The Newton boys cross country team’s season officially began with a full week of practice for 19 athletes last week. Head coach Steve Weeks says he may recruit a couple of more runners before the first meet in Marshalltown. He’s already added soccer player and wrestler Abel Aldama, who he says has started out well. The team does have several varsity runners back from last season, including class 3A state qualifier and 72nd place finisher Cooper Lenz. Weeks notes that two brothers are currently right with Lenz. 

“We have senior Lance Zaabel, who has been looking absolutely fantastic and staying healthy. His twin brother Levi has been putting in a lot of work, and he’s been hanging in right there. So those three will probably be way towards the top.” 

Other team members that have had a strong showing early this season, according to Weeks, include Drew Lamont, Noah Tremel and David Wickett. Weeks also feels this team is very cohesive and supportive of each other, which makes everyone better.

The Newton boys cross country team is scheduled to open the season on Thursday, August 28th, with eleven other teams at the Bobcat Early Bird Meet at Marshalltown Community College.