Johnson City cross country looks to continue dominance
The starting line of the 2023 cross country season is at the Johnson City High School cross country course Friday, Aug. 18.
That’s the site of the Johnson City Eagles Nation 6-Mile Relay. Among the teams there is Marble Falls.
“This is a fun meet for us,” said assistant coach Rich Powers, who is in his first year with the Eagles and Lady Eagles.
He noted the cross country program is known for its dedicated runners who bring their best.
The girls team finished ninth at the Class 2A state meet in 2022. The Lady Eagles are led by Jackie Earley, the state bronze medalist last year as a sophomore.
“She’s a stud,” Powers said. “Jackie is quite the young lady. She’s very nice, very intrinsically motivated. She’s self-driven.”
Other returners include Riley Birck, Emma Mayes, Emily Moore and Clare White, who were all at the state meet.
“We expect big things from the girls. We would like to be top five in state,” Powers said. “Clare White has been impressive. She’s not your prototypical runner. You would look at her and see sprinter. She’s a workaholic. She’s self-driven and self-motivated.”
The boys are led by brothers Michael Axtel and John Axtel, Zach Haley, Braydon Hull, Richardo Massey and Antonio Pettis, who all return from last year’s team.
“They are the defending district champs,” Powers said. “That potential to defend — that’s definitely there.”
Powers said he believes the Eagles can run faster than last year.
“We’re going to have to have Massey step up this year,” he said. “Antonio is pretty fast. John is a senior. He’ll be a huge piece for us. I think we have the potential. They’re very committed. The quality of our workouts has been exceptional so far. These guys are working incredibly hard. It’s been good effort. When you’re the defending district champ, that’ll put a target on your back. They know people are coming for them. They know they have their work cut out for them. That potential is there for them to get it.”
Watch videos on Highland Lakes sports by going to Fierro’s YouTube channel and searching for The Broad Podcaster. Please like, subscribe and share.
