“There’s a better team atmosphere, better work ethic this year,” said Engle, who is assisted again by Jim Wendolek, who also assists Engle in the spring as coach of distance runners on Jackson Liberty’s outdoor track and field team, and new volunteer assistant Bob O’Rourke, who had retired as head coach of North Hunterdon High School, where he developed many elite runners. “Steve Linton did a really god job for us, but he was a quiet leader and we didn’t get the leadership from the seniors,” Engle said. “We’re trying to change the team attitude dedicated to winning this year. We’re on track.” Amy Caruso coaches Jackson Liberty’s girls team, which is thin on numbers and big on rebuilding this season compared to the boys team. Kasey Suzko, who finished 19th in the state sectionals in 20:54.7, and Morgan Albrecht, who was 40th in 22:07, led the graduated seniors that include Tiffany Fleidner and Lucy Kosty. The younger runners will need to step up for this fall. Jackson Memorial welcomes back senior Caitlin O’Brien, who was 30th in the NJSIAA Group IV championships in 20:06. The Jaguars have gotten in some good roadwork running in the Belmar Chase and in team relay races during the summer. “It’s going good. She’s very motivated for her senior year, and she’s looking to run in college,” Calabro said. “She’s doing everything she’s supposed to be doing and with intensity. She’s doing strength work and flexibility and strength work.” The senior-laden team includes experienced lineup runners Jillian Zamrzycki and Cassidy Johnson heading into the Sept. 12 season-opening St. Dominic Invitational in Jersey City. Other runners who could break into the lineup are junior Kayley Wilson and Claudia Besse and sophomores Paige Hurle and Brianna Anastasi. Sophomore Rachel Gasser and junior Julia Moir also could contribute.