RANGELY | The 2025 sports season was one to remember for Rangely High School, as the Panthers excelled across multiple programs, highlighted by strong performances in girls basketball, track and field, and cross-country.
The No. 4-ranked Rangely Panthers opened the Class 2A girls basketball playoffs with a dominant 73-20 win over No. 29 Ridgway, marking their 24th consecutive victory. Senior Miah Wren led the team with 24 points, praising her teammates for excellent ball movement.
The Panthers advanced to the Sweet 16 but fell to No. 13 Akron 52-29, ending their perfect season at 24-1. Head coach Jimmie Mergelman, in her 18th season, celebrated the team’s consistency, tournament wins, and the positive culture they built throughout the year. The program said farewell to seniors Emmeree Wagner, Emma Winder, Ashlynn Ducey, Miley Chism, and Miah Wren.
Rangely’s track and field teams capped off a successful year at the CHSAA Class 2A state championships. The girls’ team placed fifth overall with 49 points, led by sophomore Taya Wren, who won the 3,200 meters, placed second in the 1,600, and fourth in the 800, scoring 24 points. Senior Ashlynn Ducey also shone in the hurdles, 400 meters, and 4×400 relay. Other athletes, including Miah Wren, Tylee Fielder, Taylor Fouch, and Aubrianna Tapia, contributed in relays and field events, highlighting the team’s depth.
The boys’ team finished ninth with 30 points, led by James Talbot, who placed third in the 1,600, fourth in the 800, and anchored the 4×800 relay. Senior Jordan Irwin scored in three events, and contributions from Chase Cochrane, Kacey Allred, and other teammates helped the Panthers secure a top-10 finish. Coach Beth Scoggins praised both teams for their heart, teamwork, and work ethic, noting a bright future with returning underclassmen.
Rangely’s cross-country teams also closed the season on a high note at the CHSAA 2A State Championships in Colorado Springs. Junior Taya Wren continued her standout season with a sixth-place finish in 19:35, while sophomore Kira Jo Benson placed 99th. On the boys’ side, Rangely placed 19th as a team, led by Kyler Fouts in 55th place (18:32), with strong contributions from Tavan Morgan, Joseph Valdez, Titus Friedrich, Gage Nielsen, and Antonio Prieto. Coach Scoggins highlighted the Panthers’ determination and teamwork, and noted the teams enter the offseason with momentum for 2026.
Across all sports, Rangely High School demonstrated depth, consistency, and competitive excellence in 2025. With key underclassmen returning and a strong foundation of culture and teamwork, the Panthers are poised to build on this year’s successes in 2026.
Rangely junior Taya Wren powers down the course during the Cross Country Whistle Pig Invitational in Craig. JARED HENDERSON PHOTO
Graduated senior Miah Wren drives the lane during a girls basketball game, showcasing her speed and ball-handling skills for the Panthers. JARED HENDERSON PHOTO