They weren't even supposed to be there.

After initially missing out on qualifying for the CCCAA State Cross Country Championships, the San Bernardino Valley College women's cross country team was added to the field late, and so the Wolverines made the most of it.

And while they finished 18th in the 21-team field, the Wolverines came home with an experience that will carry the five-runner team forward to next season.

"This was a great experience for the entire team and the entire program, that won't be forgotten," said Coach Eric Abrams. "These young women have fought all year, and I've never been more proud of any team I've coached."

Inland Empire Athletic Conference champion Diana Bautista (Corona Santiago) - who had qualified for the event as an individual - led the way for SBVC at state, finishing the 3.1-mile course in 17th position, stopping the clock at 19 minutes, 18 seconds, just missing out on All-American status, which is awarded to the top finishers in the race.

"Diana was in great position to become All-American, but she faded a little bit in the last mile," Abrams said. "I am super proud of her, and the entire team."

The rest of the team finished farther back in the pack. Sashi Torres (Bloomington) crossed the line at 22:51.9, while Litzy Sales (Rialto) was next at 23:49.

Not far behind, Lenea Gomez (W.A. Carter) and Noemi Velasquez (Fontana) finished close together, crossing within three spots of each other at 24:22.9 and 24:35.4, respectively.