Girls’ Cross Country Wraps Up Historic Season

     As the girls’ cross country season draws to a close, the team has much to celebrate and even more to look forward to. With new victories, standout athletes, and memories that will last long after the final race, this year has been one of the most successful in program history.

A Record-Breaking Year

     Head coach Mrs. Rush described the 2025 season as nothing short of historic.

     “So far, our team has had the most successful season in regular season history,” she said. “Our team has won county 10 years in a row, we won the Maconaquah Invitational, and the New-Prairie closed small school race for the first time. We also were runner-up as a team at the Culver Academy Invitational this past weekend.”

     But, Rush was quick to point out that success isn’t measured only in medals and trophies. “Success is not just defined by wins but by how the team gets along and works together,” she added. “This team has a special bond and not only gets along but the girls work to improve each other and the team.” That bond will be critical as the team heads into the postseason with conference, sectionals, and beyond on the horizon.

Senior Leadership Sets the Tone

     Rush gave a heartfelt shout-out to her senior runners, noting the impact they’ve had on both performance and team culture. “The seniors set the tone by picking a quote: ‘The teamwork in cross country is knowing that the collective effort is greater than the sum of its parts,’” Rush explained. “Our seniors work hard in practice every day, they have a positive attitude, and they make their teammates laugh and have fun whether at practice or at meets. The team’s culture and morale are reflected upon our seniors and our coaches.”

     For senior Aftin Griffin, this season has been especially meaningful. Griffin recently won the individual title at the Culver Invitational, where the team placed second overall. “The best meet/experience I’ve had yet would be the Culver meet this past Saturday,” she said. “Not only did I win, and the team got runner-up, but it was so fun hanging out with the team and eating lunch together. Culver is also the most beautiful course, getting to run right next to the lake.” As her high school career nears its end, Griffin has her eyes on big goals: making it to state, hitting a new personal record, and hopefully qualifying for the All-Star meet. “Those would be an incredible way to end my senior cross country career,” she said.

Looking Ahead: College Competition

     Griffin also has plans to continue her running career beyond high school. She hopes to compete for Indiana University–Indianapolis. “I am most looking forward to the harder training and competition at meets,” she said. “Running for a Division I college, I will run against a ton of competition and be able to better my times. I am excited to improve my cross country and track times.”

     Griffin admitted that she sometimes gets discouraged when she can’t improve her track times each year, but she sees college as a chance to push herself even further. “Training with people faster than me will make me a better athlete,” she added.

A New Perspective from Abroad

     The team’s family atmosphere doesn’t just impact returning athletes it extends to new members as well, including foreign exchange student Paula Pons from Spain. While she normally plays basketball back home, she’s enjoyed experiencing cross country for the first time. “Both sports require teamwork, discipline, and pushing yourself to improve,” Pons explained. “The big difference is that basketball is more about strategy and playing together on the court, while cross country is more individual and focused on endurance.” Even though the sport was new, she found the transition welcoming. “I really enjoy being on this team. Everyone is very welcoming. It is a great way to make friends and feel more connected at school,” she said.

     Her favorite memories so far include cheering for teammates at races and enjoying post-meet meals. For other exchange students who might be hesitant about joining a sport, her advice is simple: “Try it. Sports are one of the best ways to make friends, learn about the culture, and feel part of the school community. You don’t have to be the best, you just need to enjoy the experience.”

The Season’s Legacy

     With strong leadership from its seniors, exciting performances from standout athletes, and contributions from every runner on the roster, the girls’ cross country team has built a season to remember. As they move into the postseason, the lessons learned about grit, teamwork, and perseverance will carry into next year and beyond.

     As Mrs. Rush put it, “What we learn this season about leadership, grit, confidence, teamwork, and how to be successful will help us next year.” And with the passion and dedication shown this year, the program’s future looks just as bright as its present.