When Hanna High School sophomore Noah Kroge laces up for cross country, it’s not just about the miles—it’s about growth. “This is my second year running cross country. Last year, I was really nervous since I didn’t have any other high school teammates,” Kroge said. “This year, I’ve been focused on just being in shape and building endurance. My junior and senior years, I’m setting my sights on making it to state.”
Even though he’s the lone high school runner for Hanna, Kroge has embraced a leadership role. “Since I’m the only high school runner, I try to make sure the middle school and elementary kids focus on completing the course, no matter their time,” he said. “My younger brother runs for the elementary. It’s pretty awesome to see him place and grab a medal. We all cheer each other on.”
That small-school family feel has made this sport something special. “I feel just getting more students involved,” Kroge said. “We’re such a small school and this is a fairly new sport, so gaining runners is huge.”
For Kroge, success isn’t measured only in medals. It’s about celebrating every step forward. “I think everyone is just trying to do their very best. If someone gains a medal or places, we’re all celebrating,” he said.
He credits his coach with keeping him motivated through challenges. “To be honest, it’s coach Beverly Robison,” Kroge said. “She pushes me. It’s tough showing up against schools with large teams but I’m there. She’s encouraging me to do my best.”
The responsibility of being the older athlete has pushed him to grow. “The younger kids look up to me,” Kroge said. “We are a pretty tight school. My role is to encourage and cheer them on.”
Course strategy has also been a key area of improvement. “Man, last year I tripped six or seven times between meets and practices. I got up and kept running,” he said. “So, now I try and make sure there’s no places I may slip up.”
Preparation and mindset play a big role, too. “Hydrate, listen to some music before I run and get to it,” Kroge said. “Pace myself. This year is all about pace and endurance.”
Looking ahead, he hopes his story inspires others. “Don’t be afraid to try, even if you’re doing it all by yourself,” he said.
Kroge has big plans for the future beyond Hanna. “After high school, I plan on spending the summer in Japan before heading to college to pursue a degree in music production and engineering,” he said.
