The North Butler cross country team with practices underway has a young goal-oriented group out ready to make strides this season.
Head Coach Kirk Clark on lead runners for the boys team.
“Ezra Almelien and Trager Pecha, led things last year, they’re loaded again this year and ready to go,” says Clark. “Alex Almelien, who’s our three runner right now, is right there with them so I’m excited for that. Then we have a four and five runner in Brady Henning and Will Nielsen that have really come on to. That top five group of boys, they’re ready to go.”
Sophomore Ezra Almelien is a returning Class 1A state qualifier.
Clark on the body of work of the boys team with a goal of reaching state and daily reminders to all runners.
“They’ve been pushing themselves 60 plus miles a week and it’s amazing what those guys are doing. Now that practice has started, it’s been awesome, we just keep going. We run a lot, we work very hard and there is no complaining. They know they have another shot this year and we’re going for it. How we end practice, is making sure they’re making good choices, eating well, getting to bed and taking care of themselves because that’s very important.”
Clark on returning state qualifier Addison Voelker for the girls team.
“She’s back, excited, working hard, and she’s pushing those front runners on the boys team. She’s set for another good season and I’m excited. She surprised me last year and I hope she surprises me again this year. She’s got different goals for state this year and she wants to be successful there.”
Sophomore Addison Voelker is currently ranked #7 in Class 1A IATC preseason rankings and placed 18th at the state meet last season.
North Butler first meet of the year will be the Newman Invite on September 3rd.
