Senior-loaded Sharks pack smaller, competitive lineup
by PATRICK J. NAGY Reporter

Compared to how Sacred Heart closed out its 2006 cross country season, 2007 opened with a whimper.

The Sharks, who won its first All-Catholic title in school history last year, dropped its season opening meet against Immaculata, 22-37, last Wednesday at Westwood Park.

"We deserved not to win," said Sacred Heart coach Rod Sarkovics. "Wherever we finish at All-Catholics (Nov. 3), we will deserve."

It's not like Sarkovics didn't see the Immaculata loss coming. Half of the team graduated, including Jackie and Jenna Piecuch, Kerry Hurley and Stephanie Smith. Jackie Piecuch took second at All-Catholics, Jenna Piecuch was twelfth and Hurley came in fifteenth. Smith was twenty-first. In addition, junior Amanda Zanghi, who finished fourteenth at All-Catholics, transferred to John F. Kennedy.

Sarkovics is left with only seven runners this year, six of which are seniors.

"We're small in numbers but loaded with talent," said Sarkovics. "I truly believe that."

Returning runners include seniors Kim Patterson, Brittney Gibbons, Mary Russell and Carly Hall, and junior Melissa Naab.

Patterson, who finished fifth at last year's All-Catholics, won the Immaculata race in 18:40. She's back for her third year on varsity.

"I definitely think she can run faster than that," said Sarkovics. "Plus, she has an excellent work ethic."

Sarkovics said Gibbons, who took seventh at last year's All-Catholics, has the capability to be the top runner in the league and is looking for a breakout performance from her. Gibbons has run since her freshman year.

Naab finished second overall against Immaculata and could be a pivotal contributor this season, Sarkovics said. Naab got injured last year before All-Catholics and did not compete.

Seniors Jule McNamara and Natalie Wasilewski make their debuts.

Sarkovics said he is waiting for one of his runners to take charge to earn the distinction of captain.
Sacred Heart 2007 Schedule
9-20 Holy Angels (Westwood Park) ................. 4:20

9-27 Nichols (Westwood Park) ......................... 4:20
10-4 Mt St. Mary's (Cazenovia Park) ........... 4 p.m.
10-11 Nardin (Cazenovia Park) ............... 4:20 p.m.
10-18 St. Mary's of Lancaster (Cazenovia Park) . 4
p.m.
10-25 Mt. Mercy (Cazenovia Park) ......... 4:40 p.m.
11-3 All-Catholics (Cazenovia Golf Course) ... 2:30
p.m.
e-mail: pnagy@beenews.com