Cross country is a numbers game. Numbers as in the race time for the individual runners and also the number of competitors in the race.
El Dorado coach John Koonce believes he has the athletes to post low numbers in terms of times. From a depth standpoint, the program’s numbers in that area are growing.
“Our numbers are good,” said Koonce. “We have stayed steady at around 50 for the past few seasons. I am very excited about the number of quality returning runners that we have this year. We have a lot of athletes that did well last year that have progressed this offseason.”
El Dorado will have the numbers to field a full senior varsity girls’ team for the first time in several years.
On the boys’ side, the Wildcats have experienced talent and hungry newcomers.
“The senior boys' experience level, work ethic, and hunger are very high right now. We have a great group of returners in Zach McMillon, Eli Rodriguez, Charlie Conner, Jake Dilworth, and Aaron Yarbrough. Incoming Sophomores Oscar Garcia and Ignacio Chavez will also make this team better,” said Koonce. “On paper, it may look like depth could be an issue, but there are a few freshmen that I anticipate playing a big role for us this year to provide a little extra depth that will help when a guy might not be having his best day. The boys as a whole have been pushing each other in practice and they have created some excellent pacing packs where they really try and make each other better. As far as goals, anytime we line up the goal is to win. We will use the season to progress and get better, but I really like where we are right now.”
McMillon was an All-State runner last year, placing second in conference and fourth at state.
The Lady Wildcats will get to compete as a team this season.
"I’m very excited,” said Koonce. “This is the first year I’ll have a full team to be able to try and compete for some team titles. I think our girls have a lot of potential, and I think we’ll accomplish even more than we think we can."
Corin Melear and Ainsley Colvin will be the team leaders this season. Melear was an All-Conference runner last year.
“Personally, I'm excited about the varsity girls crew as a whole. All of the girls we are adding to the team this year had strong freshmen seasons (Abri White, Abby Mitchell, Eliana Rodriguez, and Sarahi Rodriguez), and they have been locked in all offseason determined to get better and to continue to improve this team. Returners Ainsley Colvin, Corin Melear, and Nadalee Pumphrey have done all of the little things right this summer. We also have someone new to our sport in Janet Silva that has a ton of raw potential.
“Just like the boys team, I anticipate some freshmen to also step in and make this team stronger and add to our depth. The goals for the girls are the same as the goals for the guys. The goal is always winning and improving each week throughout the season to be our best when it matters the most for conference and state.”
El Dorado opens the season Saturday at the Bob Gravett Invitational at OBU.
"I'm excited about the potential of our team this year,” said Koonce. “With our hard work and determination, I'm confident that we'll challenge each other to reach new heights and achieve strong results. I truly believe we're well positioned to place high this season."