West Essex Boys and Girls Cross-Country program has had a successful, undefeated regular season, with the girls going 12-0 and the boys going 11-0. Both teams have posted strong finishes at key early meets and asserted themselves in Essex County’s deep field of contenders.
Anthony Emering was involved in track and field for many years, and when a coaching position for this season opened, Emering found himself back on the track, this time for cross-country. Given his long institutional investment, experience across multiple running seasons and a respected presence in student support, Emering’s appointment as head cross-country coach goes beyond the wins the team received.
“The team is really excited about the new coaching staff and to go undefeated two years in a row,” Annika Johnson said.
Johnson, Serena Rauscher and Ella Perez lead the girls team, while Darren Delsardo, Blake Berwanger, Brandon Berwanger and Peter Russo lead the boys.
“I’ve been able to find success this cross country season thanks to my coaches and teammates who challenge and motivate me every day,” Rauscher said. “Through tough practices and by setting goals for myself at each meet, I’ve continued to grow and push my limits.”
On Oct. 14, both teams competed at the Super Essex Conference Championship Meet, securing first place in the conference. Serena Rauscher (2nd, 21:12.86), Samantha Wohltmann (6th, 22:38.53), Ella Perez (8th, 23:07.92), Elaine Zhang (9th, 24:04.01) and Annika Johnson (10th, 24:22.55) all scored First Team-All Conference honors, with Zia Parker (12th, 25:01.31) earning Second Team All-Conference. On the boys side, Darren DelSardo (3rd, 18:20.88), Blake Berwanger (7th, 19:16.71) and Joseph Wohltmann (8th, 19:17.63) made First Team All-Conference honors. Brandon Berwanger (12th, 19:46.05) qualified for Second Team All-Conference. Anthony Wilcomes (22nd, 20:26.60), Peter Barcia (29th, 20:41.19) and Peter Russo (31st, 21:00.61) also had outstanding performances, contributing to this year’s team’s renowned success.
