MAKING HISTORY: Girls’ Cross Country Team Places Fourth in State

Fenwick running has always been a force to be reckoned with, but this year, after dropping to Division 2A, it was the Fenwick girls’ cross country team’s mission to make their name known.
It all started back in June when the team first met for practice. Rain or shine, you could spot them running along the streets of Oak Park or at the beloved Priory. Despite many challenging days when there seemed to be no end to the countless miles run in practices, the team knew it would all be worth it in the end if they could compete in the state meet.
This season, the girls took the highest place in an IHSA state final that their team has claimed in the history of Fenwick’s girls’ cross country program. Seven runners competed in the state meet, including junior Maggie O’Malley, who ran the race in 18:11, and Maria Quinn, who finished at 18:14.
Cross country is a team sport that utilizes each and every person on the team. Senior captains Olivia Rill, Marie O’Brien, and Ewa Szeszko all contributed to the team’s success. Manager Caroline Darrow also played an intricate part in keeping morale on the team high this year, cheering on her best friends every step of the way.
Darrow said, “The lady Friars rolled out to Peoria with great energy… Our fourth place feat is just the frosting on the cake.”
The girls’ fourth place finish amazed many as they finished only twenty points behind the third place team Prairie Ridge High School. The girls’ win was also extra sweet as they beat rival St. Ignatius, who finished in fifth place and nine points behind the Friars.
As this season draws to a close, the girls will look back fondly on what has been a truly impressive season. Let’s all come together in congratulating the girls on their historic season.