Ben Langsdorf always liked to run.

As a freshman, he joined the Catasauqua track team and ran the 800 and the mile. The following year, Langsdorf decided to take it a step further when he joined the cross country team.

“I have been running around ever since I can remember,” he said. “I thought it would be fun to join the track team. Ever since I decided to join the cross country team, I have fallen in love with it since.”

Langsdorf, a senior, has been a steady performer for the Roughies the past two seasons, and sees himself as making an impact.

“I wanted to take more of a leadership role,” he added. “Our team has really grown over the past few years, and there is a good chemistry here. We have a good core of young runners who will only get better over time.”

In his final season, Langsdorf knows his chances and opportunities will be dwindling.

“I just want to do what I can to help the team this year,” he said. ‘I worked hard to get into the best shape I could because we have a good shot this year.

“I’m trying to stay under 20 (minutes) this season, and I feel like things will work out.”

Head coach Kyle Rusnock has recognized Langsdorf’s contributions.

“Ben (Langsdorf) has been a staple with the cross country team over the past four years,” said Rusnock. “He has emerged as a leader this year. Ben is a hard worker and it shows when he competes. He has a bright future ahead of him.”

Langsdorf thinks highly of Rusnock, as he has been affiliated with his since seventh grade as a wrestler.

“In seventh grade, he (Rusnock) was the wrestling coach,” said Langsdorf. “I have always looked up to him, and I know he is a great coach and person.

“He took over the cross country when I started and then he took over track. I have been with him for a long time, and I really appreciate it.”

Langsdorf also cherished the support from parents Wayne Langsdorf and Lisa Dunkle, who have lighted the way.

“They have been behind me in everything I do,” he said. “It means a lot to me when I see them at the cross country meets cheering me on. They have helped me do my best.”

Langsdorf is involved in the school’s drama club, marching band, and chorus along with Varsity C Club.

He also has his own produced video collection on YouTube, leading him toward a career in film education and music. Lansdorf is leaning toward Kutztown University after he ends his career with the Roughies.

“That’s a lot of fun,” he said. “It’s been a good hobby of mine and I can see myself getting into that type of field.

“I would like to run in college and I do plan to keep running races in the future. Right now, though, I’m looking forward to a strong finish to the season.”