As a freshman, Jonathan Rizzo decided he wanted to get in shape.

One main outlet for his transformation was going to be running and joining the school’s cross country team. And the senior had a good role model to begin.

“I started running my freshman year and I started because I felt like it was a good way to get in shape,” said Rizzo. “The person who had the biggest influence in my running would have to be my dad Matthew. When I was younger he would run half marathons, so that made me want to take up running as a sport.”

For Rizzo, it was a process.

“When I started I did not know how to pace myself or really how to run on different terrains,” he said. “But after running for the past few years I can definitely fell how much better I have become.”

Head coach Kyle Rusnock has been pleased with Rizzo’s progress over the years.

“Rizzo is a great kid that puts 100-percent in everything he does,” said Rusnock. “He has come a long way and has been successful because of his hard work and dedication. He is a leader and outstanding individual. We have been lucky to have him on our team.

Three years later, Rizzo has achieved a personal best of 20:00 and also has built his confidence. He recently ran a 21.42.64 at the Colonial League meet, and he is looking forward to districts.

“I feel that I am running well for my last year and am proud of the progress I have made,” added Rizzo. “I’m looking to finishing my career on a high note.”

Along with Rizzo, Rusnock is confident his team can make some strides at districts. Evan Reed led the Roughies’ pack at the league meet with a time of 19:21.29 and finished 34th overall.

“All the kids have been running well and are peaking at the right time,” stressed Rusnock. “The team this year has made great strides since the beginning. We are proud of how the athletes handled the season and now the post season. We are looking forward to improve our district times from a week ago. Evan Reed has been running very well and will push for a strong finish at districts.”

On the girls side, Uyen Ly led the way with a time of 26:20.34 and finished 67 for the Roughs. Nhi Thai was 78th with a time of 29:13.32. Ana Rodriguez was 85th with a time of 30:44.10.

Rizzo was 74th. Nikoloz Kemashvili took 79th in 22:00.46. Jack Brubaker was 94th with a time of 25:11.97. Cassius Estronza was 97th in 27:17.38 and David Mercado was 99th in 28:56.95.