The Field Falcon cross country teams, members of the Portage Trail Conference, have adopted a two-and-a-half-mile path through Mogadore Reservoir Park.

 

Keeping the trail clear provides a community service project for coach Ed Conroy’s teams, but also cultivates a sense of pride when the Falcons talk about their “home” cross country course.

 

Under the purview of the City of Akron, and with a reduction in budget and laborers to work the path, Conroy and his teams stepped up to the task, rather than complain. They have had the tacit approval of park managers.

 

“This is our fourth year maintaining these trails,” Conroy said. “For about two or three hours we have 20-to-30 runners that come in one of the two days that we’re out here and help keep these trails clear.”

 

The Falcons come out to Mogadore Reservoir Park with sheers, rakes, lawnmowers and a brush hog, which Conroy descri...