2017 Palo Verde Boys Cross Country Capsule

League: Class 4A Northwest

Head coach: Nick Meis, sixth season

Returning lettermen: Eight

Top athletes: Evelio Vergara (Jr.), Sawyer Epstein (Sr.), Josh Campbell (Jr.)

Outlook: Vergara was a second-team all-state selection last year and is one of eight returning lettermen for the Panthers.

“The loss of two-time Sunset Region champion Daniel Ziems (to graduation) will be difficult to overcome, but with smart and dedicated training, anything is possible,” Meis said.