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The Savannah Arts Academy girls' cross country team has capped off another remarkable season by winning the Georgia High School State Association Class 2A state championship, their second title in three years.

The team's journey to the top has been defined by resilience, grit, and a relentless drive to excel, culminating in a season for the history books, as head Coach Steve Ricciardi expressed. Meanwhile, the boys' team, showing tremendous promise and growth, finished in an impressive 5th place — a school record — just one spot away from the podium.

Ricciardi, who has led the program for 12 years, couldn't be prouder. "This season really did play out like a movie script," he said. "We had a few setbacks with injuries and other issues, but everyone kept their heads up and put in the work. The team came together in a way that you don't often see, and it was truly special to witness."

The girls' team, which has finished in the top three at state for four consecutive years, dominated Region 3-2A with a perfect score of 15 for their ninth successive region title. They then won a sectional team title, edging out Columbus High School as they did in the state championships. 

In an interview with the PSR, the team's top runner, senior Leah Nyce, Ricciardi  stated that she faced a major injury during the season, raising concerns about her ability to compete effectively. But through rigorous training, physical therapy, and sheer determination, Nyce powered through to a remarkable second-place individual finish at the state meet. 

"Leah has shown extraordinary resilience," Coach Ricciardi noted. "She was in a lot of pain but didn't let it stop her. Seeing her finish as the state runner-up was incredibly rewarding."

Sophomore standout Frances Tedder also played a critical role, finishing fourth at the state meet. Tedder, whose brother Leo Tedder runs for HV Jenkins and is a top local boy cross-country runner, has consistently been a top performer throughout the season. According to Riccardi, she and Nyce enjoyed a friendly rivalry that helped them push each other to their best. 

"Francie and Leah traded off the top spot throughout the season, but they always supported one another," Ricciardi said. "It was a great intra-squad competition that made them both better."

Senior Elle Harward-Grant, one of the team's captains, rounded out her high school career with great success. Ricciardi noted that she competed in two state championships and experienced both a state title and second-place finish; she's been a steady presence for the team.

"Elle has been our rock," Ricciardi shared. "She's battled through thick and thin, never complains, and has been a tremendous leader for the younger runners."

Another key performer was freshman Laura Bennett, who contributed significantly to the sectional and state meet. Ricciardi sees a bright future for Bennett and her fellow freshman Ava Treece, likening the dynamic duo to former Lady Panther standout runners and classmates Margaret Wade ('23) and Lyric Olson ('23). 

"Having strong freshmen is exciting for the future of this program," Ricciardi remarked. "Laura and Ava remind me of some of our past greats, and I'm looking forward to seeing them develop."

Sophomore Morgan Irvine deserves special recognition as well, Ricciardi said. "Morgan told me last season that she wanted to make varsity, and she trained hard all summer. She earned her spot and ended up playing a key role in our state title. Her improvement was phenomenal."

Panther Boys make History by Placing Fifth

While just missing the podium, the boys' team has plenty to celebrate with their 5th-place finish, according to Ricciardi. Ricciardi is optimistic about their future. 

"The boys' team has been inspired by the girls' success, and they've worked hard to carve their own path," Ricciardi said. "We have a couple of strong freshmen who I believe will help us take that next step and hopefully make the podium in the years to come."

As Coach Ricciardi reflects on his tenure and the program's growth, he sees a legacy of excellence built on the efforts of determined, disciplined, and high-achieving student-athletes. 

"When I first took over, I never dreamed we'd be a state-title team. But these kids have made it possible, and I'm so proud to see them get the recognition they deserve. Cross country isn't the most glamorous sport, but these athletes are some of the toughest kids I know, running in the heat of Savannah day after day."

The Savannah Arts Academy cross-country program has proven that dedication, teamwork, and resilience can lead to greatness. With strong leadership, a supportive school community, and the legacy of those who've come before, the future of Panther cross country looks bright. 

Congratulations to the girls' team on their state championship and both teams on another outstanding season!

PHOTO CREDIT: Savannah Arts Academy Cross-Country Program

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