On November 13th, 2011, seven Padua cross country runners were toeing on the line, ready to run their last race of the season. For some of them, it was their last race ever.

This year, Padua cross country has been stronger than ever with seven new freshman, three of which were on the varsity team. With the addition of the three rookies on the varsity squad the guidance of the team’s experienced runners was more important than ever.  The seniors Alana Whitmarsh, Garcelle Alequine, Olivia and Ally Allegretto, who ran cross country since freshman year, welcomed the newbies with tips and support. The rest of the team supported the runners and coaches, Coaches Marnie Guinta,  Justin Rogers, Brandon Lawler, and Buddy Opperman.

Padua’s cross country team has both a strong JV and varsity squad. Each runner on the team is equally important in contributing points to place in the meet. However, only seven runners on the team are allowed to run varsity while the rest run JV.  Although varsity has a fast pace, JV is competitive and filled with many other runners.

 At the Counties meet, Garcelle Alequine, Angie Spadaccini, Emily Paolucci, and Karlee Panella made all-county, which means that they are one of the top twenty five runners in the county.  The State competition, however, is the last race that helps the runners qualify for the top eighteen runners in the state of Delaware.

At the States meet, Kerri Kelly (‘12), Garcelle Alequine (‘12), Angie Spadaccini (‘14), Irlanda Manning (‘14), Karlee Panella (‘15), Emily Paolucci (‘15), and Erin Spadaccini, (‘15) prepared to run as the team did their final cheer. The overall turn out of the race was great with the girls taking third place. Garcelle Alequine (‘12) placed thirteenth in the race and Emily  Paolucci (‘15) placed tenth and also represented Padua Academy as a 13th place all-state runner.

Karlee Panella (‘15) admitted, “My favorite part about the experience was how close everyone was and how funny we all were.” The other team members developed good friendships with each other. Emily Paolucci enjoyed running during her freshman year and becoming a part of a team, “Cross country is interesting because it is a sport that is both individual and a team effort. I wouldn’t have gotten the times I have for races without the support of the team, whether it was the group talks, the prayers, the positive and motivational spirit before the races, the famous cheer, encouraging words on the sides during the race, or being there racing alongside me. All of it strengthen my desire and passion for the sport and helped me to push myself during the difficult parts.”

Although Padua Cross Country is commended for their great athleticism and ongoing endurance, the camaraderie amongst the team is what makes the girls truly succeed both physically and mentally.  Without their high spirits and great efforts of coach Marnie, PAXC would not be the team it is today.