Strong Bonds and Steady Strides: Santa Barbara High Cross Country Reflects on the Season

As the fall cross country season enters its final stretch, the Santa Barbara High School (SBHS) team is finding strength not in numbers, but in unity, leadership, and the emergence of young talent. Despite fielding a small varsity squad—with just one senior among them—the Dons have made impressive strides, forming a tightly-knit group that continues to rise to the challenge each week.

“Our season has been going pretty good so far,” says Ethan Walp, one of the team’s senior leaders. “We have a very small varsity team, and there are upsides and downsides that come with that. One upside is how close we’ve become as a team.”

With fewer athletes competing at the varsity level, the pressure to perform consistently is higher. Every runner’s finish counts, and that has created an environment of accountability, where each athlete knows their contribution can impact the team’s overall success. That sense of responsibility has been embraced especially embraced especially by the team’s younger members.

“I would say that sophomores Kik and Lucca have both definitely stepped up to their place on varsity,” Walp continues. “It can be daunting running at such a competitive level, knowing how much your points matter to the team, and both of them have done a great job.”

These underclassmen have become key members of the teammembers of the team, showing not just potential, but poise under pressure. Their growth over the season has been one of the biggest highlights for the coaching staff and team alike.

Off the course, WalpWalp has taken on a mentorship role, guiding the team’s freshmen and sophomores as they navigate life as student-athletes. “The biggest responsibility I’ve dealt with this year has been helping all of the new freshmen and sophomores with all the little details—like time management, nutrition, and balancing school with training,” he said. “Helping them find that balance is important for our team culture.”

When it comes to favorite moments from the season so far, the Ojai Invitational at Lake Casitas stands out. “It’s my favorite race,” he explains. “I’ve run there the most times, so I know the course really well. Plus, it’s always great to race against friends from other schools like San Marcos and Dos Pueblos.” The Dons will return to Lake Casitas on Oct. 4 for their first league meet, hoping to capitalize on that course familiarity and team momentum.

Looking ahead, there’s a quiet confidence within the group. “We have a solid top five boys to score with at league meets,” WalpWalp adds. “As long as we all stay healthy and run our best, we can definitely do well.”

With strong leadership, emerging talent, and a sense of unity that often can’t be taught, the SBHS cross country team is proving that heart and teamwork can go just as far as numbers. As they continue their season, the Dons are chasing more than finish lines—they’re building a foundation for long-term success.