With his top two runners back, one of them a two-time All-American, Jim Clark is understandably upbeat.

The longtime cross country coach for the Jimmies will field a lineup that features standout Aleona Reyes and Samantha Goff, who qualified for nationals last season, at the season-opener today at Town and Country Club in Valley City.

"When you have a two-time All-American returning, there is excitement in the team camp. Add to that a teammate who also qualified for the national meet as a freshman and the optimism is doubled," said Clark, in his 35th season leading the program.