Loyal-Greenwood head cross country coach ….

Loyal-Greenwood head cross country coach Jim Genteman said it was apparent early on that Schley would be a special runner. He’s not surporised at all that she’s signing to run at the collegiate level.

“This is a great day for Savannah. For us coaches, it’s kind of a sad day,” Genteman said. “We saw this coming probably seven or eight years ago.”

Genteman said Schley was fairly small for a runner when she started at the varsity level, but she put in the work and was not only able to compete against older runners, but continue to do so through her four years.

“She was able to develop and keep her running skills the whole time,” the coach said.

Her work ethic, leadership and other intangibles were also something Genteman said were unique.

“She was really one of those athletes you don’t run into every day, or every year, or every decade,” Genteman said.

He also said her legacy will live on in Loyal as younger athletes try to repeat what she has done.

“It’’ll continue for years here, it will be something I’ll always talk about,” Genteman said. “She’s one of those gals you can’t shut up about.”

Schley’s assistant coach, Hannah Olson, said she recalls a time when Schley said there was “no way” she’d continue to run past high school. Now, she’s taking a huge step forward in developing herself further.

Olson said the coaches are thrilled for her, but yet it’s hard to watch her leave.

“It’s difficult for us knowing we have to share,” Olson said.

Olson also said Schley’s attitude has been remarkable, and she never let her successes go to her head.

“The humility she has displayed since Day 1,” Olson said, “She would never be one you’d imagine to be a fourtime state qualifier.”