August 20, 2026, Seward Folly
The cross-country season is underway at Seward High School, and this year brings change and fresh energy to the program. With two new coaches at the helm and a lean squad of eight, the team may be small, but they’re aiming high.
Bart Elhard has stepped into the role of head coach, joined by assistant coach Tara Swanson. It’s a new chapter for both the coaches and the runners.
“We have a fresh team this year — lots of new runners, and a big group graduated from last year’s team,” Swanson explains. “We’re really fortunate in Seward to have so many strong sports programs. It’s just a matter of splitting kids up between those programs, but we’re excited to have a small but mighty team this season.”
Despite the changing lineup, senior Amara Ransom remains a steady presence. As the team’s only senior, she’s feeling both the responsibility and the excitement of leading newcomers.
“Even though cross country is technically an individual sport, you’re still part of a team,” Ransom says. “I really enjoy meeting up to run together and building those connections. Having a supportive team makes a huge difference. It’s definitely different this year being the only senior, but I’m grateful to see freshmen joining and people returning — it means a lot.”
The team roster includes Amara Ransom (above), Olive Jordan, Tirzah Brueckner, Emma Seavey, and Ava Elhard for the girls, while the boys are represented by Luke Elhard, Paxon Craytor, and Clayton Pullins, all pictured below.
Photos by Stephanie Elhard of SHS Runners at the Homer Invitational.
For Elhard, becoming head coach wasn’t part of the original plan.
“When I first heard we didn’t have a coach, I really didn’t see myself doing it,” he admits. “I work for Metco, the hours are long, and I just didn’t think it would fit my lifestyle. But after talking to other coaches, my family, and especially my daughter, who decided she wanted to run, I realized I might be able to make it work. I stepped in mostly because there was a need, and now, three weeks in, I’m so glad I did. I’m having a blast with these kids.”
Coach Elhard says the focus this year is on growth and long-term success: “We have a lot of young runners and only one senior — Amara Ransom. So, we really want to see the team rise to the occasion and focus on long-term goals, like staying healthy and getting stronger. Right now, we’re working on building our base.”
The Seahawks have talent, with several runners showing promise. Last week, the team raced a new course at Olsen Mountain in Homer, where Luke Elhard and Olive Jordan both took second place in their varsity races, and Tirzah Brueckner finished fourth overall.
Swanson is embracing her new role as assistant coach after previously working with younger athletes.
“I’ve really enjoyed coaching so far. It’s been a lot of fun working with Bart and with the older kids. It’s a change from coaching fifth grade, which is also amazing, but I’m enjoying trying something new. The big kids are fast, and I feel like I’m getting in better shape too, which is always a plus,” she says.
Both coaches share a clear vision for the season: keep their athletes healthy, help them improve, and foster a love of the sport.
“They’re just great. My goals for the season are pretty simple: no injuries, and I want the runners to actually want to come back and run for me next year. That’s really it. I don’t want to run anyone off. Running is such a mental sport, and my job is to make it fun, but also to set expectations for them as athletes. I want them to enjoy it, and to grow,” Elhard says.
The team is already exploring new trails, mixing in speed workouts, and putting an emphasis on strength, mobility, and injury prevention.
Swanson believes the benefits of joining extend far beyond racing: “We’d love to have more people on the team. There are a lot of reasons people join cross country — it’s not everyone’s favorite thing, but we believe running can be for everybody, for all sorts of reasons. Whether you’re just curious or want to be more competitive, it’s a great opportunity to get in shape and meet people.”
With new leadership and plenty of enthusiasm, Seward High’s cross-country team is ready to make this season count — one stride at a time.
X-COUNTRY 2026 Schedule
Sat., Aug. 22, Ted McKinney Tsalteshi (hosted by SoHi)
Sat., Aug. 29, Colony
Fri., Sept. 4, MCCA class races
Sat., Sept. 5, Palmer
Fri., Sept. 11, Dieckgraeff Invite Seward, 2:00 p.m.
Thu., Sept. 17, Borough Homer TBA
Sat., Sept. 26, Region Kenai
Sat., Oct. 3, State Bartlett
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