East Rankin Academy has unmistakably secured the No. 1 spot, dominating the Mississippi cross country landscape. Led by the relentless Audrey Mayatte, the team remains undefeated through five meets. Their impressive conquests include victories against top-tier teams like Columbia Academy, Simpson Academy, and Madison Ridgeland Academy.
Columbia Academy, renowned for their masterful pack running, made a leap in rankings after a commendable performance at The Opener. They added another feather to their cap with a sterling win at the Cathedral XC Twilight Meet, overpowering Simpson.
Madison Ridgeland Academy (MRA) hasn't been left in the shadows either. Their season shone brightly as they clinched the title at the Jackson Academy Invitational.
As for Simpson Academy, they've managed to hold a distinguished position courtesy of their lethal duo, Lilly Overby and Layla Warren.
Though they've yet to race in-state, Tupelo High School rounds out the top five, reigning as the prime MHSAA 7A program. But, there's a fresh wind blowing from the sails of the Lady Pirates. Their recent triumph at the Northwest Rankin Invitational is a testament to their burgeoning strength.
Lastly, sneaking into the top 10 is Pillow Academy, a dark horse emerging with strong performances, further emphasizing the profound depth of MAIS 5A.
The remainder of the teams that make up the top 10 are Hernando High School, Clinton High School, and Corinth High School.
RANK | TEAM | TOP RUNNER | HEAD COACH | CLASS |
1 | EAST RANKIN ACADEMY | Audrey Mayatte | David Hopper | MAIS 5A |
2 | COLUMBIA ACADEMY | Briley Speights | Duane Powell | MAIS 5A |
3 | MADISON RIDGELAND ACADEMY | Blair Britt | Pat Lovett | MAIS 6A |
4 | SIMPSON ACADEMY | Lilly Overby | Angel Overstreet | MAIS 5A |
5 | TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL | Brookelyn Morgan | Teneeisha Boyd | MHSAA 7A |
6 | PEARL HIGH SCHOOL | Katherine Neal | George Kersh | MHSAA 7A |
7 | HERNANDO HIGH SCHOOL | Kaitlyn Burge | Mary-Sada Foster | MHSAA 7A |
8 | CLINTON HIGH SCHOOL | Kaedyn Wilson | Allen Merritt | MHSAA 7A |
9 | CORINTH HIGH SCHOOL | Elsie Wilbanks | Luke Hatcher | MHSAA 5A |
10 | PILLOW ACADEMY | Emma Beckwith | Gary Dyksterhouse | MAIS 5A |