The Tahlequah Lady Tigers are charging into the State Championship with their eyes locked on the top prize. Ranked No. 4 in the state, this talented squad has a legitimate shot at claiming the No. 1 spot if they can replicate their dominant performance from the Regional Tournament.
At the heart of their success is a powerhouse relay unit that has been rewriting records all season long. The 4x100 and 4x200 teams—featuring Lakyn Adams, Riley Dotson, Khloe Frazier, and Kiyah Edwards—shattered school records at both the Metro Lakes Conference Meet and the Regional Championship, bringing home titles in both events. The 4x400 team of Dotson, Frazier, Adams, and Moe Wilson also claimed the Regional Championship while setting a new school record.
Adams was nothing short of spectacular, helping set four school records during the Regional Championship—including a sub-minute time in the 400 meters. "I think our strength has been how close we are," Adams said. "We have a really tight-knit relationship, and it makes it easier to run. I didn't really realize until after the meet that I helped set four records. It just felt crazy."
But the Lady Tigers know the road to the title won't be easy. They'll need to overcome three teams ranked ahead of them: Carl Albert, Bishop Kelley, and Claremore. The good news? They've already proven they can beat Claremore and Grove, having taken down both for the Metro Lakes and Regional Championships. Head coach Elzy Miller knows the challenge ahead. "It's going to be tough," he said. "I think if we are going to win, we have to place high in everything we participate in. We're going to do our work and hopefully do well in our relays. We've been impressive all year long."
Beyond the relays, the Lady Tigers have scoring potential in the throwing events and sprints. Ariana Thomasik has been on a tear, winning the Regional Championship with a season-best throw of 35' 6"—a full three feet better than her previous best. Sprinter Kiyah Edwards and hurdler Dynashia Bailey are also expected to contribute valuable points in individual events. "I've been immensely impressed by Kiyah Edwards," Miller added. "She has gotten better and better. She competes extremely well."
On the boys' side, the Tigers are sending a group of first-time State qualifiers, including Eli Batey, Vega Lee, Duke Dobbins, Maxx Rogers, Blayn Justice, and Jaxon Proctor. They'll be joined by returning competitors Kaden Turner and Jagger Valdez. The 4x800 relay team, featuring Rogers and Dobbins among others, will be making their State debut—a testament to the program's growing depth and promise.
With the Lady Tigers chasing a championship and the boys gaining valuable experience, it's shaping up to be an unforgettable State meet for Tahlequah. Gear up and show your support—this is a team to watch.