Virginia Tech Xc: Runnin Past Success On The Course

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The Virginia Tech cross country team has a rich history of success, with a legacy of producing top-notch athletes who have made their mark on the sport. From the rolling hills of the New River Valley to the national stage, the Hokies have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the course. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the team's past achievements, current roster, and what makes them a force to be reckoned with in the world of collegiate cross country.

A Legacy of Success

The Virginia Tech cross country team has been a staple of excellence in the NCAA for decades. With multiple conference championships and appearances at the national championships, the Hokies have proven themselves to be a consistent competitor at the highest level. Their success can be attributed to a combination of factors, including a strong team culture, talented athletes, and experienced coaching.

One of the key elements that sets the Hokies apart is their team culture. The program emphasizes a strong work ethic, discipline, and camaraderie among teammates. This close-knit atmosphere allows athletes to push themselves to new heights and support one another through the challenges of the season.

Notable Alumni

The Virginia Tech cross country team has produced a number of notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in the sport. Some of the most notable include:

• Will Spiers: A 2019 graduate, Spiers was a two-time All-American and won the 2018 ACC Championship.
• Fitsum Seyoum: A 2020 graduate, Seyoum was a two-time All-American and finished 10th at the 2019 NCAA Championships.
• Peter Seufer: A 2018 graduate, Seufer was a two-time All-American and won the 2017 ACC Championship.

These athletes, along with many others, have helped establish the Hokies as a powerhouse program in the NCAA.

Current Roster

The current Virginia Tech cross country roster is filled with talented athletes who are looking to continue the program's tradition of success. Some of the top runners include:

• Hanna Steelman: A senior from Blacksburg, VA, Steelman is a two-time All-American and finished 15th at the 2020 NCAA Championships.
• Hannah Richardson: A junior from Midlothian, VA, Richardson is a two-time All-ACC selection and finished 20th at the 2020 ACC Championships.
• Michael Filipczak: A senior from Fairfax, VA, Filipczak is a two-time All-ACC selection and finished 25th at the 2020 ACC Championships.

These athletes, along with the rest of the roster, will be looking to make a strong push for the NCAA Championships in the upcoming season.

Coaching Staff

The Virginia Tech cross country coaching staff is led by Ben Thomas, who has been at the helm of the program since 2013. Thomas has led the Hokies to multiple conference championships and has produced numerous All-Americans during his tenure.

Thomas is joined on the coaching staff by assistant coaches Sean Graham and Emily Pritt. Graham has been with the program since 2015 and has played a key role in the development of the team's distance runners. Pritt joined the staff in 2020 and brings a wealth of experience as a collegiate athlete and coach.

What Makes the Hokies Successful?

So, what sets the Virginia Tech cross country team apart from other programs? Here are a few key factors that contribute to their success:

• Strong team culture: The Hokies place a strong emphasis on teamwork and camaraderie. This close-knit atmosphere allows athletes to push themselves to new heights and support one another through the challenges of the season.
• Talented athletes: The program has a long history of attracting top talent from around the country. With a strong recruiting class each year, the Hokies are able to maintain a high level of competitiveness.
• Experienced coaching: The coaching staff, led by Ben Thomas, has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the sport. They are able to provide athletes with the guidance and support they need to reach their full potential.
• State-of-the-art facilities: The Hokies have access to some of the best facilities in the country, including the Virginia Tech Cross Country Course and the Rector Field House. These facilities provide athletes with the resources they need to train and compete at the highest level.

Conclusion

The Virginia Tech cross country team has a rich history of success, with a legacy of producing top-notch athletes who have made their mark on the sport. With a strong team culture, talented athletes, and experienced coaching, the Hokies are well-positioned to continue their tradition of excellence in the years to come.

If you're a fan of cross country or just looking for a team to support, the Virginia Tech Hokies are definitely worth keeping an eye on. With their strong work ethic, discipline, and camaraderie, they are a team that embodies the spirit of the sport.

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