As part of the Hoka One Future Stars program, MileSplit is highlighting some of the top underclass cross country runners throughout the country. Our next profile will feature freshman Josh Hoey of Malvern Prep. Josh has the fastest time for 9th graders in PA at the halfway point of the season, and is a key member of Malvern Prep's cross country squad. He was on the team that won the Briarwood Invitational on September 13th, earning a 6th place finish. Hoey talks to us about his 9th grade season and what he loves about this great sport.
Tell us how you got started with competitive running.
The first time I ever was in a race was during the XC series at Oakbourne park. I was about four or so and we would go to Oakbourne and run on Fridays after school. This was lead by Mr. Kelly (I still see Mr.Kelly often and he is a great motivator for me). I really started racing in sixth grade when I first went out for track. I really enjoyed it, and I have come to enjoy it more and more every year.
What were some of your goals heading into this season?
All I wanted to do was run in the NXN Nationals Meet in Portland as a full team. We went to regional last year, but didn't quite get the result we wanted. This year we as a team feel like we have.a legitimate shot in a tough region. I also had some smaller personal goals such as break16:05 at Paul Short and 16:20 at Regionals.
What did the coaches expect from you this season?
The major goal this year was just to have fun and not put too much pressure on myself. That expectations will come later in my high school career but staying injury free and having fun were my main goals.
How nervous were you for your first race? What did you want to accomplish?
I had some nerves, but most of it was excitement. I understood it was the beginning of a Big statement year for me, My brother Jaxson, and the whole team. I felt I left a little on the table at Abington. I am still learning how to run and position well in big invitationals, so Abington caught me blind side a little bit. I was hoping to go a little faster that day but I was satisfied because I learned a lot from that race.
Talk about the one race that gave you the belief that you could be really good this season.
I would probably say Briarwood. I ran pretty well there, but again I felt I left a little on the table. I probably should have gone for My team ate Billy coming down from the hill, but I was a little nervous about going too early because I did that at Abington and WC East caught me at the line. I again learned a lot from that race, and it was a great foundation for the season ahead. I began to realize I could really make an impact in the state and I am excited to try and show that at Paul Short
How have you gotten along with your older teammates as you have moved up the ranks of the team?
I really have always really enjoyed my teammates. I have ran with all of them last year and I have been running with Jaxson ever since I can remember. Practice is one of my favorite parts of my day because I get to run with my friends and just have fun.
How have your goals changed going into the upcoming big meets?
Certainly. I have street to set lower times for myself based on what I've been running. Also At Paul Short and Independent States I get to run against a kid a ran against when we were in Middle School in Nick Dahl. At Paul Short as well I get to run against a friend of mine who I run in the summer with in Alex Knapp. I respect both of those guys a lot, and I will admit it's a bit of friendly competition there as well.
Has running become your favorite sport? Why or why not?
Definitely. I have always truly loved running. I really enjoy running with the kids on the team and with Jaxson too. I also have a small passion for soccer. I play for a local travel team for fun because I enjoy that a lot as well.
Which course has been your favorite to run? Least favorite?
My least favorite course is probably Belmont. It's really hilly, so it's hard to get a fast time there. We also run there about four-foot times in the season so it wears on at least me a bit. I really like the Lehigh course. It's fast, and not a lot of hills.
What are you most excited about going forward as a runner?
This past summer, my family and I were able to run with Ryan Hall in Flagstaff. After spending time with Ryan it gave me motivation to try and run at the highest levels of our sport. I would like to see how far I can go and I am willing to make sacrifices to maximize my talent. When you run with someone like that it makes the dream more real.
