News Summary

Ripon High School welcomes Sam Prellwitz as its new head coach for the cross country team starting in 2023. Prellwitz, a Ripon native and former runner, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for the sport. With goals to develop character, foster a love for running, and build a supportive team environment, he aims to carry on the legacy of his predecessor. The upcoming season promises exciting training as the team prepares with fun activities and a new running course at Vines and Rushes, reflecting community spirit and growth.

Ripon Welcomes Sam Prellwitz as New Cross Country Head Coach!

Big news for the town of Ripon! The local high school cross country team has a fresh face at the helm. Sam Prellwitz has been named the new head coach for the Ripon High School cross country program starting in 2023. This change comes after Chris Gatzke stepped down to pursue a role on the Ripon School Board. It’s quite a moment for the program since Gatzke has been at the forefront of the team since 1992, making this a significant transition.

From Runner to Coach

Sam Prellwitz isn’t just stepping into this role without experience. He has deep-rooted connections to the Ripon community and a passion for running that dates back to his own days as a student. Prellwitz ran cross country under Gatzke from 2002 to 2005, which gives him a strong foundation to continue the legacy that his former coach has built. In recent years, he has also gained valuable coaching experience by leading the Ripon Middle School cross country program.

But let’s not forget his personal journey. Prellwitz is a proud Ripon native, having run cross country throughout both middle and high school alongside his wife, Meg (Wuske) Prellwitz. The couple has a family of three active sons and continues to embrace a lifestyle centered around running. You can say that running isn’t just a sport for them; it’s a family affair!

Inspiring the Next Generation

As a pastor at the Ripon Community Church, Prellwitz brings an additional layer of community connection and leadership to the team. He is enthusiastic about fostering a program that mirrors a family atmosphere among athletes. His vision for the Ripon cross country program revolves around growth, both individually and collectively. Prellwitz emphasizes the importance of developing character and mental toughness while nurturing a love for running.

Goals and Ambitions

Prellwitz has set three main goals for the program. First, he aims to develop each athlete’s character and resilience. Second, he wants to inspire a genuine love for running within the team. Finally, he is committed to providing athletes with the necessary resources to excel in their runs. He’s got big plans! Plus, with around 50 students already signed up for the middle school cross country team this year, it’s clear there’s a growing interest in the sport.

Training and Team Spirit

As the summer wraps up, excitement is building with the athletes actively training together during summer practices. They have been engaging in fun activities like hill repeats and endurance runs, which are essential for preparing for the races ahead. With two mini-camps scheduled before official practices start, the team is getting a head start on building chemistry and camaraderie. Peers and captains have been leading the training, creating a sense of responsibility and teamwork.

A New Running Course Awaits

Another interesting change this season is the introduction of a new running course, nestled right on Prellwitz’s family farm at Vines and Rushes. This unique environment is sure to add excitement to their training routines! Prellwitz is eagerly looking forward to observing the athletes’ development throughout the summer and hopes to witness the growth of the team’s chemistry.

A Community Effort

Prellwitz is fully aware of the invaluable support from his family and the Ripon community. He recognizes that coaching goes beyond just the physical aspects of running; it is about building connections within the team and the broader community. With such support, he is ready to embrace this new chapter in Ripon High’s cross country history.

As Sam Prellwitz steps into his new role, the anticipation is palpable among both athletes and local fans. With his background, enthusiasm, and community spirit, there’s no doubt he’ll carry on the winning tradition of the Ripon High School cross country team and inspire a new generation of runners!

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