With a team of many middle schoolers and a new conference,  the 2014 cross country team has high expectations. Rachel Hoffman, head coach for the past 10 years, said she does not know what to expect for the upcoming season. “Last season was an absolutely fabulous season, way better than what we expected,” Hoffman said. “It’s going to be a hard act to follow…I don’t know what is going to happen this year, it would be wonderful if we could repeat last year.” With the graduation of 20 seniors, making up most of the boys varsity squad, the runners are looking to younger athletes for success. Senior captain Sam Olson said the addition of about 30 new young runners will benefit the team. “Hopefully a lot of younger kids will step up to help the team,” Olson said. “They are guaranteed runners for the future, it’s more of a long term benefit.” In order to get to the state meet, Hoffman said the runners have to qualify in the section meet. “We are in a section where there are probably six of the best teams in the entire state, so  getting to sections is very difficult, not impossible. I’ts just going to take a lot of hard work,” Hoffman said. Despite having many new runners who are not accustomed to the team environment, Olson said they work together very cohesively. “We are a really close team and are very inclusive. It makes people more eager to come and practice.” Olson said. Tommy Guddal, a freshman runner said the team still has potential with the graduation of the seniors, and works well together. “I think losing seniors made a lot of other kids step up and take on leadership roles,” said Guddal. “At meets we usually work together as one group, they support you when you are running and cheer you on.” Hoffman said she has high hopes for this season due to the new runners, but knows it will take a lot of hard work to achieve success. “A lofty goal would be in the new conference if we could win. It’s a goal, you gotta shoot high. So just to get better within every meet and get better every day.”