Catch up with Philip Simmons’ boys and girls cross country teams
CHARLESTON, S.C. —
Coaches names:
- Josh Michael – Head Coach
- Emma Santor – Assistant Coach
- Michelle Santor – Assistant Coach
Please share some history or backstory on the team/club/program.
Josh Michael: In the inaugural year of our school, a dedicated group of friends with a passion for running came together to establish the Iron Horse Cross Country team. Their early achievements, coupled with a supportive, family-like atmosphere, fostered remarkable growth within the team. What started as a modest roster of 9 boys and 6 girls has blossomed into a formidable team of over 70 members this season. In the short yet impressive history of the program, the boys’ team has consistently excelled, with both teams finishing in the top 3 at the state level for the past five years. This journey reflects not just the spirit of competition but also the camaraderie and dedication of our athletes.
What are the team’s goals for the current/upcoming season?
Michael: This season both teams have been working toward the same goal: State Champions
Who are the team’s captains or leaders? What makes them a vital part of the team’s success?
Michael: Boys – Wesley Patterson, Pierce Walker, and Joey Wright Girls – Elizabeth Habakus and Matea Payer
Our team embraces a powerful motto: “Excellence in Everything.” This principle extends beyond our running; it is a commitment to our academic pursuits and all aspects of our lives. The captains play a pivotal role in our program, inspiring each team member to embody this motto. They lead by example, displaying remarkable achievements both on the course and in their personal endeavors throughout their careers. Their dedication and success motivate us all to strive for excellence in everything we do.
Does the team have any pregame rituals or traditions?
Michael: Once we enter our post-season, we have team “family” meals the night prior to our races. This time is as much about carb-loading as it is about spending quality time with teammates and is essential to building our team culture.
How does the team welcome new members?
Michael: In recent years, our program has experienced significant growth, resulting in a steady influx of new members. To ensure these athletes feel welcomed and integrated, we thoughtfully organize them into training groups. These groups consist of a diverse mix of older students, younger athletes, new runners, and team leaders. This intentional blend during training fosters a sense of belonging for each athlete, allowing him or her to connect with others and develop their identity within our larger team community.
How does the team celebrate?
Michael: It may sound simple, but this group of kids loves a great team meal at Chick-Fil-A. Although recently after our State Championship meets, we have been making Cracker Barrel a bit of a tradition.
Has the team (or any individuals) broken any records this year?
Michael:
Girls Team
- Back-to-Back State Championships
- School Record 5k – Laura Perry, Freshman – 18:04.81
- #1, 2, 3, 6, and 8 All-Time in school history has happened this year.
- # 1 – Laura Perry – 18:04.81
- # 2 – Avah Mallek – 18:21.45
- # 3 – Keziah Varner – 18:54.00
- # 6 – Flynn Taylor – 19:24.21
- # 8 – Lilah May – 19:35.42
Boys Team
- Highest Regular season finish at Coaches Classic – 3rd Place
- #2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10 All-Time in school history has happened this year.
- # 2 – Pierce Walker – 15:27.94
- # 3 – Joey Wright – 15:32.64
- # 5 – Grady Castiglia – 15:55.87
- # 6 – Matthew Perry – 16:03.09
- # 7 – Brian Stambaugh – 16:16.82
- # 10 – Wesley Patterson – 16:40.51
What has motivated the team to reach their goals this season?
Michael: With their sights set on the same goal, both the boys’ and girls’ teams were intensely focused as they approached the State Championship meet on November 22. Their unified dedication and preparation had the Iron Horse Cross Country community buzzing with excitement.
On November 22, 2024, the Iron Horse Cross Country boys’ and girls’ teams traveled to Newberry, South Carolina to compete in the highly anticipated State Championship meet.
Girls Seek Third Straight Crown
The girls’ program entered the competition seeking their third consecutive State Championship. Throughout the regular season, this talented squad had dominated, winning 7 Invitationals and securing the Region 6-AA Championship.
Boys Aim for First State Title
Meanwhile, the boys’ team was pursuing their first-ever State Championship title. After finishing as state runner-up three times in program history, the team enjoyed a successful regular season, claiming 6 invitational victories.
*Coach Michael shared his thoughts prior to the state meet.
Boys
- State Runner-Up: 2019, 2020, 2023
- 3rd Place at State: 2021, 2022
Girls
- State Champions: 2022, 2023
- State Runner-Up: 2021
- 3rd Place at State: 2019, 2020
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