A large group of seniors are expected to lead the way for the Neosho High School boys track and field squad this spring.
The Wildcats will rely on 17 seniors with prior varsity experience to score big points at each and every meet.
“The strength of our program this season is our senior leadership,” Wildcats coach Randy Mustain said. “We have a great group of leaders when they want to be. If we can stay focused and hold each other accountable, that will be the difference in what we’re able to accomplish this season.”
The seniors returning with prior varsity experience are — Kaden Cole (800, 1,600, 3,200), Zane Ornelas (800, 1,600), Oscar Granados (800, 1,600, 3,200), Brandon Doyle (800, 1,600, 3,200), Connor Jordon (400, 800), Jose Coria (200, 400), Landen Wasson (100, 200), Talon Mitchell (100, 200), Evan Haskins (100, 200, 400), Marcus Duncan (100, 200), Sean Branham (110H, 300H), Eric Bebie (110H, 300H), Colin Ortiz (110H, 300H), Andrew Rupert (discus, javelin), Eric Renner (discus, shot put, javelin), Haydn Riggs (shot, discus) and Brian Recinos (pole vault).
A Missouri Southern signee, Cole finished 11th in the 1,600 at last year’s Class 5 state track meet.
Juniors Isaiah Green (TJ, HJ, 400), Jared Siler (HJ, LJ), Aiden Howell (LJ, relays) and Tyrese Hill (sprints) are also expected to contribute nicely this season.
With that large group of upperclassmen leading the way, the Wildcats have the expectations set high.
“I feel very good about the upcoming season,” Mustain said. “But, as I tell the athletes every year, we will only get out what we put in. We have a lot of talent and potential on our roster, but those two things will mean nothing if we don’t embrace the day-to-day challenges and strive to improve every day.”
Coach Mustain noted there are several newcomers who could also contribute at the varsity level this spring.
“We are very excited about our freshmen and sophomore classes,” he said. “It will be exciting to see how they are able to contribute to the team this season.”
The Wildcats will host the Harry Lineberry Open House on Friday, with the action scheduled to begin at 2 p.m.
With the home meet’s arrival, the spring season will officially kick-off for the Wildcats.
“We are extremely excited for the upcoming season,” Mustain said. “Our boys have been ready to get back at it since the end of last year when our season did not end as well as we had hoped. This year, we are laser focused on our goals and hope to battle for a district championship.”
