The Shipley Cross Country team made school history at the Friends Schools League Championships on October 16, 2025, with both the Boys and Girls Varsity teams bringing home championship titles. It was the first-ever FSL Championship for the Boys team and the second consecutive title for the Girls team.

Senior captains Ben Brasfield ’26 and Ella Viscardo ’27 also claimed individual FSL titles, leading their teams with determination and heart.

Brasfield said his goal all season was to win the championship for Shipley after seeing the team come up short in previous years. “Winning FSL was always a goal of mine because Shipley had never done it before,” he said. “It felt amazing to cross the finish line and see that all of my consistent training had paid off.”

E. Viscardo focused on transforming her mindset and leadership as a senior captain. “Last year I struggled mentally before races, but this year I learned to race with confidence and determination,” she said. “Crossing the finish line and realizing I won was one of the most thrilling moments of my life.”

Director of Running, Justin Winters, reflected on this enormous and monumental win for Shipley Cross Country. The girls' team captured their second consecutive title, and Winters said, “After overcoming many obstacles and losing a few key seniors from last year, this win was so meaningful and fulfilling, and I am so, so proud of them.” For the Boys XC team, league contender GFS had claimed the Boys XC Championship 25 consecutive times, so this championship race was always going to be a tough one. During the race, the Shipley boys started to push in the worst and most difficult part of the course—through the hills and rock. In the end, the Boys XC were resilient and ultimately ended the GFS dynasty. Winters said this is the biggest win in the history of the program.

Coach Julianne Viscardo reflected on the magnitude of the moment, calling it “years in the making.” She praised both teams for their growth, resilience, and unity throughout the season. “To see the kids believe in themselves on race day and have it all come together is truly something special,” she said.

The victories marked an unforgettable day for Shipley running, showcasing not only individual talent but also teamwork, trust, and the growing strength of the program.