Senior Night For SJND XC
Written by Austin L. ‘27
With the fall season coming to an end, fall sports teams are concluding with only a couple more meets and games. Recently, on October 26, 2023, SJND hosted their cross country Senior Night after the last league meet at Crab Cove. The girls’ and boys’ teams placed 3rd and 5th respectively. In addition, during this time, they celebrated the seniors who spent their last moments in cross country at SJND and their journey throughout the 4 years.
I interviewed Isabella Corral, a senior at SJND and the girl’s cross country team co-captain. Having 10 years of experience, cross country has been a big part of her athletic career. “It is where I’ve met some of my closest friends and teammates that basically became my family,” Isabella said. “We’ve created so many fun memories that I’ll never forget. Whether that be the small moments of talking about our days during long runs or going on away meets down in SoCal, I’ll forever be grateful for both my teammates and coaches.”
Being part of the cross country team myself, I can wholeheartedly agree with Isabella. No matter if we’re at meets or at practice, the support we give each other is unimaginable, unlike anything else. Although I only spent a couple of months with them, it truly feels like a second home.
Moreover, Luisa Barrantes, also a senior at SJND and girl’s cross country team co-captain, agrees as well. “We always support each other and keep each other going, both in cross country and in life in general,” Luisa mentioned. “It’s also made me a lot more mentally tough. Cross country has nothing to distract you when you’re running, so over the years, I’ve gotten better at just toughing things out.”
Sharing such heartfelt and transparent stories, cross country is an opportunity to try something new and create lifelong friends and supporters by your side. “For those who are doing cross country for the first time, don’t stress about not being the best but be proud and grateful for all the small achievements and memories you’ll make along the way,” Isabella explained.
The cross country team competed in the BCL Championship meet on Thursday, November 2, 2023. Let’s root for them to keep pushing forward and reach NCS (North Coast Section) Championships!
