Sophomore Morgan Becker is reaching new heights in cross country. The Canton-Galva High School star has quickly made a name for himself on the course. This is his second year in cross country and the hard work Becker has dedicated himself to is paying off. Becker’s PR of 17:00 earned him the Canton-Galva school record for boys cross country. Becker is a two-time Wheat State League varsity boys champion and he qualified for the Class 2A state meet for the second year in a row. Last year he finished 25th but this season after finishing second at his regional meet, Becker is looking for a better finish.  “My goal for state is to place in the top 15. I’m not really going for a better time, since this is the hardest course we’ve run all year. My goal for next year is to be able to run under 17 minutes and make it to state,” said Becker  

Becker also participates in track and basketball. He has played both sports since the seventh grade. 

During regionals, Becker admitted it was his toughest race of the year.  “I knew I couldn’t let up, or I might not have placed in the top 10 to go to state, and it was probably one of the hardest courses we ran all year,” said Becker. 

Thanks to his training regiment, Becker is enjoying the fruits of his labor.  “I trained harder in the summer than I did last year. We have gone on more long runs than last year, and I have been watching what I eat to make sure I stay healthy,” Becker said.  

The young runner is quick to give credit to his coach, Lyle Silsby.  “Mr. Silsby is one of the best coaches I have ever had. He is always encouraging and calm. He has helped me by pushing me in practice and giving us good workouts to do during practice and things we can do after practice,” said Becker. 

Last year Becker was a state qualifier in track for the boys 3200 meters.