It was a beautiful day on Tuesday, October 21, at Patriot Park in Sumter, SC, as John Paul II Catholic School’s Cross Country team took on the SCISA 4A Regional Meet. Under sunny skies and surrounded by incredible competition, both the boys and girls teams placed 2nd overall, showing true Golden Warrior grit and heart from start to finish.

Girls Team Shines in Top 10

The girls ran an outstanding race, with Wilson Hall edging ahead for first place. Top 10 finishers included Ella Asbrey, Anna Asbrey, Brooklyn Meredith, Serena Wilson, Parker Melvin, Caitlin Walker, Victoria Mouhalis, Kathryn Mouhalis, Savannah Calvert, and Emma Feeney.

Boys Bring the Speed

The boys also turned in incredible performances, chasing Wilson Hall to a strong second-place team finish. Top 10 finishers included Blake Hubik, Mathew Yanachik, Sebastian Fickel, Brayden Fickel, Angelo Iskandar, Mason Collins, Jax Heckert, Moses Witkowski, and Jonathan Yanachik.

Three runners—Blake Hubik, Mathew Yanachik, and Sebastian Fickel—placed in the Top 7 overall and were recognized with plaques for their outstanding achievements.

Coach’s Reflections

Head Coach Dana Smith expressed pride in the team’s performance and spirit:

“It was such a beautiful day to run, and our athletes gave everything they had out there. I’m so proud of how hard they’ve worked this season and how they support one another. This group is positive, determined, and truly fun to coach. Their energy carried us to a fantastic showing at Regionals.”

The Warriors now turn their focus to the State Championship with momentum and heart