Centennial’s Reign Shows Few Cracks (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
Las Vegas – Liberty High School’s girls track and field team enters the 2026 season with renewed determination to topple Centennial, the powerhouse that has claimed 11 of the past 12 Class 5A state titles.[1]
Centennial’s Reign Shows Few Cracks
Centennial secured its latest triumph in 2025, edging Liberty by just three points with 90 to 87 at the NIAA state championships.[2] The Bulldogs also reclaimed the crown in 2024 after Liberty’s 2023 upset, finishing with 122 points to the Patriots’ 79.[3]
Synai Davis stood out for Centennial last year, winning the long jump and triple jump despite a quad injury, performances that helped clinch the team victory.[2] The program now operates under new head coach Dorian Williams, a retired Air Force colonel who retained most of the staff. Williams expressed confidence, stating, “Things look good for us.”[1] Despite graduating three state champions, Centennial returns key talent ready to defend its legacy.
Liberty’s 2023 Glory Fuels New Ambitions
Liberty shattered Centennial’s 10-year streak in 2023, scoring 127 points at their home meet to outpace Faith Lutheran and the Bulldogs.[4] Stars like Kennedy Robinson in the hurdles and Ali’a Matavao in jumps and throws propelled the Patriots to victory.
Coach Jason Lam views the team title as the pinnacle of success. “Our kids understand that the team title is the ultimate sign of success in this sport,” he said.[1] After finishing second the past two years, Lam focuses on depth and culture. The Patriots lost four key seniors but believe newcomers can contribute significantly.
Standout Returners Shape the Battle
Both squads boast experienced athletes poised for impact events.
- Centennial girls: Sprinters Amara Young and Synai Davis, thrower Alexis Pittman, pole vaulter Claris Monarrez, hurdler Leilani Washington.[1]
- Liberty girls: Sprinters Trishelle Tucay and Mariah Watson, high jumpers Maia Greer and Ashley Chavez.[1]
Chayanne Gordon anchored Liberty’s throws in 2025, winning shot put and discus before graduating.[2] Freshmen and underclassmen will fill gaps as the season unfolds with early meets like the Bulldog Invitational.
| Year | Champion | Runner-Up | Centennial Points | Liberty Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Centennial | Liberty | 90 | 87 |
| 2024 | Centennial | Liberty | 122 | 79 |
| 2023 | Liberty | Faith Lutheran | 95 | 127 |
Outlook Points to Tight Competition
Liberty emphasizes reloading through team development, with Lam noting, “Reloading is always scary, but I think we might surprise some people this year.”[1] Centennial aims for titles 17 and 18 across boys and girls programs.
Early competitions will test depth in sprints, jumps, and throws, areas where both teams shine. The NIAA 5A season promises rivalries that could redefine the hierarchy.
Key Takeaways
- Centennial holds 11 of 12 recent titles but lost the 2023 crown to Liberty.
- Returning stars like Synai Davis and Trishelle Tucay bolster both rosters.
- Coach transitions and graduations set up a rebuilding battle for supremacy.
As the track heats up in Southern Nevada, one upset could shift the balance. Will Liberty reclaim the throne, or will Centennial extend its era? Share your predictions in the comments.
