Defined by growth, determination, and resilience, the girls’ cross country team had a memorable fall season. Coming into the season, Head Coach Keith Kesten’s goal for the season was for the team to peak at the state sectional meet in Central Jersey.

“We have a large group of 10th graders… a lot of them are new to cross country, and we’re looking for them to have a great time,” Kesten said.

The team’s hard work and steady progress over the season become evident. The younger athletes showed tremendous growth, having pushed through tough practices and races, all while learning the ways of the demanding sport.

Despite this success, injuries still presented themselves as one of the most significant challenges for the team, especially among the team’s seniors. 

“We had an injury to two of our seniors… actually, all three of our seniors have been injured,” Kesten said. 

However, the team demonstrated perseverance with underclassmen like junior Jenna Kirstein stepping up to fill these gaps. Kirstein, who has cut nearly five minutes off her 5K time since last year, attributes her improvement to consistency and hard work. 

“My PR last weekend at Dream Park was a pretty big accomplishment for me… Holmdel’s like top seven hardest in the state, and I was able to do pretty good there,” Kirstein said.

With this drive and dedication, Kirstein has become a key contributor, showcasing the team’s resilience and growth.

Senior Abigail Flannery reflected on her final cross-country season with joy and remembrance. 

“It’s a mix of happiness and sadness. Knowing this is my last season makes each race feel more meaningful. I feel grateful that I’ve had all these years with the team, and it pushes me to give each race my all,” Flannery said. “There’s also a bit of sadness, knowing this is my last season.” 

Before each race, she said she experienced both excitement and nerves but reminded herself to enjoy each moment and to push herself as hard as possible. 

“I want to leave this season with proud success,” Flannery said.

Looking back on her years as a runner, Flannery said the sport has taught her a lot. 

“Since freshman year, I’ve grown a lot, both physically and mentally. I remember being a little overwhelmed by the long races and the intensity of the sport, but now I’m much stronger and know how to approach each run with confidence,” Flannery said. “Running has taught me patience and that mental strength is something I’ll carry with me moving forward.”

According to Flannery, her proudest moment came during her junior year when she hit her personal best.

“Crossing the finish line with a time I’d never hit before felt like everything had paid off,” she said. “It showed me what I’m capable of when I put in the time and effort.” 

This season Flannery took on a supportive leadership role, especially for the team’s younger runners. 

“I try to be someone they can count on, whether it’s encouraging them during a workout or just being there to listen if they’re feeling nervous. I remind them that it’s okay to feel nervous but to trust their training,” she explained. “I try to inspire them by setting a good example, showing up with a positive attitude, and giving my best at every race.”

As for her own pre-race routine, she said she emphasizes mental preparation. 

“I spend time going over positive thoughts and reminding myself of my goals… During the race, I keep myself focused by concentrating on my breathing,” Flannery said. 

Beyond training and competition, the team also finds ways to support one another in balancing academics, athletics, and personal commitments. For Sephora Cenet, a junior who previously focused on sprinting, transitioning to cross-country has helped her build mental strength.

“When preparing for a cross-country race, I prepare myself for the length and pain… I remind myself to start slow and keep my pace,” Cenet said. 

This season created a close and supportive environment where runners like Cenet and Kirstein, along with their teammates, relied on each other to stay motivated and focused.

Flannery, in her senior year, said she hopes her impact on the team will continue for seasons to come.

 “I hope to leave a legacy of hard work and positivity,” Flannery said. “I want the younger runners to know that cross-country isn’t just about times or placements. it’s about going beyond what you thought you could do.” 

With runners like Flannery and Kirstein leading the way, the team is set on finishing its season strong, inspired by the memories they’ve made and the goals they’ve achieved.