News Summary

The East Ridge High School girls cross country team is gearing up for the new season with aspirations of clinching their fourth consecutive district championship. Following a record-breaking previous year, where they triumphed in both district and regional competitions, the Knights are determined to build on their success. With several top runners returning and a fresh roster of talent, they are focused on advancing to the state championships. The community is encouraged to support the team in their upcoming season as they prepare for fierce competition.

Excitement Builds as East Ridge High School Girls Cross Country Team Seeks Fourth Championship

The beautiful city of Clermont is buzzing with anticipation as the East Ridge High School girls cross country team officially kicked off their practice season on July 28, 2025. With just a couple of weeks until their first meet of the year, the Knights are eager to hit the trails and defend their title as district champions.

Preparation and Passion

This summer, many Knights dedicated themselves to fitness by participating in an engaging conditioning program throughout June and July. Their hard work paid off last season when the team enjoyed the most successful year in school history, reigning as district champions for three consecutive seasons. Their victory at the Class 4A District 3 Championships in November at Osceola High School in Kissimmee was a pivotal moment that still resonates with the team.

Last season, the girls not only clinched the district title but also advanced to the regional championships for the ninth time in school history. Their momentum didn’t stop there, as they celebrated their first team regional championship at the Class 4A Region 2 Championships. With a stunning individual performance, Rhyen Foley led the team by winning the individual regional championship with a remarkable time of 18:07.

Going for Gold

The Knights didn’t just stop at the regionals, as they placed an impressive fifth out of thirty-two elite teams at the Class 4A State Championships in Tallahassee. This year, the team is back and fired up, aiming not just for another district championship but also dreaming of a second regional championship and their first ever state championship.

Four of last season’s top scorers are returning, bringing a wealth of experience and ambition. Senior Rhyen Foley, the MVP and school record holder for the 5K with a time of 18:00, is on a mission to break her own record this season. She is joined by fellow seniors, Veronica Peterson, who is the second fastest runner in school history, and Adriana Mustin, who was the tenth fastest last season and boosted her mileage over the summer. Junior Taylor Walker, known as the ninth fastest runner in the school, is also ready to take her performance to new heights.

Adding to the Knights’ strength are other returning athletes like junior Jessie Volz, last season’s most improved runner, and juniors Lexi Whitehead and Yeidy Diaz, along with promising sophomores Sara and Daniela Garzon. The team also welcomes a fresh wave of talent this season, including newcomers such as juniors Livia Chouinard, Marietta Aguirre Rincon, and Alexa Puello, as well as sophomores Helen Robertson and freshmen Hortance Sallault, Jamie Volz, Saryna Stewart, and Annabelle Baggot. Coaches are particularly impressed with Robertson and Sallault for their dedication and commitment to summer training.

Looking Ahead

This season, the Knights will compete in the Class 4A Region 2 District 3 against a fierce lineup of 20 other teams, including powerhouses like Boone, Celebration, Cypress Creek, Dr. Phillips, and Freedom. The top eight teams, along with the top four individual non-team runners, will advance to the subsequent regional meet, raising the stakes for the upcoming season.

In addition to their competitive spirit, the team is hosting a fundraiser aimed at supporting travel expenses, meet registration fees, and team apparel. In preparation for the season, there’s a preseason meet scheduled for August 16 at 7:30 AM at Southern Hills Farms in Clermont, a gathering sure to showcase the Knights’ intense training and readiness.

Join the Journey!

As the East Ridge girls cross country team gears up for what promises to be an exhilarating season, the entire community is invited to cheer on these determined athletes. Their drive and perseverance not only bring pride to their school but also reflects the heart of Clermont. Keep an eye out for the Knights as they aim for the stars this season!

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