Will County Gazette

Last week the Joliet City Council recognized the Plainfield South boys’ cross country team for their first-ever state cross country championship.

Council met on Jan. 17 where they recognized the runners, with Councilman Larry Hug praising the athletes for the work they have put in for this type of success. On Nov. 5 the Plainfield South Cougars defeated Tinsdale Central 88 to 89 to place first out of 28 teams to win the IHSA Class 3A state title. The team went undefeated against all Illinois high schools in the fall on the way to their first title.

“I want to congratulate you guys,” said Hug. “We’re very proud of you. I tried cross-country at junior high one year and I have a lot of respect for you guys. I lasted almost that entire year and said, 'I'm done with that. I need to slow down.' And I've been slowing down ever since. You guys are top athletes.”

He brought the team to the podium alongside them and commended them for their hard work. Hug, who is a referee, said Plainfield South falls under the Joliet city limits and there has always been a tight relationship between the cities and their schools. Hug said he is a Plainfield Central graduate, which he pointed out to the team, but said that it was all “go Cougars.” Hug also read a mayoral proclamation that honored the team for their state title and the dedication it took to achieve the honor.

“We thank them for the positive publicity they have brought to the city of Joliet and we are all very proud of you,” Mayor Bob O’Dekirk wrote in a conclusion to the proclamation.

The proclamation honored the top seven athletes who led the team to victory, and recognized their their All-State and sectional honors. 

Coach Jason Crowe was named Class 3A Coach of the Year by the Illinois Track and Cross Country Coaches Association this year, as well. He has won the award twice, with the other occurring in 2012.

At the end of the meeting the athletes were awarded commemorative challenge coins to remember the event and know that the city council appreciates their hard work representing their area of Illinois. The student athletes were then thanked by the council and the day was commemorated with a group team photo.