Kaylee Russell

Girls Cross County members stand with pride while going to state

After a two-hour drive west towards Peoria, the Mustangs were ready to run and compete with the best teams in the whole state of Illinois, filled with excitement and nervousness. The Mustangs placed third at Sectionals against tough competition, a decisive finish that secured their state bid and established their presence among the state’s top-tier teams.

This achievement proved that this team can compete with the best programs in the state of Illinois. 

“For me, I felt like it went pretty good,” sophomore Kaylee Russell said. “[The team] did well and almost all of us pr’d and had a good race.”

The Mustangs finished in 24th place as a team. Their result was highlighted by their top runner, sophomore Kaylee Russell, who placed 38th out of 235 runners in the event. In addition to Russell’s top-40 finish, the Mustangs saw great performances from the rest of their squad, with the mass achievement of personal records (PRs) underscoring the team’s determination and hard work.

“Big moments for the team at state were that almost all of the girls on our team ran a PR,” senior Julia Hannon said. “We ran our best in arguably one of the hardest states for cross country running.” 

With the 2025 season now officially in the books, the team reflects on its journey.

“A big moment was qualifying for state, and at state, really just being there and taking it all in,” Russell said.

“I’m so proud of the growth that this team has made since the beginning of summer,” Hannon said. “To be able to watch all of us grow not only as runners but as people, too, has been such a joy. I’m lucky to have been part of a team that is so wholesome, hard-working, and supportive.”

As the season ends, let us remember the hard work and commitment these Mustangs had to put in to get this far.  With the returning players such as Russell herself, it should come as no surprise that Metea will surely be back in state in no time. 

For now, the 2025 Metea Valley fall sports have officially ended.