As the Lightridge Cross Country team heads into the postseason, there are high expectations from players and coaches alike. The girls team placed 5th in states last year, and the boys were close behind, placing 10th.
“I’m really confident, “said senior girl’s team captain Hailey Sekhon. “Our girls team is improving a lot.”
“I think a successful season is getting to states and placing top three,” said senior boy’s team captain Thomas Novinger.
The team is optimistic, but are also mindful of potential setbacks, including injuries. Novinger battled an Achilles injury that led up to the start of the season, which forced him to be inactive for many practices.
Novinger has since fully recovered, and is prepared for the team’s toughest opponents.
“I’m gonna say Riverside is the biggest threat, they have some dogs on their team,” Novinger said. “If we don’t beat them we are not making states.”
Riverside is a common tough opponent for both the boys and girls cross country teams. Sekhon agrees.
“The biggest threats are probably Riverbend and Riverside,” said Sekhon.
However, even with the high stakes and tough opponents, the team continues to find positives.
With many bright spots across the roster, the cross country team, above everything else, is a bond.
“We have great team chemistry,” senior boy’s captain Brandon Antonacci said.
Postseason races start the second half of October.
“I have high hopes for the team,” said coach Wilfredo Clemente. “They’re working very hard.”