KELSEYVILLE, Calif. — The new sports season is kicking off with the school year, a time to come together, support teams, and celebrate the talents and dedication of young athletes.

The cross country season starts this week, with the first race taking place beginning at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6, at Mountain Vista Middle School.

As the cross country season gets set to start, Kelseyville High School’s team is welcoming back several upperclassmen as well as new runners preparing to start their high school careers.

Leading off the team are seniors Evan Macklin and Alayna Boyd, whose commitment, leadership and passion for the sport have made a memorable mark on the team. Their return is expected to elevate the level of competition and camaraderie on and off the field.

Over the past year, both Macklin and Boyd have continued to grow and develop and athletes, and their team’s fans are anticipating more achievements to come as they step into their final season.

From the ranks of the junior class come Alex Fordham, Ashley Hobbs and Joshua Fossa, whose experience and knowledge on the trail is expected to help guide the team’s newest members through the ups and downs of training, races and personal milestones.

The three juniors are lauded for unwavering dedication that has set the bar high for their team.

The team is welcoming a big group of first-time runners from all grade levels.

They include seniors Sienna Key, Antonio and Ivan Villa-Gomez, Gavin DuBois and Kyrston Pence; juniors Bryan Vences, Yahir Rodriquez, Austin Holmes, Jonathan Ison and Salvador Ramirez; and freshmen Aylin Aguilar and Emily Fordham.

The new runners have an entire team rallying behind them, ready to support and encourage them every step of the way.

Running isn’t just about the medals, personal records or team rankings. Running is a sport that teaches invaluable life lessons — resilience, discipline and the power of teamwork. It's about the journey, the friendships forged, and the personal growth that comes from pushing your limits.

Come out and cheer for the team sy Wednesday’s first race of the season.

Dennis Fordham is a local attorney and parent of student athletes.