NEW LENOX, Ill. — Lincoln-Way Central girls’ cross country has its sights set on a top-10 finish at the state meet this fall after qualifying as a full team in 2024.
Head coach Ryan Stapinski said last year’s run built momentum despite adversity. “We made it as a whole team to the state finals, which is a big accomplishment,” Stapinski said. “We dealt with injuries, but overcame that adversity and still made it to state.”
Stapinski pointed to the team’s track season success as a springboard. “After an incredible track season, the girls are ready to go down and make some noise at the state meet,” he said.
Senior leaders Macy Gallagher, Aubrey Shipman, and Ava Dughetti are setting the tone with consistent summer training and strong time trials. “Girls are running 40 seconds faster than last year,” Stapinski said.
With a strong group of upperclassmen and depth across the lineup, the Knights believe they are positioned to compete for conference and regional titles as well. “We’re definitely in a spot to win the conference for the first time in decades,” Stapinski said.
The Knights open their season with confidence and expectations of challenging the state’s best.