Long-distance runners are known to have huge hearts. As far as Darlington cross country coach Ken Wempe is concerned, senior Grier Fricks is a prime example of that philosophy.
On Wednesday morning [Feb. 20], the combination of heart and skill opened the college door for Fricks when she signed a letter of intent to run cross country at Young Harris College this fall.
"Her strengths are her leadership and her commitment to the team," Wempe said about Fricks, who lettered all four years in cross country and track. "All the girls on the team looked up to her."
The Lady Tigers' team captain last fall, Fricks has proven she can go the distance, earning top 20 places in the region meet the last two years. This spring, she will shift gears to run 1,600- and 3,200-meters, as well as the 300 hurdles
"She's been one of our top five runners for the last two seasons," Wempe said. "She's been a big part of the team concept, and as a coach, she's the kind of athlete you want. She gets others to not only run for themselves, but for the team and their school. Young Harris is getting a good one."
