After capturing back-to-back state sectional titles the past two years, the Boys Cross-Country team is aiming for a third straight win on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, at Garrett Mountain. Much of the team’s confidence comes from the leadership of its 2025-2026 team co-captains: seniors Kennan Byers, Jacob Conti, Ryan Davidson and Dan Parez.
“I’m very pleased with how the team has turned out so far,” Davidson said. “I can really see us putting down some amazing performances at the state level again, and I am glad to be a leader in that process.”
Team members agree that the captains have led intense, focused practices to prepare even the newest members of the team for another title run.
“Together with the team captains, Ryan, Dan and Jacob, we are trying to create a team environment and culture that can inspire and motivate the younger guys,” Byers said.
This training became even more essential after the team graduated two of its three top runners from last year: Preston Gumann and Thomas Amato. Among those who filled their vacant spots are 10 freshmen, whom the captains have worked hard to develop.
“With the loss of our top runners, we’ve had to rely less on talent and more on team culture, self-belief and hard work,” Byers said. “Our priority and our focus right now are to get the younger guys to buy into that vision and those goals about where we want to be as a program.”
So far, the season outlook is promising. At just their second meet, the Battle at Ocean County Park in Lakewood, the boys showcased their potential. Unlike most races, this meet was divided by class, allowing runners to compete against others in a similar grade. In a dominant performance, Byers won the senior boys 5k race by a whopping 21 seconds. Conti was close behind in ninth place while Davidson placed 28th, helping the senior squad place third overall against elite competition rarely seen during the regular season.
By focusing not only on their own performance but also on mentoring the younger runners, the senior captains hope to leave their own legacy—and a strong foundation for future success.
