Moving with momentum
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Bryce Alderton
With each passing year, the boys cross country team at Sage Hill
High School gains more and more experience, which bodes well for the
third-year Lightning under Coach Nate Miller.
Miller has been at the school since its inception three years ago,
and is eager to begin this season guiding both the boys and girls
cross country teams as Sage Hill tries to build a winning tradition.
Last season Sage Hill finished fifth in the Academy League, but
with about 15 returners, Miller said he expects better things from
his team.
“I think we can be top three this year, that is the early goal for
the boys team,” Miller said. I think there are four competitive teams
such as Whitney (new to the league), Oxford Academy and St.
Margaret’s.”
The Lightning has no seniors, but should still be strong, Miller
said.
Sophomore Mike Voge was the No. 1 runner last season and finished
eighth at league finals (17:43), while junior Chris Chiboucas “was
right up there with Mike,” Miller said.
Two other juniors, Matt Sanford and Kent Kuran along with
sophomore Tristan Cordier could also be big contributors for Sage
Hill.
Sage Hill runners have put in more time and mileage over the
summer, running in places such as Crystal Cove State Park and Turtle
Rock in Irvine.
In June, runners voluntarily ran together four days a week, and in
July they were on their own, according to Miller.
That group was very small, about four or five got in on that to
grow,” Miller said.
Miller expects to have about 25 runners or more when the season
begins, with the returners anchoring the team.
“I think the top group having a year under their belt are able to
do more challenging workouts,” Miller said. “I’ve challenged them
with more mileage and harder workouts.”
Miller grew up in Colorado and ran track and cross country at
Pomona College in Claremont. He has coached cross country for eight
years.
“It’s an exciting prospect at a new school to be involved from Day
One of building a philosophy and tradition at the school,” Miller
said. “Most were ninth-graders when I started and are now leading the
team. It takes patience but it’s also been exciting to see the growth
and get a unique experience unlike anywhere else.”
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