By Chad Koenen

Publisher

The Otter Tail Central cross country team returns 11 letter winners to their lineup this season, including state finisher Peter Newark who will be leading the charge for the Bulldogs.

Newark took 25th place at state last year, but head coach Brady Speicher said Newark could have a chance to compete for a state podium spot after putting in a solid summer of training. In addition to returning the top six female runners from last season, the Bulldogs will also have newcomer Kalie Robinson in the fold as she could help to lead the girls team into action this season.

Returning letter winners for the Bulldogs this season include: boys- Peter Newark, Talyn Setterholm, Phoenix Allison, Drew Robinson and Benjamin Sanmoogan; girls- Claire Mansker, Brielle Malone, Quinn Hagemeister, Mae Hagemeister, Tegan Brandon and Delia Tebrugge.

In addition to the returning letter winners, Speicher said a number of newcomers could make an impact at the varsity level this season including: boys- senior Nelson Hubert, junior Jack Robinson and seventh grader Judd Hagemesiter; girls-  Kalie Robinson and seventh grader Bella Scholten.

Speicher said the cross country team will look at improving on their team finishes from last year at the section meet and said Bertha-Hewitt once again be among the favorites in the conference and section crowns.