Earlier this week, Oratory Prep Cross Country was named the 20th-best team in the state, according to NJ Milesplit. While this preseason ranking is unprecedented, there is subtle confidence that each member of the squad carries. This confidence stems from a Spring Track Season that saw countless broken school records, a trip to the famous “Penn Relays”, and an outstanding showing at Nike Outdoor Nationals. While last year’s success played a pivotal role in developing fitness and talent, the Rams must turn the page to 2024, a season full of opportunity. The key to the season? Experience. 5 of the guys you see in the picture are back for the Rams.
The team is led by Senior, Declan Kelly, who ran a PR of 16:41 at Greystone Park in September of last season. Kelly, who is a captain of the team, rightfully holds the #1 spot on the varsity roster. Behind Declan, comes a trio of Rams who are all capable of breaking the 17-minute threshold at any given race this season. Juniors, Connor Bassalino and James Nolan look to build on the momentum that was established throughout their remarkable Sophomore seasons. Bassalino ran a 16:58 at Greystone Park last year, making him one of the fastest Sophomore’s in OPXC history. Nolan, on the other hand, truly found his stride in Spring Track, when he ran a 1:56.11 in the 800m, making him a top Sophomore in the state. Finishing off this plethora is Sophomore Aidan Murphy, who ran a 17:37 5K as a Freshman. After battling an injury last winter, Murphy made momentous gains in Spring Track. Rounding out the Varsity Squad come Chase Lynch, Luca Vessecchia, Patrick Roberts, and myself. After a strong summer, all of these Rams are primed to make history.
Despite all of the hardware won last season, many members of the team were left feeling disappointed leaving the 2023 State Championships. The team had a tremendous amount of talent but failed to put together a race where every single team member ran well. This was highlighted in the Non-Public A State Championship and the County Championship race. This season, the Rams will be moved back up to the highest conference, the Watchung Division. This provides an opportunity to shock state-wide powerhouses such as Westfield and Union Catholic. In terms of team goals, nothing is out of the question. Certainly, the Rams are looking to beat teams such as Delbarton, Seton Hall Prep, and Don Bosco for a second straight year. However, this team is capable of much more. A top 2 finish in the county is something that no Oratory team has ever done before. This year’s team is hungry to claim that title. On top of all of this, the varsity squad will look to become the fastest team (average time of top 7 runners) in school history.
The first race of the season is this Saturday, at Roxbury Park. This flat course provides an opportunity to set the stage for the rest of the season and perhaps raise expectations even more. For now, know that the team is unsatisfied with being #20.
