When Ellinwood's Regan Wirtz broke onto the state track and field scene in 2025, she shocked the world, winning three state titles in the 100 meter and 200 meter dash, as well as the long jump.
This year, the element of surprise was gone, but Wirtz managed to repeat her strong performance, defending her title in two of those three events. She won again in the 100 meters and long jump, and finished second by .2 seconds in the 200 meters. She was also a part of Ellinwood's 4x400 team which finished 4th.
In speaking with Avery Grunert of Sports in Kansas, Wirtz spoke about her mindset in her events.
"Mentally, get in there, focus, and just do what I can do, because I know what I can do, and just try to show everyone else what I can do."
Wirtz is no stranger to success, having won another state title earlier in the school year in volleyball with the Lady Eagles, and finishing as a runner up in basketball.