For the first time since 2008, the Padua Cross Country team has won a state championship. Placing second in the state meet last year to Tatnall, the team members were  ready for their own victory. Seven varsity runners were ready to run and had prepared for months for this meet. These runners included Emily P., Karlee P., Angie S., Erin S., Haley L., Regan R., and Maddie O. The team had trained hard all season long and on November 9, the cross country team came together for the final time this season. Emily P., a junior who came in as the first runner overall, recalled how helpful her teammates were by saying, “Those not running lined the course and cheered us on.” Every team member had an important role in the race whether it was running or cheering.

    As everyone from the team grew anxious for the race, the runners seemed ready and confident in what they could do. Junior Emily P., took an early lead and was able to maintain it throughout the entire race leading to her first place overall victory. Following close behind her were Junior Karlee P. and Senior Angie S., who respectively placed fourth and fifth. Junior Erin S. finished seventh as she became the fourth member of her team to cross the line. Senior Haley L. followed behind her placing eighteenth. Junior Regan R. and Freshman Maddie O., both came in close together ranking twenty-fourth and twenty-fifth.

    After the race was over, the rest of the team stayed by the finish line congratulating the runners. With the support of their teammates and coaches, the Pandas thought they had a good chance at first place but, they had two more races to watch before the awards ceremony.

    As the awards ceremony started, the energy of the team increasingly grew. Upon hearing their victory, the girls cheered and showed their support for their teammates. Winning by a 59 point margin, the whole team was very enthusiastic. Emily P. stated that, “The varsity squad got things done this weekend.” She commented, “We all did great and I am very proud of all of them.” After the conclusion of the ceremony, the team stayed together to celebrate, take pictures, and congratulate each other on everyone’s hard work and support.