Florida High School Cross Country Teams Win State Title with 3.89 GPA

St. John Neumann High School's cross country program has discovered the winning formula that every parent and educator dreams about: student athletes who excel both on the course and in the classroom. This season, both the boys and girls teams claimed something truly special, academic state championships for Florida's Class 1A division.

The boys team achieved an impressive 3.89 GPA while the girls maintained a 3.86 GPA, the highest collective grade point averages in their classification statewide. These numbers represent countless hours of studying, discipline, and dedication that extended far beyond their athletic training.

"It had been a goal for a long time for us," shared runner Thomas O'Brien, reflecting on the team's commitment to excellence in all areas of their lives. His teammate Chelsea Perez explained the connection between their sport and their studies perfectly: "As a cross country runner, we just have that mindset to be determined. So again, that just leads off into our school work."

What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the culture these young athletes have built together. They hold each other accountable not just for showing up to practice, but for showing up in every aspect of their lives. O'Brien described it beautifully: "We've created a culture where everybody expects just as much from themselves as they do from each of our teammates. That community we sort of have, it's the standard here to excel in everything we do."

Head coach Kyle Rankin beams with pride when discussing his athletes. "I have six, seven, eight, nine different kids who can easily be captains. Many of them are seniors. Some of them aren't, but the leadership, the focus, and the ability to prioritize is just great," he said.

The academic championships came alongside impressive athletic performances too. The boys team finished in the top 12 in the state, while the girls landed in the top 20, proving these students didn't sacrifice one passion for another. They simply refused to settle for anything less than their best.

Why This Inspires: Coach Rankin summed up what makes this story so heartwarming: "There are a lot of coaches at this level who have to make decisions and they have to prioritize. Do I want a great group of kids? Do I want kids who can excel in the classroom? Do I want kids who are athletically superior? I'm fortunate. I don't have to make that choice. I get all three."

These young people have shown that the qualities that make great athletes, determination, discipline, focus, and teamwork, are the exact same qualities that create academic excellence. They've set a powerful example for student athletes everywhere that you don't have to choose between being smart and being athletic. With the right mindset and supportive teammates, you can be both.

St. John Neumann's cross country teams have earned a victory that will last far beyond any trophy or medal. They've built character, formed lasting bonds, and developed habits that will serve them well for the rest of their lives.