Coming off a tough loss at the New England Championships last year, Andover Boys Cross Country is charged and ready to compete this fall. Led by Captain Patrick Wolber ’11 and a full returning varsity squad, Andover eill look to race to victory this season. Renat Zalov ’11 said, “We will be one of the strongest teams on the trails this season. All of our top runners are returning and as a team we are as tight as ever. If we can continue to improve continuously throughout the season and be fully confident in our abilities as athletes, I know that we can go undefeated and take home the championship trophy.” Andover went into last season a favorite for the Championship title and one of the top teams in the league. After winning the Canterbury Invitational, Andover dominated New England Prep School Cross Country, winning every race leading up to the championship race at NMH. A top seed heading into the race, Andover knew it an opportunity to take home the title. However NMH’s soft and muddy course proved to be the team’s downfall as Andover failed to hold off a charging Loomis Chaffee squad. Wolber said, “Every runner who felt slapped by our loss at Interschols last year is back. Both Varsity and JV teams look great and we should have fantastic season. Most importantly, we have a big team to share in what should be a special season.” Despite the disappointment that accompanied the loss, Andover is ready for another run at the title. With a strong returning top seven and great depth throughout the Junior Varsity squad, Andover is in great shape. Ryan Ramos ’12 said, “This season should be a great one. I’m happy to be back and with a group of guys that can make running a lot more enjoyable. We work hard when we’re out there, but we are all good friends so it’s easy to have a good time while doing it.” In past years, Andover has dominated during the regular season but has faltered at the end due to fatigue and a myriad of small injuries. With so many strong runners returning, a key to success will be avoiding these chronic injuries and staying healthy for the duration of the season. Coach Jeff Domina said, “Never before have we had so many kids so fit at the start of the season. It’s very exciting, but we’re not taking anything for granted. It’s a competitive league, and we’ve got a lot of work to do over the next couple of months. We have remarkable potential.” Domina continued, “I can’t imagine a better group of guys to be working with–from the top of the varsity right on down through the training group–and I’m so glad to be coaching with Dan Schneider, David Lane, and Patrick Rielly.” Andover’s best will travel to Connecticut on September 25th to race in the Canterbury Invitational.
