While their number may be in the single digits, the Mehlville boys cross country team is looking forward to the 2022 season.

“As the school year starts, hopefully more boys will come out for the team,” Mehlville head coach Mark McNamara said. “The guys have been running hard and doing everything that we ask of them, so it’s been fun!”

Seniors Michael Jones and Evan McCluskey are the team’s returning seniors for the 2022 campaign. “Michael is a really good leader that wants to run hard and be the best that he can possibly be,” McNamara said. “Evan has very good stamina and speed and wants to push his limits to unlock even more potential.”

Junior Chris Pesselato is also a returning runner. 

“Ever since his freshman year, he’s been a top finisher,” McNamara said. “He’s the kind of runner that can get into a good rhythm and handle a strong pace. He also does a good job at pushing his teammates.”

Junior Michael Steiniger and sophomore Dominic Ramos round out the returning runners from last season.

“Michael is a hard nosed kid that tries to run with everyone that he can to see how fast he can be,” McNamara said. “Dominic has good top-end speed and is always up there running with the older guys on the team.”

The Panthers begin the 2022 season at the Fleet Feet Classic’s 2-Mile Race Aug. 30 at Arnold City Park.