The Mathews High School cross country team got its postseason off to a fast start, winning last Wednesday’s Tidewater District championship and taking six of the seven individual All-District spots.

Russell Reed led the Devils, placing second despite running an impressive 17:32 in the intense heat at Eastern State Hospital in Williamsburg. Jamie van Emmerik placed third in 18:11, earning his fourth straight All-District selection. Chris Barnhardt came in close behind, taking fourth in 18:28. John Miles (18:37) and Kyle Slaughter (18:49) placed fifth and sixth, respectively, to complete the scoring and wrap up the Devils’ fourth consecutive district title.

Paul Crook (19:12) placed seventh to take the final All-District spot and Seth Diggs (19:59) placed ninth to round out the Devils’ squad. The effort impressed coach Drew Greve. "This is a special group of runners," he said. "They truly understand the importance of teamwork, and work together to g...