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St. Joseph-Ogden and Tolono Unity set to dual again for the 1A Girls team titlePublished by
ILXCTF.com Cross Country Season Previews .......................................................................................................................................................................................... Above Photo: St. Joseph-Ogden after their win at the 2016 IHSA 1A State Cross Country Championships
By Michael Newman
The story is the same in 1A Girls as we head into the 2017 season. St. Joseph-Ogden has won two of the last three 1A Girls team championships and would like to make it three out of four. Tolono Unity broke up the string when they won the state title in 2015. They have the depth to try to win the title away from SJO this fall making it two out of three for them. Williamsville was a team on the edge last year surprising people early in the season before finishing fifth in the state meet. With the runners that they have coming back, the Bullets will also be in contention for a trophy perhaps the big one. The team that could be the big surprise is Illiana Christian. This is the last school year that this team will compete in Illinois before they move into a new building in Indiana. In the middle of June, they found out that their Girls team was moved into 1A. They will have one of the top runners in 1A with Gillian Fiene as well as a good group behind her. The team that has the slight edge heading into this season is Tolono Unity but ever so slightly. St. Joseph-Ogden does have the runners to win another state championship. The two teams will sort it out in the East-Central section of this state matching up against each other for what it seems every week. Here is a look at 50 Girls 1A teams as we head into the 2017 Illinois Cross Country season.
1A Girls Top 25
1 Tolono Unity 2016 Finish – 2nd 1A State Coach – Kara Leaman Top Runners – Jordan Harmon JR (6, 17:49), Audrey Hancock JR (41, 18:41), Miranda Fairbanks JR (63, 19:01), Savannah Day SR (103, 19:52), Kylie Decker SO (104, 19:52), Natalie King SR (123, 20:09), Mackenzie Brunk JR, Riley Millsap SO, Brie Renfroe SR, Taylor Millsap SR, Caroline Bachert FR, Evelyn Atkins FR, Lillian Styan FR, Taylor Joop FR. Notes – It seemed that Tolono Unity and St. Joseph-Ogden face off against each other every week during last season. St the end of the year, it was SJO that hoisted the championship trophy while Tolono Unity took home second place. That could change this fall. Unity does return six runners from that team. They also have a great freshman class coming in. Coach Kara Leaman believes that some of those runners will be in the top five as the season progresses. “The girls have been consistent in their work and everyone is healthy,” Leaman said about her team’s summer training. “Nothing better than a group who likes to be together. They've had a lot of fun and developed a strong bond this summer as a team.” The team starts with Jordan Harmon who finished sixth a year ago. Chances are good that she could be challenging for the 1A state championship. A key for the team is getting their split lowered on their second to fifth runners. It was 72 seconds last year. It could be lower in 2017. It will help with the freshman group coming in. It will also help the improvement of Kylie Decker has had the past year. She was the team’s sixth runner at state in 2016. “Kylie Decker just keeps looking better all the time,” added Leaman. “She had a great track season, and is willing to do whatever it takes to get to the next level. She will be a key scorer for us this year, and could be as high as our #2. Getting second in state, you may have a chip on your shoulder wanting to take the next step. “We have new motivated freshmen that weren't around to grow a chip. These girls just want to be the best they can be, Leaman stated. “They feed off the positive energy of the juniors and seniors. We are stronger as a team than we were last year. I know there are girls who will not be happy with anything but a state championship. But they also know what it takes to earn it. We look forward to the work to earn it, and we'll see where that takes us.” Tolono Unity leaves the disbanded Okaw Valley Conference into the Illini Prairie Conference this fall. So does St. Joseph-Ogden. Their conference meet on October 3 in Pontiac should be one to watch. The Unity team hopes that the end of the year they earn that state championship trophy.
2 St. Joseph-Ogden 2016 Finish – 1A State Champs Coach – Jason Retz Top Runners – Faith Houston SR (21, 18:11), Sam Mabry SR (33, 18:33), Cassidy Bagby JR (52, 18:51), Hannah Rajilich SO (62, 19:01), Ally Monk SO (133, 20:16), Jillian Plotner SO, Hailey Birt SO, Brianna Suits JR, Mclaine Taylor JR, Zea Maroon SR, Abbey Mizer SR, Hanna Eastlin FR, Emmy Houston FR, Atleigh Hamilton FR. Notes – The Spartans had a “dream-season” in 2016 winning all their meets which concluded with the 1A state championship. Winning just one state championship is tough. St. Joseph-Ogden looks ahead to this season winning their third state title in four years. Five runners from last year’s state championship team are back. There are numerous additions that could just make this team tougher. “This summer we have made amazing progress,” Coach Jason Retz said. “Our girls have great chemistry and enjoy being around each other. They get together as often as they can and just love running and racing. Our new kids and freshmen have seen that and have jumped right on board.” Faith Houston is the leader on this team and will look to improve on her 21st place finish from last year. Sam Mabry has improved the most according to Retz. That could give the Spartans a strong one-two punch. This team historically relies on pack running. They won last year with a 50 second split on their first five. St. Joseph-Ogden could be deeper this fall with the addition of their sprint crew led by Abbey Mizer and Zea Maroon along with freshmen Hanna Eastlin and Emmy Houston. It is always tough being the defending state champion. St. Joseph-Ogden showed a focus last fall by just going out and racing. They will need the same kind of approach especially with conference rival Tolono Unity improving the way that they have. “We understand that many will be gunning for us all fall. But we look to take care of ourselves and make each step we need to run well in November,” stated Retz. “We did go undefeated last fall, but that was not by plan, it just happened. We'll not get caught up in any of that distractions and simply take it one step at a time.”
3 Williamsville 2016 Finish – 5th 1A State Coach – Tyler Casson Top Runners – Caroline Gwaltney SO (47, 18:47), Audra Kaechle JR (51, 18:50), Grace Gudwien SR (76, 19:15), Lexy Henrikson SO (84, 19:31), Aden Davis SO (113, 20:02), Cara Buckley SR (138, 20:21), Hannah Stinnett SO (144, 20:35), Presley Scarborough SO, Katie Kennedy FR, Jenna Rademacher SO, Riley Sanders JR. Notes – Williamsville stepped onto the state center stage early last year at the First to the Finish Invitational when they finished a close second behind Chicago Christian. They moved into the top ten and stayed there for the rest of the season. Their fifth-place finish was their best placing ever. That could be improved this fall as Coach Tyler Casson welcomes back their entire top seven. The secret of their success last year was tight pack running in their top group. Caroline Gwaltney led a first three that were within 28 seconds of each other. Improvement needs to come from their fourth and fifth runners. The split on five at state was 75 seconds. The addition of Presley Scarborough could help with the gap. The sophomore was all-state last spring in the 400 Meter Dash with a seventh-place finish. She has adapted during the summer and could be a part of their top five according to Casson. The team is young but does have that state meet experience. We will have an idea how good this team in in Peoria at First to the Finish on September 9.
