First Grunt XC season in the books

The small but mighty and fast-growing Father Capodanno High School started their seventh

varsity sport this year – Cross Country (XC).

The Grunt runners closed out their first XC season with a fifth meet and claimed the top male and female prizes at the local Invitational hosted by Saint John Paul

II School.

“We took an important step this season by adding Cross Country to our Athletics Department

and this meet, especially hosted by SJPII, was a perfect way to end our first season,” said Athletic

Director Andy Attar.

Two Grunt runners took first prizes in the male and female high school categories. Canon Capps

led the boys field from start to finish as did Salem Capps for the girls over the five-kilometer race.

“Athletics is a critical extension to our learning environment. The character and resiliency of these

runners, with three of them being dual sport athletes and scholars is great standing, proved respectable

while starting a Cross Country Team at Capodanno,” said Coach Joshe Raetz.

The remaining Grunt runners shaved significant time of their runs and each recorded Personal Records (PRs) for the season.

“I’m glad I decided to run Cross Country. This team made a difference for me as a Freshman starting high

school,” said Evan Wild. Who achieved personal goals including a personal best this meet.

This sentiment rang true throughout the team and demonstrated the value of community at

Capodanno High. The Grunt Volleyball Team is currently in first place in their conference and the Football Team

has their last Home Game this Friday. Kickoff 4:00 p.m. at the Moore Country Montessori field in

Southern Pines.

contributed/photos contributed