With the 2007-2008 Cross Country season already in progress, the Grambling State Men and Women Cross Country teams are preparing themselves for tile runs after both teams finished in second place in the SWAC standings a season ago.The Men’s team comes into this season with a chip on their shoulder. They are highly motivated to win a title this season, after losing the title to Prairie View by a mere three points. This year’s team will be spearheaded by senior middle distance runner Kerone Fairweather; who is regarded by the coaching staff as the best athlete on the team. The St. Mary, Jamaica native is the top runner returning to the SWAC this season.
Three other runners will determine the fate of this team success: sophomore middle distance runners Brenton Flurry, junior middle distance runner Abdi Cherkwony and freshmen distance runner Prizton Carey. With the veteran leadership, drive to win and the talent on this team, the men can put themselves in a position to win a title this season.
“I feel that with these four elite athletes and a mixture of other players, it gives us a real chance for a title shot,” said Assistant Coach Carlos Robinson.
The women’s cross country team must rely on veteran leadership in order for the team to be in championship contention. Senior middle distance runner Sha’Tina Anderson must lead the way, on the field with her performance and on the team with her leadership.
Behind Anderson are four players who can, along with Anderson carry this team: Sophomore middle distance runners, Marissa Golson, Electine Orido, Reaqual Parker, and junior Shantel Parker. These four athletes should help round out one of the best teams in the SWAC Conference.
“The women have a real shot to win the SWAC. We should be able to compete this season,” Robinson added.”
Cross Country in the SWAC is highly competitive and everyone is gunning for the title. Anderson indicated the Mississippi College Innovational on Oct 13th, as a very pivotal meet for the both men and the women.
This meet has so much significance because the majority of the Tigers SWAC west opponents will participate.
The team will return to action on Oct. 1st at the Northwestern State Innovational in Natoiches.