American Leadership Academy’s girls cross country team recently won its third consecutive state title, and runners from Queen Creek and San Tan Valley played key roles.

“These girls genuinely love racing for each other,” head coach Duerk Brewer said. “The way they communicate, push and support one another is what keeps this program moving forward.”

Jado O’Leary of Gilbert finished third in the 2024 AIA Division III State Championship, one of seven varsity runners who, their coach said, produced one of their most balanced performances of the season.

“Everyone showed up and gave their 100 percent, and at the end of the season that's what you hope for as a team,” O’Leary said.

“It's pretty special what we're doing."

What the Patriots did at the recent state meet was tally 80 points to w

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