West Holmes Girls Cross Country Makes Fifth Straight State Trip

West Holmes High School’s girls cross country team continued a run of excellence on Nov. 1 when it qualified for the Ohio High School Athletic Association state meet, marking the program’s fifth straight trip to state. The Rams carried that momentum to the Division Three state championship at Fortress Obetz where Coach Kevin Beachy’s squad finished 18th, a result reported by Your Ohio News on Nov. 6, 2025.

The team’s season was powered by a mix of veteran leadership and emerging contributors. Seniors Alexis Wagers and Katherine Kaster anchored the squad, while sophomore Iriel Mena provided a strong performance that promises future leadership. Several newcomers stepped into key roles this season, and athletes who had previously served as alternates moved into contributing positions, demonstrating the program’s ability to develop depth beyond its top returning runners. Coach Kevin Beachy credited the program for replacing earlier graduates and maintaining the team standards that have produced consistent state appearances.

For Holmes County residents the achievement is more than a line in a record book. Sustained success in girls athletics nurtures community cohesion, gives young people structured opportunities for physical activity, and models persistence and teamwork. Running programs in small and rural districts can play an outsized role in youth health by encouraging regular exercise, reducing risk factors for chronic disease, and supporting mental wellbeing through goal setting and social connection.

The continuity of West Holmes’ cross country program also speaks to broader policy and equity questions. Long term participation by girls athletes reflects adherence to the intent of Title IX and similar policies that seek equal opportunities in school sport. At the same time the county must consider how resources are distributed across schools and programs, whether students have access to sports medicine and timely injury prevention services, and whether transportation and equipment needs are being met so that under resourced families are not shut out of participation.

As West Holmes looks ahead, the program’s fifth consecutive state berth stands as evidence of coach stability, athlete development, and community support. For parents, educators, and local leaders the season offers a reminder that investment in school sports yields dividends in health, academic engagement, and community pride. Maintaining those gains will require continued attention to equitable funding, access to healthcare supports for student athletes, and local partnerships that ensure every interested student can benefit from the lessons and health protections that come with participation.