“We’ve been blessed with the boys program, and this girls program has been with us for 12 years, this is my 12th year here and little by little we’ve been kicking that door and finally we were strong enough to kick it open and we rushed through and we’re at the state meet,” said Head Coach Juan Gonzalez. “It’s the start of a new era for the girls program and it’s only going to get better.”

   Gonzalez congratulated runners and thanked parents and EPISD staff for their dedication and support before Assistant Coach Hugo Sanchez shared what makes the EPHS Eagles so special.

   “A lot of friends back home [in Laredo] and runner teammates they ask what’s the secret there at Eagle Pass: for starters, they’ve got a great coach, Coach Gonzalez, he’s created a culture of hard work; two these kids are go getters, they come everyday they’re ready to work; and three they have an excellent support system in their parents, and that’s what makes all the difference,” said Sanchez. “That’s more than a lot of teams can say.”

   Seniors Nathan Kowalski and Monica Rivera thanked their coaches and parents, and wished the best to next year’s team. 

   “I’m just really happy that we’re here I feel like all these years the guys have made it to state, but this year it’s all about the girls and hopefully after this any other girls team from other sports can make it to state and we make a tradition for the whole school,” said Rivera.

   The ceremony closed with a special thanks to parents and a few encouraging words from Assistant Principal John Byrne.

   “There’s no reason now why every year  the Orange and White shouldn’t be in Round Rock, Texas,” said Byrne. “You go there and you do your best.”