As the 2024 cross country season begins,  the Mehlville boys cross country team is determined to improve on last year’s 14th-place finish at the Missouri Class 5, District 1 championships.

“We had some great base runs where the guys are all getting into that competitive practice mode,” Mehlville head coach Mark McNamara said. “We’re challenging ourselves during our runs, and I think we’re building a good foundation for the season.”

Senior Dominic Ramos returns as one of the top threats on the course this season. In 2023, Ramos placed 75th overall at last year’s district championships.

“Dominic is driven right now with a lot of motivation,” McNamara said. “He has the desire to hit some big personal records, and I think he has the right attitude for it.”

The biggest surprise last season and someone to watch is sophomore Nikolaus Meyer. As a freshman, Meyer was Mehlville’s top district finisher with an impressive 64th place. In fact, he was the seventh-fastest freshman runner at the district meet.

“Nikolaus is learning to be efficient as a runner this season,” McNamara said. “I think he’s going to be right up there with Dominic and be able to learn from Dominic’s experiences.”

Junior Angel Chavez is another Panther poised to make an impact this year.

“Angel is a really strong and consistent runner,” McNamara said. “He’s the kind of guy that can lock into a quick pace and maintain it throughout the run.”

Senior Kyle Whelehon, juniors Jason Rayborn and Mason Murphy, and sophomore Luke Miller are viewed as important to the Panthers’ success in 2024.

“Each of those guys can be critical members of our team,” McNamara said. “If they come in and have the right approach and mental focus, they can totally change the dynamic of our team.”