Dogs Have High Expectations Despite Graduation Losses
After a strong, 2025 season that ended with a seventh-place finish at the Class 4A State Championship, the Sulphur Bulldog cross country team will enter this year with high expectations despite graduating four of seven varsity starters, said head coach Emile Heitland.
Leading the way are senior Morgan Brown, a returning state medalist, senior Calvin Downey, and junior Keaton Seitz. They also return junior Andrew Hail, who served as the No. 8 runner and regional/state alternate last season.
“Morgan and Calvin will be counted on to provide leadership for this year’s squad, said Heitland. “Both are three-time state qualifiers and understand the commitment and work ethic required to have a successful season as individuals and as a team.”
Heitland said cross country practice began July 15, but many of his athletes have been training hard throughout the summer, and he said he’s encouraged by the shape of the runners, and the dedication they’ve shown leading into the season.
“We expect big things from Morgan, Calvin, Keaton, and Andrew, but replacing four senior starters won’t be easy,” he said. “We’ll need several other runners to step up and seize the opportunity.”
Among those who could help the Dogs this season are junior Wyatt Clark and sophomore Ayden Espitia, according to Heitland. “Both had strong seasons last year and have put in an outstanding summer of training. They enter the season in excellent shape and are expected to play key roles in our varsity lineup.
“We’re also excited about a talented freshman class that combines ability with an exceptional work ethic. The group is led by Jake Mann, who won the Junior High State Championship last season and finished first in every meet during his eighth-grade year. Joining him are fellow freshmen Dautry Smith, Banks Tucker, Jagger Jennings, and Skylar Sloan, all of whom have the potential to make an immediate impact. “While we have some key spots to replace, the combination of experienced leadership, dedicated upperclassmen, and a talented freshman class gives us confidence that this team can compete at a high level throughout the season.”
