Better numbers give boost to Medina cross-country squads

Photo by Mike Wertman – Getting set for next week’s Niagara-Orleans League opener are these members of the Medina cross-country squads. In front are Bryce Bellan, Austin Bellan, John Miller and Brennen Callara. In the middle row are Austin Heil, Ryan Leffler, Matt Cochrane, Sam Simms and Daniel Heil. In back are Holly Heil, Hailey Cogovan, Julia Holland, Hannah Heil and Paige Wagner.

Bolstered by larger numbers for both the boys and girls squads the Medina cross-country teams are getting set to open the Niagara-Orleans League season next Tuesday at Roy-Hart.

Senior Austin Heil, who earned second team N-O All-League honors last fall, heads the nine member boys squad which also includes seniors Ryan Leffler, Matt Cochrane, Bryce Bellan, Sam Simms and John Miller along with junior Austin Bellan, sophomore Brennen Callara and freshman Daniel Heil.

Junior Holly Heil, who earned first team N-O All-League honors last year, heads the five member girls team which also includes junior Hailey Cogovan, sophomores Julia Holland and Paige Wagner and seventh grader Hannah Heil.

By having five members the Medina girls squad will be able to score as a team in league meets for the first time in many years.

“Our numbers are better, which is great, and we’re working to keep getting the numbers up,” said Coach Eric Gross. “Our league is tough with some great competition so it will be a battle. But we’ve got more interest and more participation which is very positive and they are working very hard.”

Medina will face Roy-Hart and Barker in the season opener.

The Mustangs will have two home meets this season, which will be run on campus, against Wilson on September 30 and against Albion and CSAT on October 7.

Schedule

Sept. 23 – at Roy-Hart vs. Barker and Roy-Hart, 4:45 p.m.
Sept. 30 – home vs. Wilson, 4:45 p.m.
Oct. 7 – home vs. Albion and CSAT, 4:45 p.m.
Oct. 14 – at Akron vs. Newfane at Akron, 4:45 p.m.
Oct. 25 – All-League meet at Lakeside State Park, 11 a.m.