History Made: Girls Cross-Country Ranked #1 in State

Athlete interviews

History Made: Girls Cross-Country Ranked #1 in State

(September 25, 2025) – For the first time in LCA history, the girls' cross country team is ranked #1 in the state across all classes.

These athletes are living out verses like 1 Corinthians 9:24–25, which reads:
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable."

"I think it's nice to see all the hard work that we put in show off at all the meets, run really fast, and get to watch everyone compete," said Annie Sewell, senior and cross country athlete. "It's really nice to see progress, especially on the boys' team."

Samuel Scott, also a senior and cross country athlete, said part of what inspires him and his team is watching the girls' team thrive and succeed.

"It's fun to win and fun to do well. It's fun to watch the girls' team from the boys' perspective because in every meet we go to, they're either the favorites or competing to win. It's enjoyable to see them compete at such a high level. The guys' program is also on the rise a little bit, so that's fun to see."

Like all victories, both Annie and Samuel said they’ve learned a lot about what it means to prepare—both on and off the course. They hope to use this experience to inspire the younger generation of students who also want to strive for the same goals.

"It's more than just showing up at practice and running. It's taking care of yourself at home too," Samuel said.

"The process is definitely tough, but I wouldn't do it with another group of girls and guys. We love each other, and we push each other to be the best," Annie added.

LCA athletes like Annie and Samuel work hard because they want to bring glory to God in all they do. Annie shared one of her favorite Bible verses when it comes to her athletic career: 1 Peter 5:7, which reads:
"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
She uses this verse when running to help put herself and her team at ease when anxiety hits, and to remind them that the results are in God's hands. All they need to do is follow His plan.

"Cross country is a very mental sport. If you don't have good mental toughness, then it's going to be a very long race. We have a lot of people who get anxious before the race, and I think just knowing that God is with us—I tell them every time that God has a plan for you," Annie said. "He has a plan for you. Keep trusting Him and run for the Lord."