Sheridan LaCoste becomes Warriors’ first state qualifier since 2008

Sheridan LaCoste becomes Warriors’ first state qualifier since 2008

LaCoste also first female ever to go to state for Rockford

CEDAR FALLS — For the first time since Jared Schubert did it in 2008, the Rockford Warriors have plans to go to Fort Dodge on Oct. 31.

Sheridan LaCoste, in her first season out for cross country, became the first female runner to go to state for the Warriors on Thursday in Cedar Falls.

LaCoste ran a time of 20:50, which earned her 11th place overall and an individual bid to the state meet next Saturday.

Head coach Andy Roth said LaCoste has medaled in each meet this season, something that hasn’t been done in many years for the Warriors.

“She worked very hard to achieve the goal of making it to state, and her team was there pushing her along every step of the way, just as she was for them,” Roth said.

The girls team finished 12th with 295 points. The boys’ team also finished 12th with 312 points.

Senior Amy Fullerton was second for the Warriors with a time of 23:16. Olivia Harden was third for the Warriors with a time of 23:49. She was 55th overall.

Senior Justin Reams placed 32nd with a time of 18:54 for the Warriors. Sophomore Andrew Longcor was close behind in 35th place with a time of 18:59.

It was the final meet for three Rockford seniors on Thursday night in Cedar Falls as well.

“Three of my seniors had their last meet of the season tonight. Amy Fullerton, Harlie Jacobsen, and Justin Reams have been excellent role models for the rest of the runners,” Roth said. “They always have a way of bringing a smile to my face, and making this job a lot of fun. They have been a big part of what makes our teams successful.”

Staff report