GAYLORD — The Gaylord boys cross country team has not matched the success of its female counterpart in recent years, but coach Jeff Kalember feels the talent is on its way.

A steady mix of veterans and youngsters is what the Blue Devils will field in the upcoming season.

“We’ll definitely be improved over last season with the large team we have,” Kalember said.

Leading the way is senior Andrew Olds, a three-time All-Big North Conference runner. He’ll be joined by junior Jayden Hesselink and sophomore Bryan Slocum, who each gained valuable varsity experience last season. The Blue Devils’ experience took a hit when junior Zach Vaporis moved out of state.

Kalember said a number of freshmen have a shot at contributing for the varsity, including Sean Hope, Jake Pasternak and Lucas Avenall.

Competing in perhaps the toughest boys conference in the state, Kalember knows his team won’t win a championship. Still, he believes they can compete with Cadillac and Petoskey, BNC teams who are also in the regional.

Individually, Kalember said both Olds and Hesselink have a shot at qualifying for the individual state finals.

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