Pre-Season Perspecta

Head Coach

Tim Barnes: Coach Barnes is entering his 12thseason as the head cross country coach this fall. He graduated from the University of Tulsa in 1995 with a degree in art education. Coach Barnes also serves as the distance coach for the Raven Track & Field team.

Key Runners

The boys are led by Senior Aaron Taylor. Aaron placed 20th at the 6A state cross country meet this past season.

The girls are led by Junior Cameron Gueldner. Cameron placed 11th at the 6A state cross country meet this past season.

Seniors

Boys: Aaron Taylor, Seth Kern, Cole King, Evan Belden

Girls: Roxie Blackhurst, Laurel Sherman

1. What do you expect from your team this year that is different than last year?

We lost several key runners from last year’s squad, so we are looking for new leadership. We are looking for kids to step up and fill those vacant spots.

2. What do you need to do as a coach to help your team be successful?

I think I need to be patient and give younger kids more time to develop. I need to help some of my veterans take on more leadership roles this season. It takes time and coaching  to develop leaders, so that is something I will have to stay on top of.

3. Is there something about this team that separates them from any teams you’ve coached in the past?

On the girls side our numbers are down this year. We need everyone to stay healthy, because we are going to be lacking in depth. We have a lot of boys out for the team, so I am looking for kids that want to make a name for themselves by trying to step up and take a varsity spot.

4. What have you done differently to prepare for this season versus last season?

Honestly, not much. The secret to having a successful fall season happens by doing the summer training. We had several kids coming in and running all summer, so hopefully that will pay off for them in the upcoming months.

5. What key meets do you see on the schedule that will challenge your team?

The Missouri Southern Stampede and the Rim Rock Classic are two very large meets that we will be attending this fall. Both meet will show us how we are progressing and what we will need to do in order to be more competitive.