Two words that may define the 2023 Mehlville boys cross country are “committed” and “driven.”

“It’s been exciting to see the whole team get into the routine of running together,” Mehlville head coach Mark McNamara said. “We have some experience returning and we’re hungry to hit times and committed to achieving personal records. This team is committed and driven.”

With 14 runners on the 2023 roster, the Panthers will be led by seniors Chris Passelato and Michael Steiniger.

Passelato returns for the 2023 campaign as an established leader in Mehlville’s starting lineup.

“Chris is our big leader,” McNamara said, “He’s realized that he can be a leader and he wants to be a leader. He’s not only leading through his words, but his actions.”

Steiniger is building off a strong end to the 2022 season and should expect to be a consistent contributor to the Panthers’ lineup in 2023.

“Michael will be able to race varsity all season and is feeding off a really strong end to last season,” McNamara said. “He has a very good work ethic and is positive with the younger guys on the team.”

Junior Dominic Ramos will also be a key contributor to Mehlville’s success in 2023.

“Dominic is running upfront all the time and challenging guys like Chris Passelato,” McNamara said. “He’s a talented runner that works hard in the weight room, has a great racing mentality and just doesn’t back down.”

Two runners that should also crack the Panthers’ starting lineup this season are junior Kyle Whelehon and Mason Murphy.

“Both Kyle and Mason were very inexperienced last year,” McNamara said. “But they come into this season confident and with a great work ethic.”

One runner that could be a surprise this season is freshman Klaus Meyer.

“Klaus wants to race with the lead pack,” McNamara said. “I think he will be a top runner on our team this season.”

The Panthers begin the 2023 campaign tomorrow at the Ft. Zumwalt Invitational.