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2019 ILXCTF Illinois HS XC Season Previews - Class 1A Girls TeamsPublished by
Wide open chase to the 1A team title; Tolono Unity the narrow edge ahead of Williamsville, Rock Falls heading into the season
By Michael Newman
There were a handful of teams that were pushing for the Class 1A team title a year ago. It was Eureka that took charge in Peoria with three all-state runners including state champion Emma Argo to capture the state championship. Argo has graduated and Eureka would be in the hunt for a trophy in any typical Class 1A season. 2019 will not be any ordinary year in this classification. There are eight to ten teams that have the runners to realistically capture the Class 1A team title. You will have your regulars like St. Joseph-Ogden, Tolono Unity, and Rock Falls that have the experience in chasing after a state title. Williamsville may have the right formula to take home a trophy along with IC Catholic Prep and Winnebago. The IHSA shake-up in the classifications brings a strong group of teams into Class 1A including Normal University, Rosary, and Chicago University. Don’t forget about Eureka. They lost two all-state runners to graduation and will have to rebuild around all-state returning runner Alexis Fogo. It should be a fun season watching how this develops. It also gives you a big reason to get to Detweiller Park early for this race on State Finals Saturday. The top eight teams in this pre-season projection are close in talent. Any of those teams could be ranked at the top. Here is a look at the projected top 25 teams for the start of this season in Class 1A. We will also look at some of the other teams to keep an eye on in this classification.
Top 25
1 – Tolono (Unity) 2018 Finish – 3rd IHSA 1A State Coach – Kara Leaman Runners to Watch – Caroline Bachert JR (19, 18:02), Kylie Decker SR (45, 18:42), Evelyn Atkins JR (57, 18:50), Taylor Joop JR (64, 18:57), Malia Fairbanks SO (79, 19:09), Harper Hancock SO, Audrey Remole FR, Anna Clark FR, Rachel King SR, Maci Kraft SR, Destry William SO, Emma Stratton FR, Sophia Steirwalt FR, Arianna Pruitt SO. Preview – The camp appeared to be down last November after the Rockets found out that they finished third. Any other team would be ecstatic, but Unity has set their standards high. They have won state championships in 2015 and 2017. This is an odd year. Perhaps it is their turn to climb back on top of the mountain. This team has the talent to win a state title with five runners back from last year’s third-place team. “We had very good attendance this summer,” said their coach Kara Leaman. “The girls hold themselves accountable to each other and really like to be together. So, unless they are traveling or at camp, they have commitments to each other to get up and run. It’s cool to observe, really.” Caroline Bachert was the first across the finish line for the Rockets placing 19th last year. A top 10 finish is within her reach. Kylie Decker and Evelyn Atkins were among the 60 last year and have the ability to finish in the top 25 in November they will lead a pack that could include Taylor Joop, Malia Fairbanks, Harper Hancock and freshmen Anna Clark and Audrey Remole. The two freshmen were part of Unity’s middle school team that won the IESA 2A team title and could be difference makers around state series time. This team is focused and will need to have their best races in November to win a state title. “This team is losing some dynamic leaders (Jordan Harmon) but were quick to redefine themselves,” Leaman added. “I love to watch how they find strength in each other to fill in the gaps. They are looking to be noticed for what they have been contributing to this team for the last two and three trophy years and desire nothing less than excellence.” Keep an eye on their pack. Their 2018 top five split was 48 seconds off Bachert to finish third. The group will need to be closer together to capture a state championship.
2 – Williamsville 2018 Finish – 8th IHSA 1A State Coach – Tyler Casson Runners to Watch – Caroline Gwaltney SR (15,17:48), Katherine Walker SO (67, 18:59), Lexy Henrikson SR (70, 19:03), Katie Kennedy JR (121, 19:59), Jenna Rademacher JR (142, 20:19), Kylie Ray SR, Makenzie Reedy SR. Preview – Caroline Gwaltney and Lexy Henrikson have run in the state meet while at Williamsville the past three years. They started by finishing fifth in 2016, sixth as sophomores, and eighth last year. This is their final climb up the mountain so to speak. Chances of finishing in the top three are good for this team this fall. Gwaltney finished 15th last year and will again lead this group. Henrikson stepped into the spotlight last March at Illinois Top Times when she finished second at 800-meters and fourth at 1600-meters. She was all-state outdoors at 800-meters. We will see if her track success transfers over to this fall. She has the talent to run close to Gwaltney. Five of their top six runners from last year’s state team are back with Katherine Walker the best shot to stay within 10 to 15 seconds of Gwaltney. Three runners in the top 30 are a big possibility. Getting all of their scorers in the top 70 could put them among the top three teams.
3 – Rock Falls 2018 Finish – 2nd IHSA 1A State Coach – Mark Truesdell Runners to Watch – Bailee Fortney SR (12, 17:43), Erin Porter SR (35, 18:28), Alex Gomez SR (43, 18:40), Bryahna Ganther JR (48, 18:47), Galin Gaulrapp SO (123, 20:03), Whitney Schwindenhammer SR, Gracie Rippy FR, Kacey Estrella JR, Belen Mendoza SR. Preview – Rock Falls was one of the top Class 1A teams in 2017 before a bad race at the state meet including their top runner Bailee Fortney in the hospital for two days gave them a seventh-place finish. It was no “fluke” that they finished second last year. “Last year was an amazing year to finish 2nd but behind the scenes it was very stressful because we had many obstacles to overcome,” Coach Mark Truesdell said. “Those issues hopefully have been left in the past.” It everyone is healthy and on the same page, Rock Falls could be a dangerous team come state series time. Fortney is running with a confidence that left her last year. She should be among the top ten runners when we get to November. Alex Gomez ran with Fortney their sophomore year, but an injury last year slowed her down. The two are training together this summer according to Truesdell. Erin Porter, who had iron level problems last fall, is healthy and has been challenging her two teammates this summer. Bry Ganther finished 48th last year and was under 20 seconds behind Porter at state. All four could be all-state runners this fall. Finding a fifth runner will be something to watch for. It could be Calin Gaulrapp who was the team’s seventh runner at state. It could also be freshman Gracie Rippy that could push for a top five spot. We could see four all-state runners from this team. The key will be getting their fifth runner under 70th place.
4 – Normal (University) 2018 Finish – 4th IHSA 2A State Coach – Lester Hampton / John Neisler Runners to Watch – Ella Bittner JR (11, 17:40), Mackie Madix JR (30, 18:17), Lizzy Zacharias JR (75, 18:51), Britany Ziemer SR (86, 19:05), Katie Spading SR (177, 20:21), Lyndsey Wolters JR, Tasha Schuckman SR, Mya Kaeb JR, Adriana Crabtree SO, Madison Negele JR, Alex Eisenreich SR. Preview – The Lady Pioneers came within two points of earning a trophy in last year’s Class 2A State race. A year later, U-High is in the same situation but in Class 1A. They return five runners from last year’s state team. “Our summer training went really well,” said Coach John Neisler. “At the end of the spring, we had a lot of different schedules as people finished track season at different times or were returning from injuries. We were able to get everyone healthy and slowly progressed to be on the same page. We should be ready to get going when the season starts.” One of the runners that will lead their team is Ella Bittner. The junior had a breakout junior season finishing 11th last fall at Detweiller and then anchored U-High’s 4x800 team to a state title last spring. She also finished third in the 2A 1600 Meter Run. She should be one of the top runners in this classification this fall. Mackie Madix and Lizzy Zacharias should lead the pack behind Bittner. It could be some returning injured runners that are now healthy and could contribute. “I’m really just happy with how some of our returners are handling coming back from injuries/surgeries,” added Neisler. “Alex Eisenreich is coming back after a couple of injured seasons and hip surgeries. She’s a soccer player who could be a difference maker for us if she’s healthy. Lyndsey Wolters is also starting to look like she’s ready to begin working her way back to being a solid competitor and major piece of the team. She hasn’t seriously raced since last September, so it will take some time, but I’m really pleased with where she’s at.” Wolters has not run since the Richard Spring Invitational last September. She did run 17:18 to finish sixth at state as a freshman. A fully healthy Wolters gives this team a big boost. The team without their injured runners will still have the talent to contend for a trophy. With Wolters and Eisenreich in their top seven, the sky could be the limit. “We don’t have expectations, we have goals,” Neisler stated. “And our goals are the same as always: contend for the Bloomington/Normal Intercity Championship, contend for the Central State 8 Championship, and qualify for State.” They should make it to Detweiller Park in November. The question will be how high will they finish.
