The cross country team had 11 individuals qualify for the state competition, held at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock. State took place on Nov 4th, with freshman Madison Devisscher and senior Adalyn Kobs being the top two finishers for the girls, and Junior Dax Allen doing the same for the boys.

“This year’s team was very talented and worked really hard,” cross country coach Jason Lawless said “I expect us to get to state again with both teams next year.”

Devisscher secured the 45th position out of 150, while Kobs claimed the 57th spot. Kobs is a two-time state qualifier.

“My team and I have put so much work into this season and I am so proud to see how it has paid off,”  Devisscher said. “I am thankful for my teammates and coaches who have been here this season and I am so grateful that we were able to make it to state.”

Allen was the only boys state qualifier and placed 51st out of 150 in the race.

“I went through a bunch of emotions during the state event—it felt like living a dream,”  Allen said.  “The support I got played such a big part in making this happen, and I couldn’t have done it without their incredible support.”

At the start of the season, the athletes go through training, covering distances ranging from 6 to 8 miles daily. Occasionally the students are logging 30 to 45 miles per week, or even more.

“Every morning the runners would wake up and head to practice at 6:20,” sophomore Abigail Kelly said. “My favorite memory of the practices in the mornings is that we would all sing out the music together and laugh.”