North-West Nodaway cross country co-op builds program

By Jacki Wood

The North-West Nodaway co-op cross country team continues to expand its program which started at West Nodaway a few years ago.

This year, the team is under the direction of former Rocket runner, Colton Blay, who was an assistant coach last fall.

“I want to show the kids the success you can have from this sport, to grow this program and to win districts,” Blay said. “The team lost two seniors last year, but I think with the kids coming back, we’ll have another great group.”

The Muskets will be led by senior Weston Carter and sophomore Parker Ogle, who were both district medalists last year.

Blay said team goals include winning districts and sending a few runners to state.

“I’m excited to see kids run faster this year than last,” he said. “I’m also excited for the newcomers to give the sport a chance to grow on them. I have seen kids that might not have wanted to try cross country, but then came out and really saw that this sport is hard but has major rewards.”

The team will focus on being better each day, working hard and giving 110 percent, Blay said.

The Muskets’ first meet of the season is September 6 at Clarinda.