Veteran Trojans defended EPC and D-11 titles

The fast foursome of Paul Abeln, Jacob Barnes, Tyler Rothrock and Ethan Willard set a standard for Parkland boys cross country that will be a formidable target for future teams.

During their four-year distance careers the Trojans quartet made major contributions to a proud program that captured three District 11 Class 3A team championships and went 53-1 in Eastern Pennsylvania Conference meets. Coach Stephen Ott said this year’s team, which won EPC and District 11 titles and then placed 14th overall at the PIAA championships, added another layer to the program’s tradition.

“Our goal this year was to defend our EPC and District 11 3A team titles and add to the tradition of success with cross country at Parkland,” Ott said. “The last time we had a chance to defend our district title [2021], we did not. This year we were able to complete the task.

“It’s not easy to be successful when there is a target on our back. We overcame obstacles during the season in order to find postseason success. That shows the true character of our team.”

Ott, who finished his fifth season as Parkland’s cross country coach (he also coaches track and field), credited his seniors for their leadership — and contributions — on and off the course. Abeln placed second at the EPC and District 11 championships,whileWillardwastopfiveand Barnes top 10 in both races.

“The four seniors [Abeln, Willard, Barnes and Rothrock] have a strong bond that helped the team be successful,” Ott said.

The Trojans will graduate their fast foursome, but a solid nucleus is expected to return next season, including Colin McGuigan and Brycen Smith, who were standout freshmen this fall.

The standard, of course, is set. “Colin McGuigan, Jorge Rinker, Brycen Smith and Marcelo Castilla will lead the next chapter of our story,” Ott said. “I believe that our family and tradition will keep Parkland cross country strong moving forward. Now it’s on to the next.”