Columbus East High School

The Columbus East boys cross-country team enters the 2025 season with confidence and momentum after a productive summer of training. Head Coach Gabriel Ocasio says the Olympians are further ahead than this time last year thanks to a consistent offseason and a rewarding team camp. “Offseason training has been great,” Ocasio said. “We had a really good track season full of PRs, took our rest, and started back up strong. Compared to last year, we expect our averages to be faster.” Leading the way will be sophomore standout Norman Dickson, who earned MVP honors as a freshman after posting times in the 17:20s. He’ll be joined at the front by senior leaders Elijah Clore and Lorren Westerfeld, both of whom are coming off strong track seasons and looking to carry that momentum into the fall. The program is also excited about its deep freshman class, which Ocasio says is the strongest in at least a decade. Two newcomers, Beckett Mocas and Zayden Weatherford, bring varsity experience from Northside Middle School and are expected to make an immediate impact. The Olympians have set ambitious goals for the season, including lowering their five-man average, qualifying for the state meet, and staying healthy. Ocasio points to the team’s unity and energy as major assets. “Our strengths are doing what’s asked of them, making others feel involved, and having fun,” Ocasio said. “Where we need to grow is in maturity and mental toughness.” With a clear focus on peaking at the right time, the Olympians have their sights set on the postseason. “The only thing that matters to me is the state tournament,” Ocasio said. “I prime my guys to be the best when it matters most, and that’s what got us to regionals ‘unexpectedly’ last year. A lot of teams will peak in August. I look forward to Sectionals, Regionals, and the State Meet.”