La Mirada Cross Country – History in the Making 

La Mirada Cross Country Caps a Breakout Season Filled With Momentum, Heart, and History in the Making

La Mirada High School’s cross country program is riding a wave of momentum this fall, powered by standout performances, rising talent, and a team culture that continues to grow deeper each year. With both the boys’ and girls’ squads making significant strides, the girls once again advancing all the way to the CIF Finals, the Matadores have plenty to celebrate.

For the boys, this season marked a major leap forward. After missing the postseason last year, the team charged into CIF with confidence, anchored by the consistency of standout runner Ryan Diaz. “He’s been running well all year,” Athletic Director Ms. Mead said, noting his leadership and steady progression. The boys’ qualification reflects the growth of a team that continues to strengthen each season.

But one of the brightest stories of the year comes from the girls’ program, which has quietly built itself into one of La Mirada’s most resilient and promising teams. With only seven athletes on the roster – meaning every runner must perform at a high level – La Mirada not only returned to CIF but advanced to the CIF Finals on November 22 at Mt. SAC, finishing 12th in Division 3. Though the top seven teams move on to State, qualifying for Finals is a big deal, and this group earned it with grit, unity, and steady improvement throughout the season.

The achievement is even more impressive considering the team isn’t senior-heavy. “Success is on the horizon,” Mead said, emphasizing how promising the future looks. With rising talents like standout junior Lauren Gutierrez, the program is building for long-term success.

Behind these accomplishments is a coaching staff that connects deeply with athletes. Head Coach Monica Luna and assistant coach Shay Moten bring energy, structure, and heart to the program. They have runners maintain daily journals and reflections – tools that help coaches track how athletes are feeling physically and mentally. “The coaches are young and dedicated,” Mead said. “They’re very engaged with the students.”

La Mirada’s powerful sense of community is another force driving the program forward. Much of that comes from the booster club, which supports everything from race fees to team bonding events like dinners and bowling nights. They are, as Mead put it, the momentum behind the momentum.

“They pay for the races,” she explained. “They bring snacks to all the races,” and most importantly, they “raise funds to help the team to get the most out of the season as possible.”

Parents also play a major role, often dashing from one viewing point to the next on race day to catch every moment. Mead joked, “running almost as much as the athletes do.”

But beyond the medals and miles, cross country teaches lessons that will last long after high school. Mead says the sport shapes character, resilience, and perspective. “Things you learn in high school sports help you with approaching life, far beyond the cross country race and into adulthood,” she said.

As the season wraps, La Mirada’s cross country program looks ahead with excitement. With strong leadership, rising athletes, and a community that shows up at every turn – literally – the Matadores are building something special. And if this year is any indication, the finish line is nowhere in sight.

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