Cross Country Senior Spotlight

At Kenmore West, we are incredibly lucky to have so many exceptional athletic programs, and our Cross Country team is without a doubt one of them. While all of our sports display the inclusivity and camaraderie that is necessary and natural of a strong and effective team, I have been lucky enough to bear witness to a team that goes even farther than this, forming substantial and lasting relationships, and creating an incredibly tightly knit community I wouldn’t trade for the world. This closeness is due in large part to the four incredible seniors on our team. Here are some quick facts to get to know these amazing athletes and amazing people!

Jackson VanDewater:

Jackson has been running with Kenmore West for three years. His favorite part about cross country is the people. Jackson’s favorite workout is threshold 400s, and his least favorite is mile repeats the day before a meet. His favorite memory with the team is “Mission X.” Jackson’s advice for people wanting to join cross country is to do it, because it’s lots of fun!

Joey Barone:

This is Joey’s fourth year on the cross country team, his favorite part is the McQuaid meet every year. Joey’s favorite workout is Rolling 200s because of the speed aspect, and his least favorite is 3x2 mile repeats, he says they were “absolutely horrible.” His advice for anyone considering joining cross country is, “It seems hard— and is hard– but it brings you closer to people you never thought you would even talk to.” Joey’s favorite team memory is “when Coach has someone be the person you chase, and you go all out to catch them!”

Vincenzo Castiglione: 

Vinny has been on the team for four years, his favorite part about cross country is hanging out with everyone at the meets and the great feeling of hitting a personal best. Vinny’s favorite cross country workouts are long runs, and his least favorite are mile repeats. His favorite memory with the team is team bonding after sectionals every year. Vinny’s advice to anyone who wants to join cross country is “Giving cross country a shot isn't easy because its tough running that much at first but if you keep trying and believing you can find love with the sport and the people you do it with around you.”

Alannah Kane

This is Alannah’s first year on cross country, her favorite part is having a good race and crossing the finish line. Alannah’s favorite workouts are long runs and her least favorite are 800 repeats. Her favorite memory with the team this year was team bonding at her teammate Elin’s house. Alannah’s advice to anyone considering joining cross country is “Even if you feel like giving up in the moment, it's worth it in the end.”