Carroll high school boys and girls cross country teams have started the 2008 season with some good performances.

Coach Mike Miller, entering his 30th year of coaching cross county, has high expectations for this bunch of runners. "I believe that both teams have an opportunity to get very deep into the tournament this year," he said.

The boys are currently 37- 2, picking up invitational wins at the Lou Baker and Comet (Caston) invites. They are currently ranked 10th in the Coaches Poll for small schools, but look to move up in the rankings with strong performances at the New Prairie Invite on Sept. 18.

The girls are currently 32- 4, winning the Lou Baker Invite and finishing 2nd at the 20-team Comet Invite. They are currently ranked third in the Coaches' Poll and they, too, look for a strong performance at the New Prairie invite.

Miller added that he is proud to be a part of the tradition of higher standards that has been established by Cougar sports. "The longevity of my coaching career could not have been possible without the cooperation of the school, the athletes, their parents and my assistants."

Miller is assisted by Larry Henning and Amy Cottrell (both high school), Matt Benner and Michelle Strawcutter (both junior high).

Both high school and junior high teams see action this week at the Cougar (Thursday) and Rensselaer (Saturday) Invitationals.