4 Lansing Illiana Christian 2016 Finish – 7th 2A Wheaton Academy Sectional Coach – Deb Top Top Runners – Gillian Fiene SO (7, 17:28), Cate Peerbolte JR (78, 18:54), Maddie DeYoung SR, Maddie Holesinger JR, Liz Van Drunen JR, Zariah Cross SR, Kylie Boss JR, Mia Cruz FR, Abby Megan FR. Notes – This is the last fall that Illiana Christian will compete at the state meet at Detweiller Park. The Vikings will move into their new building located in Indiana beginning of the 2018-2019 school year. The Girls team swan song in Illinois could be their best. They do have the talent to compete for one of the three 1A trophies. Gillian Fiene showed her freshman year that she was one of the top freshman runners in 2A finishing seventh at state. She could be one of the favorites to win the 1A title this fall. Cate Peerbolte also qualified for the 2A state meet last fall running under 19-minutes. Peerbolte, along with Maddie DeYoung, give the Vikings a strong first three. Fiene is going to be apart from the rest of the top five. A key for the remaining group is staying within 60 to 65 seconds of each other. Fiene and Peerbolte have that state meet experience with both possibly finishing in the top 25. Watch to see how this team runs especially at their conference meet on. They do have the talent to be among one of the top teams in Class 1A. “Our expectations are pretty high. I talked to the girls this summer about putting in their miles over the summer and not squandering this opportunity of being in Illinois for the last year and also being in Class A,” Coach Deb Top said. “To be honest, I didn't get much of a response from them about being in Class A, which surprised me! Our hopes are top 3 in conference, a regional win and a top 3 sectional win.”
5 Monticello 2016 Finish – 7th 1A State Coach – David Remmert Top Runners – Alyssa McPike JR (27, 18:25), Morgan Elmore SR (70, 19:10), Hannah Offenback SR (75, 19:13), Samantha Zocher SO (117, 20:05), Madison Mesplay SR (132, 20:16), Makenzie Reedy SO (179, 21:24), Avalyn Walk FR, Ashton Fain SR, Natalie Wilkin JR, Emma Helferich SR. Notes – The Sages are part of the East-Central region of the state that puts out strong 1A teams. It will be the same this year especially for Monticello. There was not much experience in this group last year. Only two runners had state meet experience. Their entire top seven is back with a year of maturation that could lead to a higher finish than last year’s seventh-place showing at Detweiller Park. “We had large groups coming to our informal runs this summer,” said Monticello Coach David Remmert. “The runs aren’t required and really just provide an opportunity for the kids to get to know each other, and build the bonds of the team. You sort of take what you can get: some have summer jobs, others are traveling with their families.” Alyssa McPike just missed all-state las fall finishing 27th. She’s had a good summer of training according to Remmert. She could end up in the top 15 at the end of the year. A pack led by Morgan Elmore follow McPike. They tended to run close to 45 seconds behind McPike at the end of the year. That gap needs to come down. The split on their two through five runners averaged near 70 seconds at the end of the year. That split too will need to be lowered. “We’ve come to expect that we’ll be in a highly competitive arena with our Regional and Sectional. It has been that way now for quite some time,” added Remmert. “We don’t look for excuses and complain about how tough it is. We rise and challenge ourselves to perform better. I have respect for the coaches and teams in our area and enjoy watching them all perform well. It will be FUN to be in that mix.” Sometimes it takes iron sharpening iron to become a better team. That is why Monticello could be in the mix for earning a state trophy.
6 Eureka 2016 Finish – 11th 1A State Coach – Olivia Morris Top Runners – Emma Argo JR (8, 17:52), Tessa Wiegand JR (64, 19:03), Lexi Groher JR (93, 19:41), Natalie Bardwell SR (114, 20:03), Kaitlyn Sapp SO (148, 20:38), Lizel Fehr SO (178, 21:20), Alexi Fogo FR, Nora Robinson SO. Notes – Olivia Morris steps in as the coach for the Girls team replacing Brett Charlton. Morris has a good group back including six runners who competed in the state meet. The Hornets finished 11th last year. They have a good chance to improve on that. “We would meet Monday through Thursday mornings to run and lift during the summer,” Morris said. “Kids that have jobs have a hard time getting to practice and summer jobs was the biggest damper on our attendance for summer runs. The kids that showed up were consistent which is what you want as a coach.” Emma Argo finished eighth at Detweiller Park last November and will be again the top runner on this team. Tessa Wiegand and Lexi Groher should be a strong two-three behind Argo. Morris believes that freshman Alexi Fogo could jump into the top five for this team. I think we can expect a gap of 60 seconds from Argo to the rest of the pack like last year. If the split can close to 55 to 65 seconds on the pack, this team could be in contention for a top five finish at state.
7 Herscher 2016 Finish – 10th 1A State Coach – Rick Livesey Top Runners – Jillian Milton JR (29, 18:28), Kylie Lockwood JR (54, 18:53), Molly Raymond SO (107, 19:54), Gwen Meyer SO (157, 20:43), Alison Borschnock SO (174, 21:12), Josie Mendell FR, Mady Rogers SO, Natalie Rink FR, Jillian Cotter FR. Notes – Herscher was one of the surprise teams in 1A last fall ending up with a 10th place finish at the state meet. Their top three are back along five of their top seven for Coach Rick Livesey. It helps to have Jillian Milton to be your #1 runner. She finished 33rd as a freshman and 29th place last year. We could see her finishing in the top 20 this season. “Our summer training is the best we have had in about ten years,” Livesey said. “That's a testament to many runners playing a leadership role.” One of the runners in that role is Kylie Lockwood. She finished 25 seconds behind Milton at state last year and could be closer this fall. There is a drop from close to 60 seconds to the pack behind. That pack could be tight especially with newcomers Josie Mendell and Mady Rogers part of the group. That is a key for this team in 2017. If they can keep an overall split of 85 to 90 seconds with the three to five split at only 30 seconds, this could be a tough team to beat.
