CHICKASHA —
After more than 15 years, the Drovers have brought cross country back to USAO, led by head coach Leandra Johnson.
Johnson has created a strong core of six female and five male runners who she expects to really begin impressing people this first year.
“Once we get training and meets keep going, I think all of our runners will step up,” she said. “I expect a lot out of them.”
Monday marked the first day of official practice for the cross country team. It started with a timed run that exceeded Johnson’s expectations. She has speed training and a bit of pool work planned for the rest of the week.
The 2012 men’s and women’s squads consist of just three freshmen. The rest of the athletes were already students at USAO. But that list, Johnson said, may grow in the next few weeks.
“I’ve actually had some kids since school has started come by my office and contact me about joining the team as well, so we may end up getting some more in before the season is over,” she said.
Drover fans can watch the interview with Coach Leandra Johnson at 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. Friday on local Channel 18.
