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Congratulations to Erika Swanson and Jerilynn Simmer for running at the
Class A State Cross Country Championship this weekend, and thanks to the
throngs of Nighthawks (teammates, families, and friends--dozens of
them!) who drove down on a beautiful day to support and cheer them on!
Erika, a sophomore, earned All State honors by taking 18th place (19:36)
in her second State meet appearance; Jerilynn, a 9th-grader, took 75th
(20:36) in her first trip to the event, out of 176 ru
nners
who qualified at their respective Sections statewide.
We coaches can
try to describe the scene to our athletes before the event, but the
level and depth of competition here is something that cannot be
taught--only experienced. Coaching these young women--and all their
teammates--is an awesome privilege. When we started the program, State
was a very big "someday." We had no idea. These two earned this special
weekend through their dedication, discipline, and coachability; and they
were excellent ambassadors as they represented their team.
Thanks again
to all the team families and sponsors who have supported the program at all levels
and steps along the way. Every season is a gift.
