North Branford Cross-Country Celebrates 2012 Season

The North Branford cross-country team celebrated a successful 2012 season with a banquet late last month. This year’s team was led by three captains – seniors Ryan Proto and Chelsea Meagher and junior Sean O’Connor. 

“They really did a fantastic job in leading the team,” said Coach Floyd Parness. “It was because of them the team meshed so well together; they were true leaders by example.”

Parness handed out several awards at the banquet.

Proto received the Most Valuable Player Award while O’Connor received the Desire and Dedication Award.  Rookie of the Year was achieved by Isaac Cammarata and Rachel Sauro. The Most Improved Runner Award was given to Zach Augur. The Coach’s Award was earned by Jessica Munch. 

NBCC Four-Year Awards were earned by Sydney Lane, Meagher, Chris Olsen and Ryan Proto. Girls’ varsity letter-winners were Marissa Bale, Lane, Meagher and Sauro. On the boys’ side, varsity letters were awarded to Augur, Ben Boatman, Cammarata, Jason Conforte, O’Connor, Chris Olsen and Proto.

The North Branford 5K Cross-Country Course Top-Seven Record Plaque established three years ago was updated. The average time for the boys from last year dropped by 35 seconds and the girls remained the same. Proto moved up from fourth to third with a time of 18:56. Conforte moved up from fifth to fourth with a time of 18:57. O’Connor is now fifth at 19:07 and Augur is sixth at 19:45.  

“The outlook for next season depends on the off-season conditioning. With the experience gained from this past season, the expectations will be high for the returning team members,” said Parness. “Preparation is key for a better season next year.”