High hopes surround the Washington boys and girls cross country teams this season, as they will have many veterans leading the charge.

For the girls, Claire Horak is the top returner looking to build off her state appearance a year ago. Being the first Demon to reach the state meet in nine years she finished 21st in class 3A with a time of 19:49.2. Meredith Raber also returns, placing 28th in the state-qualifying meet with a time of 21:27. Other runners with significant experience are Brooke Stout, Molly Sparks, and Ashley Telleen.

On the boy’s side, Evan Horak returns for his sophomore campaign. He recorded the best time for the Demons last year at the Southeast Conference meet placing ninth with a time of 17:19. Senior Brennan Horak was a top runner for the Demons last year but suffered an injury in the conference meet where he was unable to finish. Other notable returners are Jacob Van Osdol who finished 16th at the conference meet, Kiowa Kieth finished 29th, and Ben Schiefer placed 30th.  

The Demons will kick off their season on Tuesday traveling to Iowa Mennonite School.