It’s been a big year for senior Liv Phillips.

In her final season, the cross-country runner has had a year full of top finishes and personal records.

Phillips has been the Redhawks’ leading runner all season. She shattered her 2022 personal best by 35 seconds at the Sept. 16 Minooka meet, with a 3-mile time of 17:05.00. She hasn’t finished below second place in a 3-mile race all year.

“I’m feeling much better than last season,” Phillips said. “I was a little slower last season, but I’ve definitely found what works for me and what’s gonna make me better.”

Being a senior has put Phillips into a leadership role within the team.

“I’ve become more vocal,” Phillips said. “I think I’ve found ways to get the team more involved to make sure they’re doing all the things they need to. I feel like I’m more in tune with what the team needs.”

Phillips’ coaches recognize her progress not only as a runner but as a leader.

“Liv is an amazing athlete and fantastic leader of the varsity team,” assistant coach Aislinn Hicks said. “She is running strong and very focused on the championship season.”

The girls cross-country team ended their 2022 season with a sixth-place finish at the IHSA state meet. Despite this, Phillips thinks there’s always room to grow.

“We were really plagued with a lot of injuries and sickness last year,” Phillips said. “I think that kind of held us back, especially at the state meet. Going into this year’s postseason, I think we’re gonna do some pretty big things.”

Phillips stepped up to the starting line for her final DVC championship meet on Oct. 14. She placed first with a time of 17:54.20 and helped lead the Redhawks to a second place finish. Phillips’ next race will be at Naperville North in the Sectional meet of the IHSA State Series.

“If everyone’s healthy, I think we’re gonna have a really good state this year,” Phillips said. “I think there’s potential for a top-ten finish.”