By John Raffel
When it comes to fall sports, Ithaca obviously gained notoriety because of its state championship football program.
But the success during the fall doesn’t stop there. The girls’ cross country team and coach Gene LeBron continue to make an impressive name for themselves.
“So far, we have won every meet we have competed in,” LeBron said on Sept. 22. He was referring to the St. Johns Invitational, Yellowjacket Invitational, Gratiot County championships, the first TVC West Jamboree, and the Holly Invitational.
As a result, Ithaca was ranked No. 1 in the state in Division 3 in mid-September.
“It always helps to have talented individuals who are willing to work hard and buy into the system,” LeBron said. “We have that. These girls are not afraid to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty. They have been committed to the mission since last season, and things are starting to come into focus for them.”
Team chemistry has been a valuable asset. “I know that is so cliche to say, but we do [have it],” LeBron said. “There is not one toxic attitude on the team. That has really been key for us. We have always had great kids, but this year everyone is on board, and nobody is holding us back with attitude.”
While everyone wonders if Ithaca football can bid for another title, the Yellowjackets’ runners have high goals for themselves, as well.
“The ultimate goal is to continue to improve,” LeBron said. “I feel if we can do that, we can be on the podium at the state meet.”
The team is obviously loaded with talent this season.
Courtney Allen, a sophomore, has a best time of 19:17 and has expectations of top five at state. Other all-state candidates are juniors Kurstin Kalisek and Blaire Showers, with top times of 20:30 and 20:05 so far, and senior Hannah Thayer with a top time of 20:30.
Runners whom LeBron expects to run in the 19s at state include sophomore Amelia Freestone, who is at 20:44, and junior Alyssa Manky, who is at 21:02. Junior Erica Sheahan is expected to run in the 20s at the state meet. She’s currently at 21:54.
“We are ranked No. 1 in the state right now, but we know there are so many great teams that will be in the hunt for the Division 3 title,” LeBron said. “Shepherd is the defending champ, and they are getting better every week. They have great kids and a great coach. Macomb Lutheran North and Manistee have awesome front runners, and if their 4 and 5 get better, they will be tough to beat.
“A team to watch closely is Pewamo-Westphalia. They were D4 last year but moved up to D3 this year, and they are getting much better. They are young, and their coach does a great job getting them ready for the end of the year. It should be really competitive during the final four meets for us.”