Kelly cross country ready to defy expectations

BENTON, Mo. — In a world obsessed with shortcuts and instant gratification, the Kelly cross-country teams take a different path — one paved with sweat, perseverance and a relentless thirst for self-improvement.

As they lace up their shoes, casting comfort aside like dust in the wind, they embark on a journey that will push their limits, redefine the essence of true champions, and ignite a fire within their hearts.

“For the most part, this year’s cross country team is young, but we are training hard to prepare for the season,” said Kelly coach Omar Campos. “Our culture has always been determined by every single practice or invitational meet. I always tell my runners to have a lot of heart and be mentally tough, because not everyone can just get to practice and start running a few miles every single practice.”

Fueling the Hawks’ and Lady Hawks’ aspirations for greatness are two exceptional athletes who know what it takes to compete at the state level.

Junior Truman White returns to the boys’ team after an impressive performance at last year’s MSHSAA Class 2 State Meet, finishing 28th with a time of 17 minutes and 54.4 seconds.

White’s tenacity and speed will undoubtedly propel the team forward.

Equally determined, junior Morgan Merrick rejoins the girls’ team, armed with the experience of her solid showing at the state meet last season, crossing the finish line in 113th place with a time of 23:39.8.

Merrick’s steadfast devotion sets the stage for an exhilarating season ahead.

With these talented athletes leading the charge, the teams seek to create a supportive and competitive environment, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

“The team chemistry is always to stay positive and motivate each other during practice and meets,” Campos said. “For this year we have some seniors who have been with our cross-country program since seventh grade, and they know the routine. The seniors are very helpful and keep our team together, and motivated.”

The boys’ team showcases a blend of veteran seniors and budding underclassmen. The experienced seniors Kaden Mayberry, Tristin Genereau and Kadyn Riley lead the way. Adding to the mix are junior Isaac Worley, and a group of sophomores consisting of Bradley Kolwyck, Ethan King, Brayden Carter and Christopher Rodgers. The enthusiastic freshmen Brody Oesch, Tavin Riley and Dylan Noyes round out the team.

“We do have a few freshman runners, but one who stands out would be Brody Oesch,” Campos said. “He keeps the team going and motivates their teammates to put in the extra mile after practice.”

On the girls’ side, the team boasts a diverse lineup, featuring a combination of upperclassmen and emerging talents.

Juniors Sarah Thurmond and Lindsey Jett bring invaluable knowledge and guidance, setting a high standard for their teammates. The team is further strengthened by the contributions of sophomores Rylee Guthrie, Olivia Cross and Blaise Thomas. Together this dynamic group of athletes forms a cohesive unit, ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead and make their mark in the world of Southeast Missouri cross-country.

The teams are locked in on the upcoming season, embracing the taxing path before them.

“Cross country is one of the hardest sports,” Campos concluded. “Other sports treat running as punishment but it’s a fundamental part of training. I keep expressing those words to my team and remind them that they are doing one of the hardest sports and not everyone just wants to do easy miles for their practice. I express that they should be proud of being able to run for three or more miles without stopping and competing against the time. That is why I always bring a positive attitude to practice, so the team can stay positive, and motivated. Those are some of the ways I keep my team motivated.”

Kelly begins in season at Jackson High School on Saturday, August 26.