Largest Cross County Team in Johnston History Will Kick Off Season With 8-Hour Run

Press release from Amy Wilson

When Connor Westlake started his freshman cross country season, there were 45 guys on the team.  This Saturday Connor will kick off his Senior season as one of five captains on the Johnson High School Cross Country Team, and they will be leading over 90 runners who’s theme this year is ‘Brothers in Battle.’ 

Most of the attention and glory in the fall goes to football, and anyone who runs cross country knows that they don’t do it because they are going to be in the spotlight. In order to be competitive, one must run all year round, not just during the season. So what would motivate these teenage boys to work so hard when the reward seems to be only personal and the acknowledgement limited?

One of the major factors of motivation on the Johnston team, and the reason for the increase in participation over the past four years is the coaching staff, primarily Matt Jaschen. 

“Coach cares about everyone on the team, not just the fastest ones,” said Westlake “On the second day of practice this year he named all 90+ boys and their grade with no list.” 

This Saturday, the Girls and Boys Cross Country Teams will be running for eight hours at the Johnston High School Track to raise money for team expenses throughout the season. Their run starts at noon and will go until 8 p.m. – donations can be made by contacting the Johnston High School Athletic Office.