MEEKER | After more than a decade at the helm, head coach Marty Casey is entering his 12th season with the Meeker High School cross country program. For Casey, the first meet of the year is less about medals and more about measuring progress — and this year’s Cowboys have plenty to prove.
He will once again be assisted by Terrence Casias. The Cowboys are scheduled to open their season Saturday at Las Colonias Park in Grand Junction, after shifting plans from the Basalt Invitational due to concerns about the Highway 13 closure.
“As per usual for a first meet I will be interested to see our runner’s fitness levels, as only meet competition can produce,” Casey said. “While early success can be great for morale, I try to reinforce that the first meet provides a benchmark. We can use this meet to build toward future success.”
The Cowboys bring a young but talented roster to the course this fall. Key returners include Bradley Conrado, who impressed last season, and Ryan Hanberg, who Casey said is “hungry for competition.” Freshmen Landon Damitz and Jackson Steele are also expected to make an impact, with Steele drawing praise for his strong work ethic.
Summer training left the coach wishing for more mileage, but Casey said the team is energized and ready to compete.
“As is often the case, I would like to have more mileage by this point,” he said. “Everyone seems excited for the season, and ready to get to work.”
Casey is also looking forward to a schedule that includes several new courses.
“We have several meets on the schedule that I have not attended before,” he said. “Meeker has not been up to Leadville during my tenure, and the regional course is not one with which I am familiar. I always enjoy trying somewhere new.”
Early-season competition, he said, provides valuable information for adjusting training.
“We get the best information from racing,” Casey said. “With a better idea of our starting point we can build more base mileage, move to strength or speed work, and increase stamina. We can do this wholly, in small groups, or individually as applicable.”
The Cowboys’ senior class — Cameron Hanberg, Haylee Steele and Remy Broussard — will be counted on to provide leadership.
“I appreciate their hard work throughout the years, and look forward to watching them use their experience to help lead the team this year,” Casey said.
Above all, Casey is excited to hit the course come Saturday.
“We have a fantastic group of runners, and I have nothing but respect and admiration for all of the work they have and will do this season.”
With a young roster, a handful of proven returners, and seniors ready to lead, the Cowboys’ opening race in Grand Junction is just the first step in a season built on growth, competition, and the pursuit of postseason success.
