NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - North Salem’s cross country team has wasted little time getting to work.
After wrapping up the first week of practice, Coach Chris Gould said the Tigers have already shown plenty of energy as they prepare for the upcoming season.
“We just wrapped up the first week with a spirited 1000 meter repeat workout,” Gould explained.
The returning girls team is led by Freyja Smith and Shannon Moravick. Smith, a senior captain, is looking to qualify for the state meet for the fourth consecutive year, while Moravick, a sophomore, narrowly missed making the trip last season. Smith would cap off last season with an impressive 49th place finish at the state meet.
This year, the objectives are clear.
“The goals are to make All-League and the state meet,” Gould said.
On the boys side, the Tigers brings back a deep group of runners with a wide range of experience. Returning runners include seniors Jonathan Alves and Skyler Smith, juniors Paul Connelly, Drew Karam, and Drew Petronzi, sophomores Andrew Barnett, Aaron Brown, Chase Conterelli, Everett Fryer, and Mateo Mergeche, and freshman Nick Petronzi. Alves and Karam will lead the squad as captains.
Karam finished his stellar sophomore season last year by placing 60th in the 5K at the state meet.
The Tigers will also welcome three newcomers in sophomore Braden Kennedy and freshmen Rocky Guy and Miles Ulrich.
Gould likes the combination of veteran runners and new recruits.
“We have an excellent mix of experienced student-athletes and talented new ones,” he said.
That blend has North Salem thinking big as the season gets underway. The boys’ goals extend beyond individual success, with the squad setting their sights on team championships.
“Our goals are winning the team league championships and also sectionals,” said Gould.
There is still plenty of work to be done before championship season arrives, but the Tigers appear ready for the challenge.
“We'll put the work in and hopefully be in contention come championship season,” Gould said.
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