Parker has the special combination of always being an exceptional runner, but also putting forth a major breakthrough this spring
He’s established a bit of success on the grass – two 14th place finishes at MIS, numerous low-16 performances, and even dipped under 17:00 as a freshman
During that freshman year, he was able to show ability in the longer distances on the track, reaching down to 10:09 in the 3200m
But in that two year absence, he must have developed some serious speed
Parker was able to break both 2:00 and 4:20, the latter of which coming in an exhilarating dual against a runner to be named later
Holland Christian is receiving an infusion of young talent this fall and Parker will be counted on to lead them into the D2 fray
On the opposite side of the spectrum is Helen Sachs
She steps onto a West Ottawa squad rife with upperclass talent and will definitely be a contributor in their quest for November glory
Helen first caught my eye as I was doing research for the 2020 season, and was a 7th grader to watch out for
Her 8th grade cross year produced numerous results – a few sub-12 races and 2nd place finishes at both West Michigan and Grand Rapids Championships
Just as Lambers, she had a breakout track season, reaching times that very few 8th graders reach
Amongst her fellow 8th graders, her 3200m was ranked 7th and 1600m 6th
