As the Girls Cross Country team races into the fall season they are searching for their first state title. Headed by mostly juniors and underclassmen, the young team has their goals set on making it out of regionals.

“Our team chemistry is strong and I want to improve myself and the team,” junior, Becca Stauffer said. “Varsity is looking good this year.”

There are high hopes this year for best times and for the team to become a stronger force.

“I would like to improve my time to be sub 22, and become closer with the team,” sophomore, Katie Manion another member of the team said. “The team is looking really strong and a whole lot better than last year, and has a chance of making it out of regionals.”

Senior Olivia Willem is leading by example and working as hard as she can everyday. Olivia has been injured but took track off this year to recover. However, it is still limiting her from participating in full workouts. She is doing as much cross training as she can to try to fully recover and get out there with the team.

“The team has a lot more girls than in the past and I am excited to see how far the girls can get in the tournament,” senior, Olivia Willem said. “The girls are all close and enjoy being around each other on and off the course.”

The team is also looking forward to having a lot of fans at the meets. The girls expect sectionals and regionals to bring out the most fans.

“I am looking forward to the flashrock meet at northview church,” freshman Grace Hanley said.

Grace’s goal this season is to break 20 minutes and be around 19:40.

“The team is more injury free than in the past and is working harder than ever,” Hanley said.

The team’s first meet is Saturday, August 20th at North Central.