The Hometown Treasure September 2011 | Page 17

Girls’ Cross Country The Westview girls’ cross country team is hustling towards another great season in the 2011 year. Senior, Janell Bender, is ready to hit the ground running for her team. What should you expect from Warrior Girls cross country this season? “We expect to see some great performances from individuals as well as from the team. This year as a team, our main focus is on the end of the season. We want to place better in our sectional than the previous years and to do the same at the regional level,” said Bender. This goal shouldn’t be a problem as they’re led by athlete, Bender, and coaches Les Hively and Jon Cook. “Leading through example is important. That means being a consistent reliable runner. My years of experience will also help me,” said Bender. She also gave a lot of credit to the coaches. “Both coaches are great and they want what is best for their runners. They are motivational and keep our team focused.” The team will also be running at a few new events this season. “New Prairie will be a new meet for us this year and it is said to be one of the best in the Midwest so that will definitely be exciting. Northrop and New Haven are always highlights for the team as well because of the competition level,” said Bender. The team is well rounded this year and also very dedicated according to Bender. The group also has great team chemistry which is very important when — continued on page 19 Page 17 Boys’ Cross Country The Warrior boys cross country team looks to have an outstanding season after losing only two seniors to graduation. This should make the team an experienced group ready to take it all. “With only two people lost to graduation, we’re back with some experience along with a few incoming freshman. I hope to be a well balanced team. And if all of us stay healthy, we have the potential to advance in to the post-season,” said senior, Jerry Schwartz. The incoming freshman will be led by senior leaders Schwartz and Baker. “As a senior, I feel responsible to set a good example for the younger kids. Kyle (Baker) and I, like to keep the team motivated and keep a positive attitude,” said Schwartz. Motivation is a large part of cross country and with these two runners at the helm, anything is possible. The rest of the team is filled out with a strong top five and great chemistry according to Schwartz. However, the depth is a little low for the team. Coach Hively will have to make up for the lack of depth with good coaching and that shouldn’t be a problem. “Coach Hively likes to keep us focused and always gives great advice. He reminds us that we want to be the toughest team we can be once the post-season comes around,” said Schwartz. The Warriors schedule has changed a little bit since last season. “We have a different schedule this year but the big meets begin in September. We look forward (as a team) to the Northrop Invite, New Prairie Invite, New Haven Invite, and of course Conference and Sectional. Westview seems to have an experienced team coming in and sophomores Devin Sharick and Kyle Bontrager have only added another year of experience. The cross country team seems to be on the right path for victory. Phone: 260-463-4901 • Fax 888-439-6528 • The Hometown Treasure Volleyball The Warriors volleyball team has already started their season. Their first game was on August 15th against Elkhart Memorial. Unfortunately, the team started off the season with a loss, but some positive signs were shown. “We actually had some great scramble plays and worked well as a team. There’s no drama between us, so that’s a big plus. We all get along really well,” said junior standout Kelsey Carmack. Last year was a struggle for the team, but Carmack has a lot of confidence this year will be completely different. “I think this year is going to be better than last year. Our team meshes, which will help carry us through the tougher games. With Fairfield being gone from our sectional bracket, I think we have a chance to win sectionals. If we continue improving like we have been from the Bremen Scrimmage to the Memorial game, we have a chance,” said Carmack. The team had a really tough season last year, but the team has a different mindset this season. A mindset that starts with confidence. “We have a beastly front row. Our four girls (Sabrina Whitaker, Katie Grossman, Breann Bushong, and Nicki Sharp) are all close to six feet or taller. 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