5 – St. Joseph-Ogden 2018 Finish – 5th IHSA 1A State Coach – Jason Retz Runners to Watch – Hope Rajlich SO (62, 18:51), Jillian Plotner SR (86, 19:09), Ashlyn Lannert SO (84, 19:16), Hannah Rajlich SR (86, 19:20), Ally Monk SR (99, 19:37), Kailyn Ingram SO (135, 20:12), Hanna Eastin JR, Ava Knap SO, Olivia Klotz SO, Emmy Houston JR. Preview – The Lady Spartans are usually in the hunt for a trophy. They won state titles in 2014 and 2016 and finished second in 2017. Last year, they left Detweiller Park with a fifth-place finish. Things look good for SJO as they return six of their top seven runners. “I believe they are ready to take on the challenges of a new season and continue to move our program forward,” said Coach Jason Retz. “We looked hard at the flaws of our program over the summer and have worked hard to make changes on them. I believe they feel they can be competitive at the state level if the take care of themselves and their teammates while staying healthy.” This team is team does not have the “name” runners if you look at their roster. They are deep in talent and could have 10 to 12 runners challenge for the starting line-up. Jillian Plotner ran injury free this summer compared to summer’s past. She should surprise some as the season goes on. Hope Rajlich is the team’s top returner from state and will challenge for the top spot. Hope’s sister Hannah had a good summer and will challenge in leading the team in races. “We'll have a good 1-2 punch early in the season with seniors Jillian Plotner and Hannah Rajlich. As the season goes forward, I would not be shocked if two or three more move up to tighten the gap,” added Retz. “If I had to pick our top 7 today, I would have a hard time with the number of girls who are challenging for those top 7 spots. It should be an exciting year.” The Lady Spartans could have a s good as a 30 second split on their top five. A runner or two in the all-state area (top 25) puts this team in trophy contention.
6 – Aurora (Rosary) 2018 Finish – 13th IHSA 2A State Coach – Vic Mead Runners to Watch – Lianna Surtz SO (2, 16:35), Maia Italia JR (51, 18:35), Katie Ubertino SO (118, 19:28), Katie Lifka SR (123, 19:29), Brooke O’Carroll SO (134, 19:36), Ann Molenhouse JR, Andie Baker SR, Emma Schwartz SR, Anna Michel SR, Mary Dietz SO. Preview – A move down to Class 1A from Class 2A will benefit Rosary this fall. Instead of fighting or a top 10 finish in Class 2A, this team should be ready to fight for a trophy when they get into the state series. Meets like the Richard Spring Invitational, the Wheaton North Falcon Classic, and the West Aurora Stampede will have the Royals ready for November. It helps if you have one of the best sophomores in the nation leading the way. Lianna Surtz showed her talent finishing second in 2A last fall and winning the Class 2A 1600 Meter Run last spring. Surtz will be the individual favorite when we get to November. Maia Italia should be the front runner in the pack behind Surtz. Rosary returns their top five from last year’s Class 2A state qualifying team. The split from two to five at state last year was 61 seconds. Getting their split under 45 seconds on that group would help. That pack starting 25th to 30th place would be a bigger help for this team to be in the hunt for a trophy.
7 – Elmhurst (IC Catholic Prep) 2018 Finish – 6th IHSA 1A State Coach – Dawn Calcagno Runners to Watch – Carly Manchester SO (8, 17:39), Kennedy Calcagno SO (54, 18:49), Frankie Chaidez JR (56, 18:50), Alie Johnson JR (103, 19:39), Hayden James FR. Preview – Last year at this time, we mentioned that the Lady Knights could be a team that could make it down state. By the time we got to Peoria, this team was on the starting line. Bigger than that they finished sixth overall. Flash forward to now. Here again is IC Catholic Prep ready to possibly contend for a state trophy. “Expectations for the team are simply to have fun and make consistent improvements over the course of the season,” Coach Dawn Calcagno said. “When the girls put the time in and work hard, great things will happen. My number one priority is to keep these awesome group of runners healthy.” Health will be a big factor for this team since their only five runners currently on their roster. They lost their fourth runner Annie Guinan for the season due to an ACL injury. Freshman Hayden James will step in and could be a big plus. The Lady Knights are led by two all-state athletes. Carly Manchester finished eighth last fall and then finished fifth last spring in the 3200 Meter Run. Kennedy Calcagno was all-state last spring for 800-meters and 1600-meters. Calcagno finished ahead of Manchester in the regional and sectional races. Calcagno staying close to Manchester makes this team tough. Frankie Chaidez finished third as a freshman, 56th last year. Watch for her to be in the top 25 in November. Alie Johnson had a good summer of training and could team with James to close the scoring door. Coach Calcagno added the John Kurtz Invitational and the Amboy Columbus Day Invitational along with the Peoria Invitational to give their front runners some great competition. The key for this team is staying healthy considering their small roster. If they enter the state meet healthy, this team could be a challenge for the others stepping to the line with the Lady Knights.
8 – Winnebago 2018 Finish – 4th IHSA 1A State Coach – Janet & Joe Erb Runners to Watch – Natalia Martino JR (13, 17:45), Katie Erb SO (23, 18:11), Renee Rittmeyer SO (77, 19:07), Sophia Martino (78, 19:08), Aurora Insko JR (124, 20:03), Ella Maher JR (132, 20:09), Taylor Ward JR (149, 20:26), Grace Erb FR, Marissa Roggensack FR, Kaylee Woolery FR. Preview – A team to keep an eye on especially by the time we get to the state series. The Indians did that last year finishing fourth in the state race. Things look good for this team again as all seven runners from last year’s state team are back along with a good group of freshmen runners joining them. Winnebago starts with two all-state runners leading the way. Natalia Martino finished 13th last year and could be among the top 10 at state. Katie Erb just got into the top 25 last year finishing 23rd. This year in the top 25 will be more of a certainty for Erb. The team’s top five split off Martino’s lead was 138 seconds at state last year. The addition of freshmen like Gracie Erb could lower that split. Keeping their top five split under 90 seconds with two all-state runners could put Winnebago into the top three teams in November. “Our summer started off slow, but July was a really good month for us,” said their coach Janet Erb. “We had a very strong core group that build mileage and fitness. We expect to work hard and position ourselves to be a contending team in November.”
