by Kirill Cross
The YSHS cross country team is defending its District III crowns this fall, and so far they are undefeated.
Coach Dan VanHouwe is preparing the team and is confident. He said, “This year’s team is proving to be one of the best teams. We are undefeated and looking to repeat last year’s performances where we won the district title for both boys and girls.”
He also said, “We are also looking to improve where we finished in last year’s state race. The boys won the state meet last year and are looking to repeat. I am confident we will be YAIAA division champs. We have seen the difficult teams and should have an easier ride the rest of the way.”
VanHouwe prepares the team by having them do certain runs, jogs and drills. He said, “We run distances of 6 to 8 miles. We also do speed work – half mile and mile repeats. We also do hill work – lots of it!!! The expectation for all runners is to do your BEST!”
VanHouwe said, “I love being the coach! I love being with the kids and running with them.”
Freshman Phoebe Caplan shared her thoughts about the cross country team. She said, “I love the team. Everyone is so close it’s like a huge family. Also, we are the coolest team ever.”