While the Cloquet boys cross country team doesn't have the one or two superstars who mark other programs around the area this season, they do have a lot of seasoned runners who could provide an interesting season.
"Austin Derusha, an 11th-grader, continues to improve and get better for us," mentioned coach Mike Bushey. "Aaron Swander and Matt Ellison, both seniors, are consistent solid performers and wonderful leaders and role models for the younger runners."
A key for Cloquet is that Bushey's squad did not lose any runners to graduation and he has a large number of runners to work with.
"With an older team, we look for more consistency and to move up in the section," explained Bushey. "With hard work, this team could surprise some other teams."
Just like the girls cross country program, the boys program has taken a big jump this season with the largest number of runners coming out for the sport in recent memory.
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"I attribute the large numbers to the kids recruiting their friends," said Bushey. "The more runners we have out, the more fun it becomes and we also become more competitive."
Adding to the mix this year is a strong group of younger runners who should push the older boys.
"That is a good thing," commented Bushey. "It forces everyone to be that much more consistent in their training and the consistency pays off with results."
Bushey is unsure of where the boys team will stack up in the section this year because of new teams added to the section, but at this point he also does not see one dominant team, which should open the door for all teams.
