2011 Fall Preview: Foxborough Cross Country Team Ready to Make Their Move

Things are about to be different on the Cross Country team at Foxboro High School. With rookie coach Kim Giannouloudis at the helm for the Warriors, the harriers of Foxboro are looking to improve from last year’s 3-1 dual meet record for the boys and 2-2 record for the girls.

Once again Brendan Sullivan will lead the boys. The senior captain has high aspirations after a successful junior year of XC that saw Sullivan place second at the Hockomock Championships, fourth at the MIAA Division 4 Eastern Massachusetts Championships, and fifth place at the MIAA All State Championships.

“He has hopes of making it to nationals,” said Giannouloudis.

Joining Sullivan will be returning varsity members Joe Tierney, Andrew Moses, and Zach Downs. Also returning will be Duncan Echols-Jones, Jamie McKinney, Luke Pascucci, Mike Sampson, and Drew Phelan.

On the girls’ side, Jacqueline Bailey will be the captain. Joining her will be Jacqueline Bailey, Victoria Bailey, Madison Crosby, Kira Hallberg Sally Phiblin, Julie Schoener, Kelly Shine, and Hallie Young.

Both teams will find themselves in the middle of the constantly competitive Hockomock League. With Division 2 Eastern Mass. Champions Mansfield and Division 3 Eastern Mass Champions Oliver Ames on the boys’ side, there is expected to be many quality runners in the league. The girls division will feature Division 2 Eastern Mass. runner-ups Franklin and Division 3. Eastern Mass. third place finishers Oliver Ames. The competition will require the Warriors to bring everything they have to each meet they compete in this season.

“The Warrior Runners need to work throughout the whole race. Each and every dual meet,” said Giannouloudis. “The runners need to remember cross country is a team sport and a individual sport. Placement of the top 5 and 7 from the team is crucial.”

Getting ready for the road ahead, the team has seemed to answer the challenge set by coach Giannouloudis.

“The runners have persevered through the workouts I've challenged them with,” said Giannouloudis.

In an unusual situation, Foxboro will enjoy the advantage of having 4 of their 5 dual meets this year at home with the only road dual meet occurring against Attleboro. Its an advantage the team does not mind having.

“We know every angle and have family and friends cheering the runners on.  There's no place like home,” said Giannouloudis

The Warriors participation in the Hockomock League Jamboree on Thursday September 8th at the Sheep Pasture in Easton has been postponed due to rain. Their regular season will begin Monday against Canton at 3:45.