9 – Benton 2018 Finish – 7th 1A Benton Sectional Coach – Brent McLain Runners to Watch – Amelia McLain SR (3, 17:26), Hailey Wallace SO (47, 18:43), Addison Miller JR, Peyton Tieffel SO, Madilyn McLain SR. Preview – This team is similar to IC Catholic Prep. There are only five runners on their Girls roster. Staying healthy will be a key. Amelia McLain finished third in the Class 1A race last fall. She will be in the hunt to again finish in the top three. Hailey Wallace qualified for state individually and finished 47th. A top 25 finish for Wallace could be a possibility. Madilyn McLain will split her time between Volleyball and Cross Country. Peyton Tieffel and Addison Miller are the team’s other two runners. This group of five finished seventh last year in their sectional race. If all stay healthy, the Rangers could find their way to the state meet.
10 – Herscher 2018 Finish – 10th IHSA 1A State Coach – Rick Livesey Runners to Watch – Molly Raymond SR (10, 17:59), Mady Rogers SR (102, 19:38), Josie Mendell JR (105, 19:40), Natalie Rink JR (109, 19:43), Gwen Meyer SR (119, 19:56), Jillian Cotter JR, Alison Borschack SR, Bailey Rolando SO, Emily Allen JR. Preview – It will be interesting t watch how this team fares this fall. Five runners are back from the state team that finished 10th. Molly Raymond came on strong at the end of last year and finished 10th at Detweiller Park. She should be among the Class 1A best this fall. Josie Mendell finished ahead of Raymond for the first half of the season. An injury at the beginning of October forced her to miss two meets. She finished as the team’s fifth runner in the state meet 101 seconds behind Raymond. Mendell did not run outdoors during the track season. If she is healthy, she gives Herscher a strong 1-2 with Raymond. Their split on five is projected to be close to 100 seconds. That will need to come down to get out of the Lisle Sectional which has become tougher this year.
11 – Monticello 2018 Finish – 13th IHSA 1A State Coach – David Remmert Runners to Watch – Rachel Koon SO (28, 18:19), Kyara Welter SO (98, 19:36), Emma Brown JR (117, 19:56), Mackenzie Murphy SR (128, 20:08), Emma Kallenbach JR (150, 20:33), Caroline Maxwell JR, Mabry Bruhn FR, Estella Miller FR, Audrey Fain SR. Preview – The Lady Sages may start out slow but will be a team to watch when we get to November. Monticello returns six from last year’s state team. “We have some scheduled runs to enable the team to get together for a workout and build the bond between them,” said Monticello Coach David Remmert. “I saw many of the girls all summer long, but some others that were spotty in their attendance – that’s fairly typical with summer.” The one runner that should make her presence known in Class 1A is Rachel Koon. The sophomore just missed all-state last fall finishing 28th. Koon was all-state in the Class 2A 3200 Meter Run last spring and made the finals in the 1600 Meter Run. She will lead her team with a 15th place or better finish. Their split will need to come down. It was 109 seconds on their top five at state. A similar split may get them near a top 10 finish. If it narrows with Koon in the front, this team will challenge for a top five finish. “I have hopes and I pray for healthy runners and good outcomes. Every season seems to start off the same way: “If so and so is able to rise up and improve, we will be there etc., but you never really know if those unknowns will come to fruition or not,” Remmert added. “I can say we have the potential to be the best team Monticello has ever had, but so much needs to happen in different ways for that to come about. We tend to focus on our work and, good Lord willing, we will be there in the end.”
12 – Freeburg 2018 Finish – 16th IHSA 1A State Coach – Carl Florczyk Runners to Watch – Breanna Chandler SR (34, 18:23), Jessica Shepherd SR (89, 19:25), Reagan Lucas JR (130, 20:08), Abby Holcomb JR (138, 20:15), Hailie Peterson SR (162, 21:01), Kalee Marshall SO (172, 21:18), Shelbie Hansen JR, Grace Marlen SR, Carmen Stein SO, Maddie Mense SR. Preview – The Midgets finished 16th in last year’s state meet and will look for a higher finish in 2019. Six runners are back from that state team with Breanna Chandler leading the way. Chandler has been the top runner for Freeburg all three seasons. Her state race was not her best finishing 34th. She does have the talent to finish in the top 20. Jessica Shepherd was 62 seconds behind Chandler at state and will need to be as close as 45 seconds for this team to be among the state’s best. The team’s top five split was close to three minutes last November. That split needs to be under 120 seconds for this team to move up.
13 – Chicago (University) 2018 Finish – 24th IHSA 2A State Coach – Debbie Ribbens Runners to Watch – Amanda O’Donnell SO (16th, 17:47), Sophia Park SO (127, 19:32), Iris Xie JR (150, 19:50), Vivianna Glick JR (170, 20:09), Aenika Atluri JR (212, 21:44), Franzi Wild SR, Sana Shahul JR. Preview – The first e-mail response I received from U-High Coach Debbie Ribbens was that she was very excited for the upcoming cross country season. She should be along with the U-High team. The Maroons made it to state last year in Class 2A finishing 24th. They were moved to Class 1A for the 2019 season. Their expectations should be higher. U-High returns five of their top six runners headed by Amanda O’Donnell who finished 16th last fall. O’Donnell will be a runner to watch in the top 10 at state. The team should have a good pack behind O’Donnell led by Sophia Park, Franzi Wild, and Iris Xie. Keeping their second through fifth runners within 30 seconds of each other will be a key. Keeping that pack within 70 seconds of O’Donnell could get their team within the top 10 teams.
14 – Eureka 2018 Finish – IHSA 1A State Champions Coach – Olivia Morris Runners to Watch – Alexis Fogo JR (14, 17:46), Elle Knapp SO (69, 19:02), Anna Perry SO (81, 19:10), Nora Robinson SR (161, 21:00), Katelyn Knapp JR, Bailee Plattner SR, Laurel Munson FR, Elle Hoffman FR, Maranda Wilson FR, Sophie Kaufman FR. Preview – 2018 was a memorable season for the Eureka Girls Cross Country team. They won the program’s first state title in a convincing manner winning by almost 40 points. The page has turned to a new season. It will hurt that they lost two all-state runners to graduation including two-time state champion Emma Argo. The talent is there to make a run at another trophy with four runners from that state team coming back. “Our training went well, our numbers were up for our morning runs,” said Eureka Coach Olivia Morris. “We are young, so a lot of the summer was focused on how to get through a run without stopping and different fundamentals of running. We worked through a lot of vacations, but the girls kept each other pretty dependable.” Alexis Fogo finished 14th last year and will be the front runner for this team. Do not be surprised if she finishes in the top five at state. Morris mentioned that this team is young, and they will be this season. The Hornets may have some growing pains early but should be tough by the time we get to the state series. Sophomores Elle Knapp and Anna Perry have big meet experience and will lead the pack behind Fogo. A good group of freshmen led by Laurel Munson and Elle Hoffman should contribute to the top five for Eureka. “We graduated 3 runners that were in our top 5, so I don’t the girls really know what to expect,” Morris added. “I think every run, workout, and race, will be gauged towards improvement on the last, working together, and being competitive.” September will be a time for this team to grow. It will be a team that you will not be able to ignore by the time we get to the regional meet competition.
