Simmons Cross Country is gearing up for their first collegiate season after gaining full varsity status earlier this year. Under second season Head Coach Kevin O'Brien, the Sharks will look to improve on last year's goals of runner development and recruitment to build the program in anticipation of this year's competitive season.

The Sharks will rely on returners senior Liz Bellofatto (Braintree, Mass.) and junior Nicole Chao (Fremont, Calif.), who ran #1 and #2, respectively last season. "They finished near the front of the pack in every race and helped to create a supportive but competitive atmosphere that helped our team grow into what it is now," said Coach O'Brien. Last season's returners will provide leadership to the four new faces joining the roster. Freshman Cara Coughlin (Chelmsford, Mass.) and Michelle Potter (York, Maine) will bring enthusiasm, dedication, and talent to round out the team.

"This a group that doesn't just focus on winning. This team works everyday to be better than they were the day before. That is what has carried us this far, and that is what will propel us through our first varsity season," said Coach O'Brien.

The Sharks open their season at the Codfish Bowl at Franklin Park in Boston, Mass. on Saturday, September 24th at 11:00 a.m.