Members of the James A. Garfield High School cross country team recently shared insights into their experiences as student-athletes, providing a glimpse into the dedication, camaraderie, and life lessons gained through the sport. Sophomore Ryan Stonestreet and senior Loreal Puleo joined student hosts Sadie Mae Ewell and Quinn Roborecki on the Beyond the Bureau podcast to discuss what it means to be part of the team.
Stonestreet, a four-year member of the boys’ cross country team, traced his initial interest in running to sibling rivalry. “My sisters ran cross country, and I wanted to show them I could be better,” he said with a laugh. Puleo, who has been part of the girls’ team for six years, also followed her sister’s example. “It was just something I did because she did it,” she explained.
While their beginnings may have been family-inspired, both athletes stayed because of the team culture and personal rewards. They described a delicate balance between competition and friendship. “We push each other to be the best we can be, and that creates a strong bond,” said Stonestreet. Puleo added, “We know we have to compete during races, but at the end of the day, we’re still friends who laugh and share stories.”
The runners agreed that cross country is both an individual and team sport. “You’re trying to beat your personal record in every race, but if everyone performs well individually, it helps the whole team,” Puleo said. Stonestreet emphasized how personal growth can elevate the entire group. “When you improve yourself, you often bring your teammates along with you.”
The conversation also shed light on the challenges of being a student-athlete in cross country. For Stonestreet, the hardest part is simply showing up. “Knowing you have a tough workout the next day can make it hard to stay motivated, but you have to push through.” Puleo described the physical toll of back-to-back training sessions. “If you do a long run one day and have track work the next, it can be tough, especially early in the morning when your body is still sore.”
Mental resilience is just as critical as physical endurance. Stonestreet shared his approach to preparation, saying, “I try not to overthink it—I just go out and do it.” Puleo agreed. “You can’t avoid it, so you might as well face it head-on.”
Both athletes have faced physical setbacks during their careers. Stonestreet detailed a hip injury this season that kept him out of competition for two meets. “It really messed with me mentally, but I went to physical therapy, stayed consistent with the exercises, and made a full recovery.” Puleo recounted dealing with shin splints, particularly during her sophomore year. “I wasn’t performing at my best, and it got to me mentally. But I focused on taking care of my body, stayed consistent, and worked my way back.”
Despite these challenges, neither has seriously considered quitting. “Even when it’s hard, I know it’s temporary,” Stonestreet said. For Puleo, the relationships she’s built kept her motivated. “I’ve made lifelong friends, and I didn’t want to lose that.”
The runners also reflected on the lighter side of cross country. Both shared fond memories of team bonding activities at Camp Hi, a local canoeing destination. “We had water gun fights and even a pumpkin carving contest this year,” Stonestreet said. Puleo added, “We also do scavenger hunts around town and take fun photos together. It’s a great way to build team spirit.”
While the boys’ team keeps pre-race traditions simple, the girls’ team gathers in a circle, puts their right feet in, and listens to a motivational speech from coach Pfleger before shouting “1-2-3!” together. “It’s our way of getting pumped up,” Puleo explained.
Both athletes offered advice for students considering cross country. Stonestreet emphasized discipline. “Have a good diet, don’t skip workouts, and just show up.” Puleo encouraged newcomers not to be intimidated. “You’ll work your way up to the longer runs. Start with the summer workouts—they make all the difference.”
Looking ahead, both runners expressed optimism for their teams’ futures. Stonestreet hopes for more team members to break the 18-minute barrier next year, while Puleo is focused on helping the girls qualify for regionals. As a senior, she hopes the program continues to thrive after her graduation. “The younger runners are talented, and I want them to keep pushing toward districts, regionals, and maybe even state one day.”
Reflecting on their cross country careers, both runners highlighted the life lessons they’ve gained. Stonestreet pointed to the importance of consistency. “It applies to everything—school, work, life. You have to keep showing up.” Puleo emphasized responsibility. “If you skip a day, whether it’s training or schoolwork, you feel the consequences later. It’s about staying focused.”
As the podcast concluded, the athletes encouraged students to give cross country a try. “It’s more than just running,” Puleo said. “It’s about growing as a person and building connections that last a lifetime.”
With the season winding down, the JAG cross country team remains committed to their goals, proving that persistence and teamwork can carry them far—on the track and beyond.