Staff Writer
Mike Waugh is hoping the growing experience from last year will translate into more success in 2008 for his Presque Isle boys’ varsity cross country team.
The fourth-year coach said last season was “an eye opener in some ways.” “Some of the guys really improved and had breakthroughs, while others discovered a new talent and some were able to taste and see future success,” Waugh said.
The Wildcats have three seniors as their top runners in Alex Carter, Jason Johnson and Brandon Hafford. “They are all prepared for a stellar year,” Waugh said, “and I’m looking for some standout performances from all of them.”
Presque Isle will be without Eastern Maine Class B champion Corey Park, who graduated, but Waugh said some incoming freshmen and sophomores will help soften the loss.
“Everyone has a good attitude,” Waugh said, noting sophomore Logan Thibeau and freshmen Jesse Rochester and Matt Eager all show a lot of potential in the sport. Sophomore Tyler Michaud and junior Ethan York are the Wildcats’ other runners.
“We have a lot of opportunity for success. Everyone, even the seniors, seem to have something to prove,” Waugh said.
He added that the schedule is diverse, with a good mixture of big and small meets taking place through October.
“The keys for us are maintaining mileage and focus and of course, to have fun,” Waugh said.
