Delta State Women’s Cross Country season kicked off on Sept. 3, at Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tenn., but training began long before then.

“It’s a tough sport,” said Coach Doug Pinkerton, who accepted the head coach position for cross country at Delta State 13 years ago.

The girls’ typical practice is full of intense workouts. These range from long distance training to speed and high tempo workouts. Pinkerton explained that he leaves Sunday open for rest and recovery. If the girls do not feel sore, they run three miles.

The team is made up of six young ladies who run miles upon miles throughout the week. They work hard in order to represent the Lady Statesmen on Saturdays. The roster includes the following:

∙ Madison Nash, senior

∙ Anna Poteet, senior

∙ Hannah Register, senior

∙ Kirsten Stroven, senior

∙ Tori McDonald, junior

∙ Sarah Mumme, sophomore

The six girls have been working hard this season to improve their running times. Pinkerton said they definitely improved in their second race. Unfortunately, the team took a hard hit when runner, Mumme, was unable to perform due to an injury. She will be unable to continue the season until it heals.

Despite this setback, the team continues to work hard on its running times in future cross country meets.

“The key for the rest of the team is to stay healthy and continue to improve times,” Pinkerton said. “The girls are certainly working hard to do so.”

 According to the coach, “The strength of the team is the unity they have, and they have a positive outlook that they all bring to the table.” He added, “They have good attitudes and they support each other.”

“We’re definitely not as fast as we need to be, but we improve on that every day,” he Doug also said.

The girls’ next race will be on Oct. 1, in Huntsville, Ala. This is one of four meets that remain this season. The girls are doing all they can to improve for the conference championship that is quickly approaching.

If you can make the trip to Huntsville, head out and support the cross country girls!
Let’s go, Lady Statesmen!