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Cross country defines ‘teamwork’

Cross country defines ‘teamwork’

A couple weekends ago, I had the privilege of watching the Glenbard West cross country team win state. This experience made me grateful that I chose to participate in high school athletics. I didn’t run in the meet, but when I watched the girls I couldn’t have been more proud.

This meet showed me how amazing the athletic program at West is, and the lessons I have learned from being an athlete that I want to share with others.

Girls cross country has taught me about the importance of teamwork. Throughout my four years on this team I have grown close to an amazing group of people who have become my family. The race was won by seven hardworking girls, but every single team member felt like they too earned a piece of that state trophy. Becoming so close showed us how much we needed each other for support in every meet we ran. This program has taught me that on a team every person matters and must work together to achieve a common goal. We wouldn’t have won without each of the girls on the team.

Lessons about teamwork and determination are things that I will take with me forever. Cross country may be a physical sport, but it is mental, too. Watching the team win state is my favorite high school memory, but being a part of this team has defined my overall high school experience.

Overall, I am thankful that I was able to be a part of this amazing experience my senior year. I hope that other high school students will consider joining a sport because of the life-changing affects it has and what it teaches about the meaning of the word “teamwork.”

Amanda Ortiz

Wheaton

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