The Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly commended the Homer High School boys and girls cross country teams on Tuesday for winning the state title in October.

A resolution sponsored by borough Mayor Peter Micciche and assembly member Kelly Cooper, who represents Homer, congratulated both teams for their excellent season and for winning the Division II state championship.

The resolution notes that the girls’ team showed “incredible determination and resilience” by returning to compete in the Palmer championship meet despite experiencing multiple injuries during the season that “threatened to hamper their performance.”

The assembly also specifically recognized multiple athletes from both teams for their “exceptional” performances. From the boys’ team, Johannes Bynagle, Caleb Bunker, Jai Badajos, Rio Waltenbaugh, Tait Ostrom, Jude Rozeboom, Landon Tinsley, and alternates Charlie Rustand and Gryffyn Linder were recognized. From the girls’ team, Etta Bynagle, Ariela Garvey, Claira Booz, Morgan Harness, Myra Kalafut, Abby Ostrom, Ahnali Cook and alternates Kiriakia Basargin and Cassidy Hardyman were recognized.

The resolution also attributes the Homer teams’ successes to leadership from coaches Bob Ostrom and Lucas Parsley.

“A big hand for the 2025 Alaska Class 2A state champions, Homer High School boys and girls cross country teams,” Micciche said.

During Tuesday’s meeting, the assembly also commended the Kenai Central High School girls’ volleyball team for winning the 2025 Class 3A State Championship; the KCHS marching band for winning the 2025 Al Castronovo Esprit De Corp Award; and the Soldotna High School boys’ football team for winning the 2025 Alaska Division II State Championships.

Micciche said he and the co-sponsors of each resolution will plan soon to visit Homer, Kenai and Soldotna high schools to present the commendations in person.

Find the resolution in full at kpb.legistar.com.