2002 Cross Country Preview

The 2002 season marks an exciting new chapter for Akron Cross Country. The men's team welcomes a recruiting class that is deeper and more talented than any of its predecessors, while the women's team will be bolstered by the largest group of newcomers in recent memory. The new and returning talent and a challenging schedule make 2002 a year to look forward to.

Todd Moyers is the top returning runner on the men's team. Adam Bray, Jake Magier, and Wes Parker were top-5 runners on last year's team. They will be joined by freshmen, David Pykare, David Howard, Chris Perun, and Tim Myers. Pykare is a three-time state champion in track. Last year he placed 5th in the Ohio Division III cross country meet, one place behind Chris Perun. Howard was the runner up in the 2000 Ohio Division II cross country race. Myers will be making his cross country debut. He was the starting quarterback for Liberty Center and last year led his team to a 12-1 record.

Despite losing Bobbie Hardbarger (All Ohio champion, All MAC, All Region), Michelle Rizzo (1999 MAC champion and All American), and captain Jaime Alton, optimism abounds for the success of the women's team. Erin Frye, Jennie Castle, and Jackie Fejes are returning letter winners. They will be joined by freshman standouts Katrina Jones, Lisa McCaulley, Becki Michael, Brandi Schoeppner, Morgan Sulzener, and Samantha Whetherholt. Also joining the squad will be transfer Adriana Załucka, a 9:40 3000m runner.