News Summary

As Alpena High School gears up for the 2025 cross country season, Coach Joe Donajkowski expresses confidence in the teams’ dedication and talent. Both boys and girls teams feature a mix of seasoned athletes and promising newcomers. The season kicks off with the Benzie Pete Moss Invitational, and the athletes are eager to compete in key events leading to regional championships. With early-season training underway, expectations are high for a successful and memorable season.

Alpena Gears Up for an Exciting 2025 Cross Country Season

As the crisp fall air begins to swirl in Alpena, excitement is brewing at Alpena High School as the cross country teams prepare for what promises to be a thrilling 2025 season. Coach Joe Donajkowski is feeling optimistic about the upcoming competitions, thanks to the dedication and hard work displayed by the athletes throughout the summer.

Getting Into Gear

The season will kick off this Saturday at the Benzie Pete Moss Invitational, held at Benzie Central High School. This event is a perfect opportunity for both the boys and girls teams to showcase their skills and test their mettle against some strong competitors. Coach Donajkowski points out that this year’s squads, while still relatively young, are bursting with potential and talent.

Meet the Boys’ Team

The boys’ team is spearheaded by a mix of seasoned seniors and energetic younger runners. Senior Braeden Mathis will lead the charge, supported by a talented group of juniors: Logan Ruczynski, Milo Dahleen, and Joel Kaiser. They will be joined by a roster of promising sophomores: Alexander Allen, John Brege, Hendrix McKay, Logan Szumila, and Brendan Werth. This returning crew brings experience, having also run track in the spring, which positions them well for the challenges ahead.

New faces are always exciting, and this year, the boys’ team welcomes sophomore Matthew Kowalski and freshmen talents like Otto Dahleen, Gabe Donakowski, Wyatt Dziesinski, and Landon Roznowski. This infusion of new energy could make for an entertaining season.

Girls’ Team Ready to Shine

On the girls’ side, senior Izzy Szymanski is ready to lead her team into battle, backed by a strong group of juniors, including Ava Karsten, Lexi Gembel, and Marian Renard. The sophomore crew contributing to the effort includes Abby Ruczynski, Lila Scott, and Maddie Taylor, all of whom bring enthusiasm and talent to the mix.

This year also introduces fresh prospects to the girls’ roster: juniors Maddie Coffman and Clara Belle Orban, alongside promising freshmen Gracelyn Heath, Abigail Misiak, Amelia Muszynski, and Madison Srebnik. The blend of experience and new talent is sure to energize the team spirit!

Looking Ahead to Competition

With the season officially kicking off, both teams are gearing up to face tough competition. Notable events on the schedule include the MSU Spartan Invitational on September 12 and the Big North Championship in Gaylord on October 14. The excitement doesn’t stop there, as postseason races will begin with the MHSAA Regional Meet in Mount Pleasant on October 25, where the teams will aim to secure spots for the MHSAA Division 1 Finals in Brooklyn on November 1.

A Promising Season Ahead

As the Alpena High School cross country teams lace up their running shoes and hit the trails, Coach Donajkowski believes that their hard work and early-season training will pay off. With determination and a commitment to excellence, both the boys’ and girls’ squads look ready to make a mark this season. It’s shaping up to be an exhilarating journey, and everyone in Alpena can’t wait to cheer them on!

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