CALDWELL, N.J. -- Bloomfield, N.J. native Logan Kudla's journey to Caldwell was, at least geographically, shorter than most. About the distance of an 8K cross country race separates separates the Essex County municipalities (though doing so on Bloomfield Avenue at rush hour might not be advisable).

With the cross country season underway, Kudla finds himself now outside of the shadow of three-time CACC Champion Joey Datta, whose record-setting exploits on the course and track may never be equaled. But that doesn't mean Kudla won't be going after them, as well as trying to follow, literally, in Datta's footsteps and qualify for Regionals.

The junior Health Science major took a few minutes away from training to let us know what the 2025 season might bring for him and the Cougars.

What is your main goal for your team this season, both on and off the field?  
Our main goal this season is to be competitive. We are going to go out there each race and push ourselves to be the best possible version of our team. 

What is a team motto or a core value that will drive your team this season?  
A core value that drives us is discipline. Discipline is especially important. If you want to achieve things, not only in cross-country but in all aspects of everyday life, you must be disciplined and consistent in everything that you do. 

What is the one thing you want fans to know about your team?  
I want our fans to know that we work extremely hard and compete to the best of our ability. 

Who is a player on your team that we should be watching out for this season, and why?
Sophomore Luke Molyneux is someone who you should be watching out for this season. He is a rising star with a lot of potential. He is ready to have a breakout season on the track. 

What is one personal goal you're striving for this season? 
My personal goal is to break 25 minutes in the 8k race, place high at Regionals and go to Nationals. 
 
What are you most looking forward to in your first season as a team captain?  
I am looking forward to giving pre-race motivational speeches.  

After you graduate, what are you hoping to do next? 
After I graduate, I am hoping to get my Pharmacy degree (PharmD). 

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your team or this season that we haven't asked about? 
We are a young team, but we are talented and hungry to win. You should expect big things in our future.