The girls cross country team had its ups and downs in their 2014 season. But, according to sophomore Tessa Furlong, the team worked hard for what they achieved.

“This season, the team definitely pushed themselves harder. We did more workouts, lifting, and training to get our minds and bodies equipped,” said Furlong. “Cross county is a sport where you have to stay positive. Telling yourself you can’t do it or that it’s not that important is easy when you’re in that vulnerable state while running. Pushing yourself needs to start from your thoughts, and I struggled with reminding myself of the importance of this.”

This years team consisted of more underclassman than usual on the varsity team, which is going to be very beneficial for the team in the future.

Sophomore Allison Smith said, “I would say the JV girls winning the Chuck Wallin Classic would be one of the highlights of this season! We also made great friendships over the season. Overall it was a great season, and we should have great seasons ahead of us with many younger runners with great potential.”

Furlong said, “Our team did very well this season, considering how young we are. Five of the seven runners on varsity are underclassmen, which will hopefully bring the girl’s program greater successes in the years to come. Individually, my biggest accomplishment was being able to make all-conference as a sophomore. The entire team is very proud of what we have completed this season and we’re looking forward for the next.”

Besides accomplishing personal goals, the team also decided to make a difference at their last meet of the season.

“One of the best highlights would definitely be how we dedicated our last race to Keagan Oslage, our track coaches son who was recently diagnosed with childhood leukemia. We made t-shirts for him, and i think it brought our team together and made such a great difference,” said Smith.

The 2015 girls cross country season is sure to be one of the best. With a good amount of support, the young group of girls can reach great heights.