8 Breese Mater Dei 2016 Finish – 9th 1A State Coach – Dave Kohnen Top Runners – Elyse Faust JR (32, 18:32), Faith Rockers SR (88, 19:35), Malina Isaak SR (97, 19:44), Gretta Stark SO (142, 20:32), Mya Albers JR (192, 21:50), Kinsey Stockmann SR (193, 21:59), Emily Wiegmann JR, Madeline Sullivan JR, Olivia Perkes SO. Notes – The Knights could be the top 1A team in the south this season after finishing second behind Freeburg last year. Dave Kohnen welcomes back six runners from last year’s ninth place team. Sophia Lager was a strong #2 runner for the team but has graduated. Elyse Faust should remain the top runner for Mater Dei like she was last year. She has a good chance to finish in the top 25. The Knights had four runners under 20-minutes at Detweiller Park last November. If they can put five runners under that mark, this team could find themselves again in the top ten.
9 Rockford Christian 2016 Finish – 7th 1A Oregon Sectional Coach – John Deery Top Runners – Madison Franseen JR (13, 17:56), Renate Toldo SO, Cecily Holiday JR, Isabella Villacorta SO, Gracie Kreissler SO, Andrea Zwonizter SR, Annika Peterson JR, Brandie Haas SO, Abbi Hendrix SO, Madeline Ingram FR, Mackenzie Park FR, Emily Kirkham FR. Notes – It did not work out the way that Rockford Christian wanted it to be at the end of the 2016 Season. They did not advance to the state meet finishing seventh at the Oregon Sectional. The big thing for this team is that their entire top seven is back for Coach John Deery. It won’t be that hard to motivate this team this fall. “I want to see each girl to continue to progress on their own scales,” Coach John Terry said. “The depth we have could always be improved upon, so we value strong individuals that can contribute to the whole team.” Madison Franseen could be one of the 1A top ten individually this fall. She finished 13th as a sophomore last fall. The two through five pack behind Franseen had a 30 second split within the group in their sectional race. The gap behind Franseen was almost three minutes. There was no constant in any of those splits especially at the end of the year. In their conference race. The pack was 85 seconds behind Franseen and almost two minutes in the group. If their pack running improves this fall and they can stay within 70 seconds of Franseen and 35 to 40 second split within the group, this team could be reserving a spot on the starting line at Detweiller Park in November.
10 Decatur St. Teresa 2016 Finish – 8th 1A Effingham St. Anthony Sectional Coach – Todd Vohland Top Runners – Veronica Hein SO (43, 18:42), Pamela Tacud SR, Sade Oladipupo SO, Lauren Rowe-Adams SR, Tegan Lakshmanan SR, Macie Venters SR, Jill Alwardt SO, Morgan Brummer FR, Kaylea Kleist SO, Anna Hooker, Katie Dunscomb, Sydney McNamara. Notes – There is success in the history of the St. Teresa’s Girls Cross Country team. They won four straight state championships from 2010 to 2013 before the IHSA used their “success-factor” to move the Bulldogs to Class 2A. It has taken this team four years to rebuild their program with hopes to make it back to the state meet as a team. St. Teresa finished eighth in their sectional last season. With all top seven runners from that team coming back plus some newcomers aboard, Coach Todd Vohland’s team could make it back to the starting line at Detweiller Park. “Our summer went well because of the commitment our athletes showed,” Vohland said. “Two of our top goals are to win the conference meet and be in contention for the top five spot as a team at sectionals.” Veronica Hein looks to be the top runner again for this team. She qualified for state last year individually finishing 43rd. There is definite a possibility of moving up this season. There are three seniors projected to be in the top five led by Pamela Tacud. One runner that could help is freshman Morgan Brunner. Vohland believes that she could help in the top seven and perhaps the top five. The Bulldogs need to be 60/30 with their team. The pack needs to be 60 seconds behind Hein. The pack needs to stay within 30 seconds of each other. That formula could get this school back to the 1A state meet as a team.
11 Liberty 2016 Finish – 3rd 1A State Coach – Jared Schmidt Top Runners – Katelyn Robbins JR (14, 17:56), Kaela Wellman JR (44, 18:44), Courtney Riley JR (101, 19:51), Christian Balzer SR (166, 21:04), Carrie Balzer SO, Grace Tenhouse JR. Notes – The Eagles broke through on the state level last fall winning their first trophy ever as a program by finishing third. Katelyn Robbins, who finished 14th last fall, leads a group of four returnees from that team. This team was hurt by graduation. Only six runners are currently on the roster meaning staying healthy will be huge. “I think our training has been comparable to what we've done the last few summers on an individual basis,” said Liberty Coach Jared Schmidt. “I wish we had got more training in because of our low numbers, but at the same time it's hard to push too hard and risk losing kids. We will be very thin this year. I don't see us scoring a different 5 all year out of the 6 we have so we will have to pick our spots to try to run our best to avoid injury. If we are off in a race, it will likely show.” Robbins has the potential to be in the top ten this fall along with Kara Wellman finishing in the top 25. Carrie Belzer came out for track and ran under six minutes after the end of the season on minimal training. She will be a key for this team. “It will be interesting to see where we end up as we will most likely be one of the smallest squads in the state trying to compete in the top 10, but that's what we've done the last few years and been successful at it,” Schmidt stated. “Bringing home our first girls state trophy in school history last year was an awesome experience. It’s one thing we'd like to duplicate sooner than later.”
12 El Paso-Gridley 2016 Finish – 15th 1A State Coach – Michael Melnick Top Runners – Cate Atkins SR (40, 18:41), Julia Reid SO (68, 19:09), Sophia Allen JR (124, 20:10), Allison Kelly SO (126, 20:11), Tia Reilly SO (169, 21:08), Sarah Schug SR (181, 21:26), Hannah Ludy SO. Notes – This is a team to keep an eye on this fall. They surprised some in the 2016 season first finishing third in their regional race and then making out of the Elmwood Sectional by finishing fifth. The Titans finished 15th the following week at state. Expectations should be big for this team especially with their entire top seven coming back. Cate Atkins and Julia Reid were the top two runners for the squad a year ago and should repeat those roles. The two ran within 20 seconds of each other. There was a 60 second gap between the two and then another 60 second split within the third through fifth runners. Both splits need to come down for EPG to be among the top ten teams this fall.
