Photo by Don Rich
D7-AA Boys - Individuals Breakdown
- Class AA Individuals Rankings
- State Qualifying Spots For Non-Team Individuals: 15
- 2016 Champion: Zach Skolnekovich (Quaker Valley) - 16:15
AA was loaded with talent in the WPIAL. We saw the two best in the state---Zach Skolnekovich and Ben Bumgarner---battle it out on numerous occasions throughout the season, with Bumgarner taking state crowns in XC and on the track over 3200 meters.
But now is the time for new blood and AA is once again packed with talent and many are capable of making that next leap to elite status.
South Fayette's Sam Snodgrass is the top returning WPIAL runner from states. He placed sixth last year against that talented field after taking fifth at WPIALs. His team peaked well last fall, and if it can orhestrate a similar training regiment, Snodgrass could be looking at a state title.
Another one to watch for, though, is Mark Brown of Greensburg Salem. He was 13th at states after placing fourth at districts. He'll have some talented training partners in Cameron and Dylan Binda on his G-S team. Cameron took 26th at states last year, so you have to imagine he'll be motivated to move up this season. Dylan also plays on a vital role on this team that will be aiming for a state berth.
Freeport Area's Johnathan Asay was 31st at states, running a tremendous race at Hershey last season. He'll also be looking to move up into the medals in his senior season. Quaker Valley's Daniel Ford and Waynesburg Central's Cade Rush will be two strong runners looking to carry the torch left behind from their successful former teammates.
It should be an interesting year for the boys in the WPIAL's AA, and we're looking forward to tracking each runner's progress.