“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.

BJ Ballbach