13 Champaign St. Thomas More 2016 Finish – 14th 1A State Coach – Tessa Hanlon Top Runners – Fran Hendrickson SO (26, 18:24), Marguerite Hendrickson SR (72, 19:12), Morgan Cinnamon SR (80, 19:23), Morgan Saunders SO (154, 20:42), Claire Pollard SR (172, 21:11), Sydney McMahon SO (176, 21:16), Maris Wszalek SR (185, 21:39), Amy Bohlen JR. Notes – The potential is there for the Sabers to have a good fall. They finished 14th at last year’s state meet with all their runners back from that team. What could hurt this team was the sudden resignation of long-time coach David Behm at the beginning of August. Assistant Coach Tessa Hanlon will step in to coach the Girls program this fall. All seven returning will bring this program some continuity. Fran Hendrickson just missed all-state honors by one spot finishing 26th. Her sister Margueritte was between 48 to 50 behind most of last season as the second runner. That gap needs to get smaller. Morgan Cinnamon ran close to Marguerite most of last season. That will need to continue. Their five-runner split at state was close to three minutes. That number also needs to get smaller. A key will be how this program continues to develop under a new coach. This team can be good and possibly in the top ten. They are, however, in a tough sectional. If the Sabers can stay focused, they will make it to state. Otherwise, this team will not make it out of the Carlinville Sectional.
14 Johnsburg 2016 Finish – 18th 1A State Coach – Chris Setzler Top Runners – Sam Schmitt SO (60, 19:00), Katelyn Davis JR (82, 19:26), Ashley Molidor SR (102, 19:52), Hannah Anderson SO (161, 20:53), Felicity Westphal SR (189, 21:47), Alyssa Peete SO (211, 24:14), Saida Blount FR. Notes - This team snuck up on others during the state series including finishing third at the Oregon Sectional advancing to state. Last season was a year of learning as the Skyhawks finished 18th at state. That experience could pay off this fall with their top four all back along with two other runners from their top seven. Sam Schmitt was the top runner for the team most of last year as a freshman. She finished 90th at state and could place much higher in 2017. With the top four returning, the spread on the first four needs to be under 90 seconds led by Ashley Molidor and Katelyn Davis. Something to watch is who will step up as the team’s fifth runner. The spread on five needs to stay under 100 seconds on five for this team to improve on last year’s state finish. Also keep an eye on freshman Saida Blount who ran 2:27 for 800-meters in eighth grade. She could be among the top runners on this team by the time they get to October. “Our training went well,” Chris Setzler said. “Our girls are hungry to earn a repeat qualifier for the state meet & did the base work this summer to work to higher mileage levels than they were at last year.”
15 Stanford Olympia 2016 Finish – 13th 1A State Coach – Mike Neisler Top Runners – Mary Grace Cleinmark JR (100, 19:48), Hannah Lawless JR (119, 20:06), Payton Wille JR (128, 20:12), Renee Hallstein JR (129, 20:13), Jade Andres SO (173, 21:12), Savanah Beavers FR, Sydnee Usherwood SO, Gabrielle Kaeb JR. Notes – It seems like multi all-state runner Shelby Siltman had been at Olympia forever. With Siltman graduated, it will take a little for this team to make a return trip to the state meet. Five runners are back from last year’s 13th place team. “Obviously we will not be replacing Shelby Siltman, at least not with one girl,” Coach Mike Neisler said. “Our strength will have to be our pack, and it needs to be faster than last season. Hopefully we can make another appearance at Detweiller in November.” Freshman Savanah Beavers could be in the top three according to Neisler. Their pack from two to five at last year’s state meet was only 25 seconds. The problem was that the pack started at 100th place led by Mary Grace Cleinmark. Like Neisler said, this team will live and die by pack running. It just needs to move down by 30 seconds for this team to make a return trip to Peoria.
16 Freeburg 2016 Finish – 8th 1A State Coach – Carl Florczyk Top Runners – Breanna Chandler SO (25, 18:18), Kayla Whitworth SR (91, 19:39), Jessica Shepherd SO (152, 20:43), Maddie Mense SO (159, 20:44), Katherine Marler JR (191, 21:48), Grace Marlen SO, Reagan Schwable JR, Kelsey Litchfeld SO. Notes – Freeburg lost two of their first three runners from the state meet to graduation. they could be a surprise team by the end of the season. Five runners are back from the state team that finished 8th. “I thought it was a great summer for our team,” Carl Florcyk said. “I thought the girls showed great work ethic all summer long and I think they are ready for a big year. We had many runners attend the St. Louis University Team Camp and many of our runners also got the chance to race at Detweiller at Dark.” Beanna Chandler was all-state last year as a freshman placing 25th. She again will lead this team. Their pack behind Chandler, led by Kayla Whitworth, could be tough also with a split on the group of near 50 seconds. What will need to happen is that pack staying within 55 seconds of Chandler this fall. “I am really excited to see how this team comes together,” Florczyk added. “It's a very young team, with only 1 senior in the top 7. The girls have a ton of potential and they are very dedicated. The girls team finished 8th at state last year and I feel they can be in the mix again this year if they remained dedicated and confident, which I believe they will.”
17 Elgin Harvest Christian Academy 2016 Finish – 16th 1A State Coach – Steven Bland Top Runners – Nygia Pollard SR (9, 17:53), Alyssa Iverson-Brown SR (108, 19:58), Rachel Higbee SR (143, 20:32), Cassidy Richter SR (158, 20:44), Hannah McHugh JR (160, 20:48), Hope Mylin SO (187, 21:44), Carson Forte FR. Notes – You can expect this team to back at Detweiller Park in November. They return six runners from last year’s team that finished second at the Oregon Sectional and then 16th at the state meet. “All I will say is that we expect to be better than last year, I expect that and the girls expect that,” stated Coach Steven Bland. “And as you know, I like being under the radar.” It could be hard to stay under the radar especially with the talent that is on this squad. Nygia Pollard finished ninth last season and could be among the top five at Detweiller. What could help this team is freshman Carson Forte. Bland believes this young runner could finish in the top 50. The one thing that hurt this squad last year was their five-runner spread at state which was close to three minutes. With Forte in the top five, that spread could come down. If this team focuses on just one race at a time, the results will take care of themselves.
