If there was a way to describe the Oakville girls cross country team in 2026, the term “work ethic” quickly comes to mind.

“We have about 11 girls on the team this year, and I believe that our team’s strength is its work ethic,” Tigers head coach Kelsey Steiner said. “This is a great group to rebuild with because they’re very positive and always motivating each other.”

Senior Sammie Cook returns as the Tigers’ most accomplished runner this season. In 2025, Cook placed 41st at the Missouri Class 5, District 1 Championships in Cape Girardeau.

“Sammie’s end goal is to make state, and she has all of the tools to be able to do it this year,” Steiner said. “I think that it would be an amazing way to end her senior season.”

A late-season charge last year by Rose Ottenlips garnered her a spot on the varsity squad. The junior has racked up a significant amount of miles this past summer, which should pay major dividends during the course of the 2026 campaign.

“Rose made varsity at the end of their season last year, and I’d definitely like to see her start out on varsity this season,” Steiner said. “She’s put in a lot of work over the summer, and I’m wanting to see her get better every week this season.”

Sophomore Maryam Qader had an impressive freshman season and is expected to be a major contributor to the Tigers’ success in 2026.

“One of her goals is to go sub 24 and to improve throughout the season,” Steiner said. “She’s a great runner from what I’ve seen so far this year.”

Anesa Kelmendi is a senior who’s in her first year of cross country.

“Anesa is new to the team, and there’s a very bright energy about her,” Steiner said. “I’m really happy that she’s come out for the team this season.”

The Tigers open their 2026 season on Aug. 27 at Mehlville.