As the 2024 cross country season quickly approaches the final stretch, the Seneca Valley boys and girls teams find themselves in a solid position to move forward to the state championships. Both teams went nearly undefeated with the exception of a loss to North Allegheny, who is one of the top cross country programs in the state. Seneca Valley also had strong performances at many of the invitational meets, including the varsity boys and girls getting first and second respectively at the Youthtown Clash. “I’d say Youthtown was our best performance,” stated Coach Strelick, the current head coach of both teams.

The WPIAL team finals are set to occur on Thursday, Oct. 24, and only the top three teams will be able to advance to the state championships. Seneca’s run to states hinges on defeating some very strong competitors at WPIALs. “North Hills is going to be tough. Norwin is going to be tough. South Fayette is always tough. But I think we’re right in the mix and if we have a good day, we can run with any of them,” said Strelick. Overall, he expressed confidence towards the teams’ ability to earn a shot at the state title this year. “I think we’re trending in the right direction. We’ve had some good races. We won Youthtown last week and we won all our section meets except for NA, which was close.”

While Seneca’s spot at the state championships is far from guaranteed, the trail to states lies in clear sight, and both teams have a clear opportunity to earn their place there.