Seniors Sam McGrath, David Dagley and Trevor O'Donnell have kicked their soccer cleats behind them and are running towards the starting line for the cross country team. These three seniors have decided to call it quits after playing on the school's soccer team for three years.

"It was a tough decision, but soccer was becoming a tad boring, and I knew I'd get more out of cross country." Says senior Sam McGrath, who is now the team's top varsity runner and has landed a spot as team captain along with seniors Kyle Richardson and Eric Boumil.

Senior captain Kyle Richardson acknowledges that the boys are a "great addition" to the team and says they contribute to the teams wins. Wins included: Boston Latin and Arlington high school in a dual meet on September 15th, Notre Dame of Lawrence on September 23rd and Bedford on September 30th.

The boys attended almost every captain's practice over the summer, some consisting of runs as long as eight to ten miles.

"Kyle is a very persuasive man." jokes senior Trevor O'Donnell regarding his decision to quit soccer and run with the team.

"I just love that last 100m. in a race." he says.

Although the team has had the pleasure of inviting new runners onto the clan, the boys former soccer teammates still feel the sting.

"I was disappointed, but I realized that Cross Country would help one of my friends [McGrath] go to college for track, and I don't want to see my friends on the bench... good luck boys" says senior varsity soccer player Ettore deMari.

The boys have already shown that their decision to run cross country was well worth it with outstanding varsity times. McGrath ran a 5K at 17:01 with the others trailing close behind. Dagley ran a 19:47, and O'Donnell ran a 21: 11.

Top runner Sam McGrath acknowledges that this sport isn't easy, but you do get a lot out of it.

"Cross country requires a lot of discipline and self-confidence. There is always room for improvement. XC is great because if you can overcome the mental hardness of doubt and anxiety...anything is possible."