15 – Knoxville 2018 Finish – 6th 1A Elmwood Sectional Coach – Tom Hillier Runners to Watch – Bailey Harris SO (18, 18:00), Breena Shreeves SR (26, 18:16), Mackenzie Rader SO, Kynlee Stearns SO, Ainsley Buster JR. Preview – A Class 1A storyline that we will see with this Knoxville team is the small number on this squad’s roster. Only five runners are on the team according to Coach Tom Hillier with hopes of getting more once the school year starts. The Blue Bullets came close to a state trip last year finishing sixth while missing the top five at the Elmwood Sectional by seven points. Knoxville did qualify two individuals to state last fall led by Bailey Harris who finished 18th as a freshman. Breena Shreeves, in her first year of cross country, finished 26th in that state race. “The summer workouts are going well so far with the girls getting in more running than the previous year,” Hillier said. “Last year was Breena"s first year for cross country so she really hadn't trained until the beginning of the season last year so looking for great things from her this year. Bailey Harris is a fierce competitor and will do whatever it takes to help the team advance or score a win.” This group is running with confidence having won the 1A 4x800 Meter Relay at the state meet last May. Harris and Shreeves could and will need to be inseparable in races this season. Keeping this team will be a key for Knoxville of taking the next step to the starting line at Detweiller Park.
16 – DuQuoin 2018 Finish – 17th IHSA 1A State Coach – Eric Kirkpatrick Runners to Watch – Gabrielle Alongi SR (52, 18:49), Olivia Phillips SO (76, 19:07), Grace Alongi SO (125, 20:06), Maddie Decker SO (140, 20:16), Jacqueline Crain JR (163, 21:04), Alexis George SO (164, 21:06), Maddie Robison JR, Lauren Heape SR, Robin Horton FR, Elaina Romani FR. Preview – Expectations have grown for this cross country team especially after the school’s Girls Track & Field team won the Class 1A team championships last May. The Lady Indians took one step up last fall winning the Benton Sectional. Their top six runners are back looking to take another step up. “We tried to be consistent in what we did this summer with our training,” their coach Eric Kirkpatrick said. “Coming off of our track success we tried to keep the kids motivated to continue to improve. We had pretty good attendance during summer workouts and appear to be heading into the season pretty healthy.” The runner that leads this team on and off the course is Gabby Alongi. The junior had a good fall season placing 52nd at state. Her track season was fantastic earning all-state honors for 400-meters and 800-meters as well as anchoring their 4x400 relay to a state title and helping their 4x800 relay to a second place finish. “Gabby will once again be our workhorse,” added Kirkpatrick. “She is a great leader that the other girls rally around. When you have an athlete that can combine talent with an incredible work ethic, the skies the limit. Gabby has those qualities.” Olivia Phillips ran 19:06 at state last November. She was within 10 to 15 seconds of Alongi during the season. The two running close in meets will benefit this team. Jacqueline Crain has showed improvement this summer according to Kirkpatrick and could help this team finish higher. The split on two to five towards the end of the year was near two minutes. Closing that gap down 20 to 30 seconds will make this team even tougher. Said Kirkpatrick: “Our expectations are very similar to what they have been the last few years. We want to be competing on the last day of the season at Detweiller.”
17 – Stanford (Olympia) 2018 Finish – 11th IHSA 1A State Coach – Mike Neisler Runners to Watch – Savannah Beavers JR (36, 18:32), Ellen Springer JR (83, 19:15), Sydnee Usherwood SR (112, 19:51), Maddie Litwiller JR (139, 20:16), Jade Andris SR, Bailey Rogers SR, Emily Litwiller JR, Carson Inselmann SR, Madison Bales FR. Preview – Olympia lost three runners from last year’s top seven due to graduation. For some teams, this would be considered a rebuilding year. The Spartans do have the nucleus to reload and get back to Peoria in November. “Our summer training went well. Most of our runners have over 150 miles. That should help as the season progresses,” Coach Mike Neisler said. “We will need everyone to improve. There are big questions about this team. It will be an interesting season.” Savannah Beavers was the team’s top runner last fall. That trend should continue in 2019. She could challenge for a finish in the top 25. Ellen Springer was the team’s third runner at state in 2018. She will need to lead the pack behind Beavers. Neisler believes that a freshman group led by Madison Bales will be major contributors by this team gets to the state series. “After making the state meet 4 years straight, we would like to do it again,” concluded Neisler. “Everything that can go right needs to go right for us. I believe we can do it, just work hard and see what happens. Our sectional is always tough. We will have to be on our best for anything less will not be good enough this year.”
18 – West Chicago (Wheaton Academy) 2018 Finish – 6th 2A Kaneland Sectional Coach – Chris Felinski Runners to Watch – Lily Lebo SO (79, 18:55), Anna Jerdee SR, Lydia Garrett SR, Sarah Vander Klok JR, Sarah Jane Lister JR, Cora Gregersen JR, Hallee Harris JR, Andrea Novaria JR. Preview – Wheaton Academy just missed making it to the Class 2A State Meet finishing sixth at the Kaneland only three points out of the top five. It could be close again for the Warriors now in Class 1A and most likely being in a tough Lisle Sectional. They return four from last year’s top seven but graduated their second, third, and fourth runners. Lily Lebo did make it to the state meet as a freshman finishing 79th in the Class 2A race. A top 40 finish is definitely out of the question. A big thing to watch is who steps up into the second spot. It could either be Anna Jerdee or Lydia Garrett. The projected split from their second through fifth runners is around 30 seconds. Keeping that pack within 45 seconds of Lebo puts the Warriors in position to make a state meet trip in November.
19 – Pinckneyville 2018 Finish – 25th IHSA 1A State Coach – Ryan Bruns Runners to Watch – Dakota Krone SR (143, 20:19), Taylor Kurtz SO (152, 20:43), Cagney Kwiatowski SO (155, 20:50), Paige Epplin JR (167, 21:09), Olivia Buza SR (168, 21:10), Audrey Bruns SR (174, 21:22), Emma Francis SO (181, 21:35), Gayle Winter JR. Preview – The Lady Panthers made it to the state meet last year finishing third at the Benton Sectional. They did not run their best race of the season finishing 25th at Detweiller Park. Expectations should be high for Pinckneyville as they return their entire top seven state lineup. Dakota Krone was the team’s top runner in 2018 and expects to be in the same position as this season starts. The team had a 51 second top five split at state but the pack was too far back. Their top five split was 62 seconds in their sectional race. A key to watch is seeing this team work their way closer to the front of the race especially if they get back to Peoria. The talent is there for the Lady Panthers finishing in the top 20 on the second weekend of November.
20 – Tremont 2018 Finish – 7th 1A Elmwood Sectional Coach – Mike Lynn Runners to Watch – Lizzy Freidlinger SR (115, 19:53), Tressa Scheurmann SR, Sara Scheurmann SO, Stephanie Buck JR, Sarah Leitner SR, Sarah Finnegan SR, Ava Pflederer JR. Preview - The Elmwood Sectional is one of the toughest traditionally in Class 1A. Tremont, who was ranked in the top 25 most of the year, could not advance to Peoria for state finishing seventh. The Turks return their entire top seven from 2018. Lizzy Freidlinger did not have her best race of the season finishing 115th at state. She does have the talent to be among the top 15 runners this fall. She finished 23rd at Detweiller as a sophomore. Sisters Tressa and Sara Scheuermann should again lead the pack behind Freidlinger. The gap from two to five was close to two minutes last year. That split will need to come down in order for Tremont to be among the top five sectional teams on November 2.
