Boardman runners qualify for regional meet

The Boardman boys cross country team qualified for today’s Regional meet with an impressive third-place finish at last Saturday’s district meet held at Malone University in Canton.

The Spartans last made it to regional as a team in 2008.

Sophomore Mark Hadley was the overall district champion, finishing first in a time of 16:07. Classmate Alan Burns was next at 11th overall in a time of 17:01. They were followed by junior Sam Sheronovich in 25th place with a time of 17:35 and sophomore Justin Maroni in 28th overall with a time of 17:39.

The key to the Spartans regional qualifying came from freshman Juan Santiago and sophomore Jacob Kelleck who were in 37th and 44th place, respectively, in personal-best times of 17:49 and 17:56. Senior Jacob Whitford was 81st overall with a time of 19:06.

“Just an unbelievable effort from Juan and Jacob,” said Boardman coach John Phillips. “Those guys stepped up big time for the team. I could not be more proud of a team than I am of our guys.”

“We talked all week about how close we were last year and that how now is the time for our program to take the next step. What a great team effort by all of our guys and what a great accomplishment for our program, school and community.”

The Spartans will compete at 2:45 today in The Division I regional meet at Boardman’s home course. The top four teams and top 16 individuals will qualify for the state meet.