Junior runners Alexis Roesler and Ella Kolousek, along with senior Masynn Mebius, are leading a determined Wessington Springs crosscountry team that blends experience with new talent. Their goal: personal bests and a strong finish at the state meet in Huron.
Despite a smaller roster and unique team makeup, the Spartans are off to a strong start this fall. The team has already posted fast times at early meets such as the Augustana Twilight, while younger runners are quickly finding their stride. Team captains say this year’s strength comes not just from speed, but from the way teammates support and push one another forward.
At the start of the season, numbers were a concern. “We were planning on only having three this year,” said Alexis, now in her fifth year on the team.
Ella, also a fifth-year runner, added: “Me, Alexis and Masynn are experienced, and for Ethan and Aunnika it’s their first year.” The additional runners, they said, bring a new outlook to the season.
The fall hasn’t been without challenges. Meets have been postponed due to weather, and training conditions haven’t always been ideal. Still, the runners remain optimistic.
“I think this season is going well. I want to get a better time for sure,” Ella said.
Both Alexis and Ella share a common goal: qualifying for state. Alexis has advanced the past two years, while Ella made it as a freshman but missed out last season.
“I want to get a better placing at state, and this year it’ll be at Huron, so we get a chance to run there before state happens,” Alexis said. Ella added, “My goal at the end of the season is to make state.”
With strong leadership, growing numbers and eyes set on Huron, the Spartans are proving that even a small team can make a big impact.