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SOLON, Ohio – The Solon Middle School boys cross country team capped off an unforgettable season with a first-place finish at the OHSAA state championship, securing an undefeated record despite challenging weather conditions. The young runners pushed through soggy and slippery terrain to claim the state title, earning praise from district officials for their consistency, teamwork and determination. “This state championship represents an incredible achievement for our middle school student-athletes and demonstrates the strength of our athletic programs at all levels,” said Tamara Strom, the district’s director of communications. “These young athletes ran in challenging conditions and showed tremendous grit in attacking the soggy course. Going undefeated and winning a state title requires dedication, discipline and teamwork—qualities we strive to develop in all our student-athletes.” Strom credited the district’s strong collaboration between middle school and high school programs for helping students develop both athletic and personal growth. “Our middle school and high school teams work together under unified coaching philosophies and training approaches,” she said. Athletic Director Jim McQuaide said the district’s 7th through 12th-grade structure provides student-athletes with a consistent foundation to build on year to year. He said collaboration between middle and high school coaches helps ensure that younger athletes develop the skills and mindset needed for long-term success. “Our teams work together under shared philosophies and training methods that create continuity across programs,” McQuaide said. “That consistency helps students understand what it takes to succeed as they progress, both as athletes and as teammates. The state championship by our middle school boys cross country team is a testament to that approach—these runners have benefited from excellent coaching, supportive teammates, and a culture that values dedication and collective achievement.” Strom added that teamwork and discipline are the foundation of Solon’s athletic programs, especially for younger competitors. “Cross country teaches students that individual effort contributes to team success—every runner matters, and every performance counts toward the collective goal,” she said. The Solon Board of Education recognized the team’s championship win at its Oct. 27 meeting. Beyond the medals, Strom said the district values athletics for the life lessons they teach. “The discipline, time management, and goal-setting skills developed through athletics actually enhance academic success,” she said. “We emphasize that the same commitment to excellence we expect on the course should be reflected in the classroom, and we’re proud that our student-athletes consistently demonstrate they can excel in both areas.”staff
