Only 15 times in state history has a program swept the state championships across the class, and just once has this happened in the 5K girls era. It could be even more history for the Dutch teams, and while the girls are heavy favorites to reclaim gold this October, the boys will have to overcome a few key losses on their roster to chase another championship. But make no mistake, Pella will once again be a major factor in who comes up with the top trophy in Class 3A — and if they do so, the Dutch have an excellent chance to show they are Iowa’s best distance running program yet again.
The Dutch will work to overcome the loss of the king of Class 3A track and field and All-State finisher Chase Lauman, who was among the individual state title contenders until a post-district meet injury held him out. Cooper Vande Voort and Zack Neumann didn’t factor into the state scoring, but took their wealth of racing experience with them to college. However, the cupboard is far from bare for Coach Doug Cutler and company, and a host of returning athletes make them a contender again in the 3A field.
Pella opens the season Saturday, August 26th at Cedar Rapids Prairie.