DT XC Ready to Blaze the Trail
With seasoned leaders and rising talent, the Cardinals aim for a strong showing this fall.
By: Sevyn Russell
The Doniphan-Trumbull Cross Country team tried to kick off their season with the Twilight Run at Fort Kearny campground. Sophomore Sevyn Russell finished her race in first place, but the meet was cancelled due to lightning before the airhorn sounded the men’s race.
The team was hopeful they’d finally be able to see how all their summer training paid off, but for the men’s team at least, the season opener is yet to come, and their goals are yet to be accomplished.
“While we always strive for individual and team success, what matters most is growth as athletes and as people. Through competition and working hard, I hope that our team finds joy in this sport,” said head coach Mr. Corey Hatt. “Cross Country is so much more than speed. It's about grit, determination, character, and memories. If we can grow to be stronger, closer, and make memories, then the individual and team successes will also be there.”
Hatt, who has coached the DT cross country team for 15 years, is excited for what is to come with this year’s team. He has high expectations and goals for the season and hopes to grow as a team.
“After a big graduating class last year, I hope to see both the boys and girls teams step up and take ownership of this team. I want it to be their team, where they can set the expectations for our future years. If we keep building on our previous work, we can do some pretty incredible things,” said Hatt.
Seniors Taylor McDole, Rylen Soundy, and Jacob Zakrzewski are looking forward to starting their final season. The team is hoping for no injuries this year, as Zakrzewski is coming off a foot injury from last season and is excited to see what he can accomplish. They have all put in great work during the summer and are ready to show what they are capable of.
“I would like to place highly as a team this year at most regular-season races and win the conference and districts,” said Soundy. “I would like to chase a PR and go for a team title at the state cross country race in October.”
McDole has been running for the team for 6 years now and has seen great progress throughout the years. She has had multiple PRs and qualified for state her sophomore year. She hopes to improve her time and grow as a runner while also enjoying her final year with the team.
“I’m really excited to have my best times this season and go out on a good note to end my cross country career,” said McDole.
The cross country team’s next meet is scheduled for Thursday, September 4, at the North Platte Saint Pats golf course, and the first race starts at 4:30.
“There is no dream that is too big for this team, as our potential ceiling is very high,” Hatt says