HERSHEY -- One year ago, Lewisburg senior Sophia Ziemian felt an empty happiness as she watched her team run in the PIAA cross country championships.

On Saturday, Ziemian's mood was much different. A state championship gold medal will do that to a person.

After missing last year's state meet with a foot injury, Ziemian completed her amazing comeback by winning the PIAA Class AA race Saturday at the Parkview Course in 18 minutes, 52 seconds.

Her finish gave the Lewisburg girls team its first individual state champion.

"I don't think it has really