Oak Park High School is known for its rigorous curriculum and academic excellence. However, it also excels in many different sports on campus. Oak Park’s girls varsity cross country team took on the Cool Breeze Invitational and left with a victory on Aug. 30.
Last school year, Oak Park placed eighth overall in the girls Sundown Showdown race. This year, however, the girls were able to secure first place in their division.
Freshman Kathleen Lambe was able to place in the top ten for the Sundown Showdown race, clocking in at 17:23.2, as well as freshman Áine Pitillo, who finished in 13th place with a final time of 17:27.9.
OPHS cross country has been working hard since last season with hopes of taking home a win at state. However, more goes into being a winning team than just athletic ability.
“It takes a runner to cross the finish line, but a team to win, and that’s something that Oak Park Cross Country does not lack,” junior Jasleen Sumal said. “We show up every day, ready to get better, and it’s at meets like this that all of that hard work pays off.”
Although running is an individual effort, cross country takes a large number of talented athletes and turns it into a team sport, where individual actions can affect the whole team.
Having good sportsmanship is important in any sport, but it takes on a larger role in cross country. Teammates can be some of your biggest cheerleaders but also your biggest competitors. It is important to show up for your team and always show team spirit while at meets. Having an encouraging attitude and a strong sense of sportsmanship is the foundation of a strong and successful team.
Having a positive attitude on gameday can affect the outcome of the race more than some might suspect. Keeping energy up and continuing traditions is something that adds a little extra spark of excitement within athletes, and can be the final touch to make the meet go accordingly.
“One of my favorite parts is before a race we all huddle in a circle and scream as loud as we can: How are we gonna win? As a team,” sophomore Heleena Barnett said
This tradition not only gives athletes an adrenaline rush but also puts them in a good headspace to take home a win for their team. Exciting rituals can ignite a competitive spirit for athletes as well as give them a sense of unity throughout the team.
Furthermore, having a strong sense of community in a team extends beyond the outcomes of a race. Teamwork can include supporting each other at practice or training, celebrating wins, and giving support during losses. A strong bond within a team can motivate athletes to push even harder and reach their full potential.
“Our team is the strongest it’s ever been this year, and we are all so excited to see what we can do,” sophomore Tabitha Brown said.
The girls on the OPHS cross country team have been endlessly training for this season and are excited to see what’s next. They have shown great dedication since the start of the season, and their hard work is reflected in their scores. Keeping up with hard work and a positive attitude will only bring more victories their way.
