Both boys' and girls' cross country programs have been strong at St. Paul Academy and Summit School for many seasons. The girls' program has made a team appearance at the State Championship four times and the boys' program has made eight appearances, winning the Minnesota State Cross Country Championship three years in a row in 1990, 1991 and 1992.
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Toni Lagos Cainkar ’78 was a leader in athletics and achieved remarkable success that left a lasting impact on the legacy of girls’ sports at St. Paul Academy and Summit School.
At SPA, Toni demonstrated unparalleled dedication and excellence as a student-athlete. She served as captain of both the basketball and track and field teams, embodying leadership on and off the court and field. She was the recipient of twelve letters across basketball, track and field, cross country, and soccer during her four years at SPA, a testament to her versatility and skill.
Toni's achievements extended beyond participation, as she set school records in numerous track and field events and tied for the second-most points scored in the conference during the 1975-1976 basketball season. Her prowess on the court and track earned her widespread recognition, including multiple "Athlete of the Month" awards from local newspapers and was a finalist for the prestigious Dave Winfield Award, which honored the most outstanding student-athletes in the Twin Cities area.
Following her stellar high school career, Toni continued to excel at Brown University, where she played basketball and served as captain her junior and senior years. Her impact was profound, earning national recognition as the record holder for most blocked shots in women's basketball at the time. Additionally, her athleticism extended to track and field, where she was named to the All-Ivy League Team by Ivy League coaches and secured conference titles in the 100-meter hurdles and the 4x100 relay.
Toni Lagos Cainkar's induction into the St. Paul Academy and Summit School Athletics Hall of Fame honors her enduring legacy of sportsmanship, competitive spirit, and athletic achievements. Her journey from a standout high school athlete to a record-setting collegiate competitor is a testament to her dedication, skill, and enduring impact on the world of sports.
