CORBIN — It may be a different year, but Corbin girls’ cross country coach Tyler Harris has the same expectations for his Lady Redhounds looking to capture their sixth region crown in a row.
Corbin returns an experienced group of runners that looks to continue the winning tradition of the girls’ cross country team.
“We had a young core last season and did not lose any to graduation,” Harris said. “We gained a lot of valuable experience last year and saw some success so I’m really excited to see what the girls will do. We have the opportunity with the girls we have to be a top four team in the state.
“We have a big team and everyone plays an important role,” he added. “All of our runners bring unique gifts that benefit our culture. To name a few:
• Emma Massengill, freshman. All State last year. Broke the 5K school record last year.
• Jaycee Frye, Senior. One of our veterans. Experience and dedicated runner. Has been one of our top runners for years.
• Mallory Bradshaw, Junior. Excellent leader and extremely hard worker. Keeps the team together.
• Hadley Elmore, Junior. Ran 2nd fastest time in school history last season.
“There are several not named that will be in the mix and that we will count on to make help the team achieve great things,” Harris continued. “They all have work ethic and spirits which helps contribute to the positive culture of the team and I look forward to seeing how the rest of the summer progresses leading up to our first meet.
Harris said his runners have great team chemistry and have a lot of fun together.
“Most have started in the sport young, so they have a good grasp on what it takes and how hard they have to work to be good,” he said. “I think they also understand that a team effort is important and supporting and challenging each other can make the difference.”
Another tough schedule awaits Corbin, but Harris feels his team will be ready.
“I always set out to create a schedule that prepares, and challenges, them but also provides experience and confidence,” he said. “I have a few big meets scheduled where we will go toe to toe with some great competition to prepare us for post season.
“As the defending champions and repeating for the last five years in a row, I fully expect the team to make another run,” Harris added. “We did not lose much from last year’s team.”
