We would like to recognize and congratulate Concordia's very own Summer Morrissey '27 for making school history at this year's TAPPS 6A Cross Country State Championships, finishing 3rd place and reaching the podium amidst the competition of 129 girls that were competing at this year's Cross Country State Championship.
Summer transferred to Concordia after Lutheran North closed and quickly became a contributing member of the girls cross country team. She finished 15th at state her sophomore year, but her junior season proved more difficult. The pressure she placed on herself to be the best led to several challenging races, and she finished 20th at state.
Following those struggles, Summer began to gain a different perspective on running. Through her faith, Scripture, and reflection, she came to recognize that her identity was not determined by her performance. She didn't have to finish first to enjoy running or glorify God with the gifts He had given her.
That change in mindset carried into her senior season. Summer continued to compete with determination, but with greater confidence and composure. Rather than letting the race control her, she was in command of her races. Her 3rd place finish at state was an exciting conclusion to that journey, finishing with a time of 12:10.1 in the TAPPS 6A State Championship Cross Country 2 mile.
The boys' team also had a strong showing at state, finishing in the top half of the 6A field and placing ahead of three teams that had beaten them at district. Coach Eric Oblinger and Coach Ryan Everitt describe "one of the best moments of the day came during the awards ceremony, when Summer's teammates enthusiastically cheered as her name was announced."
Throughout the season, Concordia's cross country team emphasized its FAST³ values: Fraternity, Attitude, Service, and Training Tops Talent. Above all, the team's guiding principle is "We Run for the One," a reminder that their efforts are ultimately directed toward glorifying God.
Summer's journey, the boys' team's improvement, and the encouragement the runners showed one another reflect those values. They also demonstrate what it means to “Build[ing] Lives of Excellence Upon the Foundation of Christ.” Success is about more than medals or times. It is about growing in faith, making the most of the gifts God has given us, and supporting one another along the way.
Congratulations Summer and both of our Boys and Girls Cross Country Programs!