The 2025 high school girls cross country season is set to be competitive, with many standout athletes returning to the tracks. Eleven runners who earned All-Star status last fall will bring their experience back to the trails, including Billerica’s Gianna McGowan, along with the Donahue sisters, Caitlin and Kylie. Westford Academy, the reigning All-State champions, and Billerica, the Division 1C champions, both return nearly their entire rosters, setting the stage for an exhilarating season.
Several teams are optimistic about their prospects this year. The Academy of Notre Dame/Innovation Academy finished last season with a strong record of 3-1, and Coach Deborah Darlington is focusing on individual goals while looking forward to her seniors, Sarah Benchekroun and RuthAnn Ambrose, showcasing their talent.
Alvirne High had a challenging last season, finishing seventh at the Division 1 Championship Meet. However, Coach Kaitlyn Wilson, in her first season, is optimistic about the new talent joining the squad and the return of experienced captains Zoe Burt, Avery Woods, and Cadence Brice. She noted, “We have welcomed many new runners who are motivated and eager to compete.”
At Ayer Shirley, Coach Chris Donovan, now in his 20th season, highlighted the strength of his experienced upperclassmen. With senior captains Caroyln Mason and Ada Perwak leading the charge, the team is poised to improve on their 5-1 record from last year.
Billerica’s team enters the season with an impressive 10-0 record in the MVC league last year, alongside being the Division 1C champions. Coach Cullen Hagan is thrilled to have the top seven runners returning and sees this as the deepest team he has ever coached. He stated, “We look to continue to build strength and fitness throughout the season with a focus on the championship meets.”
In Chelmsford, the team is also returning with a strong roster. Coach Karen Blagg expressed confidence in her squad’s readiness, stating, “We are returning with a strong group who trained all summer and are ready to compete.” The captains this year, Kate Leonard, Lucy Labrecque, and Chloe Mereves, are expected to lead the team effectively.
Dracut’s girls cross country team is also looking forward to improvement this season. With senior captain Ella Annunziata stepping into a leadership role, Coach Erik Taber emphasized the hard work put in over the summer, anticipating a strong performance from his team.
Greater Lowell Tech, having finished last season undefeated at 6-0, aims to build on their success. Coach Matthew Murphy expressed excitement about the depth of his team, which he believes will provide them with a strong chance to return to the All-State meet.
The Groton-Dunstable girls are also looking to improve on last season’s performance, where they finished 5-1. With senior captains Finley Clinton, Meghan McEleney, and Haley Traverse at the helm, Coach Chris Volante is optimistic about their chances.
As the season unfolds, teams like Littleton and Wilmington are also preparing to step up their game. Littleton’s Coach Ted Painter noted the positive mindset of his athletes, while Wilmington’s Coach Joe Patrone hopes for competitiveness in the Middlesex League Freedom Division.
With the cross country season officially underway, the competition promises to be fierce. Each team looks poised to make their mark, with returning athletes and new talent ready to take the trails by storm.
