Team photo at the Wildcat Invitational (Photo by Coach Andy Chan).

You may have seen the Cross Country team’s occasional appearances on SHC Live, giving simple updates on their meet performances; however, it’s tough to communicate in those brief segments just how successful the team has truly been this season. From the beginning of the season to qualifying for the State meet at CCS, the Irish have consistently dominated, achieving considerable victories at every meet. The team’s outstanding performances are not the result of just talent or luck, but true dedication and respect for the sport. Whether you are a fan of Cross Country or not, there’s no denying that their season has been a highlight for sports at SHC this fall. 

Post-Season:

As fall sports reach the end of their seasons, Cross Country’s Varsity teams are still going strong in the postseason. At the CCS Championship meet on November 15th, Girls Varsity earned 2nd place out of 14 teams, and Boys Varsity placed third out of 13. Additionally, Annalisa Covucci came seventh individually and medaled. Not to mention, many runners either met or achieved new personal records.  Because of their victories, both Varsity teams are moving forward in the post-season and are locking it in for the upcoming CIF State Championship!

The Driving Force:

While the team is talented, it is their extreme amounts of discipline and effort that have resulted in their success. Head Coach Andy Chan believes the team’s community and leadership are what have been keeping them motivated and fighting hard. In an interview following the results of CCS, Coach Chan states, “community is our secret weapon. People are willing to train and fight really hard during a race because they’re doing it for their teammates, who they love…Additionally, I think our team leaders did a great job of welcoming in newer runners to Varsity by making sure they felt included and excited.” Whether it’s at a practice or at a race, you can always count on the Irish to support and encourage their teammates to do their best. 

Showing Appreciation:

SHC’s Cross Country program has been doing spectacularly this year and in the past. Members of this year’s team have continued the tradition of community, putting in the work to accomplish so much and to make it far into the post-season. They didn’t want to “leave the mountaintop,” as Coach Chan would describe it, and gave it everything they got, upholding the Irish’s three-year streak of both the Varsity Girls and Boys teams qualifying for the State meet. That amount of dedication deserves recognition and appreciation. Go Irish!☘