Grace Cross Country Opens Season with Grit, Growth, and God-Honoring Goals

August 18, 2025 – The Grace Community Cross Country team enters the 2025 season on a wave of momentum built through a summer of dedication, discipline, and deepening team bonds. Between family vacations and summer commitments, Grace athletes logged over 7,500 miles and consistently averaged three or more strength training sessions per week. Their efforts reflect a commitment to building success on a solid foundation of belief, intention, and preparation.

This fall, both the boys’ and girls’ programs are poised to build on last year’s standout State performances and an exceptional track season. With a significant increase in team size, our returning athletes now have the opportunity to model the Grace standard—to lead by example, welcome new teammates, and carry forward the program’s strong culture of excellence and character.

The high school team officially opened its season at the Hudson Friday Night Lights Relay this last week, a unique event where pairs of runners alternate miles until completing a total of four as a team. The atmosphere was electric under the lights, and our athletes rose to the occasion.

Girls Highlights:

  • The duo of Addie Mathews and MJ Hanson raced to an impressive 2nd place finish out of 46 teams, leading the way for the Cougars.
  • Ashley Sepulveda and Emma Goetz followed with a strong 8th-place performance, demonstrating depth and promise.
  • Casey Goetz, competing solo due to an odd number of runners, ran with the lead group and won each of her legs, showcasing her speed and consistency even though she didn’t factor into official results.

Boys Highlights:

  • Leading the way was the dynamic pair of Freshman Asher Wickliffe and Senior Roe Gaddis, blending youthful energy with veteran experience.
  • They were closely followed by impressive performances from:
    • Ayden Serrato & Dylan Small
    • Clive Johnson & BJ Olusola
    • Chris Alexander & Aaron Sepulveda
    • Ethan Foreman & Wyatt Grimes
    • Truett Roseman & Elijah Keith

This year’s growth in numbers is more than just an exciting metric—it’s a powerful reflection of how God is working through this program. As the team expands, so does its opportunity to bring greater glory to God through every practice, race, and act of sportsmanship. One powerful example came at our opening meet, when our boys team initiated a meet-wide prayer circle before the races began. Athletes from multiple schools gathered hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, and as the final “amen” echoed across the course like a chorus to God, it was a moving reminder of the deeper purpose behind all we do.

Up Next: Tyler Legacy Invitational
The Cougars will return to competition on Saturday, August 23, at the Tyler Legacy Invitational hosted at Lindsey Park—our closest meet of the season. Races begin at 7:00 AM and conclude by 10:00 AM, with middle school wrapping up the morning. We warmly invite our school community to come out, cheer loudly, and support these dedicated athletes!