Coach: Braden McBride

OUTLOOK

After building momentum with a young roster and strong leadership, the Carthage boys track team enters the season with confidence and clear direction under head coach Braden McBride. With a junior-heavy lineup and proven postseason experience returning, the Tigers are focused on continuing their growth on the state level.

“We are a young team with a strong junior class,” McBride said. “We have two returning state qualifiers in senior Brody Jackson and junior Henry Laytham.”

That experience begins with Henry Laytham (Jr.), who returns as one of the top middle-distance runners in Missouri.

“Henry is a returning state medalist,” McBride said. “He placed third in the 800m last year at state. He has his eye on a couple of school records this year. He is the high point earner on the team.”

Laytham’s combination of consistency, competitiveness, and leadership makes him a key piece in Carthage’s pursuit of team success. His ability to score at a high level gives the Tigers a dependable foundation each meet.

Joining him is Brody Jackson (Sr.), another returning state qualifier who brings leadership and toughness to the hurdle events.

“Brody was a state qualifier in the 300 Hurdles,” McBride said. “Both Brody and Henry are exceptional leaders.”

Jackson’s experience in pressure situations and his work ethic have made him a trusted presence both on and off the track. As a senior, he serves as an example for younger athletes navigating varsity competition.

With Laytham’s scoring ability and Jackson’s leadership anchoring the program, the Tigers are positioned to be competitive across the season. McBride believes the combination of youth and postseason experience gives his team a strong foundation moving forward.

The Carthage boys track team may be young, but with proven state performers and leaders at the forefront, the Tigers are focused on building another successful spring — one race at a time.