August 18, 2009
By: Justin Crosier, sports information intern

Head Coach Gary Labonte and his 2009 cross country teams are continuing to take efficient strides in preparation for the upcoming season. With much of the 2008 squad returning, Labonte is looking for leadership to play a key role when the 2009 season unfolds. The incoming class on the women's side is a huge step forward for the program. The improved depth as well as talent will be important as the Beavers look to higher finishes in their meets this season.

The main focus for this year's team is to show improvement both individually and as a team. "By improving individual times, we will continue to make strides as a whole," said Labonte. The Beavers' cross country team is returning most runners from last year and Coach Labonte knows that the changes they made in their training will be beneficial in the long run. One area of strength that Labonte's squad demonstrated a year ago was in the classroom. The 2008 women's team ranked number one nationally in NCAA Division III with a 3.859 grade point average.

The Beavers open the 2009 campaign at Goshen College on September 5. Bluffton also travels to Defiance, Cedarville, Ohio Wesleyan, and the Fall Classic at Wilmington before the Beavers head to the Heartland Conference Championships on October 21 at Mount St. Joseph. Labonte went on to say, "I am looking forward to working with the teams again this year. I believe our women's squad has the potential to improve its position in the conference standings and I also feel that both teams will again be a pleasure to work with."

-BEAVERS-