By Bryce McKinnis
The Owasso Rams are looking ahead to a productive 2024 campaign.
“We are excited for the upcoming season! Our upperclassmen are looking fantastic, and we have several younger runners who are getting better all the time,” Rams head coach Blake Collins said. “We can’t wait to start competing and we know we’re going to have a lot of fun.”
Bella Nelson (Sr.) looks to defend her state title this fall.
“Bella is the returning 6A State Champion from last season. She went on to win both the 800m and 1600m in Track for the second year in a row,” Collins said. “Bella has a tremendous work ethic and, as good as she already is, pushes herself hard to improve daily. She’s a terrific teammate who always wants to encourage other girls on our team. We can’t wait to see what she’s capable of this season!”
Two of Nelson’s top competitors will be on her own team. Ava Cornelius (Jr.), a two-time XC All-State selection, has been among the state’s top runners since she hit the trail for the first time as a freshman. Quinn Thomason (Sr.) was an All-State pick in 2022.
“As Quinn goes so does our team,” Collins said. “When she is dialed in and excited, she makes every other girl around her excited too. She has improved every year she’s run for us and I am sure this year will be no different. She is the spark plug that makes our team go.”
Audrey Toews (Fr.) is one of the area’s most promising newcomers.
“Audrey made our state champion varsity team last year and then had a terrific track season. She has a terrific work ethic and an awesome attitude at practice. I am sure she’ll be pushing for varsity again,” Collins said.
Ariana Reeves (Sr.) gives the team its heartbeat. She suffered a torn ACL during soccer season but has regardless been instrumental to the cross country team’s success this offseason.
“While she’s working back from her injury, she has been at practice every day, helping to fill up water, write down times, and constantly encourage her team. She has a terrific attitude and works her tail off,” Collins said.
