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22
CROSS COUNTRY
On the surface, 1982 appeared to be a "disappointing" year for Roger Bacon
Cross Country. Certainly the fall season was a disappointment for those runners
who shared in the "glory of '81," but it is only in comparison
to
Bacon's best-ever
season, that the 1982 Spartan harriers could be considered "disappointing."
The R.B. "thin-clads" once again proved to be a highly competitive team. The
Spartans remained in the city's top-ten from the pre-season poll to the season's
final competition. Their first place finish at Ross and runner-up honors at the Roger
Bacon-Greenhills Invitational highlighted their performances among local competi–
tion. And even when the Spartans challenged the powerhouses around the state at
Malone, Covington Catholic, and Elder, they maintained a high degree of respect–
ability.
Although the Spartans surrendered the G.C.L. plaque, it was not given up easily.
It
took a state champion to wrestle away the coveted award. Although their attempt
to qualify to the state finals fell short, it too required some very fine teams. Four of
the top five teams in the state were Southwest Ohio qualifiers.
Much of the Spartan success can be attributed to the leadership of Mike Olberd–
ing. Individually, few runners had a better season than Mike. His most noteworthy
run had to be at the District Meet where he distinguished himself as the top
individual qualifier from the Southwest District. He went on to finish 15th in the
State Finals and earned all-city recognition.
Fellow seniors Darrin Roll, Rick Sica, and Kerry Nusekabel neither distinguished
nor disgraced themselves. They contributed much needed support throughout the
season. Despite running below par, they were always there when called upon.
Much hope lies with the underclassmen who were pressed into early Varsity
service. Vince Becks, Eric Porte, Greg Edwards, Greg Hellman, Scott Hurley. Chip
Condon and Phil Kelly, all improved tremendously over the course of the season.
With hard work and the continued development of the talent found on the Fresh–
man level, the Spartans will not be down long.
No, the accomplishments of the 1982 Cross Country team cannot be judged
"disappointing." There may have been some
disappointedSpartans,
but there were
no
disappointing
Spartans.