After three years of what seemed like a revolving door of coaches and players, it is finally cross-country runner Marc Reiser’s senior year.
Reiser is the only boy left in his year, having started with 13 athletes his freshman year. He competed in all five events last season for the Bears with a season-best 26:51.28 for the 8K.
“As soon as I came on campus, I knew it was where I wanted to be,” said Reiser. “Mercer (being) a division one school I could compete at was a very big draw, that, added to an awesome education and a good opportunity to get involved on campus, made me want to be here.”
The team has had three different coaches during Reiser’s time at Mercer. This year's new coach is Josh Hayman from Louisburg College.
“With the position we’re in now with our team and new coach, I would say it has all been more than worth it and a great experience nonetheless,” Reiser said.
This year, the team mostly consists of returning players. With five meets left in the season, Reiser is excited to see how the team will do.
“At least for as long as I have been here, this is the largest team we have had return between seasons and I think there is so much incredible talent within our team,” Reiser said. “Adding a fantastic new coach, I feel a strong end-of-year performance is right on the horizon for us.”
After this year, Reiser plans on pursuing a masters of accountancy. He will then sit for a Certified Public Accountant and look to work with an accounting firm.
Reiser’s next meet will be Sept. 30, in Spartanburg, South Carolina.