The girls’ cross country team grew in numbers and in spirit while they competed in meets and invitationals, learning more about running and staying in shape.

In the past four years, the team increased from around twelve to twenty-nine girls. Coach Jason Milczewski gave his team with one main goal.

“My only goal for the team ultimately is that they continuously get better as the year goes by… If the team is having fun and the spirit and mood are good then I’m happy,” Milczewski said.

Going into his fourth year coaching, Milczewski wanted the team to have a positive experience. Senior runner and three year letterman, Cecelia Salem, noted the effect cross country has on her.

“I have loved [cross country]. [It] has been my favorite high school experience,” Salem said.

Another senior runner and three year letterman, Olivia Cross, has also enjoyed her time in the sport and with the team.

“[Cross country] has made me a stronger runner. I can now run further distances,” Cross said.

Cross also said that the team is like a “family” and she loves being with everyone.

The team placed 5th in the Suburban League.

After placing 10th at Districts, junior Natalie Pasinznyk qualified for Regionals, which took place at Boardman on October 26th.