Ever since the boys took the state title in 2007 and the girls in 2006, the Xavier Saints have not been known as the cross country teams to look out for at the state meet. Both the boys’ team and the girls’ team are looking to change that mindset. This year, both teams have already had runners with state worthy times.

The girls’ team participated in the Prairie Invitational on August 27, placing 17th of 20. They also participated in the Linn-Mar Invitational on September 3, placing third out of five teams. Leading the team at the Prairie Invitational were seniors Peyton Recker, Katie Tallett, and Annie Sigmon by getting 60th, 75th, and 109th.

“Our team goals for the year are qualifying for the state meet in October,” Sigmon said. “I am also looking for a personal best. We work hard at every practice to achieve this.”

The 9th ranked boys’ team also participated in the Prairie and Linn-Mar Invitationals, placing fourth out of six teams at Linn-Mar and 13th of 20 teams at the Prairie Invitational. Juniors John Pape, Joe Scieszinski, Johnathon Lansing and Nolan Pithan led the team by getting 57th, 74th, 81st and 85th place, respectively. The boys are on the right path to making an appearance at the state meet.

“We hope to make it into the state meet again this year and to improve on what we did last year,” Pithan said.

The Saints can be seen in action on September 22nd at the Eastern Iowa Classic.