The girls cross country team had a season to remember, culminating in two runners qualifying for the state meet. The team’s journey through regionals and sectionals showcased not only athletic talent but also perseverance, teamwork, and mental strength.
Every team automatically competes in the Regional meet, but qualifying for Sectionals requires a top-six finish for the team, or a top-five finish for individuals not on qualifying teams. The girls placed third at their Regional, advancing the entire team to Sectionals.
While the team fell just short of qualifying as a whole—finishing eighth—they still celebrated individual achievements.
“Dilana Kowaczek and Iya Repple were the sixth and eighth individuals, respectively, to qualify for State,” Coach Roberts shared.
Training leading up to these crucial meets involved a mix of endurance runs, speed workouts, and hill training.
“Leading into state we taper for the sectional and state meet, meaning that our mileage pulls back and our weight training dips down,” Coach Roberts explained.
Throughout the season, the athletes grew both physically and mentally. “I watched a lot of my athletes gain confidence and step into their roles on the team,” Coach Roberts said. “It is an awesome thing to watch the girls start believing in what they are capable of and getting after it.”
Mental preparation was a key focus this year. The team emphasized positivity and control, creating “I Will” statements at pasta parties the night before meets to set achievable goals.
“This is much easier said than done, but we worked really hard and by the end of the season I could see that we were starting to believe in ourselves,” Coach Roberts said.
“The girls do such a great job of motivating each other during tough practices and workouts. They really boost each other up and push each other,” the coach noted. During races, teammates found each other and pushed forward together, proving that success is as much about camaraderie as speed.
The coach had confidence in the team from the start. “I thought that state was within reach from the beginning of the season. I knew it would be difficult, but I knew we had the talent,” she said.
Looking back on the season, the coach highlighted the importance of belief and mindset. “I think that this team is so capable of being great, I just think that we need to believe in ourselves and keep working on our mindset. The girls keep getting stronger and faster, and I know that they will achieve great things!”
With talent, determination, and a supportive team spirit, the girls cross country team proved this season that success isn’t just about the finish line. “The supportive environment really helped everyone grow confidence and accomplish big goals this season,” said Kowaczek.