Big Valley Invitational - Meet Preview
State College will look to sweep both the girls and boys team titles, and while the PA#5 girls are heavily favored, the boys will face a good challenge from a District 6 AAA rival.
State College has a new look this season after the graduation of some key members of last year's team. But it returns some strong pieces that should pull off the season-opening win on Saturday. Up front, look for Gabbi Bock, Emma Simon, and Cailin Saylor to pace the way. Forest Hills' Emily Montag and West Branch's Hailey Prestash were fourth and fifth last year, respectively and should be in the mix as well.
The boys race figures to be very competitive. Jersey Shore's Isaac Davis (PA#10) started off his season on a big note last year, taking the win in 15:54 over Nick Feffer of State College. He'll be favored again this season to earn the victory.
Juniata freshman Garrett Baublitz will look to start his season off on the right foot. He ran 4:19 in the 1,600 meters on the track in the spring, and could challenge for the win. The State College Area duo of Owen Isham and Mitchell Etter should be in the mix as well.
State College ran away with the team title last season, but it figures to be closer this time around. Mifflin County---led by solid runners Chayce Macknair and Seth Phillips---should give a good race for the title. State College and Mifflin County will battle it out this season for the lone D6-AAA team state qualifying spot. Penns Valley, one of the state's top 1A squads, is also entered. Led by Chris Colwell and Mark Bierly, it should make be competitive on Saturday.