By John Kemmeter

With four runners back from last year’s State Meet, the Stevens Point Area Senior High School (SPASH) boys cross country team will look to continue its string of Wisconsin Valley Conference (WVC) Titles and WIAA Division 1 State Meet appearances.

Senior Johnny Hyland has been emerged as the top runner for the Stevens Point Area Senior High School (SPASH) boys cross country team this season.
(John Kemmeter photo)

The Panthers finished 11th at state last year, when they won their 29th consecutive WVC Title and qualified for state for the 11th consecutive season.

This season, SPASH is currently ranked 11th in Division 1 by the Wisconsin Cross Country Coaches Association, and is set to compete at the Stoughton Invite Saturday, Sept. 30.

“We’re looking ahead,” said SPASH boys cross country coach Donn Behnke, who has guided the team to 10 State Titles since 1977. “We’re training toward our Conference and Sectional meets, and hoping that we get to the State Meet.

“That’s what it’s all about for us,” he said.

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Senior Monty Flatoff is one of four returnees from last year’s WIAA Division 1 State Meet for the Stevnes Point Area Senior High School (SPASH) boys cross country team this season.
(John Kemmeter photo)

Senior Liam Belson returns as a four-year varsity member for the 11th-ranked Stevens Point Area Senior High School (SPASH) boys cross country team.
(John Kemmeter photo)