Wittlake
Editors note: Press Pass Sports will profile a West Texas A&M student-athlete each week from various sports.
Briggs Wittlake, West Texas A&M cross country
Year: Junior
Position: Runner
Major: Biology.
Hometown: Amarillo, Tascosa HS.
About Wittlake: The Tascosa graduate has become a leader for the West Texas A&M men’s cross country team. As a sophomore, Wittlake was named the2018 Lone Star Conference Runner of the Year.
He advanced the NCAA Division II national meet, where he finished as an All-American with a 32nd place finish. Wittlake also earned USTFCCCA All-Region honors after finishing 16th at the South Central Region.
This season, Wittlake is part of a men’s team that is currently ranked No. in the country.
Wittlake took time out his schedule to speak Press Pass Sports about his career, the season and his goals for the year.
How has this year started off for you?
“I’m feeling really good. I feel strong, and it looks like it’s going to be a really good season for myself and the team.”
Where do you feel you’ve improved the most?
“I feel my strength is better. I feel i’m able to run faster in longer distances than I did last year.”
When you say stronger, does that go to your work in the weight room?
“Last year we had gotten away from lifting weights because our schedules didn’t have time for it. But we’ve gotten back into weights this summer and now and it’s helped us out a lot.”
How do you feel your team is this season. It seems to be pretty stacked?
“This might be one of the best teams we’ve had I think. We’re strong from our upperclassman to our freshman. We have a lot more depth this year for sure.”
How is your relationship with coach (Jake) Krolick?
“We have a great relationship. He’s a great guy that is always there for me and the team. He knows his stuff, he runs with us and he’s always there to help out.”
What are the goals for you and the team this year?
“The goal is to take care of business in the LSC, and get back to nationals. For myself, I’d like to get All-American honors again, but a better position this time. I think as good as the team there are a few that could earn All-Americans.”
When you’re not running, what are your hobbies?
“I love being outdoors. So I love to hiking, camping, shooting, just stuff like that.”
