Charger track gaze toward GLIACS
After a weekend split between Ann Arbor and Akron, Ohio, the Chargers turn to the GLIACs and top times
John Anderson
Issue date: 2/28/08 Section: Sports
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Last weekend, the team competed in a "couple of tune-up meets" in preparation for the GLIACs this weekend, assistant coach Andy Towne said.
Athletic powerhouse, Grand Valley, stands in the Chargers' way at the GLIACs. Grand Valley's depth of talent appears as an almost insurmountable obstacle to a conference victory.
Senior and co-captain Blake England, however, has hope.
"I think we can go in there and shock the world," England said. "A lot of teams are looking past us, but you can expect a breakout performance."
Sophomore Cameron Blaauw, while acknowledging the strength of a team like Grand Valley, was also optimistic.
"Grand Valley will be tough competition for us, but we'll still place high," Blaauw said. "We should be competitive with them in a lot of events."
Head coach Bill Lundberg said Grand Valley has a significant advantage over Hillsdale.
"We're David among Goliaths," Lundberg said. "But we're a class act that's going to make a mark."
Lundberg said Hillsdale's struggle with Grand Valley is depth.
"While we have guys who can win the individual events, Grand Valley tends to win on points because placing guys in a 2-3-4 finish - like they are able to do - is going to earn you more points than a team that wins the event, but only gets 10 points for first," he said.
Lundberg said it is necessary to develop a balanced Hillsdale team putting emphasis on areas that are a "bit lean."
"It's difficult for us, because most of our top runners compete in two or three different races," he said. "Whereas with the jumps and vaults, at least, the athletes can focus on and compete in one event."
Lundberg said he predicts top finishes for both teams even with principle rivals being Grand Valley and Ashland.
Hillsdale College Collegian 2008
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