Heading into the season, Kyle Rusnock figured to face some challenges as a first-year mentor of the Roughies' cross country program.

Former veteran head coach Charlie Post retired from teaching and decided to spend some of his spare time as an assistant track coach as well as an assistant coach for the Allentown Central Catholic girls' basketball program.

When the opening occurred, Rusnock decided to give it a shot. A current assistant wrestling coach, Rusnock knew he had his nephew, Jake, in the program, but it likely would be a rebuilding program with the loss of standout Anthony Brinkley and a cross from a team that was very successful the past few seasons.

So far, the projected path hasn't deviated off course. Yet, the ever-optimistic and energetic Rusnock anticipates more positives and enduring results ahead.

"Every week, we are getting better and better," said Rusnock, who continues to be helped by longtime assistant Dave Burker. "I knew it might be a little slow in the beginning, but the guys are working very hard and we have been able to see their progress."

Senior Jake Rusnock has been the Roughies' most consistent performers in recent weeks as he continues to crack the top 10 places in races.

"Jake (Rusnock) has been trying to get in less than 17 minutes and he has done that recently," said the uncle. 'He really worked hard all summer after he has a good season last year. He now knows what he has to do and should have a strong finish to his year."

Rusnock has also been impressed with fellow senior Zac Decant who has made major strides in his first year running in the sport. Juniors Randall Pacchioli, Chris Sobrinski and Spencer Phillips all have been steadily decreasing their times and have been helping the Roughies form a solid nucleus.

"Those guys have been running very hard and they are seeing the results," stated Rusnock. "They all have the potential to have a strong finish to their season. They all have been getting the times under the 20-minute mark that helps us be competitive."

Freshmen Alex Hartranft and Kyle Scarpantanio have also been bright spots and provide the Roughies with some solid foundations for the next few weeks as well as the future.

"We are getting to the stage where we are feeling comfortable with everything," said Rusnock. "It is a good group of runners and they are getting more confident with each race. If we keep working, we'll be fine."