The ACS Rhetoric Mustangs capped off their season with an impressive showing at the TAPPS State Cross Country Championships in Waco. Junior Caleb Oban led the way, finishing 8th overall in the 1A Boys division and earning a Top-10 medal and All-State recognition.

Anchored by Caleb’s leadership and backed by a deep, tenacious roster, the ACS boys team placed 4th overall, the highest finish in program history. This season also marked a major milestone: the Mustangs fielded a full team of seven runners for the first time.

The boys’ lineup — team captain Caleb Oban, junior Sheppard Hurt, sophomores Calvin Hargrove, Eoin Hassman, and Stone Hurt, and freshmen Mateo Lerma and Abram Smith, with freshman Kayden Ogden serving as alternate — showcased both the depth and youth of the program. With only two juniors and six underclassmen, this young team displayed remarkable poise and competitiveness on the varsity stage. Every Mustang played a vital role, with each finish contributing to the team’s overall success.

On the girls’ side, the Lady Mustangs — juniors Flannery Brownfield, Chloe Craxton, and Mayzie Moore — ran with heart and determination, representing ACS with pride on the state stage. Though a small but mighty squad, these runners are trailblazing the way for future Lady Mustangs, inspiring our middle school athletes and laying a strong foundation for years to come.

Competing on the challenging Waco course, both teams demonstrated grit, focus, and resilience from start to finish. Their season-long commitment and teamwork culminated in a record-setting performance that reflects both the strength and promise of ACS Cross Country.

Congratulations to both teams on an outstanding finish to the season. Your discipline, maturity, and unity continue to make ACS proud!