Cross country: Aledo returning plenty for another strong run

Both teams return plenty of talent from squads that each advanced to the Class 5A State Meet in 2024. It was the second straight season that both teams reached state, with the girls placing second in 2023 and third last season.

“After setting the precedent last year (both groups on the podium at regionals), I fully expect us to do exceptionally well at both district and regionals again this year,” head coach Mike Pinkerton said.

Last season the Ladycats won a second straight regional championship, while the Bearcats finished third. In 2023 the Bearcats placed fourth at regionals to qualify for state, but only the top three teams get on the medal podium.

“It’s really looking strong with the young runners we have coming out this year,” he continued. “The core of both the varsity boys and girls teams are back, and they will help teach the work ethic and discipline to the younger runners.”

Back for the Ladycats are seniors Molly Garrison, Sofia Brandenburg, Madison Larsen, and Mykel Murry, along with juniors Mayden Mitchell and Kjersten Loy, and sophomore Hadleigh Walton.

Garrison paced the team at state, finishing sixth, while Murry was 15th.

Returning for the Bearcats are seniors Dominick Barrera and Ian Robbins, with junior Tyler Connally and sophomore Thatcher Pettit. Connally topped the boys at state with a 14th-place finish.

“We are going to have a really good freshman class, boys and girls, to go along with all of our returners from last year,” Pinkerton said. “It’s going to be a really fun year. Definitely looking forward to another great season.”