Staley quarterback Trent Hosick and Smithville cross country runner Katie Tuck are approaching one of the most important, pressure-filled dates of their respective senior seasons.

Some good news came Tuesday in that will perhaps lighten the mood.

Both senior athletes were named finalists for the 19th annual Wendy’s High School Heisman Award. There are 20 finalists — 10 male and 10 female — in each state.

Hosick will lead the Falcons as they host St. Joseph Central on Wednesday night in the second round of the Missouri Class 5 district football playoffs. A week after winning her district cross country race, Tuck will compete for the Class 3 championship Saturday in Jefferson City.

One female and one male winner from each state will be selected Monday. Of those state winners, 12 seniors will be chosen as national finalists to visit New York City on Dec. 7 and compete for the national title.

More than 1,200 Missouri high school seniors applied for the award, according to a press release.

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