With all of their runners returning, and the addition of two new members, the South Loup cross country team is off and running this season.

Last season, the Bobcats saw great success with three runners qualifying for the state meet, consistently improving personal records at each meet, and improving their times each week.

The Bobcats will be led by seniors Gracie Neth and Logan Recoy. Last season Logan Recoy, and juniors Ella Cool and Ivy Tullis all qualified for the state meet.

With the addition of two new male runners this season, the boys have enough members to field a team at meets and be eligible for team awards. The boys have quite a bit of experience and depth of talent and are well-positioned to bring home hardware.

The girls are one runner short of being able to qualify as a team, but can still compete as individuals.

Head coach Nicole Recoy is excited to watch her team continue to improve.

“This will be a very talented group this season and I expect some really improved performances,” she said.

The Bobcats open their season on Thursday at Burwell at 4 p.m.