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2019 ILXCTF Illinois HS XC Season Previews - Class 2A Girls Teams

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ILXCTF - Mike Newman   Aug 18th 2019, 1:00pm
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Classification changes to effect charge to the top of Class 2A Girls

 

By Michael Newman

[email protected]

 

The IHSA announced in December that there would be classification changes that would take effect for the next two years. When it came to Cross Country, the biggest classification to be affected was Class 2A. When it came down to the Girls side of the classification, it meant that there would be new challengers to defending state champion Belvidere North.

It should be an interesting to see how this develops.

Benet Academy has been under the radar in Class 3A in the past three years overshadowed by Yorkville and Naperville North to name a few. The Redwings finished 12th in last year’s Class 3A State Championship. They are a deep team and have the talent to challenge for a state championship. Even though Benet Academy Girls Coach Scott Brooks would have liked his team to battle in Class 3A, they have accepted the challenge in Class 2A.

Belvidere North is the defending champion in this classification and will not let go of their crown easily. Three all-state runners are back ready to face the challenge of Benet Academy. In projecting Class 2A Girls, Belvidere North and Benet Academy are too close together. There is a gap and then the rest of the field.

Here is a look at the projected top 25 teams for the start of this season in Class 2A. We will also look at some of the other teams to keep an eye on in this classification.

 

Top 25

 

1 – Belvidere (North)

2018 Finish – IHSA 2A State Champions

Coach – Andrew Pivoras

Runners to Watch – Gianna Sagona SR (6, 17:19), Madison Diercks SR (7, 17:30), Sydnie Elder JR (21, 17:55), Caitlin Corso SR (41, 18:29), Trina Kazluski JR (73, 18:49), Natalie Horgan JR (76, 18:53), Olivia Zaluckyj SR 159, 20:00), Kayla McGuire SR, Alexandria Reza SR, Danielle Guenev SR, Katie Luna SR, Alexis Pecora FR, Anna Hulsteadt SR.

Preview – Belvidere North had a chip on their shoulder at the beginning of the 2018 season after they lost their state title to Dunlap the year before. The blue Thunder has won the Class 2A state title two out of the last three years led by Madison Diercks and Gianna Sagona who have been the top runners during this period. They would love to make their final time at Detweiller Park a successful one. All seven runners from their state championship team are back.

One person who is not back is Ken Husser, their long time coach who retired after last school year. Anthony Pivoras, who was an assistant to Husser the past five years, has taken over as the head coach. Pivoras coached the middle school program in Belvidere the three years before that so he is well acquainted with this group.

“We had the largest turnout for our summer training that we’ve ever had as a program,” Pivoras said. “We have a good size group of freshmen coming in, but many of the newcomers are coming over from other sports.  It’s always exciting to see how natural athletes new to distance running transition and develop.  Having a little more depth will help  us be successful at all levels, and there’s some runners that may have the potential to make a push for one of those varsity spots.”

Sagona and Diercks, along with junior Sydnie Elder, finished in the top 25 last November and will lead this team. All three runners could be in the top 15 in Class 2A at Detweiller Park. Caitlin Corso was the team’s fourth runner but was consistently 30 to 60 seconds behind Elder during the season. That gap needs to close down.

The talent is deep on this team with 10 to 12 runners able to run in the top seven. There was a 20 second gap between Corso and their fifth runner Trina Kazluski at state. Kazluski will challenge for that spot as wel as freshman Alexis Pecora, Natalie Horgan and Anna Hulsteadt.

Belvidere North knows what they have to do to repeat. They have been down this road before. “Our girls have done a great job with putting in the summer miles.  In addition to building up an aerobic base, we’ve been incorporating a little more speed and strength work into the end of  the runs.  We’ve also been mixing in a little more specific tempo work into the practices, while still maintaining a manageable workload this early on.  The girls seem to be responding well to the summer training,” added Pivoras. “We have our top six runners from last year returning, and we’ve had a great turnout throughout our summer.  We hope to duplicate our successes that we had last year.”

