Pope John Paul II High School cross-country teams ranked No. 1

The Pope John Paul II High School cross-country boys and girls teams head into the fall season as the  number one ranked squads in the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association 1-B Division.

The preseason rankings were issued by The Wash'd Runner, which covers prep running in the state of Washington. 

"The JPII Girls team enters the season with high expectations after securing the top pre-season ranking. The Eagles will face early tests this fall, having graduated three of the seven runners who competed at last year’s state championships," the high school said in announcing the rankings.

"The team’s home meet on (Sept. 17) will feature strong competition from other state-ranked programs, offering an early benchmark for the season ahead."

The boys team returns six of the seven runners from last year’s state championships.

"With a wealth of experience, the boys’ squad is well-positioned for another competitive season," the high school said.

Head coach, Larry Weber addressed the preseason rankings.

"We appreciate being ranked in the Washington (state high school preseason cross-country rankings) by the Wash'd Runner, a primary media outlet for high school running coverage in the state.”