With five runners returning from last year’s starting lineup, the Lindbergh girls cross country team is focused on having a successful season.

“Things are looking great,” Lindbergh head coach Brian Hilton said. “We had 40 girls come out for the team this year.”

Leading the Flyers this season will be senior Maria Eckrich as the No. 1 runner.

“Maria has been our number one runner since her freshman year and has become a tremendous leader,” Hilton said. “It’s been really rewarding watching her and the other seniors grow and mature over the years.”

Right behind Eckrich at No. 2 is senior Fatimah Almamori.

“Fatimah had a really good track season last year,” Hilton said. “Her mile time has come down considerably and we’re looking forward to seeing how that transitions to cross country this season.”

Rounding out the trio of seniors returning for the 2022 campaign is Lizzy Jackson.

“Lizzy has started in every cross country meet since her freshman year,” Hilton said. “She’s a really hard worker and just a great kid overall.”

Junior Elyse Doss and sophomore Olivia Hipp came up to the varsity squad late in the season last year, but made a significant enough impact to run for the Flyers at districts.

“Elyse and Olivia are two girls that really came on strong last year and made the districts roster,” Hilton said. “Elyse had a very strong track season last year. Olivia has a lot of talent and the more races she gets under her belt, the better she will be.”

The Flyers open up the 2022 season at the Jackson Race Your Grade Invitational Aug. 27.