 

2 – Lisle (Benet Academy)

2018 Finish – 12th IHSA 3A State

Coach – Scott Brooks

Runners to Watch – Emily Spellman JR (56, 17:44), Meaghan Andrews JR (94, 18:09), Joy Jackson JR (111, 18:16), Elisabeth Camic JR (121, 18:20), Amelia Paresi SO (147, 18:35), Kelly Andrews JR, Karly Keating JR, Mary Weber SO, Sophia Rigitano SO, Colleen Lipa SR, Ellen Nemivant SR, Beth Croll SR.

Preview – The move to Class 2A could not have come at a perfect time for Benet Academy and their coach Scott Brooks. The Redwings has been “mired” in the middle of the Class 3A rankings for the past couple of years. They have qualified for the state meet the past two years finishing 12th in 2018. Five runners are back from last year’s Class 3A State race. Benet is talented and deep similar to Belvidere North.

Don’t let the fact that this school finished 12th in a state meet dissuade you from the fact that they could be state champions in November. Emily Spellman did not have the best of season’s in track last spring. That motivated her in her training during the summer according to Brooks. She ran 17:44 last November at Detweiller and could be among the top 15 when we get to state. The key to the success of this team is their pack running especially between the second through fifth runners. That split was only 16 seconds at last year’s state meet. The quartet of Elizabeth Camic, Meaghan Andrews, Joy Jackson, and Amelia Paresi could be some of the runners that step up to lead that pack. It could be Camic who according to Brooks has been the leader of this team during the summer and upped her fitness level.

This team is young with no seniors expected in the top five. At the same time, they have that state meet experience with some of them running in the past two. “A trophy is certainly a goal these girls have. We've been focused on that ever since the IHSA announced the classifications last year” Brooks added. “These girls are a talented group with really good chemistry and have come into the season in pretty good shape, especially at the top of our roster.  They understand that big goals require big commitment and for the most part they've done that since last year.  We're going to have to stay healthy, as the drop off fitness-wise once you get farther down the roster is pretty significant, but that's always a challenge.”

The key to a state title challenging Belvidere North is the position of the pack. Spellman will need to break up the top three of North. If their top six runners can finish before the fourth runner crosses the line for Belvidere North, then Benet may leave the state course with a championship. The times show that it is possible. Nevertheless, it will be close between the two schools.

 

3 – Chicago (Latin School)

2018 Finish – 6th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Dan Daly

Runners to Watch – Marianne Mihas JR (3, 17:04), Ava Parekh SO (4, 17:08), McKenna Fellows SO (64, 18:45), Olivia Syftestad JR (102, 19:19), Claire Hardiman (130, 19:33), Lizzie Nash SR (184, 20:36), Charlotte O’Toole JR (200, 21:20), Paige Hosbein SR, Quincy George SO, Giselle Ayalla SR, Bea Parr JR.

Preview – Latin School’s Girls team is running with confidence that could show throughout this cross country season. The Romans left Charleston last May with a second-place trophy from the IHSA 1A State Meet. Could they leave Peoria in November with another state trophy?

It does help Latin’s chances that they have two of the top Class 2A runners in the state leading them. Ava Parekh, who finished fourth a year ago at Detweiller, had a breakout track season where she ran 10:27 for 3200-meters and 4:53 for 1600 meters. Marianne Mihas finished four seconds ahead of her teammate last year and then came back during the track season winning the Class 1A 800 Meter Run and 1600 Meter Run. Parekh won the 3200 Meter Run. The two give Coach Dan Daly two single digit sticks to work from. That is a comforting luxury. All seven runners from last year’s Class 2A State team that finished sixth are back.

What will need work on is their pack from three to five. McKenna Fellows was the third runner at state and gives the team a good leader of the pack. Olivia Syftestad, and Claire Hardiman should also contribute along with Bea Parr who ran on the team’s 4x800m Relay last May.

