Path to the Podium-Lake Oconee Academy Girls
Everyone sees the picture of a team on the podium, with huge smiles and the trophy in hand. What people don't see is the behind the scenes events that led to a spectacular achievement. In this article, Lake Oconee Academy coach Carina Baxley describes what it took for her girls to earn the 3rd place trophy in Class A Division 2.
XC 2023
any seniors that set a good example or laid the foundation?
Rylee Oyler was a fantastic leader last year. She came back to help coach in the summer which encouraged our underclassmen and set the standard for leadership, teamwork and commitment.
any results that gave motivation (good or bad)?
We placed fourth last year with a small team. We were motivated with the rising 8th graders (current 9th graders) and the fact that we weren't losing many seniors. Our runners were excited to chase the podium again!
Winter 2023
Anyone that stepped up their training with XC already in mind?
Several runners were active in the off season, setting goals early: Kenzie Dykes, Marlee Lyon and Libby Hopkins
mindset of the non-seniors?
They were excited to return to Carrollton! We had several first year runners during the 2023 season, so if anything, they were excited to enter the season with experience.
Track 2024 - LOA does not have a track team, but the majority of our runners participate in other spring sports.
Summer 2024
any new additions that changed the outlook for XC?
We had two rising 8th graders, Macy Colby and Elena Viscarra, who have run middle school cross country for the past several years. Our middle and high school programs practice together throughout the year, so it's an easy and fun transition from 8th to 9th grade.
early goals for the season?
Our goal was definitely to make the podium. We placed 4th last year, so stepping into third place was our goal.
how the team handled summer training?
The team started summer training ready to put the work in. We started right where we left off last season, and the girls held themself to a high standard.
any setbacks/challenges that had to be overcome?
We lost a few runners to other fall sports this year which gave our runners some gaps to fill, but they were ready for the challenge.
Season 2024
anyone that had a breakout season that changed the outlook?
Senior Kenzie Dykes had a great start to the season with several strong races. Marlee Lyon (sophomore) began to train up with her which set a great foundation for the season.
how early results compared to any goals?
We ran the Carrollton Invitational in September to introduce the course to our younger runners, and I was really pleased with their times. This early success encouraged them to work the next couple of months to race for the podium.
in hindsight, key moments of the season that led to the State result?
There were several races throughout the season where we were missing a couple of our stronger runners. Others had to step up (mentally and physically) to lead, and I think that was a huge push for them to gain confidence and speed.