Longhorn cross country team aims to make another run at state

By Jacki Wood

To say the Platte Valley cross country team had a good year in 2015 might be an understatement. Incredible? That’s probably more like it.

In just its first season as a sport for the Jefferson and South Nodaway co-op, the Longhorns placed 2nd at districts and 10th at the state meet.

“For being a first-year sport last year, the girls did amazing,” Head Coach Michael Barbosa said.

Even so, the Longhorns want to get better this season.

“I want to improve on some of the things that we struggle with, such as hills, and be better than they were last year,” Barbosa said.

Returning this year are all-district senior twins, Mallory and Meaghan McConkey; all-state and all-district sophomore Ashley Riley; senior Phelps Hawley; and junior Savannah Bennett.

The team graduated one senior, Shelby Hull, last year.

Other team members include senior exchange student Pitchakorn “Mint” Chitpiboonsuk, junior Emily Skoglund and freshmen Bailey Farnan and Layla Wolf.

Barbosa said team goals for the Longhorns are to win districts and improve on times from last year.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to coach my first high school team ever,” he said. “I cannot wait for the chance to help my team be the best they can possibly be.”

The Longhorns start the season on August 30 at Maryville.