Knights Cross Country Preview 2020
By LYLE DORJAHN
The ALAH Knights Cross Country team enters the 2020 season with high expectations. Their disappointment at falling one spot short of state qualifying in 2019 has driven this group to an early level of fitness not seen before.
Leading the pack for his Senior year is team captain Layton Hall. Leading by example, his goals are lofty as he attempts to establish himself in the upper echelon of Class A runners statewide.
Chasing him will be Sophomore Logan Beckmier who comes off of an impressive rookie campaign finishing as top Freshman at 3 major Invitational meets as well as Regional and Sectional.
Leading what is expected to be a tight pack is Junior Jace Green. His hardnosed style and vocal leadership sets the team vibe.
Sophomore Lyle Adcock returns after finishing his 1st cross country season with one of the most inspiring efforts in school history at sectionals
Close behind is a much improved Jacob Adcock
New addition, Junior Jacob Duzan has been a most pleasant surprise and should consistently challenge for a top 5 scoring position.
Sophomore Connor Edmonds comes back more experienced and is expected to contribute to team depth.
Reggie Edmonds comes to the team for the first time as a Junior. Getting a late start has not kept him from producing some impressive workouts.
The lone Freshman Jesus Corona, has made massive improvements since beginning summer workouts and will also provide excellent depth as the season progresses.
Aaron Likens is on the team for his Senior season. His overall fitness has been hampered by ongoing injury issues. When healed up he should be solid.
The Lady Knights are led by returning letter winner Emma Edwards. Her nearly 5 minute improvement last year was huge. She’s motivated by just missing a trip to sectionals.
An influx of talent from cancellation of volleyball has been a pleasant addition. Seniors Makenzie Brown, Mackenzi Bowles Juniors Sarah Rafferty, Michaela Powell, and Sophomore Charley Condill have brought a work ethic and attitude to the team. Combined with Edwards, these women have a chance to be one of the area’s biggest surprises.