21 – Toulon (Stark County) 2018 Finish – 19th IHSA 1A State Coach – Bob Rennick Runners to Watch – Olivia Frail SR (66, 18:57), Ashley Orrick SO (82, 19:14), Josie Price SR (141, 20:18), Lena Becker JR (157, 20:53), Trinity Shimmin JR (191, 22:10), Alyssa Dyken JR (193, 22:25), Sarah Fairfield JR (200, 22:57), Paige Rewerts FR. Preview – This is one of the surprise team from last year. Nobody really considered Stark County a “state” team at the beginning of the 2018 season. The Lady Rebels came on strong at the end of the year finishing fourth at the Oregon Sectional and then 19th at the State Meet. “We had a great summer with solid participation from the team members,” said their coach Bob Rennick. “Work during last summer paid big dividends for the team last season and that fact was not lost on our runners. It was evident from our team runs that they were dedicated to their summer running plans and putting in the work. We also had a lot of fun, which is something we never lose sight of.” Olivia Frail again should be the top runner and could finish among the top 40 at state. Ashley Orrick, who was only 17 seconds behind Frail in Peoria, is someone that could run in their front pack. All of their top seven are back. It could be freshman Paige Rewerts that could be among the team’s top five. Their split on five at state was over three minutes. A top five split under two minutes could move this team into the top 15 at state. “The team expectations/goals for this season are to repeat as Lincoln Trail Conference champions and qualify for State again,” added Rennick. “We are a very small school, with slightly over 200 students total. There isn’t a junior high cross country program offered at Stark County and this is just our 4th season competing as a team and my 4th season coaching. Our season to season and day to day goal is simply to put in the work, and if we do that, results will come to us. I have no doubt the girls will put in the work, absolutely no doubt.”
22 – El Paso-Gridley 2018 Finish – 7th IHSA 1A State Coach – Michael Melick Runners to Watch – Ruby Slightom SO (40, 18:36), Charlene Hamilton SO (94, 19:33), Tori Witzig JR (136, 20:12), Jenna Kent SO (175, 21:23), Mya Gramm SR (179, 21:34), Allison Kelly SR, Molly Holt SR, Julia Reid SR, Annabelle Younse FR, Hilary Gramm FR. Preview – The Titans made their way out of the tough Elmwood Sectional which resulted in a seventh-place state finish. They do lose two of their top three, Cate Atkins and Sophia Allen, to graduation. This a young but experienced team with three of their top four runners sophomores. The expectations are still there for El Paso-Gridley to make it back to state. “It was an interesting summer. No one put up jaw-dropping volume, but most of the girls tried to get out and at least log some runs,” Coach Michael Melick said. “Our girls also had a lot of cross training this summer including national hockey tournaments and international wrestling tournaments which kept them active, even if they weren't running. Obviously, nothing prepares you for running like running, so it will be interesting to see what kind of running shape we’re in and how the season develops thereafter.” Ruby Slightom finished in the top 40 at state and could be close to all-state position by the end of the year. Charlene Hamilton, another sophomore, should lead the pack. Julia Reid did not run last year. She was one of the top seven runners her sophomore year. She could be a big plus for this team in 2019. “I have a lot more questions than expectations,” said Mellick. That is obvious since we are only in August. “Honestly, our focus this fall will be primarily on staying healthy all season and being patient and consistent. I expect we will be in the discussion as a team who could advance out of our Sectional.”
23 – Rockford Christian 2018 Finish – 9th IHSA 1A State Coach – Christine Regan Runners to Watch – Kelly Giardina SO (39, 18:35), Gracie Kreissler SR (93, 19:29), Mackenzie Park JR (97, 19:36), Renate Toldo SR (145, 20:21), Emily Kirkham SR, Abbi Hendrix SR, Brodie Scrogin SO, Helena Vuong JR. Preview – Five runners are back from last year’s team that finished ninth in the Class 1A State Meet. They will miss their top runner Madison Franseen who has graduated. The nucleus is there for this team to make another trip to Peoria in November. Kelly Giardina was the team’s top runner in their sectional race and should lead this team in 2019. A finish in the top 25 is in her future whether it is this year or next. The split at state on their top five was 66 seconds. It is projected right now to be under 150 seconds. The development of their team during the first month of the season will be something to keep an eye on. Moving the pack behind Giardina within 40 seconds will be something to keep an eye on.
24 – Urbana (University) 2018 Finish – 15th IHSA 1A State Coach – Doug Mynatt Runners to Watch – Erin Smith SO (75, 19:06), Faizah Rauther SR (131, 20:09), Anya Kaplan-Hartnett SR (137, 20:15), Erin Minor SR (148, 20:24), Danbi Choi JR (170, 21:17), Rani Ramrattan JR, Maxine Van der Donk SO, Madeline Keenan SO, Kate Ahmari FR, Edie Hoganson FR. Preview – This is a team that will start at this ranking. I would not be surprised if they are in the top 10 schools in Class 1A by the time we get to the state series. Injuries plagued this squad a year ago as U-High still finished 15th. Having a healthy team along with some freshman that could make an impact make this squad a team to watch. Erin Smith should be the team’s top runner at the start of the season. She finished 75th at state a year ago. A freshman that could make an impact in the front is Kate Ahmari. She finished 10th last fall in the IESA 1A State Meet and also ran 5:14 for 600-meters and 2:26 for 800-meters last spring in track. She could finish in the top 25 this year. Having Maxine Van der Donk healthy (she broke her collarbone right before state) along with a healthy Danbi Choi, this could be a team to keep an eye on at the end of October. “Our girls were not at full-strength during last year’s state series,” said U-High Coach Doug Mynatt. “Even with those setbacks, we finished 15th. With a healthy top 7, with a boost from Kate Ahmari, we have the potential for a top 10 finish.”
25 – Kankakee (Bishop McNamara) 2018 Finish – 22nd IHSA 1A State Coach – Preston Provost Runners to Watch – Eden Rainbolt JR (90, 19:26), Jade Baker JR (134, 20:10), Madison Hamilton JR (147, 20:22), Anna Latham JR (166, 21:07), Kaylee Woolman JR (196, 22:34), Shelby Corbett SO (202, 23:03), Addy Langelett FR, Krista Surprenant FR. Preview – It could be a year of transition for the Irish. Long time coach Ken Klipp retired after last season. Preston Provost and Tricia Suprenant will be the team’s new coaches. “Though this is our first year with the High School we are very familiar with the kids and the program. Tricia and I have coached almost all of these kids in Grade School. We have coached together for 9 years with great success earning 5 state trophies including a state championship. We have a small squad, but the talent is there to raise some eyebrows.” The top six runners from last year’s 22nd place state team are back led by Eden Rainbolt. Jade Baker and Madison Hamilton will lead the pack behind Rainbolt. The split on five at the end of last year was close to three minutes. That split needs to be cut in half to get this team back to the state meet. Freshmen Krisat Suprenant and Addy Langelett could be a plus for the top five. “We have the talent needed to get to the State meet,” Provst said. “We have coached most of these kids before and know that if we can get everyone to buy into the training we are doing, we will have good things happen.”
The Next 15 (in Alphabetical Order)
Anna-Jonesboro 2018 Finish – 10th 1A Benton Sectional Coach – Matt Denny Runners to Watch – Caro Ghiani SR (92,19:28), Amiyah Hart JR, Juka Hall JR, Kristin Edmonds SO, Marisol Zamora SO, Sally Sims SR, Grace Girtman JR. Preview – Anna-Jonesboro finished 10th in their sectional last year and could move up. They have six of their top seven runners coming back from last year’s team. Caro Ghiani could finish in the top 50 in November. She qualified individually placing 92nd. Anna-Jonesboro could have a tight pack from second through fourth with a pack under 30 seconds. A key will be finding a fifth runner that can stay within 20 to 30 seconds of the trio.
