After a successful 2025 season that ended with both teams earning top-four finishes at the GHSA state championships, Lake Oconee Academy again enters this year’s cross-country season with high expectations.
The Titans’ girls team finished third in the state last fall, while the boys placed fourth, and head coach Carina Baxley believes both squads are already ahead of where they were at this point a year ago.
Preparation for another championship run began in early June, with runners meeting four days a week to rebuild endurance, adjust to Georgia’s summer heat, and prepare for the demanding courses they’ll face later this fall.
Titan runners also spent plenty of time attacking hills, knowing they will be a major factor during the postseason.
“We started workouts back in early June, basically around everyone’s schedules,” Baxley said. “We’re trying to get acclimated to the heat, get their distance back up after spring sports, and prepare for state. I’ve had great attendance and great work ethic from everyone.”
Although LOA graduated several contributors from last year’s teams, Baxley is confident a new group of leaders is ready to take on larger roles.
Senior Marlee Lyon headlines the girls team after serving as a leader since her freshman season. Baxley said Lyon’s impact goes far beyond race results.
“She’s been a leader really since she was a freshman,” she said. “She’s an extremely hard worker and is such a positive influence on the rest of the team, including our younger runners. Even when she can’t make a workout, she’s doing the work on her own. I’m super proud of her.”
On the boys' side, senior Esau Rodriguez has established himself as the team’s pacesetter throughout the offseason. Rodriguez closely tracks his training, regularly asks for feedback, and consistently pushes himself to improve, making him one of the program’s strongest leaders.
“Whether he’s at practice or at home, he’s logging his runs, asking for suggestions, and always giving 110 percent,” Baxley said. “I’m excited to see him at the front of the pack, both athletically and as a leader.”
Several other runners are expected to make an impact this season, including rising freshman Haley Faust, who has already caught the coaching staff’s attention despite entering her first cross-country season.
Baxley also highlighted returning runners Jenny Limeri, Marley Kerschner, and Taylor Lariscy for the work they’ve put in throughout the summer.
The boys team will have fewer runners than in recent years, but Baxley said she believes consistency and commitment can help offset the smaller roster.
She pointed to Benton Lance as one of the team’s most dependable offseason performers.
“He’s been one of our most consistent runners this summer,” Baxley said. “Crosscountry isn’t an easy sport to do alone, but regardless of how many boys are out there with him, he’s a dedicated and consistent hard worker.”
With experienced senior leadership, a talented group of returning runners, and several promising newcomers, the Titans believe they have the pieces to contend for region championships and another trip to the state podium.
After a productive summer of training, Baxley is encouraged by what she’s seen so far and said she believes the program is positioned to build on last season’s success.
“Just comparing where we are right now in our workouts to where we were at this point last year, I think we’re definitely ahead,” Baxley said. “I’m excited to see that hard work already paying off. We have goals of winning the region and going after a state title this year, too.”