The Dawson County cross country team is preparing for Saturday's Warpath Invitational at Boling Park in Canton.

More than 40 varsity teams, with most bringing their junior varsity squads, will race in the event.

"This week has probably been one of the most complete weeks I've seen from the runners so far. On both the boys and girls teams, we have a strong core group of runners who are really starting to run as a pack and execute their paces in workouts," said Charles Beusse, Dawson County High School coach.

"It's amazing to see how much stronger we are as a team as compared to a month ago. I'm also encouraged by the level of dedication and leadership that has developed from this team.

"The kids are really pushing each other and leading by example. I can see a real ‘team before yourself' mentality developing and I know that's going to be a key factor in helping set this program up for success in the future."

The girls team is currently ranked No. 12 in Class AAA in the state while the boys are ranked No. 15.

"I honestly believe that a top 10 finish in state by the end of the season is attainable by both teams," Beusse said.

The team held a Run-A-Thon fundraiser last week.

"I thought our fundraiser was a great success. The team really came through to help make it a success. We had kids having so much fun grinding out miles tonight that they didn't want to stop after two hours and were begging to run more. I'm extremely excited about the direction this program is going," Beusse said.

"All the credit goes to the kids. I've got a great group of kids that take pride in what they do and want to represent DCHS to the best of their ability," he said.

Also running Saturday at Boling Park will be the middle school runners under the watch of Coach Beth Hamby.