The early season of cross-country is a peculiar time. States out West are well into their season, while the Northeast is just getting started. This provides a mismatch of efforts in September and makes for some estimated guessing in the rankings. Typically, those expecting to go deep into December are starting out slow. But those who have never been, and are only realizing their potential now, are opening up faster than ever. Consider our first rankings a mix of returners and fresh faces.
8th grader Brianna Reilly is making a quick name for herself out of South Dakota, challenging a top 5-ranked athlete early.
Upperclassmen are seeing big moves, too. The Garmer sisters have been the breakout stars of the early season, showcasing they can maintain that track speed on the hills of XC. Natasza Dudek is also living up to her family legacy by producing big marks early.
Lastly, you have the athletes who have been there before. Former NXN Champ Addison Ritzenhein opened in a modest effort, running with her teammates. Lily Alder saw what her teammate Jane did last year, and is starting out easy in anticipation of a big finish.
It all culminates in our first ranking of the season. We're only getting started.
The early season of cross-country is a peculiar time. States out West are well into their season, while the Northeast is just getting started. This provides a mismatch of efforts in September and makes for some estimated guessing in the rankings. Typically, those expecting to go deep into December are starting out slow. But those who have never been, and are only realizing their potential now, are opening up faster than ever. Consider our first rankings a mix of returners and fresh faces.
8th grader Brianna Reilly is making a quick name for herself out of South Dakota, challenging a top 5-ranked athlete early.
