The Bishop Kenny boys finished 2014 with a fifth place showing at the state meet. The Crusaders return five of their top seven from a year ago including a quartet of seniors. They recently finished third behind Creekside and Chiles at the UNF XC Invitational. They currently rank fourth in our 2A boys team rankings. Coach Kevin Curran gives us an inside look at the program in this Scouting Report.
What did you take away from 2014?
In all honesty, 2014 was a big eye opener for me as a coach. While the regular season for cross country went pretty well, the 5th place finish at the State meet was disappointing. The guys ran their hearts out, but it was poorest team performance of the season and when a result like that happens there is no one to blame but myself. That result forced me to take a long hard look at the way we train, and we started doing things differently in track and over the summer. Since that time there has been a huge improvement across the board, not only in their fitness but also in the attitude of the team. Every time I think of how far we have come it gets me excited to really get things underway and to see how the season unfolds.
How is the team looking this year and what are your tentative top five and top seven?
The team looks great. This is definitely the fittest team I have had coming in to a season. Top to bottom the guys have really worked hard over the summer and built a great base. Mason Gerry, Beau Butler, Eric Chiotti, Nathan Jubran and James Kaldor have all been duking it out for the number one spot, while JP Kaczorowski, Adam Bibeault, Kyle Partain and Gabe Nackashi have been pushing each other for that #6 and #7 spot.
What are the strengths of this team?
The main strength is definitely their dedication. They understand what it takes to be a great team and they are willing to do the work. More specifically our strength is our depth. With five guys going for #1 and four more fighting for the last two spots they really drive each other on varsity. They are also looking over their shoulder waiting to see if any of the new blood will begin to develop and make it even more competitive for the top spots. Even on the Junior Varsity team there is tons of competition to be in the top 14, or to make a travel meet, or even just to stay the top half of the team. From the fastest to the slowest member everyone is trying to get better and to move up on the roster.
What has the training been like? Have you gone to any camps?
The summer is mainly about strength for us. We start at the end of May and beginning of June with our summer schedule. Overall we have run a lot of miles, a lot of tempo runs, a lot of hills and even some race pace work. Every year we attend the Brevard Distance Runners Camp. It has been a tradition for the past couple of decades at Kenny to go there and run the mountains of North Carolina. The guys love the weather, the atmosphere and as a coach I love the team comradery it builds.
Any new additions who may contribute or any surprise non-returners?
It is still early in the season, so it is tough to say how fast the new freshman will improve and if any of them will crack the top seven, but so far this is definitely looking like one of the best incoming classes I have had come in. They have quickly bought in to the work ethic of the team. One definite positive addition is Sophomore Nathan Jubran. He came out for track and had a phenomenal first running season, and he is continuing to impress in cross country.
What are the team goals and meets you're keying for this year?
We are looking to win any championship race we are in; North Florida JV Champs, Districts, Regions and states. There is tough competition out there with a great Trinity Prep team, a young and surging Bolles boys team, and the addition of the ever tenacious Doug Butler to Satellite. Needless to say we will have to stay focused, stay healthy, and continue to get stronger. If we do, November 7th is going to be an exciting and competitive showdown. Welcome to the new Class 2A.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Just a word for any coaches out there, young or old; never be too stubborn to take the blame, constantly learn and try new approaches, and if you are ever doubting yourself…don't. The fact that you care and are putting your time and passion into this great sport and the great humans it produces is a testament to your success. Teach them to be part of something bigger than themselves. Teach them to commit to something that isn't easy, and teach them to overcome adversity. If they get faster along the way, and if you happen to win some championships that is all just a big bonus.
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