Every year I am given the opportunity to recognize some standout talent and leadership on our team. This year, the decisions were difficult to make. So many kids improved, so many were positive influences and leaders, and it goes without saying that all my team is the most valuable to me!

Photo courtesy of Tamara Houser

From left: Brandon Graves - Coach's Award, Sean Campbell - Runner of the Year, Carson Heller - Most Improved Runner.

This year's award winners for the girls team were: Freshman Lainey Winkers as Most Improved Runner; junior Tayler Yapp as Runner of the Year; and junior Adrianna Herritz, who received the Coach's Award for her leadership role on the team.

Award winners for the boys team were: Sophomore Carson Heller as Most Improved Runner; senior Sean Campbell as Runner of the Year; and senior Brandon Graves, who received the Coach's Award for his determination and perseverance for the six years he has been involved in cross country.

I'd like to tell our Belleville families that I appreciate them more than words can say. We have the BEST FAMILIES! Also, thank you to Jerry Butts for carting us around every Saturday, and Bob Blasdel, Gary Hageman and Steve Vogler for making our course beautiful. Thanks to Wayne Fell for his support and guidance, and especially a big thanks to my Assistant Coach, Megan O'Brien. Couldn't do this without you!

Seniors, you will be missed!