How Determination and Teamwork Led to Historic State Finishes

We are incredibly proud to share that our Boys and Girls Cross Country Teams brought home State trophies to Cottage Grove, marking an outstanding accomplishment for our student-athletes and our entire school community. For the first time in school history, both teams placed in the State Finals for 4A schools! The boys team rallied to bring home a 3rd place State finish AND the girls team powered their way into a 4th place finish. 

This achievement is about more than trophies and finish-line moments, as it reflects the qualities we strive to cultivate in every student. Determination, resilience, teamwork, and a commitment to growth were on full display throughout the season. Our athletes pushed themselves, supported one another, and demonstrated what is possible when hard work meets heart. Crossing that finish line is the end goal, but these team victories were not simply won during that race, they were won in the countless hours of training, practicing when they didn’t want to, learning technique, mentally preparing, and the pain they endured to earn it along the way. It was also won thanks to the commitment of coaches, families, teammates and friends who supported them in this commitment. 

Their success on the course mirrors the values we hope all our students carry with them, whether preparing for the State championship race, for a challenging algebra test, collaborating with peers on a project, memorizing lines for a play or notes for a performance, or pursuing personal goals beyond school. We all face struggles and challenges, and meeting them head on with determination leads to growth. 

Both of our Cottage Grove teams went into the final State event not favored to place where they did, but this did not deter them and they preserved through the challenge. These teams have shown that when we stay focused, continually work hard, lift each other up, and believe in our potential, we can achieve remarkable things.

We extend our congratulations to the cross country athletes, coaches, and families who supported them every step of the way. Thank you for representing our district with excellence and embodying the spirit of growth and achievement that defines our school community. 

Congratulations, Cross Country! We are proud of your hard work and accomplishments!