The Fighting Tigers' Cross Country program recently signed two standout runners to the 2008-2009 team. They are BJ Balbach (Patterson, GA) and Alan Gilbert (Warner Robins, GA).
“I have no doubt that the addition of Balbach and Gilbert will make us highly competitive next year,” said first year head coach John Paul Hill.
Balbach ran cross country for four years at Pierce County High School, where he also played basketball and soccer. Balbach’s cross country coach, Toby Crews, described Balbach as a diligent, dedicated runner who “has shown improvement each year.” Crews added, “We are very happy that BJ has decided to continue his education and athletic career at Andrew College.” Hill described BJ “as an absolutely terrific addition to this program.” BJ wants to study Business Administration at Andrew.
Gilbert wrestled throughout high school, taking up cross country in only his senior year. However, he quickly fell in love with the sport, and it soon became apparent that he was a natural talent. In his one season of competition, he shaved approximately three and a half minutes off his time. “Alan is obviously dedicated to running, and I am confident that he will reduce his time even more next season,” Hill stated. Alan eventually wants to run at a four-year school.
“I cannot begin to describe how happy I am to have these two fine, talented young men on the team. It will be an honor to coach them over the next two years,” Hill commented.
Update #2
Andrew College’s Cross Country program recently signed three more runners for the 2008-2009 season. They are Ta’sha Barber (Royston, GA), Robbie Davis (Sandersville, GA), and Ed Jernigan (Monticello, GA).
“The addition of Barber, Davis, and Jernigan strengthens our program immeasurably. I believe we are in fine shape for the upcoming season,” commented Coach John Paul Hill.
Ta’sha Barber graduated from Franklin County High School and has five years of cross country experience. She is excited about the upcoming season and about attending Andrew College. “I have talked to Ta’sha many times and it obvious to me that she is dedicated to both academics and athletics. She is the embodiment of the term ‘student-athlete.’ She is a fine addition to the team and to the college,” Hill stated. Ta’sha will begin her studies at Andrew this summer.
Robbie Davis is a graduate of Washington County High School. Robbie was a three-year letterman in track and cross country, and he just recently competed in the state track championships. He was captain of the cross country team when his high school captured its first region championship in fifteen years. Coach Hill stated: “His coaches had nothing but high praise for Robbie. He was true leader at Washington County High. I am very excited to have signed this fine young man. He brings a tremendous work ethic to Andrew College. I am confident that he will excel both as an athlete and as a student.” Robbie hopes to one day become a coach.
Ed Jernigan graduated from Jasper County High School but also briefly attended Camden Military Academy in South Carolina. In both 2005 and 2006, Ed lettered in track at Jasper County High and received the most valuable distance runner award. In 2007, he lettered in track at Camden Military Academy. “Ed specialized in the 400m, 800m, and the mile, but he should easily make the transition to cross country. He has the talent and the drive to be a standout runner for us. He is eager to start training for the upcoming season,” Hill commented.
