McAlester Buffaloes Cross Country Teams – Boys & Girls
The McAlester Buffaloes cross country program is set for an exciting 2025 season, with both the boys and girls teams showing growth and promise under head coach Calvin Neill. With experience returning on the boys’ side and new energy joining the girls’ roster, Neill believes this could be a pivotal year for the program.
On the boys’ side, Neill says his roster is built around a core of young runners who are learning how to compete at the highest level. “I am going to be sophomore and junior loaded,” Neill said. “I have some young men that have stayed with it and improved over the last few years. I feel that if they continue to work and figure things out, I think they could be something special to see.”
That steady development is something Neill points to as a sign of what’s ahead. “We are still learning what XC is all about, but we did have some eye openers last year at the 5A meet at Carl Albert and Regionals,” he said. “I feel like they now know where they need to be. I am as excited for this group of young men as I am for the young women I am coaching this year.”
For the girls’ team, depth and enthusiasm will define the season. Neill said he is especially encouraged by the early roster size and talent. “We are young,” he said. “We are adding three freshmen, one sophomore and one senior and I am hoping to gain a few more. This is promising to be the biggest girls cross country team we have had at McAlester this early.”
The mix of new and returning athletes is something that excites him. “Two freshmen and the sophomore are new to the program,” Neill said. “I am excited for them to join. My senior Aspen Kelley this will be her third year. I am ready to see what she can do for us this season.”
Beyond individual athletes, Neill sees the girls’ team taking important steps in building a foundation. “That’s it, we are young and building culture and interest for the program,” he said. “We work hard and feel we get better every year.”
A great leader on the girl’s side is senior Aspen Kelley. Neill said her leadership and experience will be vital. As the only upperclassman with multiple years of racing under her belt, she is poised to set the tone for the girls’ squad.
Parker Cochran is a newcomer who Neill believes can step in quickly and make an impact. With several freshmen joining the team, Parker’s development will be key in shaping the Buffaloes’ future.
The Buffaloes will also reach a new milestone in 2025 when they host their first-ever home meets on the newly built Glen Stone Trail. “Running with the Herd XC Meet is scheduled for August 16th, and The Glen Stone Run XC Meet will be on October 14th,” Neill said. “We are excited to host these meets on our brand-new Glen Stone Trail, named after the legendary track coach.”
