LA CROSSE, Wisconsin (WXOW) - They say two things are certain in this world, death and taxes. Over the past five years, it's become possible to add a third to the list: the Logan boys cross country team going to state.
When asked if it ever gets old going to state, senior Colin Kenow said, "Definitely not. It's a great experience. There's a lot of good competition and it's a good environment."
Logan head coach Pat Mulrooney added, "We told the kids the other day, 'This better not get old, or you better not be running and I better not be coaching anymore, if that's the case.'"
Unlike the other two constants, Logan clearly enjoys the year-in-year-out success. Runners said it fuels them long after the season's final race is run.
"In the winter after the season's over, we might have a little break, but then there's a group of guys who gets together and runs throughout the winter," said Kenow. "Most of the guys do track in the spring, and then all summer long, we're running as a group too."
Likewise, Coach Mulrooney reaps the benefits of a top program even after key seniors graduate. And similarly, it's what he stresses when his athletes aren't on the course that keeps the rangers running strong.
Mulrooney said, "I think the kid who's a good student, that carries over into the same discipline and dedication it takes to be a very good distance runner. Our kids are all, I guarantee you, grade point wise... 3.5 to 3.7, 3.8."
Given their high aptitude, they'll learn soon enough all about life's other constants. But for now, Logan cross country prefers to focus on their fifth straight run at state.
