The 2018 Emmaus girls cross country season went about as well as could have been expected. In fact, one could say it was perfect.

First-year coach Kelly Bracetty guided the team to a 17-0 regular season record in the East Penn Conference. The girls finished second overall to Easton at the District 11 3A championships and in the process, qualified for state competition.

The coach emphasizes a positive mindset and tries to not only mold better harriers, but also mold better people. This approach paid off handsomely last year, and it’s realistic to think 2019 could be another outstanding year.

“I’m very impressed with where we are at,” said Bracetty. “There is going to be a lot of competition in the EPC, but we are in good shape.”

The 2019 edition will be without graduates Amanda LaVana and Abby Heilenman. But that doesn’t mean the Green Hornets have an empty hive.

There is plenty of talent returning to South Cedar Crest Boulevard. Leading the way will be junior Keerstin Augustin, who was a sensational sophomore runner in 2018. She finished first for the Emmaus girls squad in District 11 3A championship competition with a time of 19:57, which was good enough for eighth place overall. Augustin was also a star in the EPC championship race, taking fifth place overall 20:03.08.

“She has increased her mileage in the offseason and has set realistic goals for this year,” Bracetty said. “She is a strong role model and a leader on the team.”

Sophomore Isabella Lees also surprised plenty of folks as a freshman. Lees claimed 13th place in district championship competition at 20:28. A week earlier in the EPC title run, she claimed 17th place overall with a 21:06.3 finish.

“She is such a fighter, she just does not give up,” her coach said. “She will just give 120 percent.”

Another sophomore, Madison Toretta, also had an outstanding freshman season, taking 22nd place in districts with a 20:54 finish and 27th place in EPC championship competition with a 21:32.2 finish.

“I’m hoping to see her move up this year and keep developing,” said Bracetty.

Junior Kera Reinhard, yet another outstanding Green Hornet runner with potential, claimed 32nd place in districts last season with a time of 21:15.

“She has worked on weaknesses and turned them into strengths this off-season,” said the coach. “Which were her flexibility and balance.”

Junior Clara Kennedy, who finished 24th (20:59) in last year’s districts, is also poised to have a superb season.

“Clara’s confidence has improved,” the coach said.

Bracetty is also looking for junior Ashleigh McNellis to play a significant role this year.

The girls open the season Aug. 31 at the Northampton Invitational.