Both boys’ and girls’ cross country put on strong showings Sept. 28 at the Roy Griak Invitational. The girls’ team placed 2nd and the boys team placed 29th, both out of 50 teams.

According to sophomore Kate Holden, the girls’ team got off to a fast start, which allowed them to place well.

“I thought we looked strong at the beginning. Overall we did really (well) and I’m proud of how we did,” Holden said.

According to coach Chris Nordstrom, a lot of focus and training went into preparing for the meet.

“They all battled. It’s a tough course. We prepared, we made it a big deal, we put a lot of pressure on the kids and they came and did well and that’s all I can really ask for as a coach,” Nordstrom said.

Many runners also achieved their individual goals including sophomore Fredonia Zeigle, who said her goal was to beat her old time, which she accomplished. 

“My main goal was to place well within the team and I wanted to get a (new) personal record, which I did,” Zeigle said. 

The boys’ team did not share the same success as the girls’ team, but according to freshman Denly Lindeman, there is still room for improvement.

“The boys’ team needs a little work. We got the 29th(place), but overall I think we ran really well,” Lindeman said.

According to sophomore Henry Nelson, he is proud of how the team ran and is satisfied with how he ran individually.

“I just wanted to get a good time and run fast,” Nelson said. “(I tried to) stay in the top seven (spots) of (the) boys’ team and I did, so I felt like I did really (well),” Nelson said.

Nordstrom said while both teams did well, there is still work to be done.

“We (have to) keep ourselves healthy and continue to get mentally tougher,” Nordstrom said. “We’re in a good spot but we can always be better.”