The Central Plains cross country team returns two state qualifiers for the 2019 season. Juniors Hannah Redetzke qualified in both her freshman and sophomore years and Monica Short qualified her freshman year and sat out the 2018 season because of injury.

Returning runners on the boys’ side are: sophomores Cole Lamasch and Hunter Green, juniors Ethan Hurley and Brian Whiterock and senior Jaydon Whiterock.

Freshman Joanna Donecker is new this season.

“Our goal is to build on the successes we had last year and become more competitive,” said Rhiannon Weber, who is in her seventh year as cross country coach.

“On the girls’ side, returning runners Hannah and Monica look to continue to be competitive at every meet. One the boys’ side, we hope to get more of our team running at the varsity level so we can compete as a team.”

The Oilers open their season at 9 a.m. Saturday at Hoisington.