Aurora Central Catholic 2018 Finish – 6th 1A Oregon Sectional Coach – Troy Kerber Runners to Watch – Lesley Viveros SR (65, 18:57), Shaley Gonzalez SR, Liliana Velasquez SR, Jenna Stuck SO, Vivianna Ponce SR, Anna Laura Ponce SO, Katelyn Dineen SO, Mary Kate O’Hara JR, Amber Lopez JR, Isabella Orosco FR. Preview – Two points at last year’s Oregon Sectional separated Aurora Central Catholic from not going to the state meet finishing sixth. This team is hungry for another chance at a trip to the state meet. Six of their top seven are back with Lesley Viveros leading the way. Viveros qualified individually last year placing 65th in the state meet. She could be among the top 30 in November. A big plus for the Chargers could be incoming freshman Isabella Orozco. She had success last year in the IESA State Meet finishing fourth for 1600-meters and won the 800 Meter Run with a 2:23.29 time. Orozo also had a 5:19 personal best. “We are really excited about the potential of this team, that is similar to the great Charger team of 2014, except potentially we could be a little deeper,” Coach Troy Kerber said. “We will need a little time to formulate, but we could be a top 10 team in 1A, if all goes well.”
Beecher 2018 Finish – 18th IHSA 1A State Coach – Larissa Swanson Runners to Watch – Victoria Fasano SR (20, 18:02), Kasey Swanson SR (171, 21:17), Christina Wang SR (182, 21:36), Emilee Huenerberg SO (188, 22:01), Morgan Walsh JR (198, 22:16), Sarah Curtis SR, Aniya Killis SO, Isabella Olson JR. Preview – One of the reasons why Beecher made it back down to state last year was the firepower that they had in front in races. Victoria Fasano and Hailey Janssen both earned All-State honors. Janssen has graduated. It could be tougher for this team to qualify especially how hard the Lisle Sectional has become. Fasano again will be the front runner and could challenge for a top 10 individual finish. The gap between Fasano and the rest of the team is close to three minutes. The second through fifth pack is projected to be at 130 seconds. Cutting down both gaps could help Beecher get close to returning back to the state meet.
Bloomington (Central Catholic) 2018 Finish – 10th 1A Elmwood Sectional Coach – Bill Rhodes Runners to Watch – Kaylee Eckhoff SO, Anna Zlatic SO, Kaitlyn Dapper SR, Penny Bordewick SO, Sara Vose SO, Sophia Dappen SO, Isabella Evans SO. Preview – This will be a young squad with six of their top seven runners sophomores. Bloomington Central Catholic finished 10th in their sectional with five freshmen in their lineup. Kaylee Eckhoff should be the top runner for this team. She has a good chance of qualifying for the state meet individually. Anna Zlatic leads the pack behind Eckhoff that will need to stay within 60 seconds of each other and within 45 seconds of Eckhoff. Accomplishing that could get this team closer to a top five sectional finish.
Breese (Mater Dei) 2018 Finish – 6th 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional Coach – Dave Kohnen Runners to Watch – Faith Rackers SR, Olyvia Wilken JR, Gretta Stark SR, Mailee Toennies SO, Morgan Oertel JR, Sophia Sabo JR, Hailey Castro JR. Previews – The Knights got close to making it to Peoria last October but finished sixth in the 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional. The move to Class 1A could be big for Mater Dei especially if they get placed in the Benton Sectional. Four runners are back from last year’s top seven. Faith Rackers and Olyvia Wilken should be within 10 seconds of each other leading their top 7. The key for this team is keeping their top five split under 90 seconds for this team to make a November trip to Detweiller Park
Decatur (St. Teresa) 2018 Finish – 6th 1A St. Teresa Sectional Coach – Todd Vohland Runners to Watch – Veronica Hein SR (49, 18:47), Katie Dunscomb SR, Morgan Brummer JR, Vanessa Gillespey SR, Sydney McNamara SR, Megan Dunscomb SO, Hannah Hollis JR, Emma Reidy SR, Ellie Stahr FR. Previews – St. Teresa has missed out on making it to the state meet as a team the past couple of years. Their luck could change in 2019. Six runners are back from last year’s sixth-place sectional with individual qualifier Veronica Hein leading the pack. Hein finished within the top 50 in last year’s race. A top 25 finish is within her reach. Their second through fifth runner pack is projected to be just under 90 seconds. Katie Dunscomb, who was the team’s second runner in the sectional race, had a good summer of training and will lead the pack possibly getting closer to Hein. Freshman Ellie Stahr along with Hannah Hollis could give the team a boost in their top five. “They all have set lofty, but attainable goals,” said Hall of Fame Coach Todd Vohland. “The most important are to compete well and have fun. I feel like we have at least a shot to get to state as a team, however, as always, our Sectional is very tough.”
Elmwood-Brimfield 2018 Finish – 8th 1A Elmwood Sectional Coach – Kyle Anderson Runner to Watch – Sophie Bedell SO, Julia Dunkel SR, Catherine Karn SO, Sydney Hartung SR, Greta Inskeep SR, Christine Karn JR, Trinity Brandt SR, Chloe Kelly FR, Ashley Wolcott FR, Allie Crisco FR, Melody Glenn FR, Caroline Gallagher FR, Bre Turner FR. Preview – Five seniors are among the team’s top runners as we head into the season. The Trojans are anxious for that group to get to state in 2019. Elmwood finished eighth last year in their own sectional. “The senior class is especially hungry to get to state,” said their coach Kyle Anderson. “They’ve worked hard this summer and their confidence is growing. I think they’ve provided a great example to our newcomers on what it takes to be successful.” It will be Sophie Bedell, a sophomore, that will lead this group. She was the team’s top runner in the state series last fall. Julie Dunkel will lead the pack that will need to stay within 40 seconds of Bedell. A good freshman group coming in led by Chloe Kelly and Ashley Wolcott could give this team a boost in the top seven.
Macomb 2018 Finish – 9th 1A Elmwood Sectional Coach – Randy Ames Runners to Watch – Khyleigh Diggs SO, Olivia Bishop JR, Halle Evans SR, Margot Wester SO, Sylvia Barclay JR, Elizabeth Gottwold SO, Sophie White JR, Aleksandra Grigortsuk JR. Preview – Macomb will miss all-state runner Maya Stovall who graduated this past spring. Stovall was the team’s top runner all four years that she ran. Hopes are still high for the Bombers as they return the rest of their top seven with the desire of improving on last year’s ninth-place sectional finish. Macomb should have a tight pack in the front with Kyleigh Diggs, Olivia Bishop, and Halle Evans all within the possibility of being within 15 seconds of each other. The pack behind this trio is close to two minutes back. That group will need to close the gap. The front pack needs to move up at least 30 seconds of the front in their races in order to get close to one of the top five sectional qualifying spots.
