After a highly successful 2025 season, the Ozark High School Girls Track team enters the 2026 campaign with momentum and a clear vision for what’s next.

Last spring, the Tigers captured both the Central Ozark Conference (COC) East title and a District championship, establishing themselves as one of the top teams in the area. With a strong group of returning athletes and the addition of a talented freshman class—fresh off a COC Championship as eighth graders—Ozark is aiming to repeat both conference and district titles this season.

Leading the way will be a group of accomplished returners. Bria Wright, a multiple-time state medalist in the 100 and 300-meter hurdles, returns after being named the Southwest Missouri Female Track Athlete of the Year by the Missouri Sports Commission. In the field events, Lola Kensinger brings proven success as a multiple state medalist in the javelin and triple jump.

Ozark also returns key contributors across the track. Sydney Lister, a state qualifier, is coming off a tremendous cross country season and is expected to carry that momentum into the spring. Ileana Naihe adds depth as a returning state qualifier in the sprints and as a member of relay teams, giving the Tigers strength in multiple events.

With this mix of elite talent and emerging athletes, Ozark is not only focused on team success locally but also on elevating its performance at the state level. While the program has consistently produced state qualifiers in recent years, the goal for 2026 is to turn those appearances into podium finishes and valuable team points.

With experience, depth, and a championship mindset, the Tigers are poised to build on last year’s success and make an even greater impact this season, both in the conference and on the state stage.

"I am looking forward to our team taking another step forward, particularly at the state track meet," Head Coach Shawn Widel said. "We have had many qualifiers in recent years, but not many points or medals to show for it. I am looking for our team to be more competitive at the state level this season."