Coach: Captains dedicated to team’s success

The Vernon Township High School cross country team was led by captains Rick Bennett, Jack Turner, Brooke Schneider and Amanda Witters this fall.

“All of our captains are strong leaders and they are committed to the excellence of their teammates,’’ head coach Jim Shenise said. “Each is an enthusiastic leader who works diligently to lead the team and encourage the underclassmen. They are dedicated to the success of our team both as runners and as peers.

“Jack Turner and Brooke Schneider are our vocal leaders and actively motivate their teammates. Rick Bennett and Amanda Witters are our quiet leaders and lead by example by working hard in practice and on the race course.’’

All four captains aimed success during their meets.

Turner finished in 75th place at the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Group 2 championships after qualifying by placing 11th at the North Jersey, Section 1, Group 2 championships.

Earlier in the season, Shenise said, “Jack Turner has been Vernon’s No. 1 runner, placing first place overall two weeks in a row at Hopatcong and Newton and ran a PR (personal record) of 17:36 September 24 at Hackettstown.

“Rick Bennett has been a constant in Vernon’s top five and has led his team to an 8-1 record so far for the season. He has a best time of 18:55 for the season.

“Brooke Schneider and Amanda Witters have also been a constant in Vernon’s top five and have led their team to an undefeated 9-0 record at this date. Brook ran a personal best of 21:46 at Hackettstown and Amanda a personal best of 23:12.’’

The captains improved their performances during the season.

“All of the athletes have worked hard each day,’’ Shenise said. “I have seen my captains improve their times each and every week but also mature into even better leaders.’’

The four also are standouts in the classroom.

The coach was impressed by the captains’ interaction with their teammates.

“Our captains work hard daily to help guide and inspire our athletes at practice and in their everyday lives,’’ he said. “They recognize the strengths in each of their teammates and help encourage them always to do their best.

“Additionally, they inspire their teammates to always work hard to be the best they can be during practices and competitions.’’

Also contributing to the team were seniors Gabby Cafferata and Kylie Burns, Shenise said.

“Both joined cross country their junior year and stepped right into a leadership role. Additionally, they are strong, dedicated athletes who lead by example and help guide and support the younger team members.’’

Burns placed 24th at the state sectional championships.

Turner and Burns also led the boys and girls teams, respectively, at the Hunterdon/Warren/Sussex Championships. The Vernon boys finished 10th of 17 schools in the team race there while the girls were eighth of 12 schools.