Crowther continuing to develop

Justin Seward
Times Reporter

 

Kevin Mertz continues to run a phenomenal cross-country program at Crowther Memorial Junior High School and this year is no exception, as the runners are becoming stronger athletes.
“It looks awesome,” said Mertz. “We have quite a few returning athletes, which is great to see. Then we have a big group of new ones. It’s a fast team this year, we’re trying to get an official list but we may have somewhere around 50 runners.”
Mertz said the number of runners who have signed up is a great sign. Numbers will be lighter in the Grade 9 category, which is normal, but he is pleased to see the runners that are coming out and trying the sport for the first time.
“We actually do have a group just trying it out to see if they like it, just learning how to run which is super cool,” said Mertz. “It’s all about if those kids can come and enjoy it and improve and really that is our main goal.”
He has seen a lot of multi-sport athletes come out and compete, which will only enhance their training and will in turn help with in the long run in other sports.
“(There are) lots of kids who are getting in shape for hockey or for basketball, (and) trying to do volleyball and cross country right now. Long-term athlete development says ‘try it all’ and see what you like, and lots of the times hockey players develop certain muscle groups more than others … running can compliment that.”
In preparation for the two runs, the kids will run four times a week, with the focus being on speed and strength, longevity and race strategies.
The teams first meet will be Sept. 29 in Okotoks and the zone meet will be on Oct. 6 in Sundre.