by Marty Zier

Sports contributor

Laura Ann Hohman carries the Viking Cross Country team into its second year as the head coach. She anticipates building on last year’s success.

“We had a great first season, and I could not have been more proud of each of my runners,” said Hohman. “Our improvement over the season was outstanding. As a team last year I wasn’t sure where we might stand in competing with other schools, but entering our second season I know without a doubt we can compete and place at the top. So with that said, my expectations for this season are pretty high.”

The team will compete in six meets, including district and state for the 2016/17 season. The participants are: Cyrus Amour, Stephen Hohman, Jr., Amelia Kau, Ewan Lister and Luke Peitsch.

“I currently have three returning runners, and my two new young men are already making great times,” said Hohman. “I have a few more runners who haven’t registered yet, so hopefully we will have a slightly larger team than last year. Last season only one runner made it to state, but I expect the majority, if not all, to compete in the state finals this year. Unfortunately, we are a sport that does not get the opportunity to compete on our home field. So, if our community could give a wave or a word of encouragement whenever you see my team run by I would be most grateful.”