Okawville 2018 Finish – 24th IHSA 1A State Coach – Val Tepe Runners to Watch – Megan Cook SR (127, 20:07), Chloe Tepe SO (146, 20:22), Cindy Snyder SO (173, 21:19), Raegan Luchtefeld SO (201, 23:01), Tricia Rennegarbe JR (207, 24:01), Savannah Hackstadt JR (208, 24:08), Amber Koch SR. Preview – It could be tougher for Okawville to make it back to the state meet even though they finished fifth in their sectional, 24th at state, and have six of their top seven runners back. The Benton sectional has become tougher and this team will just need to take another step up. What hurt Okawville at last year’s state meet is their pack started with Megan Cook’s127th place finish. Okawville just needs to move that pack closer to the front. Their top five split was close to three minutes at the close of last season. That time needs to be reduced by a minute for this team to make that November trip back to Peoria.
Peotone 2018 Finish – 8th 1A Lisle Sectional Coach – William Benner Runners to Watch – Gracie Battiato SO (61, 18:53), Amelia Kuypers SO, Mia Steeves SR, Maggie Kuypers JR, Sophia Perry JR, Lizbeth Conchola SR, Meadow Sala SO. Preview – Five runners are back from Peotone’s eight-place sectional team. It could be tough for this team to get to the top five at Lisle especially with teams like Chicago University and Wheaton Academy most likely moved in. Gracie Battiato made it to state as individual placing 61st. A finish in the top 40 is a possibility. The team had a top five split of over four minutes in their sectional race. Lowering it would help getting closer to the sectional top five.
Pleasant Plains 2018 Finish – 12th IHSA 1A State Coach – Derek DeBarr Runners to Watch – Caroline Jachino SR (33, 18:23), Izzy Dossett SO (116, 19:53), Analise Brewer JR (177, 21:30), Heidi Hergenrother SR (189, 22:07), Anna Moore SO, Campbell Beeler SO, Neveah Ezzo SO, Megan Derrick FR, Vianne Taft FR. Preview – Pleasant Plains could make it back to the state meet despite the fact that three of last year’s top five runners have graduated. The Redbirds still have their top runner Caroline Jachino leading them. The senior did not have her best race at state last fall finishing 33rd. She bounced back during track earning All-State honors in the 3200 Meter Run (3rd) and the 1600 Meter Run (6th). She should be in the top 10 this fall but how close will she be to the front? “The girls had a great summer training regimen combining distance runs, mid-distance sprint work, speed work and plyos,” said Assistant Coach Rob Havens. “The senior captains did a wonderful job of making sure all runners were accountable for running and logging their summer mileage and attendance was high during organized summer workouts. We’ve avoided running on the track this summer with all workouts taking place on a grass CC course near the high school or on distance trail runs. Physically they are all in great shape and ready to go.” Freshmen Megan Derrick and Vianne Taft both could fill spots in the top five close to Izzy Dorsett. “Their primary goal is to advance as a team from regional to the Elmwood Sectional, with the ultimate goal of qualifying as a team for this year’s state meet at Detweiller,” added Havens.
Seneca 2018 Finish – 20th IHSA 1A State Coach – Kim Foster Runners to Watch – Audrey Jenkins SO (30,18:20), Amber Vroman JR (144, 20:20), Delaney Welsh JR (156, 20:52), Savanah Bland SR (176, 21:27), Marie Chesharek JR (184, 21:40), Lauren Silvola SR (203, 23:07), Emily Hess JR, Jaelyn Coop FR, Riley Sanburg FR, Ashley Alsvig FR. Preview – The Irish just missed making it into the pre-season top 25 but have the talent to jump in sooner than later. Six of their top seven runners are back with the ability to make it back to the state meet. Audrey Jenkins had a super freshman season finishing 30th at state. She again will lead this team with good chances of finishing in the top 20. The team had a split of three minutes on their top five last year, two minutes on their second through fifth runners. Both splits need to come down in order for this team to improve on last year’s state finish. “We would like to see another trip to state. We have all but Natalie Carajohn coming back and there are a lot of new additions, so hopefully a few of them can improve and be in that top group at the end of the season,” said their coach Kim Foster.
Shelbyville 2018 Finish – 9th 1A St. Teresa Sectional Coach – Chris Mosley Runners to Watch – Ailey Mitchell SR (10, 17:42), Gabrielle Spain SO (16, 17:54), Emma Congenie SO, Rachel Thoneburg JR, Emma Houska SO, Brook Schutt SO, Ella Tynan SO, Ellie Nohren FR. Preview – Chris Mosley steps in as Head Coach replacing retired Hall of Fame Coach Kevin Kramer. Mosley does have a good roster to work from after Shelbyville’s ninth-place sectional finish last year. Ailey Mitchell finished 10th at Detweiller Park and will be among the Top Class 1A runners again this fall. Her teammate Gabrielle Spain had a great freshman season finishing with a 16th place finish. Spain could also be among the top 10. The split from their top two to the rest of the pack last year was close to four minutes. That split needs to come down if the Rams want to compete at state as a team. “Our girls have high hopes going into the 2019 season,” Mosley said. “We feel we have the ability to run with most teams in the state and so long as our pack behind Ailey and Gabby can keep a small split, we should be pretty tough.”
Springfield (Sacred Heart-Griffin) 2018 Finish – 11th 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional Coach – Joshua Bluhm Runners to Watch – Mikayla Hady SR (70, 18:49), Kaitlyn Lee FR, Abigail Hemmer SO, Ashlyn Nicoud SO, Erin Murphy JR, Lily Thompson SR, Clare Becker SR, Brigid Fahey SO, Sterling Scarlette FR, Vivian Rahmel FR. Preview – The Cyclones should take advantage of the move down to Class 1A to make it to the state meet. Six runners are back from the sectional team that finished 11th. Mikayla Hady qualified individually for state last October. She came on strong finishing fourth in the Class 2A 800 Meter Run and has experienced her best summer of training according to Coach Josh Bluhm. It could be a pair of freshmen that could give this team a boost towards the state meet. Bluhm expects Kaitlyn Lee to challenge for the top spot with Hady. Another freshman, Sterling Scarlette, expects to be in the top five. The addition of the two freshmen could get their top five split to 90 seconds. That formula could get this team to the state meet.
Staunton 2018 Finish – 10th 1A St. Teresa Sectional Coach – Steve Moore Runners to Watch – Lydia Roller JR (2, 17:18), Mackenzie Fisher SR, Bailey Scroggins JR, Erica Pickerill JR, Paige Scroggins JR, Sonali Jain SR. Preview – It is too soon to tell if this team will contend for a state qualifying spot. Three of their top seven decided not to go out for the team this fall. They do have the talent that could surprise some in their sectional. It helps that you have one of the top Class 1A runners leading your team. Lydia Roller continued to improve last spring running under five minutes for 1600-meters. Roller finished second last year. She should contend for the individual title this November. Mackenzie Fisher was the team’s fourth runner in the team’s10th place sectional finish. She had a great summer of training and will be the second runner according to Coach Steve Moore. “The summer training went pretty well. As a team, we recorded more miles than in my previous years coaching. Also, our runners got together with those from other schools and had "community" runs with them. Situations like that are what make our sport so great,” Moore said. “Our Sectional was unbelievably tough last season, so we have a lot of work to do in order to be running at Detweiller in November.”
Other Teams to Watch (in Alphabetical Order)
Byron 2018 Finish – 9th 1A Winnebago Regional Coach – Mike McHale Runners to Watch – Annie Pearson SR, Rebekah Starwalt SO, Kaitlyn Kuehn JR, Samantha Bitz JR, Amanda Williams SR. Preview – Byron’s top five runners are back from last year’s team that did not advance out of their regional. Extending their season an extra week is a good possibility with this group. Annie Pearson and Rebekah Starwalt both advanced to the sectional meet as individuals. They will lead this team. Keeping a team split under three minutes could advance this team into one of the top 15 sectional teams at Oregon.