18 Beecher 2016 Finish – 22nd 1A State Coach – Larissa Swanson Top Runners – Hailey Janssen JR (36, 18:34), Alexandria Burchett SR (121, 20:08), Madison Janssen JR (153, 20:42), Kasey Swanson SO (155, 20:43), Christine Wang SO (162, 20:53), Regina Gianotti JR (175, 21:14), Yadi Barazza SO (195, 22:11), Sarah Curtis SO. Notes – The possibilities are there for Beecher to be among the top 15 teams at the conclusion of the state meet. All seven runners are back from the 2016 team that finished 22nd. Hailey Janssen, who finished 36th last year, should again be the top runner for this team. Chances are god that she finishes in the top 25. The pack behind her ran within 45 seconds of each other in the state meet. Keeping that kind of split along with being within 70 seconds of Janssen could mean a higher finish for Beecher at the end of the year.
19 Kewanee Wethersfield 2016 Finish – 8th 1A Oregon Sectional Coach – Creston Fenn Top Runners – Whitney Johnson JR (17, 17:59), Rachel Gomez JR, Rachel Cook JR, Haleigh Nimick SR, Diana Satkavsakas SR, Brooke Lynn Carpenter JR, Sammy DePauw SR, Katie Perez SR, Cora Rusk FR, Aimee Moore FR, Chiara Hendrix FR, Emily McClelland FR. Notes – A team we could see in Peoria this November. The top five from the eighth-place team at the Oregon Sectional are back. Whitney Johnson earned all-state honors last year finishing 17th. She does have the talent to make it into the top ten. The pack behind Johnson needs to work on their split within them. Freshman Cora Rusk could be a difference maker in the top five this fall. Rachel Gomez and Rachel Cook stepped up during the summer and again could be factors in the top five. It was close to two minutes in the regional race. It was close to three minutes in their sectional race. Those times will need to be worked on this season for a state trip. “We are a very young team that lost 3 prolific seniors, but those seniors have instilled a great work ethic into the next generation of Lady Titans,” Coach Creston Fenn said. “Because this group is so young, there is a lot of unknowns. I think that is exciting though. The best years the Titans have ever had were the years that the group had no idea what they could do. I think we have a great group of girls that will most definitely be in the hunt for a spot at the state meet."
20 Westmont 2016 Finish – 23rd 1A State Coach – Steve Wolf Top Runners – Halle Nash SR (58, 18:56), Lily Arndt SR (122, 20:08), Lisa Niemiec SR (127, 20:12), Peyton Nash SR (141, 20:24), Frankie Fabry JR (186, 21:44), Ashley Eirmann SR (204, 23:10), Mollie Johnson JR, Hannah Abbatacola SR, Katie Schultz JR. Notes - A senior oriented squad will look to get the Sentinels back to the state meet. Six runners are back from last year’s team that finished 23rd. Five of those runners are seniors. “We have five seniors and one junior in our top seven that have all been down state many times so we have lots of experience to draw on,” Coach Steve Wolf said. Halle Nash leads this team with hopes of finishing in the top 30 this season. The experience of running at Detweiller Park again and again should pay off. If they can keep their pack within 40 seconds of each other and stay within 50 seconds of Nash, this team could be among the top 15.
21 Elmwood-Brimfield 2016 Finish – 8th 1A Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional Coach – Kyle Anderson Top Runners – Emily McCauley SR, Julia Bledsoe JR, Alexa Perrow JR, Sydney Hartwig SO, Timithy Brandt SO, Katy Meyers SO, Sadie Rumbald JR, Greta Inskeep SO, Emily Roberts SO, Becca Kempf JR. Notes – At this time two years ago, there were only three runners on Elmwood’s Girls team. Those numbers grew last year leading to an eighth-place finish at their own sectional. The numbers have grown even more on this team. The hopes are there that this team can take the next step to the state meet. Emily McCauley leads this team that has six returning from the sectional team. The five-runner split at the sectional meet was 60 seconds. A split similar to that with each of their top five improving 20 to 25 seconds could lead to that Detweiller trip. “If we keep up the consistency we had this summer and react to season training well, I think there are 7 to 8 girls that can help this team compete for a top 5 spot at sectionals,” said Coach Kyle Anderson.
22 Effingham St. Anthony 2016 Finish – 7th 1A Effingham St. Anthony Sectional Coach – Eric Zeller Top Runners – Sarah Carr SR, Katherene Slaughter SO, Kendall Fonner SR, Kaitlyn Zeller JR, Audrey Niebrugge SO, Jessica Wilson SO. Notes – The Anna Sophia Keller ended when the 11-time state champion graduated and will be attending The University of Notre Dame this fall. Five runners are back from the team that finished seventh in their sectional. Sarah Carr was consistently the second runner on the team last year. She should be the team’s leader with a chance to qualify for the state meet individually. This team could have a 40 second split on the pack behind Carr. The key is moving Carr and the pack closer to the front of the race.
23 Deer Creek-Mackinaw 2016 Finish – 7th 1A Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional Coach – Sam Ingram Top Runners – Mikayla Moore SR, Emily Embry SR, Paige Witte SO, Jessica Carithers JR, Cauri Johnson SR, Marley Knowles SR, Bella Chojnacky SO Notes – There are no “front-runners” on this squad. This team does know a lot about pack running. That is what they will need to get to Detweiller Park in November. Dee-Mack finished seventh last year with five runners back from that squad. One runner to keep an eye on is Paige Witte. She was injured most of last season before coming back during the state series. She moved from the seventh runner up to the fourth in the sectional race. She could run with top runner Mikayla Moore this season. “The girls that are returning from last year's sectional all have a lot of potential and if they can run as a pack this year we should have our first state qualifying girls team in school history, as we did last year with our 10th place finishing boys team,” said Coach Sam Ingram. “We have 2 runners (Mikayla Moore & Emily Embry) from our 2017 IHSA state champion 4x800m relay that will be leading the team and hopefully bring that momentum to the cross-country season.”
