CARTERET COUNTY, NC (November 21, 2023) – The Carteret County Board of Commissioners recognized the Croatan Cougars boys’ cross country team during Monday's meeting, celebrating their victory in the 2023 3-A state championship.
Members of the team, along with their coaches and volunteers, were present at the meeting to receive recognition for their historic win. County Commissioner David Quinn gave the team members certificates of achievement to honor the team's accomplishments.
The board commended the Croatan Cougars for their "hard work and dedication," highlighting the commitment required to achieve success in high school athletics. They emphasized the long-standing tradition of Carteret County high schools in producing individuals of excellence in both athletics and academics.
Commissioner Quinn expressed the significance of the accomplishment, stating, "This is a really big achievement. These young men are truly remarkable, and their countless hours of training clearly paid off. I'd like to congratulate them, as well as their coaches and volunteers, this evening on behalf of the Carteret County Board of Commissioners for their excellent sportsmanship, dedication, and this remarkable accomplishment that reflects so positively on our community.”
Members of the team, coached by Rico Quispe, included Tyrese Cone, Andrew Wahlgren, Noah Gurrero, Matthew Quispe, Cooper Stephens, Trey Austin, Seth Nelson, Shepp Quinn, Andrew Walker, Robert Wallace, and Justin Wax.
Notably, this marks the Croatan Cougars' second consecutive boys’ state cross country championship, highlighting their sustained excellence in the sport.
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