Elgin (Harvest Christian Academy) 2018 Finish – 7th 1A Oregon Sectional Coach – Steven Bland Runners to Watch – Lydia Camp SR, Ella Richter SO, Jessica Fuja JR, Eva Serrato JR, Hope Mylin SR, Madi Schwinderwind SO, Eva Camp FR, Annika Learned FR, Faith Winkelman JR. Preview – It was a crushing way to end the season for Harvest Christian. The Lions missed qualifying or state by seven points finishing seventh overall in the Oregon Sectional. This team has the talent to make it back to Peoria. It will start with Lydia Camp. The senior is only in her second season of cross country but was the team’s top runner in their regional race. She had an off race at Oregon and was the team’s fifth runner. She might have a breakout season, but we will just have to wait and see. Ella Richter along with freshmen Eva Camp and Annika Learned could give the team a boost in their top five. “We lost 4 seniors who were in our top 7, two of the other seven are young runners, Lydia Camp and Ella Richter, both in their second year of running, that in and of itself says that we are young and developing,” HCA Coach Steven Band said. “However, our goal is to get back to state and rectify last year’s disappointment. I love the passion and heart that this year’s girls are displaying.”
Johnsburg 2018 Finish – 8th 1A Oregon Sectional Coach – Chris Setzler Runners to Watch – Sam Schmitt SR, Sammy Knutilla SR, Allysa Peete SR, Hannah Anderson SR, Saida Blount JR, Denali Nett SR. Preview – Johnsburg was in the same boat as Harvest Christian Academy as they finished eighth four points behind HCA. The Skyhawks have the talent to improve on last year’s finish as they return their top six runners. The experience is there with five of the six runners back seniors. Sam Schmitt and Sammy Knutilla should again be the team’s top runners. Their sectional top five split was only 78 seconds. The key will be moving that group closer to the front for good things to happen.
Lawrenceville 2018 Finish – 8th 1A St. Teresa Sectional Coach – Bill Bandy / John Christy Runners to Watch – Katie Moore JR, Ophelia Klein SO, Shaina Hyre SO, Becky Wagner SR, Cara Eagleson JR, Elsie Whewell SR. Preview – The Lady Indians return four from last year’s sectional team that finished eighth at the St. Teresa Sectional. Katie Moore and Ophelia Klein should be the team’s top runners. They will need to find some runners to step into the three / four / five spots. Shaina Hyre could lead that group. A split of 100 seconds on five or better, like last year, could improve on last year’s finish.
Litchfield 2018 Finish – 7th 1A St. Teresa Sectional Coach – Jeremy Palmer Runners to Watch – Caroline Quarton SR, Kylie Eiting SO, Elizabeth Dawson JR, Karly Kruse JR, Anna Baugher SR. Preview – Five runners are back from last year’s seventh-place sectional team. Caroline Quarton should again be the team’s top runner and a good bet to qualify for the state meet individually. Kylie Eiting improved at the end of last season and could challenge for the top spot.
Lombard (Montini Catholic) 2018 Finish – 7th 2A Burlington Central Regional Coach – Gail Casey Runners to Watch – Julianne Pillote SR, Kathryn Peters SO, Heather Sledinski JR, Hannah Ruddy SR, Audrey Kekstadt SO, Lianna Vego SR, Diana Maimonis SO. Preview – A change of classification could be just what Montini Catholic will need this season. The Lady Broncos could not make it out of a tough Class 2A Burlington Central Regional finishing seventh. Now in Class 1A, Montini should be on the sectional line. They do have the quality with five runners back from that team led by Julianne Pillote. A split off Pilotte of 60 to 70 seconds could extend their season past sectionals as well.
McLeansboro (Hamilton County) 2018 Finish – 11th 1A Benton Sectional Coach – Sam Wilson Runners to Watch – Maddie Korcher SO (60, 18:52), Caroline Lueke SO, Ashlee Wellen SO, Olivia Ragan SR, Abby Reyling SR, Jocelyn Moles JR, Maddi Jo Maxwell SR. Preview – Three of their top five returning from their 11th place sectional squad are only sophomores. The Lady Foxes ill be young but will have that big meet experience. Maddie Korcher made it to state individually and finished 60th. Hamilton County will have a strong first four but will need to find a runner to step into the fifth spot.
Nashville 2018 Finish – 6th 1A Benton Sectional Coach – Jennifer Olson Runners to Watch – Destyn Herrington SR, Havalen Pierce JR, Kiley Heidel JR, Lindsey Gossman JR, Hailey Bough SO. Preview – Nashville just missed the trip to Peoria for the state meet. They finished sixth missing the fifth spot at the Benton Sectional by only two points. Four runners are back from that team. Finding a fifth runner that will stay close to the first four will be something to watch for. Destyn Herrington and Havalen Pierce should be the front runners for this team.
Newton 2018 Finish – 12th 1A St. Teresa Sectional Coach – Brock Tarr Runners to Watch – Abby Stone SR (32, 18:20), Jose Grunloh SR, Rylee Borgie SO, Cara Buerster SR, Brooklyn Herman SR, Lucy Yager SO, Claire Carr SR, Alexis Bell SR. Preview – The Lady Eagles finished 12th in their sectional last year and will look to improve on that finish. Their entire top seven are back led by individual state qualifier Abby Stone that finished 32nd a year ago. A top 20 finish for Stone is a possibility. Their two to five split was over two minutes with that pack almost three minutes behind Stone. Getting the gaps lowered will move this team among the top 10 in their sectional.
Oregon 2018 Finish – 10th 1A Oregon Sectional Coach – Tim Gipper Runners to Watch – Leah Watters JR, Faith Marquardt SO, Cynthia Nyderek SR, Breanna Dehaan SR, Katlyn Ramirez JR, Lydia Cermak JR, Lorena Nava Mayotl SR. Preview – The Hawks return their entire top seven that finished 10th in their own sectional. Leah Walters was the team’s top runner all last year and should be again in 2019. Their split on five runners was 147 seconds in the sectional race. That split needs to be lowered for a chance to challenge for a top five sectional finish.
Teutopolis 2018 Finish – 14th IHSA 1A State Coach – Brooke Hoene Runners to Watch – Jessica Rundle JR (72, 19:05), Kaitlyn Schumacher SO (100, 19:37), Abby Bloemer SR (178, 21:32), Katherine Kingery SO (195, 22:31), Kylie Hoelscher JR (206, 23:45), Tory Tenson SO, Aubrey Collins SO, Ella Zumbahlen JR. Preview – The Lady Shoes ended last year on a high note finishing 14th in the Class 1A State Meet. It could be tough to get back to Detweiller Park considering they are in a tough St. Teresa Sectional. Teutopolis finished fifth in that sectional and have five runners back from that team. Jessica Randle and Kaitlyn Schumacher should be the top runners on this team. A key to watch for this squad is closing the gap from the front to the pack which is currently projected at two minutes for first year coach Brooke Hoene. “This is my first year coaching cross country at THS. I am looking forward to it very much,” said Hoene. “A main goal I tell them and will keep telling them is to improve and get better each and every day. Compete with other teams/runners and compete with yourself too. Try your best to be better than yesterday.” |
