Tri-Lakes High School Cross Country Team Achieves Historic Milestone

In Tri-Lakes, the underdog story of the local high school cross country team has taken an inspiring turn. Monument Academy East, the only charter high school in district 38, made headlines with their recent performance at the state championships. Despite being part of a small school with only 122 students, their cross country team has risen to the occasion, proving that hard work and determination can lead to success.

This year, Matthew Start, a standout runner from Monument Academy, finished third in Class 2A at the state championships. His achievement marked a historic moment for the school, showcasing the talent that can emerge from a seemingly “little guy.” Other team members looked to Matthew as they pushed themselves to improve.

The team, consisting of 10 boys and just one girl, was led by the dedicated co-coaches Cathy Owen and Tom Eller. Both coaches have made significant sacrifices to build and support the program. Coach Owen, an accomplished marathon runner, and Coach Eller, who remains competitive in local races, have inspired their athletes to push past their limits. They faced challenges like budget constraints and transportation issues, as the team had no access to school-funded buses. This meant parents had to step up their commitments to facilitate rides to practices and meets.

Sharon Klein, the team’s only female runner, is also making her mark. Despite being outnumbered on the team, she brings a fierce competitive spirit to the group. “I love running. Every part of it,” she said. “Oh, but the pain during the last 800 meters of a cross country race is not a part that I love. That’s really, really tough.”

Michael Swendsen, the Athletic Director, is optimistic about the future of the sports programs at Monument Academy and is actively seeking ways to enhance the school’s facilities. “The biggest question on my mind is how do I get our school a banner?” he stated, highlighting the aspirations for recognition within high school athletics.

Principal Angela Duca echoed those sentiments, expressing pride in her students’ achievements. “We always find a way beyond the challenges,” she shared, celebrating the resilience of the team.

The efforts of the coaches, athletes, and supportive community members have turned Monument Academy from a small school into a rising contender in sports. The dedication and passion of this “little guy” team truly make them giants within the Tri-Lakes area.