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The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online

The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online

The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online

Design by Katie Campbell

FEATURE: The Rim Rock Experience

Nick Sprecker, News Editor-in-Chief September 30, 2024

Rim Rock Farm, sitting amongst the most revered cross-country courses in America per NCAA, is soaked in history and tradition. The Kansas Jayhawks' home course captivates spectators and runners alike with...

During the cross country campout, senior Greta Barnett runs the Rim Rock Course. Every year the cross country team travels to Rim Rock to run the course and promote team bonding. “The campout is such a great way to start the season and first build the [Free State Cross Country] community,” Barnett said.

FEATURE: A Night at Rim Rock

Rakshan Ossen, Sports Editor September 27, 2024

As the sun set into the horizon at Rim Rock Farm on Sept. 6, life at the farm was at its high as coach Steve Heffernan and his cross country team held their annual overnight campout — a tradition that...

Sophomore Addy Tenbrink passes an opponent from Olathe East. In her second year on the team, Tenbrink is a regular runner on Varsity.

SPORTS: Striding into a New Season

Mason Lester, Reporter September 12, 2023

The cross country team is looking to carry on the legacy of a very successful program. After getting 7th in state last season, the boys did not finish the way they wanted, but they have been working hard...

PHOTO GALLERY: Back To School Recap

PHOTO GALLERY: Back To School Recap

Mallory Thompson, News Photo Editor September 11, 2023

Running the halls, the cross country team practices inside due to a rising heat wave. Having to practice inside isn’t new to the cross country team, according to coach Steve Heffernan. "We're used to having to make up some stuff to fill in gaps when the weather's just not accommodating,” Heffernan said.

SPORTS: Record Breaking Heat Disrupts Fall Sports

Nick Sprecker and Lilly Wall August 25, 2023

Lawrence, KS, one of many midwest cities currently trapped inside a heat zone, has broken its own heat index record twice in the span of a week with index temperatures reaching up to 135 F. Small, everyday...

Starting strong, sophomore Brylee Burns strides out during the beginning of the race. Burns made huge leaps this season and helped to lead the girls team to a successful season with her individual 9th place at state. "My favorite part of the season was doing long runs with my best friends," Burns said.

SPORTS: Recognition at the Highest Level

Thomas Patton March 7, 2023

Four Free State cross-country runners received a nomination for Northeast Kansas High School Runner of the Year. “They run year-round and don't miss many days and are always willing to go that extra...

Photo by Maya Pavlyak

Brief: Race to the Finish

Olivia Roderick, Reporter November 20, 2021

Led by seniors Allison Babbit and Ben Shryock with the highest scoring runs, cross country went to state. This season is the 18th time that boys have qualified and 19th for girls. Girls came in an...

Athletes balance practices, games, schoolwork

Juna Murao and Trenna Soderling November 28, 2015

Freshman Emma Yackley has a full schedule of all advanced classes, including two math classes. Additionally, she’s a dedicated soccer player. In order to juggle school and sports, she often stays up...

Senior Chris Blevins, freshman Trey Melvin, junior Sid Lin and senior Bret Carey run during an after school cross country practice. they are team members o the largest cross country team in school history. The number of team members has been steadily increasing for past years.

Free State cross country team boasts largest numbers in Free State’s history

Hala Hamid, Copy Editor September 28, 2015

From the long, sweaty runs in the hot August sun, the yearly team campout and helping out at the state meet, senior Hayley Boden has had countless memorable moments during her time on the cross country...

Senior Sydney Moreano and sophomore Payton Gannaway jump to block a spike from Bishop Miege during a match on Oct. 15.

Athletes reflect on fall season, look forward to winter

Trenna Soderling, Reporter December 3, 2014

Season in Review: Gymnastics The gymnastics team finished the season defending their state title for the third time in the last four years. This was also the second consecutive title for the girls. “(People)...

Cross country postseason preview

Ryan Liston, Online Editor in Chief October 16, 2014

Listen as Head Coach Steve Heffernan speaks about the upcoming postseason for cross country. *At around 2:07, the audio in the recording cuts out. Coach Heffernan said "... not put an emphasis on ..."  

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