By Chad Koenen

Publisher

The New York Mills cross country team is hoping to once again build on past success as the program has an eye for the future.

The Eagles have nine students out for cross country in grades 6-8 that could provide the foundation for the next generation of Eagle runners, while also having a solid core from last year’s team back in the fold.

Elijah Geiser, Audrey Weller, Jacob Thorsrud and Dawson Seelhammer are returning some valuable varsity experience to the team this season, while new runner Heath Hammond could also make an impact at the varsity level this year.

Head coach Greg Esala said the Eagles will really focus on improving throughout the season as they look to drop times on the race course.

“We always strive to have our runners improve throughout the year and always work to do their best,” he said. 

Among the favorite teams to compete for a conference title will be Wadena-Deer Creek and United North Central, while Esala said there will be a number of teams competing for the top spot in the section once again this season.

NY Mills kicked off its season on Monday at a meet in Staples-Motley, but will return to action close to home on Thursday as they host a home meet at Sonnenberg Trails just north of town. The meet is scheduled to get underway at 10 a.m.