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Laguna Beach Girls Cross Country: A Season to Remember

The Varsity (blue) and JV (black) girls taking a celebratory photo after winning 1st and 2nd at the Clovis Invitational.
The Varsity (blue) and JV (black) girls taking a celebratory photo after winning 1st and 2nd at the Clovis Invitational.

The Laguna Beach High School girls cross country team has been having an exceptional season, setting new standards and making their community proud. With a roster full of talented athletes and dedicated coaching, the Breakers are showing everyone why they are one of the top teams in the state. 

At both the Woodbridge Invitational and the Clovis Invitational, the team placed first, setting their position as one of the most dedicated cross-country teams in California. The victories at these highly competitive meets are indicators of the hard work and dedication that the girls have been putting in all season long. The team’s chemistry, skill, and determination are clear, and they are currently ranked #3 in Division 4 for the CIF Southern Section. 

What sets this team apart is that their success isn’t limited to the varsity squad. The junior varsity (JV) girls are having a standout season as well, contributing to the overall strength of the program. The amount of talent in Laguna Beach’s cross-country program is undeniable. Both the varsity and JV squads are making a lot of progress, and performing well in competitions. For the JV team, this season has been one of growth and accomplishment, as they’ve matched the achievements of the varsity team, pushing each other to new goals. It’s clear that Laguna Beach’s program is more than just its top runners, it’s a full team effort, where every athlete is contributing to the success.  

With the season now in full swing, the team has set its sights on making it to CIF and ultimately competing at the California State Cross Country Championships in November. Their current #3 is a symbol of the dedication the team has been putting in all season long. The team believes they have what it takes to not only make it through CIF but also make it to a state title. The girls are motivated, and their passion is clear at every practice and race. 

Head Coach Coach Lalim and Assistant Coach Heather are key to this success. Coach Lalim is known for his commitment to the team, putting in many hours to ensure that each athlete is at her best. His dedication is matched by assistant coach Heather, whose positive energy has helped shape the team into what it is today. Together, they have created an environment that has growth, competition, and teamwork. Under their leadership, the girls have developed a strong bond that extends beyond running.

Two standout runners: juniors Hayden Joseph and Karina Pitz. These two athletes have been leading the team, consistently running impressive times and performances. Both Hayden and Karina have emerged as top competitors, with their hard work and dedication paying off in major ways. The leadership and success of Hayden and Karina are not only impressive but also inspirational to their teammates. As juniors, they are already taking on leadership roles, guiding the team both on and off the track. They are setting a high standard for the rest of the team to follow.

With a team as talented as this one, it’s easy to see why there is so much excitement surrounding the Laguna Beach girls cross country team. Their performances this season have shown that they are dedicated to the work they put in, and their current ranking only adds to the anticipation of what they can accomplish in future races.

As they continue to train and prepare for CIF and the State Championships, everyone is supporting them. The Laguna Beach Breakers are more than prepared for a historic season: a dedicated coaching staff, a group of talented and hardworking athletes, and a strong sense of team unity. The future looks incredibly bright for the Breakers, and we are eager to see just how far they will go.

No matter what happens at CIF or State, this season has already been a remarkable one for the girls cross country team. They have proven that hard work, dedication, and teamwork can lead to great things – and they are not done yet. With Coach Lalim, Assistant Coach Heather, and a talented group of runners leading the way, there’s no telling just how high they can soar.

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About the Contributors
Saya Snyder
Saya Snyder, Features Reporter
Hi! My name is Saya and I am a sophomore. This is my first year taking Journalism! I play volleyball and tennis. Outside of school, I enjoy going to the beach, reading, hanging out with friends, playing tennis, relaxing, and going shopping. I’m super excited to be in Journalism this year!
Hayleigh Martino
Hayleigh Martino, Features Reporter
Hi! I’m Hayleigh and this is my first year taking Journalism. I love spending time at the beach, hanging out with friends, running, and fashion.  I’m super excited to be a part of this class!