Aug. 20, 2007
2007 Cross Country Preview
Head coach Peter Watson continues the rebuilding process of the Auburn men's and women's cross country teams, as the key members of last year's young but talented team return a year older, wiser and better. Another strong crop of freshman runners is added to the mix this season, adding to the Tigers' optimism.
"Both of our teams are looking to move up dramatically from last year's finishes at the SEC and NCAA Regional meets," said Watson. "We are still very young, but we return pretty much everyone from last year."
The Men
The men's team will be bolstered by the addition of Felix Kiboiywo, who arrived at Auburn last January and immediately made a name for himself during the track season.
"Felix Kiboiywo had a tremendous track season for us and will be leading the men's team," said Watson. "Felix will be looking to mix it up at the front of all the races we go to this year."
Auburn also returns last year's top performers Scott Novack (3:51 1500m), Simon Nyang (14:51 5000m) and Chase Oliver (14:50 5000m), among others.
"After solid track seasons from Scott , Simon and Chase , it looks like we have a solid five," said Watson.
Another important cog is Pat Philbin, who has battled back from injury to return as the team's lone senior.
"The return of Pat Philbin who is finally healthy again and is looking to finish out his career on a strong note adds expereince that the team is lacking and gives us some senior leadership," said Watson.
New additions who also could be heard from this season include James Grantham, Bryan Wilson and Joby Peake.
The Women
The women's squad will be led by sophomores Sabrina Fischer and Laurel Pritchard, who were the Tigers' top finishers at the SEC meet and the NCAA South Regional.
"Sabrina and Laurel led the way as freshmen last year," said Watson. "They also had solid track seasons that saw Sabrina make the SEC final outdoors at 1500 meters and Laurel finish in the top 30 at USA Junior Cross Country Championships."
A pair of newcomers are also expected to make an immediate impact for the Tigers, as Amber Riley (West Virginia state cross country champion) and Hollie Knight (9:54 3000m) come to The Plains with impressive credentials.
"I am very excited to have Hollie Knight and Amber Riley joining the team," said Watson. "With those two joining Sabrina and Laurel we have a very strong top four. Our spread from 1-4 should be very small and the order could change every week."
A group of returners will also compete to be among the scorers for Auburn this year. Runners such as Miriam Arusei, Becca Bell and Katelyn Simpson will help determine the Tigers' fate this season.
"The key is going to be if Miriam, Becca or Katelyn can step up and help us in the fifth spot," said Watson. "They all have the talent to do so, and we just need them to stay healthy."