country team, but this year could be an adventure.

“This year’s going to be interesting,” coach Tara Clark said. It’s “hard to tell” how well they’ll do.

At least six freshmen came out for the team this year.

“It’s exciting for future years,” Clark said. “Really it’s a rebuilding year on the boys side. Our expectations are to get experience.”

The Tigers return six runners from last season: Anthony Beck, Ryan Farrell, Robbie Garrigus, Cooper Mittelhauser, Riley Platt and Eric Resch.

Junior Matt Lange, who ran for the Tigers as a freshman, is back, and Clark expects him to be in the team’s top five.

Junior varsity football player Andrew Byrd and senior basketball player Bryce Rohrer will compete in hopes of getting into better shape. Junior Earl Manuel is another newcomer.

Freshmen Nick Carroll, Jacoby Gepford, Brett Lang, James Pabon, Curtis Rae and Jeremy Williams  round out the roster.