“Our training went well this summer,” Daly said. “Ava and Marianne enjoy being the two pillars that hold up and support the team from the front end of every race. They have lofty and attainable goals for themselves and the team including conference, regional, and sectional championships along with a team podium spot at state.”

A key to watch from this team is that their split from three to five decreases. That split from Fellows to Hardiman at last year’s state meet was 48 seconds with Fellows finishing 64th. The possibility of their third runner finishing between 35th and 40th would be a good thing. Keeping their split on that group under 36 seconds could get them a spot on the podium in November.

 

4 – Chicago (St. Ignatius College Prep)

2018 Finish – 8th 3A Niles West Sectional

Coach – Matt Haffner

Runners to Watch – Rhiannon O’Keefe SR (84, 18:03), Lexi Affolder JR, Rosie Sullivan JR, Kristina Dalton SR, Maddie Semmer SR, Mia Trotter JR, Maeve White JR, Annie O’Neill So, Zoey Holland SO, Haley Rieckelman SO, Sophia Noonan JR, Maggie Freeman SO, Grace van Pelt SO.

Preview – St. Ignatius was moved into Class 2A for the second time since 2008. It could have not come at a better time. The top 10 runners from last year’s team return for Coach Matt Haffner along with 21 of their top 22. The Lady Wolfpack finished eighth last year at the Class 3A Niles West Sectional. This team should make it to the state meet and maybe leave Detweiller Park with a state trophy.

“We head to 2A for only the second time since the switch to three classes,” said Haffner. “Our top 10 runners all return from last season and 21 of our first 22. That depth helped us with all levels of the GCAC last year.  The team had our second consecutive strong summer of training.  Once again it ended with a team trip to Colorado.”

What will help this squad is that they are so deep in talent. A top seven spot is not guaranteed in this group making their team working and pushing each harder in every workout. Rhiannon O’Keefe again will be the team’s top runner. She ran a time in the Class 3A race (18:03) that would have placed 26th in the 2A race. She has good possibilities of finishing within that top 25 in 2019. The split on the pack behind O’Keefe in the sectional race was only 18 seconds from the second to fifth runners. That’s a good split to have. You could see a similar split from Lexi Affolder, Mia Trotter, Rosie Sullivan, and Maddie Semmer and perhaps more runners in that group this small. The key is the pack staying within 30 seconds of their #1 runner. A state race like that could get them among the top three teams in the second weekend of November.

 

5 – Chatham-Glenwood

2018 Finish – 11th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Michael Garber

Runners to Watch – Nia Gibson SO (29, 18:15), Regan Weichold JR (81, 18:57), Emma Leahy SO (114, 19:25), Kiersten Patzia JR (121, 19:28), Parker Doggett SO, Jade Anderson SR, Carley Wilcoxen FR, Savannah Bell FR, Abby Teamen JR, Allison Dollus SR, Hannah Reaves JR, Macy Schrage SR.

Preview – When winning becomes contagious, it can spread like the flu bug. This is the case for the Chatham-Glenwood Girls team. After finishing 11th in last year’s Class 2A State Meet, they watched their Boys team go out and win the Class 2A Boys State Championship, the first in the school’s history.

Now the Girls wants a taste of that feeling and that desire to come back with a state championship. This team is deep in talent with six of their seven state runners back. Four or five other runners could challenge for a top seven spot. That is a nice problem for Coach Mike Garber to have.

“Our girls team has hit the best summer mileage since I've been coaching,” Garber said. “There are some very driven young women on our team that want to make some noise this season. The girls have been communicating with each other all summer about their goals for season. Their preparation is reflecting their desire. I can't wait until our first time trial to see exactly how fast this crew can be.”

