Warrior warming: Cross country team fields 13 runners years ago
In his second season as Marion cross country coach, Matt Robert will have a deeper roster and a chance to rebuild after losing several key runners to graduation.
"The big thing we're hopeful for, is a full girls' team," Robert said. "I think we have a good group of kids. With 13 runners this season, I feel like I didn't frighten anyone off. I'm hoping our runners train hard and everything works out well."
Robert welcomes eight girls and five boys to his 2003 squad.
Senior Jessica DeForest returns to the team for her final season with the Warriors. DeForest finished 21st in Class 3A last season. Robert said he thinks DeForest is primed for another return to the state meet.
"She's mentally and physically strong," Robert said about DeForest. "She pushes herself and she's a very determined runner."
Alissa Vogel, a junior, also returns to the Warrior roster this season. Vogel missed qualifying for state by one runner last year, an incident Robert hopes challenges Vogel.
"Alissa is kind of a quiet storm," Robert said. "She's intense, but you'd never know it. She's extremely determined and she's a very hard worker."
On the boys' side, sophomore Brandon Watson is among the notables this season according to Robert.
"He's been working really hard in the off-season," Robert said. "He's going to do well. He gets stronger and stronger every time he runs."
The Warriors step into action Sept. 4 at Abilene.
