News Summary
As the 2025 high school cross-country season approaches, athletes in Lincoln are preparing for an exciting year filled with competition and camaraderie. This season showcases standout runners from schools like Lincoln North Star, Lincoln Christian, and more. With several returning athletes aiming for state titles, fans can expect thrilling races and inspiring performances as the teams strive for success.
Exciting Times Ahead for Lincoln’s Cross Country Teams!
As the sun rises on the 2025 high school cross-country season, athletes in Lincoln are gearing up for another thrilling year filled with speed, competition, and camaraderie. Whether you’re a die-hard running fan or just love cheering for local athletes, there’s a lot to chat about when it comes to this year’s teams!
Star Performers to Watch
First on our radar is Josiah Bitker, a senior at Lincoln North Star who already made waves by finishing first in last year’s Lincoln Public Schools championship. With his sights set on becoming one of the top cross-country runners in the entire state, Bitker promises to be a name to remember as the season unfolds.
Lincoln Christian’s Ambitious Athletes
Over at Lincoln Christian, excitement is buzzing as the boys’ team aims to lace up for both the individual Class C state title and the coveted team championship. Trevin Opp, who wowed everyone last season by winning the Class C state title with a margin of 27 seconds, is back with his trusty teammates who are ready to rise to the challenge.
The girls’ team at Lincoln Christian is being spearheaded by the talented sophomore Clara Heppner, who will be looking to make her mark this season as well.
Lincoln East’s Comeback Kids
Not to be outdone, Lincoln East made significant strides last year, moving from eighth to third place at state. They have some key players returning, including seniors Ben Schlegelmilch and Daren Linscott, who both ranked in the top 20 at state. Adding to the excitement is Dylan Linscott, a sophomore who had the third-best finish by a freshman at state last season. Watch out—this team is on the rise!
New Beginnings at Lincoln High
At Lincoln High, all eyes are on junior Trey Crabtree, the only state qualifier from the previous year. He’s not alone; talented runners like Oliver Brassil, Hutton Rettig, and Beckett Bartholow are joining him to ensure this team puts forth a strong showing.
The girls’ team is significantly stronger with a powerful lineup returning six out of seven runners who competed at the state level last season. Keep an eye out for senior Sydney Wendt, who placed 14th at state and will undoubtedly be a key performer.
A Promising Future for Lincoln Northwest
Meanwhile, Lincoln Northwest’s boys team boasts some promising talent, featuring two-time state qualifier Travis Emblin and his teammate Noah Foreman. They are looking for a solid number four runner to help secure their spot at state this year.
High Hopes for the Silver Hawks
Over in the girls’ league, the North West team is led by two-time state qualifiers Adanya VanArsdale and Skye Tabke. With aspirations to break into the Top 10 in Class B, these athletes certainly have their work cut out for them!
Gators Are Definitely in the Race
The Lincoln Gators, coming off a strong performance as last year’s state runner-up, return with a core team featuring accomplished medalists like Josiah Bitker, J’Shawn Afuh, and Tyler Smith. This powerhouse team is among the top two in the state as the new season begins.
Challenges and Changes
Unfortunately for Fremont, the reigning champions, they’ve lost several key athletes, including three-time state champion Juan Gonzalez. It’s a tough break, but competition keeps on rolling!
The Lincoln Knights enter the season under new leadership, with head coach Alex Markham stepping up after a long tenure by David Nebel. This fresh start brings back four runners from last year’s team, still striving to improve on their ninth-place state finish.
Preseason Rankings are In!
As the buzz builds, the Silver Hawks boys are ranked No. 5 in the preseason coaches’ poll, while their girls’ squad is holding strong at No. 2 after a successful season that ended as state runners-up.
With returning athlete Luke Kreifels leading the Standing Bear boys team and junior Hannah Zimmerle making history as the program’s first state qualifier, the excitement is palpable.
So, lace up those running shoes and get ready to cheer because Lincoln’s cross-country teams are all set for an action-packed season ahead, full of racing thrills and inspiring athleticism!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
LIVE BALL Resources
Paducah High School Soccer Results for August 28th
SMAA Relays in Buxton Celebrate Team Spirit Despite Rain
High School Baseball Players Become Local Heroes in Miami, AZ
Hempfield Ladies Tennis Team Dominates Elizabethtown
Marist College Unveils New Track and Turf Field
Central Indiana Girls’ Soccer: Weekly Standouts Shine
St. Frances Academy Dominates Maryland High School Football
High School Golf Season Kicks Off in Southwest Florida
Meeker Cowboys Cross Country Team Kicks Off Season
Hannah Krueger Commits to Texas A&M Swimming Program
Additional Resources
- Lincoln Journal Star: High School Cross Country
- Wikipedia: Cross Country Running
- News Channel Nebraska: Juan Gonzalez
- Google Search: Josiah Bitker
- Lincoln Journal Star: Lincoln East Contenders
- Google Scholar: Trevin Opp
- Lincoln Journal Star: Lincoln North Star
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lincoln High School Cross Country
- Lincoln Journal Star: Lincoln Southeast
- Google News: Juan Gonzalez Fremont Cross Country