Kopstein & DeGennaro are Finley
X-Country Stars
Tommy Kopstein and Emma DeGennaro can really run. The two eighth graders were the stars of the J. Taylor Finley Middle School cross country team this past season. The 27-member co-ed squad was coached by Krista Fee.
"The team always had a positive attitude and lots of energy," Fee said. "They showed exemplary sportsmanship that did not go unnoticed by other coached." Kopstein and Matthew McBride captained the boys' squad while DeGennaro and Emma Black were the girls' captains.
Kopstein finished fifth in a field of 193 runners at the Section XI modified junior high cross country meet at Sunken Meadow State Park. He also won four league meets and was second in two others.
"Tommy is a prime example of a dedicated athlete," Fee said. "Although his running abilities come naturally, he always gave 110 percent during practices and had a positive attitude."
DeGennaro also finished first in four dual meets and was second in two other meets. She placed eighth in a field of 213 runners in the Section XI meet at Sunken Meadow.
"Emma proved to be an excellent runner and a fine leader," Fee said. "She was always prepared to do her best and to motivate her teammates."
The Finley boys went 2-5 in dual meets while the girls compiled a 1-6 mark. "The girls won their final meet, with our runners placing first, second and third," Fee said. A dozen current seventh graders are eligible to return next fall.