The Visor

Cross country upsets rivial St. V-M

October 28, 2009

Jules Libertin

This past weekend the Hoban boy cross country team made statewide news by upsetting rival St.Vincent-Mary (ranked sixth in the state) and Field (ranked 12 in the state) taking second place at the Goodyear Metropolitan district meet– arguably the toughest district in the state.

“We came into the race mentally and physically ready and we have trained since the beginning of summer for this,” said senior captain Ryan Spear. “We knew we could get out if we ran the way we could.”

Seniors Jason Green and Chris Alto, who placed third and fourth, led the team. Seniors Jake Craine and Jake Frego both had amazing final finishes, which allowed them to qualify as well. Also helping the team advance was senior Ryan Spear, junior Max Straus and sophomore Max Moore.

“Ever since last year when the team did not make it out the boys have been determined to get out,” Coach Andrea Hoffman said, “They all have worked really hard through out the year, and deserve this. I believe they will go as far as they want if they keep focused.”

This is the first time in twelve years the boys have advanced to regionals and is the first time in recent history that four individual runners have qualified. In the mid-70’s under head coach Dick Malloy five cross country teams made it to states, the Knights are determined to bring that glory back.

“It is an awesome feeling knowing not only individuals are getting out, but the team. Our goal since the beginning of the season is to get to states,” said senior Jason Green.

The team will run his weekend at regionals where they will yet again take on rival St.Vincent-Mary along with powerhouse Woodridge.

Check The Visor out on Nov. 12 for an in depth story on this team unheralded team.

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