Navarro Independent School District

Pictured L-R: Nora Bading, Braeden Henley, Anabella Leal

Geronimo, TX – June 30, 2025 – Navarro ISD is buzzing with excitement as five of its student-athletes have punched their tickets to the prestigious AAU Junior Olympics, set to take place the last week of July in Houston. Their exceptional performances on the track and in field events highlight the depth of talent within the district's athletic programs.

From Navarro Junior High, Braeden Henley will be a force to reckon with, qualifying in an impressive four events: the 3000m, 1500m, 800m, and the 4x800m relay. His versatility and endurance promise an exciting showing at the national competition. Teammate Nora Bading has also secured her spot in three demanding events – the 3000m, 1500m, and the 4x800m relay – demonstrating her significant middle-distance prowess. They will be joined by Anabella Leal, who qualified as a key member of the 4x800m relay team. Rounding out the junior high contingent is Bryson Henley, who showcased incredible speed and determination with a 63-second personal record in the 400m to earn his spot.

Adding to the district's strong representation is Navarro High School sophomore Emersen Cochran. Her recent performance at the South Texas Regional Track Meet was nothing short of spectacular, where she qualified for the Junior Olympics in four events and set multiple personal records. Cochran blazed to a first-place finish in the 400m with a PR of 56.28 seconds and secured second in the 200m with a PR of 24.9 seconds. She also contributed to a third-place finish in the 4x400m relay and earned a spot in the demanding Heptathlon, placing third. A Heptathlon is a combined track and field event for women, consisting of seven different disciplines spread over two days. The events typically include the 100-meter hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200-meter dash, long jump, javelin throw, and 800-meter run, demanding a wide range of athletic skills and endurance. Track is a family affair for the Cochrans! Emersen will be accompanied by her two younger sibilings Berklee Cochran (Navarro Junior High, javelin, 4x800m relay) and Miles Cochran (Navarro Intermediate, turbo javelin).

It’s a family affair!

These five athletes have dedicated countless hours to training and have consistently pushed their limits, embodying the spirit of athletic excellence. The entire Panther Family extends its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Braeden, Nora, Anabella , Bryson, and Emersen as they prepare to compete on the national stage at the AAU Junior Olympics. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes throughout the district.

Bryson Henley

Berklee, Miles and Emersen Cochran