With Cross Country receiving 3rd at State for both girls and boys last year, the team has very high expectations for this upcoming season. This years theme is “The Future Needs a Big Kiss.” The Shawnee Mission West Cross Country team has been qualifying at State with both boys and girls for 4 years in a row. With hard work and dedication the runners are determined to take the team back to State.

“Even though we lost a lot of good seniors, our team this year has a lot of potential and I’m hoping we will do just as good, or better at State this year.” Coach Jeff Onnen said.

The runners favorite part about the season is competing in all the races and trying their hardest to beat their last PR.

“I hope to be running a 16:30-16:00 by the end of the season. With a lot of hard work, I hope i will be able to be accomplish this.” Junior Reilly Wiscombe said.

“I really like running at any meet in Shawnee Mission Park because it’s the easiest and a lot more people show up.” Junior Ian Wiscombe said.

Through sweat and tears these runners never give up or slow down. Every practice and meet is a chance for them to get better and improve. They know they all have the potential to be the best they can be.

“Staying committed and not getting discouraged if you don’t do well at a meet is the best thing you can do.” Junior Ian Wiscombe said.