If you are ever around after school, you’ll see groups of kids running around the area. This is Rangeview’s Cross Country team, who are constantly working hard to become better. After losing two of the best male runners the cross country team has seen in a while, there is a next man up mentality.
With losing the 2 players that participated in the 5A state championship, graduate Kimi Bulto, and Abdinasir Hassan, who transferred schools, Coach Emilee Velander expects big things from returning runners, saying, “Gabriel Kahlier and Eliana Wright are our Senior captains; we want to see them encouraging and teaching.”
Currently, Kahlier is the team’s top runner after placing 6th at the Aurora City Championships last week.
On the surface, cross country looks just like basic running; however, Rangeview’s team takes running to a much deeper level. Coach Velander said, “We are constantly aware of the science that’s involved with running.”
By paying attention to the research on running, Coach Velander can incorporate scientific principles into training, resulting in more productive practices and recovery. Along with well-designed training, the team is also trying to treat themselves like professional runners by getting good sleep and having a nutritious diet.
With the team being under the guidance of Coach Velander and the rest of the coaching staff, success is inevitable. Being able to bounce back from large losses and always having someone ready to step up and fill their spots is a mentality that is heavily instilled in the team.
