“All I could think about was states the week prior,” stated Owen, a Woodbridge High School senior and runner on the cross country team. “I was very nervous but also very excited to race. All I wanted to do was get that back-to-back state championship and I knew that I could trust the guys in doing just that.” 

The Woodbridge High boys cross country team has once again etched its name in history, claiming a second consecutive Class 6 State Championship title. This remarkable achievement builds on last year’s historic win, which marked the team’s first state championship since 1990. 

The success of the 2024 season is a testament to the team’s unified focus, dedication to early morning summer training, shared sense of responsibility, and unyielding patience. Their victory is the result of sheer will, trust, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Head Coach Kelly McGreal attributes the team’s success to their commitment and disciplined approach to training.

“The 2024 season focus began at the conclusion of our state championship win in 2023,” McGreal explained. “Knowing we would return with a strong group of racers set the stage for a repeat win. These boys are well-trained and know exactly what is expected of them. They’ve gained the confidence to execute their training flawlessly, which has been a huge part of our success.”

Sophomore and team member Bradley reflects, “The competition was much more aware of what we were going to do this year, they were definitely preying on us, so we basically had a target on our backs.”

For Woodbridge, senior Hayden Goodman finished in third place, Deaven Roberts came in 14th place (22nd overall), followed by Owen Renquist in 18th place (28th overall), Shareef Elfadil in 19th place (29th overall), and Bradley Johnson in 24th place (36th overall).

This championship solidifies the team’s place in school history. As McGreal emphasized, their success represents more than just athletic excellence; it embodies life lessons that will propel these athletes forward.

“These boys have set a standard of excellence for the younger team members to strive for,” McGreal concluded. “It’s so rewarding to see them succeed and know that they’ve gained skills and confidence that will serve them in the future.”

Woodbridge has now secured a total of nine boys' state cross country titles, positioning them second all-time among Virginia public schools, behind Blacksburg, which holds 12 titles.