Nia Gibson was the team’s top runner last year as a freshman just missing out on an all-state position. She finished 29th. Gibson had a great summer of training according to her coach and is ready to take the step up (maybe two steps) to get among the state’s elite. The one thing to watch is closing the gap between Gibson and the two through five runners. It is projected to be around 40 seconds heading into this season. That needs to come down 15 seconds for this team to be in trophy position. Reagan Weichold, Emma Leahy, Kiersten Patzia, and Parker Doggett could some of the runners challenging for one of those four spots. It could also be a pair of freshmen, Carley Wilcoxen or Savannah Bell, that could push for one of those spots by the time they get to the state series.

“Last season the girls season watched our boys win the first Cross Country State Championship in school history,” concluded Garber. “It not only inspired them, but it also made them hungry. There is not an absolute formula to take home a trophy at the end of the season, but they are trying to crack the code in 2019. We are going to have 10 girls vying for 7 spots every week. In previous seasons we have had depth, but this season is going to be one like none I've coached. The girls team is not as big as the boys, but there is talent down the line. We are going to see how close some of the girls will get to Nia by the end of the season...it is possible we have four right on her heels. If we can close that gap down, the girls are in line for a special season of their own.”

 

6 – Dixon

2018 Finish – 6th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Evan Thorpe

Runners to Watch – Paige Stees JR (23, 17:55), Jade Miller JR (25, 18:00), Taylor Renkes SR, Nicquelette Fazekas SR, Grace Johnson JR, Taylor Hills JR, Paige Riley SO, Kait Knipple FR, Emily Conderman FR.

Preview – 2018 was supposed to be a breakout season for the Duchesses after finishing sixth in 2017. That all changed in the Peoria Invitational at the end of September last fall. Nicquelette Fazekas went into the triangle in the top 10 but never came out. Fazekas suffered a non-displaced tibia fracture and was lost for the rest of the season. The team finished sixth at the Woodstock North Sectional failing to make it to the state meet.

It is said that good things come to those who wait. The time could be now for this Dixon team.

The name of the game is staying healthy for this team. According to Coach Evan Thorpe, everyone is healthy and had a great summer of training. The top six sectional runners are back for them as well as a healthy Fazekas. Paige Stees and Jade Miller both made it to state as individuals and earned all-state honors. Taylor Renkes had a great summer and could be running with the two all-state runners as well as Fazekas. Four possible all-state runners could be tough for other teams to beat. Grace Johnson, who was the team’s fifth runner last fall, could be in the same position during this season.

This team has the talent to compete for a trophy. “If our top five are healthy on November 9, we can compete for a trophy,” Thorpe said.

 

7 – Burlington (Central)

2018 Finish – 7th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Vince Neil

Runners to Watch – Erin Jossart JR (46, 18:33), Brooke Barkocy JR (69, 18:48), Lauren Dowd JR (80, 18:56), Avery Andersen JR (88, 19:07), Fiona Pedone JR (133, 19:35), Grace Comparone JR, Tia Brennan FR, Lauren Leegard SR, Jenna Dinges SR, Annalise Daniels JR, Faith Cassata SR.

Preview – The Rockets peaked at the right time last year winning the Kaneland Sectional on their way to finishing seventh in the Class 2A State Meet. Expectations should be high for this team in 2019 as six of their seven sectional runners are back.

“The girls had a great fall last year and carried that momentum into the spring track season and the summer training program,” Coach Vince Neil said. “We only graduated one girl from last year's squad.  All of the girls are a year stronger and more experienced which we believe will translate into big success.  Look for this team to continue to improve all season long.”

This team only had a 34 second split on their top five off their #1 runner Erin Jossart. Brooke Barkocy, Lauren Dowd, Avery Andersen, and Fiona Pedone will be among the runners challenging for a top five spot. Freshman Tia Brennan could also be a factor in the top five according to Neil. “The expectation for our squad is to go deep into the postseason,” added Neil. “We use the last month of the season as our championship phase of the training cycle, so we expect to perform well during the IHSA state series.”

