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Andalusia High School sports have been a rich tradition for several years, so it’s “fitting” that AHS adds to its legacy with the return of cross-country this fall.

Amy Bryan, a seventh-grade math teacher at Andalusia Junior High School, will serve as the program’s head coach.

“Mr. Wilson has a motto ‘All students involved’ with the goal that all students will find an organization to be a part of. We became aware that there was interest in cross country running amongst students, so we felt a cross-country team would provide a great opportunity for involvement. Mr. Wilson and I spoke about starting a team at the end of last school year, and he began work on getting the team approved by the AHSAA. I’m excited for this opportunity and the positive impact it will have on our students,” Bryan said.

She is grateful for this opportunity because it comes naturally to her and offers her a chance to lead by example.

“I personally enjoy running and understand the health benefits of being active. I am excited for students to have the opportunity to develop their skills in a sport that will better them as people. Cross-country training requires discipline and dedication. Developing these qualities will be beneficial to the students’ academic success as well. Seeing so many students involved and a part of a team is really exciting,” she said.

Bryan added that she looks forward to seeing the program grow and each runner’s improvement as the season progresses.

“I have already been so encouraged and impressed with the runners’ dedication and determination to improve their personal best times. The teamwork and encouragement amongst the group are really incredible. We can’t wait for the season to begin. This is all very new for us, so we just hope to learn a lot, give it our best, and be competitive.”

This year’s team, which is comprised of 36 runners ranging from the eighth to twelfth grade, will compete in its first race Saturday, August 20. Straughn High School will serve as the host for the Early Bird Invitational at the Covington County Schools Track Facility and Cross Country course.

The Bulldogs will compete in Class 4A Section 1 along with Booker T. Washington, BTW Magnet, Geneva, Houston Academy, Jackson, LAMP, Orange Beach, Providence Christian, Satsuma, St. Michael, and T.R. Miller.

“I would like to thank Mr. Wilson and Dr. Shakespeare for getting the team approved. Our athletic director, John Dugger, has taken care of eligibility and been a great support as well. Jennifer O’Neal, on behalf of the Civitan Club, provided us with a generous donation that was beneficial in getting the program started. Several parents have played a vital role in helping with the program. The support from the school and community has been overwhelming,” she stated.

For more information about the program call the school at 334-222-7569.

“We are very excited about the opportunity to compete and represent Andalusia High School. These runners have worked so hard, and I am excited to see what the season holds,” Bryan said.