Cross Country Hosts Bulldog Invitational
8/31/2007 12:00:00 AM | Cross Country
Aug. 31, 2007
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SPOKANE, Wash. - Gonzaga University's men's and women's cross country teams are short on experience heading into 2007, but head coach Kevin Swaim said he is looking for his young squads to step up as the season progresses.
Swaim gets his first look at the Bulldogs Friday when they host Washington State University the Bulldog Invitational at Finch Arboretum. The women's race begins at 5 p.m., followed by the men at 5:40 p.m.
"WSU is always a good barometer," Swaim said. "It's a good early-season meet for us to see where we stand. Plus, it's good to race at home."
On the men's side the Bulldogs return just two runners who competed in the West Coast Conference Championship last fall. Colby Litzenberger finished 12th as a sophomore and freshman Brett Withers was 24th a year ago.
The women have just one senior on their roster in Amanda Gillman, and two of the more experienced runners - sophomore Jenne Dilts and junior Martha Dobson - are involved in Gonzaga's Study Abroad program in Florence and will not compete in the fall.
Three runners who competed as freshmen in the 2006 WCC Championship do return for the women. Madeleine Gianotti, Ashlee Commeree and Lili Hansen will provide the "veteran leadership" for the Bulldogs as sophomores.
"We don't have a lot of experience but I do think we have some good runners," Swaim said. "A lot of newcomers - especially on the women's side - got plenty of experience a year ago. We'll build on that experience. I think you'll see great improvement from both teams as the season progresses. Colby and Brett could have big years for us. They are obviously the two runners with the most experience."
