by Macade Maxwell and Owen Stelzer, co-Sports Editors

The St. John Bosco’s historically strong cross country team embarks on another season with high hopes for maintaining the program’s culture of excellence. 

As the Cross Country season gets underway, veteran Head Coach Tim McIntosh and his team have made significant strides this year through hard work, dedication and a strong core of young runners. 

“Like always, our goal is to win league. Last year we finished third in Trinity League so we hope to perform better this season,” said Coach McIntosh. 

The team has already competed in four competitive events: the Seahawks CC Relay in Redondo, the Cumming/Latham Invitational in San Diego where they finished in fourth and fifth, the Woodbridge Invitational in Irvine where they finished in first place and their most recent the Trinity League Preview race where they placed first again. 

The team has already proved themselves to be contenders for CIF later in the season, and after a successful showing at the Trinity League Preview, Coach Mac’s squad showed that they are true competitors for a league title. 

Alongside Coach McIntosh is assistant Coach Ruben Solorza, a Bosco alumnus and Cross Country CIF Champion back in 2012. 

“They are starting to develop a ‘game day’ mentality where I trust them to go out and get the job done,” said Coach Solorza. “They are realizing how far their hard work has gotten them, and I’m excited to see what they do as the postseason comes closer.” 

At the heart of the team is senior captain Alex Leon. His leadership and experience provides guidance for the younger runners on the squad. 

“I’m a varsity returner and being the only senior on the team, I have a big role and have to be a leader,” said Alex. “I want to finish my last year off strong and leave an impact for this program.” 

The Braves still have ways to go as there are six potential remaining events, with the next Clovis Invitational coming up on October 11th in Fresno.

“We want people to know that we have a strong core of runners and have what it takes to compete with the best,” said sophomore Edward Medina. 

Expect this young team to make some noise later in the season, as they strive to achieve their goal of winning it all this year in Trinity League and CIF.