Storm Lake milers strong in Mellmann's debut

SPENCER - First year Storm Lake cross country coach Justin Mellmann got a warm welcome from his boy's squad in Tuesday night's opening meet in Spencer as the Tornadoes ground out a second place finishing, trailing only perennial power Spirit Lake.

With five runners in the top 25, Storm Lake edged out Western Christian, Algona, Spencer, LeMars, OABCIG and Emmetsburg, who took 3rd-8th.

"Very good start for our 2010 Cross Country season," said Mellmann. "Guys have been working hard and putting in some tough workouts. I didn't know exactly what to expect after only two weeks of practice, but was pleasantly surprised and pleased with the guy's performance tonight. I've been preaching pack running, running a smart race, and being patient as we start our season. The guys ran a smart race, gradually picking up the tempo after the mile and passing people. Great team effort."

Read more of this story in the August 26 Pilot Tribune.

Copyright 2010 Storm Lake Pilot Tribune. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.