As the new season approaches, excitement is at an all-time high for the Mt. SAC Women's Cross Country Team. Head Coach Giovanni Lanaro is enthusiastic about the potential of winning a fourth consecutive championship. "I think Mt. SAC always has a target on their back, and even more so now that the women have won three straight titles," Lanaro says. "There is always going to be excitement whenever you can go for a fourth." This season is not just about defending their title, but also embracing the thrill of chasing another win. Lanaro acknowledges that it is both exciting and nerve-racking to be part of a program with such high stakes.

Returning sophomores and members of last year's championship team, including team captain Tigist Bergman, Ava Cornell and Maya Garcia are expected to play a crucial role this season. "Cross country is not just about one athlete," Lanaro explains. "They score five at the state championship, and it's all about team effort." Freshmen Arielle McKenzie and Kaitlyn Reyes are great additions to the squad. "We have a core group of women who are on their way to possibly winning another title," Lanaro notes. "While we can't name them all, this group has a lot of potential."

In terms of training, the team is adhering to their proven regimen. "We do the same thing every year," Lanaro reflects. "Put in the mileage, work hard and stay focused on the ultimate goal of trying to improve every single weekend." Setting goals for the season involves aiming for victories while achieving smaller milestones. "The ultimate goal is for them to individually meet their own milestones so that we can come together at the end and have an opportunity to win another title," Lanaro says. "The goal is always to bring a trophy home – hopefully it's the first-place trophy."

This year's Summer Olympics have helped motivate the team for the season. As a former Olympian himself, Lanaro notes, "Watching the Olympics brings a lot of energy. Seeing the best of the best compete at the pinnacle of our sport really sparks a fire in you." He believes the experience of watching elite athletes in gymnastics, aquatics, and other sports, inspires his team. "Even though there isn't an Olympic event for cross country, seeing athletes achieve their dreams in track and field can inspire our runners to dream big and work hard," Lanaro adds.

When asked about his South Coast Conference Coach of the Year Award from last season, Coach Lanaro acknowledged that winning is a reflection of the entire coaching staff's efforts. "Winning Coach of the Year is great because it means you have great assistants," Lanaro explains. "If it weren't for them, we couldn't' win state titles or awards."

With the season drawing near, Coach Lanaro and his staff are eager to see their athletes succeed. "As coaches, we are always excited for the start of the season," Lanaro says. "Our job is to make sure our athletes reach their potential, both in the classroom and on the course." Equipped with a talented roster and a solid support system, the team is ready to chase excellence.  

The Women's Cross Country Team has their first event on Saturday, August 31, at 8:45 AM at Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Brea, CA. Keep up with the team this season as they chase a fourth consecutive title.

Follow Mt. SAC Cross Country on Twitter @MtSAC_XC or Instagram /mountiesxc/

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For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at 909.274.4630.