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Pope High School senior Josie Hutchinson is chasing history this weekend as she seeks to defend her GHSA 5A Girls Individual Cross Country State Championship title, one year after leading the Pope Greyhounds to a team state championship.
Known for her grit, leadership, and grounded personality, Hutchinson has built an impressive athletic résumé. The five-time GHSA state champion boasts titles in both cross country and track and field, including the 3200m, 4x800m relay, and team championships. Over the past three seasons, she has finished in the top three in 19 of her last 25 cross country races she has run in Georgia. She holds five school records and multiple county and regional honors.
“She’s the GOAT for Pope High School cross country,” said Coach Cathi Monk. “Josie goes above what’s required in her preparation. She’s a fierce competitor and an even better person.”
Hutchinson’s drive runs deep in her roots. The daughter of Joe and Christin Hutchinson, Josie credits her family’s athletic and faith-filled foundation for shaping her determination. Her father, a former Little League World Series champion and standout at Wheeler High School, recognizes her innate competitiveness: “Some kids just have that desire to work hard — Josie has it.”
Beyond her athletic success, Hutchinson’s leadership and compassion have defined her legacy at Pope. She is known for mentoring younger runners, rallying teammates before races, and cheering competitors at the finish line — a gesture parents and coaches call the “Josie Effect.”
Hutchinson’s personal record of 17:31.49 ranks among Georgia’s best. She plans to continue her running career next year at Samford University, but first, she and the Greyhounds will defend their 5A titles this Saturday in Carrollton, Georgia.
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