After an unfortunate end to their season last year, Walpole’s Boys Cross Country team is coming back this year better than ever. Boys Cross Country looks to improve upon last season as they failed to make it to All States. With a slew of experienced runners coming back Walpole should have a strong season.
Last season ended well with the team racing competitively against stiff competition at the Division III meet in Wrentham. Walpole was well within reach to make it to All States however they placed tenth and missed fourth place by a margin of 113 points. This devastating loss at the Division III meet came as a shock to everyone, but only powered their hopes to achieve success this season. Although several key contributors, such as Sean Herlihy,have graduated, several people are stepping up in hopes to lead the team to All States.
People stepping up include captains Jon Kelland and Anthony DiVirgilio . Over the past few years, Kelland and DiVirgilio have truly excelled in this sport, especially in races such as the 2.5 mile and the 5,000 meters. However, there are many other runners, such as Pat Connell, Mike Van Der Linden, Brendan Wohler, Nick Hayden and Andrew Wheeler who are showing great potential. The freshman class, lead by Jack Bushway, is also showing outstanding talent.
Kelland said “We have a great freshman turnout who are looking good, along with the upperclassman. In particular, Pat Connell has been looking very good this season, and had been throughout the summer training.”
This season, the team is showing great skill and a promising season. This year everyone is rooting for them to make it all the way to All States, and the way that the team looks currently, this goal is easily achievable. Regarding their goals for the season, Coach Timothy Giblin said “Hopefully, our runners are more motivated. No one on the current team has ever made it to All States.”
Coming back from their record of 6-5 last year, Walpole really wants to prove that they deserve to go to All States. With everyone stepping up, including the freshman, the season should prove to be very successful. After losing their first meet against Wellesley 34-24 (lower score wins), Walpole is bound to come back with both determination and desire to achieve their goal.
