The Morton boys and girls cross country teams are looking forward to promising seasons after a dedicated effort in the summer.
“The team is looking real good,” MHS head coach Joel Zehr said. “A lot of guys and girls did a lot of training in the offseason. They’re ready to go.”
Several boys racked up more than 500 summer miles, while multiple girls surpassed the 300-mile mark.
The Potters were pleased with how time trials went at Northwood Park in the second week of practice and were eager to face guests Richwoods and Olympia Tuesday.
The next action is Saturday in Galesburg, the first invitational of the season.
Morton has the Oct. 15 Mid-Illini Conference meet at Detweiller Park circled on its calendar.
Both squads were heavily depleted by sickness last season, causing lower-than-expected league finishes.
Boys cross country
The boys are one of the Mid-Illini teams to beat.
They also are highly regarded by Dyestat Illinois.
Morton is No. 9 in the organization’s Class 2A preseason poll despite the loss of some key runners to graduation.
The Potters will attempt to end Metamora’s streak of eight consecutive M-I championships.
“We’re definitely a contender for the conference title — that’s a goal for the varsity boys,” said Zehr. “They’re looking to come back in a strong way.”
Senior Joe Zeller will fill the No. 1 position after achieving first-team all-conference and all-state honors a year ago.
Senior Nick Piper is a solid No. 2 runner and co-captain along with Zeller. Right behind him is junior Austin Bradford, who is looking for a big season after the summer mileage he amassed.
Junior Nick Steffen and sophomore Luke Riffle, who came over from the soccer team, are lined up in the fourth and fifth positions.
Juniors Grant Klobuchar and Jake Lyons also are seeking top-seven slots after the results of the time trials.
“I think they will round out the team nicely,” Zehr said. “I hope they can put together a nice tight pack.”
The coach wants to see the Nos. 4 through 7 runners close the gap between them and the top three Potters.
The rest of the boys team includes: Isaac Ackerman, Bruce Ackley, Joseph Doan, Ryan Fitzgerald, Adam Geier, Jordan Goodyear, Tyler Hohulin, Andy Homa, Walter Jankowski, Matt Kimmey, Tanner King, Joe Loftus, Tim Luchtefeld, Matt Lyons, Jeremy Mohr, Jansen Myers, Joel Park, Austin Stephens and Quentin Young.
