The cross country team has enjoyed a productive season marked by dedication and success.

“As a team we have done pretty good, people have been breaking personal records each meet, and we won Siloam Springs,” said junior Drew Swalley.

As conference approached the team completed vigorous workouts comprised of hill, interval, and distance focused sessions.  The team also placed more emphasis on speed improvement as compared to previous years according to Swalley.

While the intensive sessions have proven difficult they successfully boost individual endurance as they create the coping methods vital for success.

“I have been changing my mentality during the intense workouts.  I do my best and push myself,” said junior Kelsey Scroggins.

Not only did the preparation improve mental and physical capabilities, but also provided the edge need in order to achieve favorable outcomes at conference. The boy’s team placed second while the girl’s placed seventh.

Sophomores new to the ardent intensity of high school cross country have come to recognize the benefits of the grueling workouts as well as the overall team spirit.

“I can definitely run a lot longer and am in all around better shape,” said sophomore Michaela Edwards.

Edwards accredits her new found vitality to the longer runs and the overall dedication of the team associated with secondary level cross country.

Due to the flexibility of the team even if members are not involved with the competitive aspect of the team they are still reaping the health benefits the sport provides.

“It is better than competing in my opinion.  It is just doing what you want to do,” said junior Daniel Brady who is in the midst of his second year as a non-competitive member of the team.

As the state competition takes place Nov. 10 in Hot Springs, the team is simply following their extensive regimen in preparation in hope to reach their goals.

“As a team we are trying to get first, second, or third.  We have been working very hard and are just ready to compete.  Shake and bake,” said senior Dino Andrade.

Overall throughout the course of the season the team has cultivated the immense dedication, team spirit, and mental capacities to endure difficult workouts needed to obtain success.