Sophomore Stephen Haas thinks he can make a major contribution to the Hoosier cross country team this year.
"I am in a lot better shape this year," Haas said."Last year my track season ran so long that I was not ready for the cross country season."
Last season, Haas ran an IU freshman record of 14:25 for the 5,000 meters. He also ran an 8:19 in the 3,000 meters, becoming only the 19th runner in IU history to break 8:20 indoors. Although Haas had a great track season, summer meets extended his season, and he was in shape for shorter distances as compared to the longer races in cross country.
"This year I have been putting in a lot more mileage over the summer," Haas said. "I have been running about 90 miles a week, and I am a lot more confident."
Last year, Haas was hampered by an injury during the track season, but he came back strong.