Webb City coach Dustin Miller and Joplin coach Dustin Dixon both used the word proud when queried about their respective team's performances at Saturday's Class 4 District 6 cross country meet at the Raymore- Peculiar High School course.
Webb City advanced its entire boys and girls teams to next week's sectional, while Joplin had eight individuals qualify.
The top four teams and top 30 individuals advanced to next week's sectional that will be held at Missouri Southern.
Webb City's boys and girls both finished third in the team standings after claiming Central Ozark Conference crowns the week before.
"I'm so proud of our effort," Miller said.
"Both teams competed extremely hard when it mattered. Our goal was to get both teams through, and to run with confidence, and we accomplished those goals. Collectively we ran with poise and composure. I'm just thrilled for both."
We've had two great meets in a row and we still have areas we can improve. I'm really proud of our kids and the momentum we're building."
On the girls side, the top four teams were Lee's Summit West (25), St. Teresa's Academy (84), Webb City (86) and Raymore-Peculiar (88). For Webb City, Riley Hawkins finished fifth in the 19:57, while Mileah Metcalf was 12th, Alexia Jimenez placed 18th, Hally Philpot took 19th and Lauren Kuechler was 32nd.
"I was very proud of Riley," Miller said. "She was right up there with some of the best in the state."
The top four boys teams were Raymore-Peculiar (54), Rockhurst (73), Webb City (77) and Lee's Summit West (95).
Webb City had three boys finish in the top 10, as Haddon Spikereit placed third with a time of 16 minutes, 26 seconds, Joseph Dawson took seventh (16:46) and Owen Weller was 10th (16:55). Also for the Cardinals, Roman Borboa finished 19th and Parker Hansen was 40th.
Next week's sectional is slated for 11 a.m. at Missouri Southern's Tom Rutledge Cross Country Course.