MANKATO — The Mankato West boys' cross country team is on their way to state as a team for the first time in over two decades.

The team placed second at sections Thursday. This will be their first state appearance as a group in 23 years.

Team members include: Noah Banse, Francis Bierer, Mason Kaus, Imanol Lopez De Armentia Fernandez, Mason Martirock, Christian Nusser, Teddy Swanson, Luke Thompson and Jonah Williams.

Their coaches are Dan Hoechst and Alex Wischnack.

The team competes next Saturday at the state meet in Ham Lake at Majestic Oaks Golf Club. They will be racing at 3:15.

Three West girls also qualified for state individually: Landree Quint, Reese Quint and Stella Brady.