West Orange HS Sophomore Makes History Books With Cross-Country Feat

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following article is written by Max Shadow, and comes courtesy of the WOHS Sports Media Group. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

The record books at West Orange High School have a new entry, and it’s all thanks to the remarkable talent and dedication of sophomore Ava Neretic. Ava has not only left her mark on her school but also on the Branch Brook Park Cross-Country Course, where she recently clocked the second-fastest time ever recorded.

Ava’s journey to this historic achievement is a testament to her passion and commitment to sports and academics. Born and raised in West Orange, she embarked on her educational journey at Redwood Elementary School. Later, she continued her academic pursuits at Edison and Liberty Middle School. It was during these formative years that Ava discovered her love for sports and began to hone her athletic abilities.

In particular, Ava’s journey into the world of competitive running began the summer before her freshman year of high school when she decided to join the cross-country team. Little did she know that this decision would set her on a path to make school history.

Cross-country running is a physically demanding sport that requires not only strength and endurance but also mental toughness. Ava embraced the challenge with open arms, putting in hours of training to improve her performance. Her dedication paid off in a big way when she achieved the second-fastest time ever recorded on the challenging Branch Brook Park Cross-Country Course.

But Ava’s talents and interests extend beyond the track. She is a well-rounded student-athlete, participating in various other activities and sports. In addition to cross-country, she is also a member of the winter and indoor track and field teams. Her versatility doesn’t stop there; she is also an accomplished softball player and holds the impressive rank of 2nd Dan in taekwondo, a martial art that demands discipline, focus, and dedication.

Ava Neretic’s commitment to excellence doesn’t end with her athletic pursuits. She is an active member of her school community, serving on the Student Council and participating in the Royal Strings ensemble. She is also a member of the Essex County Math League (ECML), showcasing her academic prowess alongside her athletic achievements.

As Ava Neretic continues to excel in both her athletic and academic endeavors, she serves as an inspiration to her peers and a source of pride for her school. Her story is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and a passion for pursuing one’s dreams. As she continues to break barriers and set new records, there’s no doubt that Ava has a bright future ahead, one filled with achievements yet to be written in the history books of West Orange High School.

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