(Photos courtesy of Coach Fleitas)
The Dr. Phillips' girls cross country team finished 8th at last year's 4A Cross Country Finals. The Panthers return all of their top seven led by senior Annika Sison (16th at state) and sophomore Hannah Waddell (22nd at state). With Winter Park looking like the clear favorite, the runner-up spot will be a battle between DP and Sarasota. We caught up with coach Angie Fleitas to talk about the upcoming season in this Scouting Report.
What did you take away from 2014?
We gave our best effort to improve on a state finish last year and are hoping to do the same this year.
How is the team looking this year and what is the tentative top group?
The team is looking healthy right now. My top four should be senior Annika Sison, sophomore Hannah Waddell, senior Veronica Jackson, and freshman Charis Ivey. After that it's a fight for the next spots.
What are the strengths of this team?
This team has more depth than last year and a stronger heart so that should give us strength.
Describe your summer training.
Our training has been consistent, but we still struggle with key individuals having summer vacations and little things. With the season starting/ending earlier we will learn how much more that affects us this year.
Have you gone to any camps?
Yes our top 10 attended a camp together and had a blast.
Are there any new additions who may contribute or any surprise non-returners?
Like every program, you gain a youngster and lose a few. Overall, we are better than we were last year
What are the team goals and meets you're keying for this year?
With WP in our district, region, and state it's humbling to have to answer this question, I usually strive to win, but we will hope to be pulled to some awesome PR's this year and hope to make podium. I've heard Lake Mary is ready and with Sarasota moving up we will just have to give our best.