Clarke College Head Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Coach Michael Warta will field a pair of young and inexperienced squads this fall, but he is nonetheless impressed with what he sees in both squads.
“Our women’s team is very young in age and even younger in experience,” said Warta. “They make up for what they lack in experience and numbers with great attitude and a fierce work ethic. This team will be the foundation to the future success of Clarke cross county.”

Junior Jessica Clegg, of Clinton, Iowa, and Jessica Crain, of Waukesha, Wis., are the lone returning runners back from last year.

Freshmen Carley Freund, of Crystal Lake, Ill., and Megan and Brittany Clayton, both of Rockford, Ill., join this year’s roster.

“Carley was a very good cross country runner in high school as well as a great jumper and sprinter in track,” said Warta. “I expect her to develop into an outstanding collegiate cross country runner this year.”

On the men’s side, Warta expects this to be the best men’s cross country team that Clarke has ever fielded.

“Out men’s team is young with some great talent,” said Warta. “This should be an exciting year to watch as the first-year runners adapt to running the 8K and the returnees continue to improve on last year’s performances.”

Sophomore Ryan Schroeder, of Byron, Ill., is the top returning runner on Clarke’s men’s roster this fall. Schroeder garnered team most valuable player honors after a strong showing last year.

Warta expects Schroeder to make his first national berth this year.

“Ryan had a great year last year as a first-year participant in cross country and he’s been working hard all summer,” said Warta. “He should be making a big jump this year.”

Also back from a year ago are junior Jason Fuller, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and sophomores Matt Camerier, of Oswego, Ill., and Nate Smith, of Cedar Rapids.

Newcomers on this year’s men’s roster are freshmen Joe Cullen, of Storm Lake, Iowa, Hunter Hills, of Swisher, Iowa, and Casey Selner, of Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Selner was a state high school qualifier in the mile at Ashwaubenon High School.

Both squads will open their 2007 season on Sept. 1 at the Mount Mercy College Mustang Gallop in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

-Crusaders-