The 2022 season was historic for many reasons as the Pella cross country teams swept the Class 3A championships. It was the first time since the girls switched to a 5K that the same school swept the podiums, just the 5th occurrence since there were four classes established in 2003, and 15th ever clean boys-girls sweep in Iowa High School cross country.

With a good portion of returning athletes back again in 2023, there’s a definite chance that the Dutch could join even more elite company. Iowa City High swept the Class 3A podium from 1992 to 1994. While there is still work to do, Pella could become just the second ever school to repeat both genders and the first ever in the 5K era if they can get to the top of the trophy stands in both races on October 28, 2023.

Pella Head Coach Doug Cutler says the current group has had great perspective on focusing on what is immediately in front of them, knowing that with good health, progression, and a close-knit team, they can give themselves the chance to sweep the class. Cutler acknowledges that it won’t be easy, as every school in 3A will not be surprised when they see the green and white at a meet and they will be the target for the rest of the state.

Previews of both the boys and girls cross country teams will be featured over the next two days.

Schedule:
8/26 – at Prairie
9/2 – Home Invitational (at Central)
9/5 – at Grinnell
9/11 – at Ballard
9/16 – Heartland Invitational (at Central)
9/26 – at Williamsburg
10/2 – at Hillcrest Academy
10/9 – Conference Meet (at Indianola)
10/18 – State Qualifying Meet (Site TBD)