24 Palos Heights Chicago Christian 2016 Finish – 6th 1A State Coach – Jake Christiansen Top Runners – Allie Boss SR (71, 19:11), Emily Demstra JR (130, 20:13), Leah Kuipers SR (147, 20:37), Julie O’Sullivan JR, Kathleen Tkoletz SO, Elizabeth Czajkowski SR. Notes – Chicago Christian lost four runners from last year’s team that finished sixth in the state meet. That talent that is on their roster could make it back to Detweiller. Allie Boss, who was the team’s third runner last year at state, should be the top runner for this team. They will not have the power up front like they did last year with now graduated April Van Ryn. They will need to have more pack running keeping their group within 65 to 7 seconds within Boss.
25 Macomb 2016 Finish – 10th 1A Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional Coach – Randy Ames Top Runners – Maya Stovall JR (11, 17:55), Maggie Swanson SR, Halle Evans SO, Emma Wohlstadter SR, Sophie Whitfield SR, Veronica Ramos SR, Laura Dunlap JR. Notes – Look for Macomb to improve on last year’s 10th place finish at the Elmwood Sectional. Their entire top seven returns by multi-all-state Maya Stovall. She had a great sophomore season that culminated with an 11th place all-state finish. Stovall could be among the top runners in 1A. The pack behind Stovall averaged a gap of nearly two minutes back. Those numbers need to come down. The split from two to five was over two minutes in the sectional race. That number also needs to come down in order to advance to the state meet.
The Next 15 Carlinville 2016 Finish – 9th 1A Effingham St. Anthony Sectional Coach – Charles Helton Top Runners – Rory Drew SO, Stasia Nejmanowski SR, Molly Lewis JR, Patty Walch SO, Mackenzie Harris SR, Rachel Olroyd JR, Skylar Nickel SO, Justice Brock JR. Notes – It could be tough for the Cavaliers to make it to the state meet even though they return all of last year’s top seven. Carlinville finished ninth in the sectional that they host this fall. They ran a 24 second split on their top five in that race led by Rory Drew. If the pack can move up at least one minute at the end of the year, it is a good bet that this team will improve on last year’s finish.
Heyworth 2016 Finish – 17th 1A Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional Coach – Jeff Trask Top Runners = Stephanie Brown SR, Anna Holland JR, Olivia Trask JR, Riley Ryburn SR, Kirby Meadow SO, Mackenzie Day SR, Luciano Bronco SR, Kiersten Meyer JR, Maddie Schmidd SO. Notes – The top four runners are back from last year’s team that will look to improve on their 17th place sectional finish. Stephanie Brown and Anna Holland were close to each other at times in races last fall. That will need to be duplicated in 2017. Keeping their five-runner split under 90 seconds moving Brown up in races will also help this team.
Teutopolis 2016 Finish – 12th 1A Effingham St. Anthony Sectional Coach – Tim Bower Top Runners – Kara Weichman SR (56, 18:55), Rebecca Habing JR, Abby Bloemer SO, Jenelle Vogt JR, Marianna Hemmen SR, Ashley Thompson SO, Bailey Schumacher SR. Notes – Six runners are back for Teutopolis who finished 12th in their sectional last fall. Kara Weichman qualified individually for state and will look to improve on her 56th place state finish. Teutopolis will need to keep their pack behind Weichman tight with at least 55 to 58 seconds separating the group. Weichman ran almost two minutes ahead of her team most of last year. That pack needs to get closer to their top runner.
Nashville 2016 Finish – 21st 1A State Coach – Jean Orr Top Runners – Grace Maschoff JR (96, 19:42), Sabrina Kollbaum SO (99, 19:48), Brittnie Bartling JR (112, 20:02), Jaylyn Bower SR (118, 20:06), Jadah Heidel JR (196, 22:13), Avery Meade SR (208, 23:35), Havalen Pierce FR, Kiley Heidel FR, Kylie Kozuszek JR. Notes – Nashville returns six runners from last year’s 21st place state finish. “We had better than average participation during our summer program. I think the girls want to improve on their 21st finish at state so they are motivated this year,” Nashville Coach Jean Orr said. “I would like to see them place in the "middle-teens" or better at state this year.” The key will be getting their fifth runner close to a pack that ran 24 seconds of each other at state. Grace Maschoff and Sabrina Kollbaum will be two of the runners leading the pack. Kylie Kozuszek, who played volleyball last year, could help in the top seven.
Amboy 2016 Finish – 20th 1A State Coach – Bob Halberg Top Runners – Kaitlyn Ortgeison JR (125, 20:11), Kelynn Boyle JR (139, 20:23), Cassidy Corcoran SR (163, 20:57), Margaret Vaessen SO (168, 21:07), Ally Gascoigne SR (209, 23:37). Notes – It could be tough for Amboy to improve on their 20th place state finish or even making it to state with top two runners Megan Grady and Erin Hosto graduated. The remaining five runners are back led by Kaitlyn Ortgeison. She finished 125th at state. Moving her up along with the rest of the pack could get the Clippers back to state.
Bloomington Central Catholic 2016 Finish – 9th 1A Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional Coach – Bill Rhodes Top Runners – Abby Lewis JR (30, 18:29), Noelle Ghrer SR, Olivia Brownlee JR, Kaitlyn Dappen SO, Elizabeth Morris SR, Ana Issac JR, Alyssa Ely SR, Addison Cervantes FR, Kelly Becker FR. Notes – Could be a tough year for this team that finished ninth at the Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional. It starts with their #1 runner Abby Lewis who has the potential to be among the top 25. “She is nursing some nagging injuries which cut her track season short,” said her coach Bill Rhodes. “She is hoping to run this season, but we will wait and see how her injuries heal up.” Their second runner from last year Noelle Ghrer is doubtful to run this fall as she has stress reactions to her femur area. BCC does have freshmen Addison Cervantes and Kelly Becker entering the program and could contribute immediately. Health is a key for this team but keeping their pack around Lewis running within 35 seconds of each other will be a big help.
Winnebago 2016 Finish – 16th 1A Oregon Sectional Coach – Janet & Joe Erb Top Runners – Sam Heavlin SR, Grace Baldwin JR, Flynne Sargent SO, Betsy Currens SR, Averi Pavlak SO, Ari Binicewicz SO, Lauren Peterson JR, Victoria Watson SO. Notes – One of the reasons why Winnebago finished so low in their sectional was because their top runner Sam Heavlin did not run in that race. She was a factor on the team being close to two minutes ahead of the rest of the pack. Heavlin ran the 300 Hurdles during the track season qualifying for state. Four other runners are back from last year’s sectional team. A higher finish will be expected from the Indians if Heavlin leads the pack. If not, this squad could have problems finishing in the top half of their regional.
