Despite not having a large team this season, Catasauqua head cross country coach Kyle Rusnock believes his team will be ready for the upcoming Colonia League and District 11 meets. The Rough Riders had a final regular-season meet against Southern Lehigh last week. The Colonial meet took place Wednesday, after Press deadlines.

“We’re there,” stated Rusnock. “The girls and boys teams are running really well, and they have been working on lowering their times.

“Our girls have been doing very well. When we have a full squad with girls from field hockey and soccer, we can compete with a number of teams.”

Alivia Bear continues to pace the girls’ unit. In a recent multi-team meet at Northwestern, Bear finished 17th overall in a time of 22:51. Teammate Kaylee Weidaw was 27th in a time of 24:12.

“I think we have a shot at having someone move on to states,” said Rusnock. “Alivia could be that person. She has been doing well. Alivia has been consistent for us all year.

“She knows who she will have to beat, and she has really grown as a runner.

“When Kaylee Weidaw runs with us, she runs hard. Kaylee is a senior, and she has been a real help to all of us.”

Caroline Rodriguez, Ava Smith, and Madelyn Gonzalez, and Delanie Popa round out the Roughies’ roster, and Rusnock has appreciated their contributions.

On the boys’ side, Gavin Cunningham, Trevor Rigits, and Jacob Dove have been the most consistent harriers. Jaydon Reynolds, Mikhail Hartranft, and Jack Brubaker have helped round out their roster, and have been regular scorers.

“Those three have led us all season,“ said Rusnock. “If they are running hard, it puts us in a better spot. All of them are looking forward to leagues and districts.”

The Colonial League meet and districts will be held at DeSales University. In preparation, Rusnock has had his team train on the course.

“It’s a tough course, maybe the toughest around,” said Rusnock. “It is a great workout for our kids, and it will help them

“I think we will have some runners who will be near the top in league and possibly districts.”