THE TIDE
RISES.

Lil Desler broke the tape with a contagious smile that seemed to last forever. It was 2024, and the then-sophomore had just been crowned the 2A Girls Individual State Champion, leading Sehome to a team title in the process.

The photos I captured that day became some of my favorites, but I rarely saw the Mariners compete, and it would be another year before I caught them in a cross-country race again. However, I started paying close attention during the track season. I noticed immediately how competitive they were; this was clearly a solid group of elite runners.

I found myself enamored with their dominance within the league and how they stacked up against the rest of the 2A girls. I asked myself early on if this team could break through to the national stage. They answered that question soundly at NXR Northwest, winning the championship and punching their ticket to Portland.

That investment has created a culture that senior Johnny Eggert describes as "hype but focused."

"We come to practice everyday with so much energy, excited to run and be together," Eggert said. "We also have a focus though like non-other; we lock-in so we are ready for upcoming workouts and races."

With Nike Cross Nationals (NXN) looming at Glendoveer Golf Course—a venue famous for its mud and rolling hills—the Mariners seem uniquely suited for the challenge. While some teams dread the conditions, Sehome embraces the grit.