Deko Ricketts

SCHOOL: Barstow

YEAR: Senior

SPORT: Cross country

Ricketts finished out his high school career in style Saturday, winning the Class 2 state championship meet in Jefferson City. His time of 17:02 was nine seconds better than second-place Kaden Overstreet of Lamar. Ricketts, who admitted some surprise in crossing the finish line first, led for the final mile and extended his lead over the grueling incline, which spans the final 200 meters.

| Sam McDowell, smcdowell@kcstar.com

Katie Tuck

SCHOOL: Smithville

YEAR: Senior

SPORT: Cross country

Prior to the state meet her freshman season, Tuck recalls nerves bringing her to tears. Three years later, she ran a press-free race Saturday in Jefferson City and finished in third place in the Class 3 race, helping Smithville to a third-place team finish. It was part of a memorable week for Tuck, who was also named a Wendy’s High School Heisman state finalist.

| Sam McDowell, smcdowell@kcstar.com

Sam McDowell, <a href="mailto:smcdowell@kcstar.com">smcdowell@kcstar.com</a>