Boys and girls cross country teams head to Leesburg for states.

Both teams competed in the VHSL 6A Regional event on Nov. 5 at Bells Mills Park, Chesapeake. The girls placed first with a score of 37, and the boys placed second with a score of 72, in order to qualify for states.

“Having just won regionals, I think our team will show up with energy and finish the season strong,” said senior Sophia Pommerenk.

According to Sophia, both her and senior Sophia Richardson helped lead the team and influence the underclassmen to gain confidence.

Sophomores Khadija Sissoko and Grace Thompson helped drive the team during regionals, thanks to their influence.

“We accept that we are responsible for our effort, mindset, and what kind of teammate we are,” said Coach Michael Nestor.

According to Nestor, responsibility and leadership has allowed this team to continuously grow with many young promising runners who shape the team. 

“Right now, we’re just trying to stay relaxed,” said senior Nick Pham.

According to Nick, hard work and dedication led the team to this opportunity to compete in states. As of right now, the runners are trying to stay ready. In preparation for states, they began tapering, so practices focused on getting ready rather than training hard.

The team competes at the 6A State meet on Nov. 12 at Oatlands Plantation in Leesburg, Virginia.

“My expectations are that we will surprise the northern teams by bringing our group to a higher place than we were ranked,” said Sophia.