Jacob Bircher has been putting in the miles for this season of cross country for Southeast of Saline. Bircher has set some big goals this season for himself and his team. “Our big team goal for the season is to win state. I would also like to place in the top 10 at state, and if I run well enough, possibly even the top 5.” For a time specific goal, Bircher would like to be running in the low 16’s or even breaking the 16’s.
With time specific goals, Bircher is looking forward to breaking time barriers this season. Bircher said he wants to break personal records this year, as well as enjoy his junior season. This year, Bircher has challenged himself to place within the top five at every meet.
Over the summer months, Bircher prepared for this season of cross country by running with Distance Inc coached by Huey Counts. During this time, Bircher was putting in 40 to 50 mile weeks with two speed workouts and one long run per week.
During Bircher’s sophomore season, he dropped his personal best time of 16:36 after a previous drop of 50 seconds. During the two years Bircher has been competing for Southeast of Saline, the team has placed second at state. Bircher personally improved his placing at state from his freshman year of 33rd place to 19th place during his sophomore year.
In addition to cross country, Bircher also participates in track for the school. Bircher also plays competitive soccer for The Kansas City Surf ECNL and hopes to continue playing soccer in a division one or two college. However, Bircher has not ruled out the possibility of running cross country for college as well.
