For the first time in 26 years, the North Platte boys track and field team enters a new season with a state medalist on the team.
Junior pole vaulter Coen Rainsbarger is the Panthers’ returning medalist after a third-place finish at state last year. After breaking North Platte’s 26-year drought without a state medal, he hopes to become the first state champion from the boys program in more than six decades.
The 2024 season was one of great success for the Panthers. Not only did Rainsberger medal as a sophomore, but outgoing seniors Noah Heckman and Corbin Britting also medaled with eighth-place reservations in the 3200-meter run and 400m dash.
“The key to this season, as with any season, is to find ways to stay healthy and motivated while working towards the end goal in May of competing through the state series,” said Brendan Cary, co-coach and distance coach.
Senior Caleb Wright will join Rainsbarger in aiming to get on the medal stand in May. Wright narrowly missed the medal stand at high jump last year in his first year on the team.
Junior Drake Keraus will lead the distance runners as a returning state qualifier in the 1600 and 3200 last year. Senior Waylon McCracken will compete in sprints and javelin while junior Cameron Wortham will lead the throwers as he works with some underclassmen for a run to state.
“It is important to focus on growth in every opportunity and push not only ourselves but each other to be our best,” Cary said. “The culture of the program provides that framework, allowing and encouraging each and every one of us, athletes and coaches alike, to be better each day.”