 

8 – Crystal Lake (Prairie Ridge)

2018 Finish – 3rd IHSA 2A State

Coach – Kelly MacDonald

Runners to Watch – Chelsea Gale JR (13, 17:44), Katie Harth JR (98, 19:13), Alaura Busch SR (100, 19:18), Allie Klauser SO (137, 19:38), Leah Walters SO, Sophie Robinson SO, Collete Janik SO, Rylee Lydon FR, Alexis Soukup FR.

Preview – If there was one surprise team in 2018 regardless of classification, it was Prairie Ridge. The Wolves progressed during the season moving into the Class 2A Top 5 rankings by the time they got to the state series. Prairie Ridge captured  their first trophy in the Girls program history by finishing third.

“We had a great summer,” said their coach Kelly MacDonald. “We try to keep everything low key and focus on having fun while working hard. Many of our past runners upped their mileage. Many new runners jumped right in and fit perfectly into our family. This is a really great group of girls to work with. They are easy-going, humorous, goal-oriented, and dedicated. We have had a great turn out and a lot of fun this summer.”

There are four runners back from that team. They also will miss their third runner from last year’s state meet Carsen Forte who decided not to run this fall. Chelsea Gale is a two-time all-state runner finishing 10th as a freshman and 13th as a sophomore and again will be the team’s top runner. There is more than a minute gap between her and the next returnee Katie Harth. The team will need a tight pack off Harth. Cross Country newcomer Collette Janik along with Leah Walters, Alaura Busch, and Allie Klauser should supply a good nucleus. Keep an eye on the development of their pack and split as the year progresses.

“Our goal last year was to make it to state, but as the season progressed, we started to realize the possibilities,” stated MacDonald. “The girls started to believe in themselves more as the season developed. This summer the team has come in with higher expectations than last year. They realize they have a lot of potential. They have been willing to up-the-anti and to push themselves more. I can feel their motivation and it is exciting. We don't focus a lot on the future as we like to be in the present and just enjoy the relaxing, fun time we have together in the summer.”

 

9 – Crystal Lake (South)

2018 Finish – 15th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Ken Greenfield

Runners to Watch – Mackenzie Aldridge SR (19, 17:52), Emma Murphy JR (56, 18:38), Chelsea Greene JR (67, 18:47), Addie Frisch SO (148,19:49), Elise Gorman SO (154, 19:52), Bianca Garay JR (169, 20:08), Madison Safraniec SR, Connie Lin SR, Bella Gonzalez FR.

Preview – The Gators just made it to the state meet last fall finishing fifth first at the Woodstock North Sectional and then finishing 15th at the state meet. The talent is there for this team to get back to the Detweiller Park starting line. The top six runners from that state team return.

“Our summer training was great,” said South Coach Ken Greenfield. ”We had a young team last year, so coming into the summer I was looking to see how last year's underclassmen would be about training higher volume and intensity. They exceeded my hopes. In short, I think we grew up a lot this summer with our younger runners in terms of their ability to be consistent and focuses. A great indicator to me is am I having to hold kids back or push them. This group I often had to rein them in.”

There was a two minute split on the top five runners last year in Peoria which should come down. Mackenzie Aldridge eared all-state honors finishing 19th and should be close to a top 10 finish this November. Emma Murphy should be the key runner leading the pack behind Aldridge. A key contributor could be Bela Gonzalez, a freshman, that has showed promise during the summer training.

“I learned a lot a few years back about the danger of me imposing my expectations in terms of wins and places,” added Greenfield. “Having said that, with all the returners we have from a good team last year, they have high expectations for themselves. I think staying loose and having fun while we work is going to be something that I'm focusing on for them this year.”

 

10 – Mahomet-Seymour

2018 Finish – 10th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Kristin Allen

Runners to Watch – Elizabeth Sims SO (8, 17:34), Madi Balbach SR (116, 19:26),

Grace Leetz SO (120, 19:28), Olivia Bunting JR (128, 19:32), Emily Bednar SO (144, 19:43), Powell Klein SO, Delaney King SO, Choe Allen SO, Fiona Taylor SO, Gretchen Scheele JR, Ella Scott FR.

