Coach Dan Skousen was impressed by the effort put forth by the Lahainaluna High School harriers. The girls squad included (from left) Eryn Pendergast, Kailey Sager, Sydney McKinney, Amanda Mayers and Makena Berry. Photos by Leanne Alibin.

LAHAINA – The Lahainaluna High School cross country team was characterized by the youthful enthusiasm and optimism that long distance runners possess. This bodes well for the future of the program at the West Side campus.

Head Coach Dan Skousen, assisted by George Watson and volunteer Danny Watson, led the Luna harriers for the 2011 campaign.

He was impressed by the effort put forth by the inexperienced, yet inspired, student athletes in his charge.

In particular, team captain Corbin Kaikkonen, a sophomore transfer from Kihei Charter School, showed great determination to finish seventh at the Maui Interscholastic League Championships.

According to Coach Dan, “Corbin was definitely our team leader along with his brother, Kenny. They have a graceful attitude and commitment to the program and provided leadership to focus and work hard. Brandon Leopoldino also stood out for us with dedication and effort to improve over the season.”

Coach Dan Skousen was impressed by the effort put forth by the Lahainaluna High School harriers. The girls squad included (from left) Eryn Pendergast, Kailey Sager, Sydney McKinney, Amanda Mayers and Makena Berry. Photos by Leanne Alibin.

Skousen also had high praise for Kailey Sager, as the sophomore was a pleasant surprise with her 13th place finish at the MIL meet.

“Kailey was also a new surprise for us, as she consistently showed a strong effort throughout the season,” he said.

The Lahainaluna boys cross country team also included senior Jeremy DeGracia; juniors Blake Ramelb, Curtis Fletcher, Erich Skrotzki, Billy Schusser and Brenner Duarozan; and sophomores Brandon Leopoldino and Fernando Rodriguez.

Along with Sager, the girls team was made up of senior Tihani Cadiam-Moore, junior Eryn Pendergast and sophomores Sydney McKinney and Amanda Myers.

“We were able to retain more runners than before, and all the runners contributed to help the success of the team. This was a fun, spirited team and a great group of kids that also has a high academic achievement level. They molded friendships that will last a long time,” concluded Coach Dan.