Rowan men’s cross country has a team filled with leaders and good role models. But the biggest role model of the team is Senior, Matthew Conway. 

The Haddon Township native has been a great leader for the guys on the cross country team. Head Coach, Dustin Dimit says that Conway has done everything right for the past couple of years. 

“He’s just been a great leader and really does everything the right way and sets a good example as well,” Dimit said. “Make sure everybody else is doing what they’re supposed to do. He’s been a great leader the last couple of years. Matt does everything right. He’s a great student, a great athlete, a great leader, great person. So, we love having him on the team.”

Conway is excited to teach the next generation of runners, while also instilling a sense of excellence in the program. They’ve been very successful during Conway’s time with the team, as they dominated not only the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) but all of Division I as well.

“It’s very exciting to, you know, to bring up the younger guys into the tradition that we have,” Conway said. “I think that one of the big things is that we try to instill, you know, a sense of excellence. We have a tradition of excellence and we keep that going.” 

Going into his final year of cross country, Conway has a lot of fond memories. His most memorable memory was winning the NJAC championship last year. 

“We had some difficulties, but we overcame them,” Conway said. “We won even though we had encountered some challenges that day and I think our ability to overcome those challenges was pretty good.” 

As good as Conway is during the cross country season, his coach believes that he is even better at something else. Regardless, Conway is proud of the performances that he’s had throughout his four years with the team.

“He’s always been better at track than cross country,” Dimit said. “It’s just keeping that good mindset of attacking the cross country course and being ready for, you know, the terrain to be different and things like that. But he’s done a good job and we expect him to continue to do that and continue to improve on those little things he can do mentally to help.”

With just one meet left before the NJAC Championships and the cross country season winding down, one of the things that Conway will miss the most once he graduates is the team and the bond that he shares with his teammates.

“I’m going to miss the team the most,” Conway said. “I mean, we’re together right through winter track and outdoor track. Once I graduate, I’m going to miss the team the most. I mean, they’re what makes this sport fun and I think once I’m done, it’ll be sad.” 

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