Masuk Boys Cross Country Have the Tools for a Runaway Season

Armed with considerable depth and the right attitude, the Masuk High boys cross country team is ready to race.

The Panthers boast a roster of 35 runners this fall, led by senior tri-captains David Martinsky, Rob Mitola and Lorenzo Varone. The senior leaders have done a solid job setting the right mindset for the team, said Masuk coach Sean McDonald, as the Masuk harriers look to fill in the loss of six runners from last fall, including top runners Gregory Lynch and Mike Szawiola, to graduation.

"Intelligence, commitment, work ethic and the ability to foster  a positive team environment are significant strengths of the current captains," said McDonald.

After posting a blistering 17:58 at the Class L championships last fall, junior Jake Duckworth looks to be the team's top runner and freshman Shawn Pavlik appears poised to make an impressive debut. McDonald expects other runners to emerge if the team can continue the improvement it showed in 2010.

"I was extremely happy with the growth of the athletes over the course of last season," he said. "Significant commitment was evidenced, which in turn was reflected in individuals improving on their personal record times."

While the Panthers have set a goal of improving upon last year's ninth-place finish in the South-West Conference championships, McDonald knows the team's ultimate success depends upon how well it can maintain focus and how well its mighty base develops.

"Success will be measured in the development of all 35 runners on the current roster," he said. "It's clear the guys on the roster enjoy personal challenges and enjoy competing with one another. These are positive signs for the year ahead."