Elgin St. Edward 2016 Finish – 6th 1A Lisle Sectional Coach – Katie Beckett Top Runners – Madeline Ellsworth SO (90, 19:39), Katie Ellsworth JR, Sophie Danner SR, Kailey Wood SR, Emily Wagh JR, Heidi Kirchen SR, Marcie Costello JR, Jasmin Carachure SO. Notes – The Lisle Sectional got tougher this fall with the most likely addition of Illiana Christian. St. Edward just missed a Peoria trip last year placing sixth at Lisle last year. All of their top seven are back from their team led by state qualifier Madeline Ellsworth. The pack behind Ellsworth were close to two minutes last season. That needs to come down if this team wants to break into their top five in their sectional.
Springfield Lutheran 2016 Finish – 6th 1A Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional Coach – Doug Reynolds Top Runners – Maddy Eck SR, Brigid Tournoux JR, Bernadette Tournoux JR, Tessa Workman JR, Laura Brunner JR, Erin Murphy FR. Notes – Had a strong first four on last year’s team that just missed qualifying for state. It could be a little tougher to get this team out of the sectional for new coach Doug Reynolds. Jackie Eck, who was the top runner last year, has graduated but her sister Maddy should step into the top spot along with Brigid and Bernadette Tournoux. A good freshman class could be coming in headed by Erin Murphy. This team could get some low numbers within their first three runners. The key is moving their other two scorers’ closer to the front three.
Quincy Notre Dame 2016 Finish – 15th 1A Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional Coach - Kristin Sturhahn Top Runners – Lindsey Ayo JR, Ella Borrowman JR, Jazel Carr SO, Lexa Borrowman JR, Samantha Strevke SO, Ava Schluether SO, Lexi Haskins FR. Notes – A team that I can see moving up the Elmwood Sectional teams after placing 15th in 2016. Their entire top five are back. All of them are underclassmen led by junior Lindsey Ayo. The pack needs to move up by 55 seconds per runner. The spread on the top five of close to two minutes also needs to improve.
Fairbury Prairie Central 2016 Finish – 10th 1A Lisle Sectional Coach – Scott McGuire Top Runners – Jadyn Stephens SO, Becca Conslik SO, Megan Ifft SR, Anna Hale SO, Kirra Gehring SO, Marie Strong SO, Gretchen Fisher SR, Haleigh Buff JR, Kylie Bazzell SO, Lexi Zimmerman FR. Notes – A team that we should see improvement in. They did finish 10th last year in the Lisle Sectional and return six from their top seven led by Jadyn Stephens. She missed qualifying for state by 13 spots and would like to make the trip to Peoria. The team has not qualified in the history of the program. Maybe this is the year. The team’s split was over two minutes on five runners last year. That needs to come down. The addition of freshman Lexi Zimmermann as well as Gretchen Fisher and Haleigh Bluff who played volleyball last season could step in and help.
Monmouth-Roseville 2016 Finish – 13th 1A Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional Coach – Sam Marlow Top Runners – Stella Narkiewicz SO, Kara Fisher SR, Arika Hofmann SR, Jordan Copeland SR, Grace Murk JR. Notes – The top five are back from a team that looks to improve on their 13th place finish at the Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional. Stella Narkiewicz, a sophomore, leads this group. The spread on the top five that was anywhere from three to four minutes needs to improve for this team to move into the top ten of their sectional.
Lewistown 2016 Finish – 12th 1A Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional Coach – Shannon Pritchard Top Runners – Anna Heffren SO (23, 18:15), Mackenzie Goldring SR, Morgan Fulton SR, Kayla Curless SO, Odessa Grove FR. Notes – This could be a team that sneaks up on some this fall. Anna Heffren earned all-state honors placing 23rd. She could be in the top ten in November. That is if she is healthy. A foot injury at the end of the track season has prevented her to run this summer. “It's still up in the air as to whether or not she's going to compete this fall,” Coach Shannon Pritchard said. “She doesn't find out until after the season starts if she can run or not. She'll have some catching up to do if she gets the go ahead.” Mackenzie Golding and freshman Odessa Grove could run 10 to 15 seconds behind Heffren. Moving their fourth and fifth-runners closer will be something to watch from this squad.
Maroa-Forsyth 2016 Finish – 10th 1A Effingham St. Anthony Sectional Coach – Erin Atherton Top Runners – Holly Johnston SR, Hannah Crawford SR, Grace Pakula SO, Bailey Eschbach JR, Reilly Fitzpatrick JR, Jaimie Cavanaugh SO, Paige Brandel SO, Emma Brandel SO. Notes – A team that could step into the spotlight in a tough Carlinville Sectional. Their top four runners are back from a team that finished 10th last year at St. Anthony. A key will be finding a fifth runner to step in. Seniors Holly Johnston and Hannah Crawford again will lead the team.
Chester 2016 Finish – 26th 1A State Coach – Curt Gilpin Top Runners – Taylor Dunning SR (94, 19:41), Jessica Kattenbraker SR (120, 20:07, Avery Runge SO 194, 22:01), Adeline Bleche SO (197, 22:35), Shea Petrowske JR (203, 23:06), Elizabeth Soellner JR (213, 26:49). Notes – Chester could make a return trip to Peoria having their top six runners coming back. Taylor Dunning finished in the top 100 at state (94th) and should improve on that finish this season. Their spread on five at state was over three minutes. That needs to come down in order for this team to finish in the top 20 at state.
Teams to Watch (In Alphabetical Order)
Belleville Althoff Catholic 2016 Finish – 6th 1A Edwardsville Metro-E Lutheran Sectional Coach – Michael Sanders Top Runners – Tiffani Siekmann JR (74, 19:12), Claire Hill JR, Andersyn Foster JR, Kyra Humbert JR, Lucy Haas SR, Gabbi Siekmann JR. Nariah Parks FR, Rebecca Potje SR, Ireland Keen JR. Notes – Just missed making state finishing sixth at the sectional at Edwardsville last fall. Tiffani Siekmann qualified as an individual placing 74th. Her sister Gabbi was their second runner most of last year but did not run in the sectional race. With her in the lineup, perhaps this team makes the trip. Six of their seven runners are back from that team. Maybe this is the year for a Peoria trip? “Last year we had a pretty good run to the State Championships and just missed it and we believe we have another good shot at it,” Coach Mike Sanders said. “It would be a dream come true for this team. Of course, even though we look forward to the opportunities, we recognize and are so very thankful that we can glorify God in each and every element of what we are doing, from training to racing and all that is in between in fellowship with one another. That's really our main focus!”
