The 2025 Seahawks’ cross-country season was marked by steady progress, competitive performances, and athletes working through a range of challenges. Illness, injuries, and varying course conditions significantly impacted the season, but both the girls’ and boys’ teams remained focused and prepared as they entered the championship meets.
The girls’ team entered the season with the goal of winning a fourth consecutive state title, a streak that brought both excitement and pressure to the team. Even with the loss of a top runner due to injury late in the season, attitudes remained hopeful and motivated.
Several athletes talked about how close the team is. Cheering on freshmen and first-time state qualifiers like Tirzah Brueckner and Emma Seavey brought excitement to the team, creating loads of enthusiasm about the seasons to come. Sophomore Olive Jordan shares her opinion that the best part of Seward High’s cross country is the team. The connection, the support, and the feeling of pushing each other that the team has built is inspiring to her.
For senior Maddie Haas, after dealing with an ankle issue last year, she was relieved to train consistently this season with her team. Her early-season PR on Seward’s home course was a highlight for her, as she enjoyed the fall weather and trail runs that define Alaska cross country. She gives this advice to the future Seahawks runners: “Do your best, enjoy the moment, and do not let pressure overshadow the fun.”
The boys’ team battled through injuries and dips in confidence, but the season still produced individual growth. Sampson Antrim ran significantly faster than last year and strengthened his consistency by putting in summer training. Illness created hurdles for several athletes, but they all were determined to stay focused on their individual goals. Many wanted to break 18 minutes, but the course conditions made this difficult. Luke Elhard shares about the course: “If it’s hilly, you’re cooked; if it’s muddy, you’re cooked.” This by itself presents how vital it is to have a well-maintained course for ideal performances.
Olive Jordan, despite battling illness, asthma, and even missing a race earlier in the season, delivered a standout performance with her second-place finish at state. The week before, she was rewarded Region Runner of the Year. At State, she went into the meet aiming for a top-three spot and hoping to break 20 minutes, but the muddier-than-expected course made the race tougher than planned. She enjoyed the race overall and was proud of her finish, though she felt she “could’ve pushed harder in the last kilometer.”
All together, the Seahawks wrapped up a strong season, the girls walked away with a 2nd place team award, pleased with their hard work and perseverance. This season showed a lot of evident growth, hard work, and a true bond within the team that helped them improve together. We are excited to watch the team’s progress carry on to next season. Go Seahawks!
