Cross country teams name captains for 2018 season

salvetoday Posted On August 29, 2018
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Dan Donnelly ’19 has been named captain of the men’s cross country team for the 2018 season, while Alex Demeo ’19, Molly Kittler ’19, Annie Mozzer ’19 and Olivia Owen ’20 have been named captains of the women’s cross country team.

Men’s cross country

Donnelly held a scoring spot in the Seahawks’ victory at the Elms Blazer Classic last fall, running at No. 5 as the team earned its first win – of any kind – since 1987. He was also among the varsity seven a week later, when the harriers captured the team title at the Tri-State Invitational. Donnelly has raced in three conference championships and two NCAA Division III New England regional championships.

“Dan is the right leader at the right time for this team,” said head coach Rob McGuinness. “He has the experience, poise and perspective to keep his teammates focused on their goals, and he sets the right tone with the group. Dan has always represented our program very well, and I am sure that he will continue to do so.”

Women’s cross country

Demeo shares the program record for aggregate time at 6,000 meters and is a former all-conference honoree in cross country. She also holds the program record for 10,000 meters on the track, and has earned all-New England honors at that distance.

Kittler has emerged as one of the natural leaders on the team. Her friendly, outgoing personality and sense of humor have been invaluable in maintaining a positive training environment and building a strong team dynamic.

Mozzer appeared in both post-season meets and had an 83-second personal best at 6,000 meters in the NCAA Division III New England regional championship.

Owen was named the team’s most improved runner in 2017, moving from No. 7 to No. 3 in the lineup and joining Demeo as one of the team’s top runners. She capped a successful spring track campaign with all-New England honors at 10,000 meters.

“Each one of our captains has demonstrated an ability to lead in different ways, whether by setting an example, setting a pace or by doing the little things that make our team better,” McGuinness said. “These captains have already made an incredibly positive impression, and I am eager to see what they will do this fall.”

The Seahawks open their season Friday, Aug. 31 at the Roger Williams Invitational.