With five returning state qualifiers this season, the South Loup Boys’ Track team has high hopes for the young team.

After winning a third consecutive conference championship and finishing third place at districts last season, the team has big goals for the upcoming year.

Head coach Lane Chesley said each of his competitors should be a contender, regardless of where they are competing.

“The depth and the ability to put placers in most events should lead to the Bobcats being a factor at every meet,” he said.

While the team is rich with underclassmen, Chesley will lean on the experience of 2021 state qualifiers Silas Cool, Cache Gracey, Rio Remund, Logan Recoy and Jake Halstead for leadership as the Bobcats get into competition.

The 2022 season begins on March 19 when the Bobcats travel to the University of Nebraska - Kearney Indoor Invitational.

The meet will begin at 11 a.m.