Clifton Central 2016 Finish – 24th 1A State Coach – David Ladehoff Top Runners – Kaleigh Ladehoff JR (137, 20:21), Katie Kleinert SR (140, 20:23), McKenna Goldtrap JR (145, 20:36), Mikayla Caspany JR (171, 21:10), Kaitlin Gerard JR (210, 24:10), Hannah Davis SR, Kendall Antons FR, Olzea Smolinski JR. Notes – I would not count out this team from making it back to the state meet. They finished 24th last year and will miss top runner Andrea Pace who has graduated. Kaleigh Ladehoff should step up into the top spot. The addition of freshman Kendall Antons to the top five could be a big help. The team could have a five-runner spread of under 60-secnds. If the pack moves closer to the front, a trip back to Peoria could be a reality. “The girls have set some strong expectations to return to State with some new additions to the team. They have set a goal to finish closer to Herscher both at Sectionals and at State,” said their coach David Ladehoff. “We had some terrific base workouts over the first part of July and a terrific summer camp for the close of the month. The girls are running better as a pack and have developed some great strength and stamina. We’ve run hill after hill with a great emphasis on getting stronger and improving form. My top 5 is in the best shape I’ve ever had them in.”
Clinton 2016 Finish – 14th 1A Effingham St. Anthony Sectional Coach – Steve Cors Top Runners – Payne Turney SO (7, 17:49), Millie White SR, Maddison Stevens SR, Aryn Scott SO, Sydney Nicholls SO, Madelyn Stevens JR, Emma Wertz SO. Notes – Clinton could be a top ten team at the Carlinville Sectional. Five runners are back from that team led by Payne Turney. The sophomore had a great season last fall earning all-state honors by finishing seventh. She will be among the top 1A runners this fall. Work will be needed on the pack behind Turney this season. It was close to four minutes at times in 2016. Those times need to come down.
Erie-Prophetstown 2016 Finish – 15th 1A Oregon Sectional Coach – Elizabeth Green Top Runners – Mackenzie Clary SR, Makayla Dornbush SO, Jaydenn Grunder SR, Olivia Miniel SO, Stephanie Sandrock SR, Lauren Sibley JR, Michelle Cooney SR, Heide Gallagher SO. Notes – Mackenzie Clary leads all seven runners back from the 2016 Oregon Sectional 15th place team. The team can move into the top ten in the sectional, but will need to get their fiver runner spread under two minutes.
McLeansboro Hamilton County 2016 Finish – 15th 1A Edwardsville Metro-E Lutheran Sectional Coach – Sam Wilson Top Runners – Raegan Halley JR, Jasmine Coomes SR, Olivia Ragen SO, Kaylee Chapman SR, Jade Lemmons JR, Abby Reyling SO, Jayda Johnson JR, Mary Lee JR. Notes – All seven runners are back from last year’s sectional team led by junior Reagan Halley. The team did not run their best race of the season with their split on five over four minutes. It was close to 90 seconds the week before in their regional race. A team to keep an eye on in the southern part of Illinois.
Neoga 2016 Finish – 13th 1A Effingham St. Anthony Sectional Coach – Tim Mueller Top Runners – Emmalyn Walk JR (50, 18:50), Courtney Reel SR, Allison Kingery JR, Olivia Holt JR, Taylor Lee SR, Delanie Romack SO, Katlin Howard JR. Notes – It might be tough for this team to duplicate their 2016 sectional performance as four from that group are back. A big plus is the return of junior Emmalyn Walk who qualified for state individually. She could finish among the top 30 this fall. Keep an eye on the development on the pack behind Walk this season. Keeping the spread low on that group should be a priority.
New Athens 2016 Finish – 13th 1A Edwardsville Metro-E Lutheran Sectional Coach – Dennis Works Top Runners – Jenna Alfeldt SR, Danika White SO, Stevi Price SR, Taylor Marhanka JR, Alayna Toedtke SR, Lainey Deterding JR, Kara Hollansworth JR. Notes – It could be a year of rebuilding for New Athens as four runners are back from their sectional team. Jenna Alfeldt and Danika White gives New Athens a solid top two. Development of their third through five runners will be a key if this team wants to improve on their 2016 13th place sectional finish.
Okawville 2016 Finish – 7th 1A Edwardsville Metro-E Lutheran Sectional Coach – Val Tepe Top Runners – Abby Riechmann JR (98, 19:45), Madelyn Tepe SR, Megan Cook SO, Madison Hackstadt SR, Megan Schleifer SO, Amber Koch JR. Notes – Abby Riechmann qualified as an individual last year finishing 98th overall. This year, she would like her teammates with her. Okawville finished 7th in the sectional and will have five of their top six coming back.
Paxton-Buckley-Loda 2016 Finish – 11th 1A Effingham St. Anthony Sectional Coach – Dennis Franckey Top Runners – Evie Ellis JR (73, 19:12), Liberty Jamison SR, Marissa Arnette SR, Olivia Frichtl SR, Emily Graves JR, Katie Harms SR, Gracie Smith SO. Notes – Evie Ellis again should be the top runner for PBL this fall. She qualified for state as a sophomore placing 73rd. That finish should be higher in November. The pack for Paxton-Buckley-Loda behind Ellis is good averaging 30 seconds on the four-runner pack. A key is getting that group consistently near 60 seconds of Ellis for this team to possibly make it to the state meet.
Rock Falls 2016 Finish – 13th 1A Oregon Sectional Coach – Mark Truesdell Top Runners – Bailee Fortney SO (34, 18:33), Erin Porter SO, Alex Gomez SO, Brittney Shipman SO, Miranda Hewitt JR, Katie Elder JR, Jasmine Lilly-Lee JR. Notes – Bailey Fortney will again lead this team after finishing 34th last year at state. Rock Falls could improve on their 13th place sectional finish. Their spread on two through five in their sectional race was over six minutes. It was over four minutes in their conference meet. Those splits will need to improve in order for this team to be a difference maker especially in the sectional. |
