Michael Lancia is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Camelback High School for AZPreps365

 

Camelback’s cross-country team is shy of numbers but not heart.

Rules require a minimum of five representatives from each competing school to be qualified.

Although Camelback does not meet the minimum requirement, that does not stop them from giving it their all this season.

"Unfortunately, with only four athletes on the squad we can’t qualify for team scores or state competitions,” said coach Roy Mitros. “It still doesn’t take away from the team aspect in a sense of they use one another for motivation. I think it actually enhances their comradery between the four of them because it’s them vs everyone else kind of attitude.”

The runners consist of seniors Yesina Valenzuela, Madison Capehart, Anabel Hernandez and freshman Carrie Dashee.

Their vision remains on par with the other teams they compete against.

“It doesn’t count, but putting in the effort and the work and being able to say I wake up in the mornings and practice even in the afternoon, that’s winning to me,” said team captain, Yesina Valenzuela.

Their actions reflect self-motivation, self-discipline and demonstrate the passion of an elite competitor as they strive to attain their personal goals.

“Literally they can’t win and they still show up,” said Athletic Director James Arndt. “When we have students like the ones who are doing it now, showing what good character looks like, I think it sets a good example for other students.”

The Camelback cross-country girls remain mentally powerful and physically strong throughout their competitions.

“As much as they support one another and build one another up, they are really increasing their individual efforts as well,” said Mitros. “It’s not easy, and to be able to push through and do it for one another as well as themselves, it’s those types of adversities and challenges that will carry over into the classroom and their daily lives that will make them better, stronger individuals.”

The team practices every morning before the sun rises and even manages to continue training after school.

“It’s not just being physically strong, it’s a mentality thing as well,” said Valenzuela. “It does get difficult at times, but you have to keep on going. At times you are going to want to give up, but in these moments, you have to think of the other accomplishments you’ve had and the many more accomplishments that you have to go.”

Mitros said their ability to work and push themselves is impressive and motivational. “Not just for one another but for me as well and I think they can take a lot from the sport and carry it over to academics and then outside of academics as well.”

Each week the scorecard will show the Camelback girls cross-country team as disqualified, but the true victory is the girls persistence and relentless attitude.

“As a senior, I just want to say I gave it my all, and these memories will be with me forever, so that’s why I continue to push hard and give it everything I can,” said Valenzuela.