Dragon dash
Experienced core, promising freshmen fuel Clinton ’25 cross country
Clinton’s Cooper Bostrom brings experience to the 2025 Clinton Dragsons cross-country team. Bostrom, a junior, qualified for the Class A/AA state championship in his sophomore campaign. (photo:Tony Cox )
“Our kids are working hard, but right now the challenge is just recruiting and getting kids to come out,” Kumes said. “We have good kids who are committed. They’re conditioning, they’re running, and I always tell them to invite a friend. If you can develop a love for running, it will last you a lifetime.”
The Dragons return an experienced core of runners, including junior Cooper Bostrom, who qualified for the Class A/AA state championship meet in 2024.
Kumes and Assistant Track Coach Tyler Byrd hope to guide Bostrom back to the state stage this fall.
“Cooper loves to run, but Coach Byrd and I have him on a weight- room program because he needs to develop his upper body if he’s going to return to state,” Kumes said. “Coach Byrd, who’s also an assistant football coach, helps all of our athletes across the board.”
Also returning are seniors Caleb Holt, Max Bostrom and Tyler Gomez. Kumes said Max Bostrom will play a key role in the team’s success this season.
The Dragons’ top newcomer is freshman Baylor Cool, grandson of Assistant Basketball Coach Chris Cool.
“I’m excited about Baylor,” Kumes said. “He works hard. I know basketball is his main sport, but I hope to show him how cross country can help him on the court.”
On the girls’ side, senior Kenzlee Hutchison returns. A multi-sport athlete in basketball and track, she is looking to balance competition with enjoyment in her final season.
“She’s already thinking about basketball, but I’ve told her to have fun and enjoy her senior year,” Kumes said.
Joining Hutchison are freshmen Lilian West and Piper Bostrom, younger sister to Cooper and Max.
“Lilian was always at the coach’s hip when I worked with the middle school,” Kumes said. “She’s a great kid. And Piper is a bulldog — a true competitor from a great family.”
The Dragons and Lady Dragons will open their season Thursday at Three Ridges Golf Course in Northeast Knoxville, competing on a two-mile course.
“This will be good for our kids because it’s shorter and will show them what it takes to compete at this level,” Kumes said. “It’s a new race for us, so I can’t comment on the course yet.”