Preview – The Bulldogs had a good season winning the East Peoria Sectional. Their team did not have their best race of the season at the state meet but still finished tenth overall. Six runners are back from that state team.

“Our training went well this summer,” said their coach Kristen Allen. “Most of the girls met their goals with some of the veterans stepped up into leadership roles. All we want to do is enjoy the journey and process.”

Elizabeth Sims had a great first year of high school cross country culminating in the Class 2A State Meet. There could be a gap between Sims and projected second runner Madi Balbach of close to 90 seconds. At the same time, the split from the second through fifth runners could be as small as 20 seconds. Sophomores Delaney King and Grace Leetz could be part of that top five. Mahomet should get back to state. The question will be improving their overall split to put themselves in a good position for a high state meet finish.

 

11 – Vernon Hills

2018 Finish – 2nd IHSA 2A State

Coach – Suzanne Curry

Runners to Watch – Emma Wakefield SO (26, 18:03), Caroline Sear SR (77, 18:53), Reina Hill FR, Rose Sheridan FR, Rachel Ackerman FR, Anna Todd FR, CJ Leuck SO, Kassie Woolard JR, Emily Singer SR, Jasmine Paulson SO, Hazel Ocampo JR.

Preview – Vernon Hills could be officially in rebuilding mode heading into this 2019 season. The Cougars finished second in last year’s state meet after a string of third place state finishes. Only two runners are back from last year’s top seven. There is, however, a strong freshman class ready to race under the Vernon Hills High School colors.

“Our training was great, as usual.  Cool weather in June made for great running,” said Coach Suzanne Curry. “These girls have high expectations for themselves and are always ready to work.  In the summer we have more time to devote to strength training & injury prevention, which is always great to spend time on, especially with the younger, newer athletes.”

Emma Wakefield was the top runner at state and just missed all-state by one place. Wakefield has a good chance to earn all state honors this sophomore season. Caroline Sear was the team’s sixth runner and will provide great leadership in the front. This team will not be deep as in recent years. There are some freshman that will provide immediate help. Reina Hill ran 18:51 in Detweiller at Dark as her first high school race. It will be interesting to see her improvement as the season goes on. Rose Sheridan, CJ Leuck, and Kassie Woolard are some of the other runners that will challenge for top five spots.

“We are going to be a very young team this year, but we still have some great upperclassmen with varsity experience and leadership who will guide this young group,” added Curry. “Senior Carly Sear has had a good summer and will help set the tone for season.  The incoming freshmen value her knowledge and experience and will follow her lead.  Although our team won't be as deep as the last few years, we should have a strong, competitive team with many girls looking to crack into the top 7.  We continue to emphasize our pack running strategy, but it will take time to see how that plays out.  Overall, I think it will be an exciting season with some fresh new faces figuring out how special high school XC is”

 

12 – Dunlap

2018 Finish – 12th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Chris Friedman

Runners to Watch – Macy Priess JR (24, 17:57), Abby Banister SR (38, 18:28), Jordan Serrahn SR (142, 19:41), Paige Acklie SO (153, 19:52), Saniya Mathew FR, Molly Siebenaler SR, Aasiyah Adnan JR, Alexis Wirth JR, Hanna Elaicy SO, Michelle Sun FR, Taya Zimmermann FR.

Preview – We could see Dunlap back into the top ten Class 2A teams this season. After winning the state title in 2017, the Eagles reloaded and still made it back to state finishing 12th. Four runners are back from that team.

Macy Priess had a strong sophomore season finishing 24th and earning all-state honors. She should place higher this November. Abby Banister, who was the second runner last year, should lead the pack. This team will be young with the next five spots wide open. Freshman Saniya Mathew had great success on the middle school level and should contribute to the top five immediately along with other freshmen Taya Zimmermann and Michele Sun.

“Unlike some seasons, the Eagles do not have a set top seven so competition will lead to better racers and a better team,” said Dunlap coach Chris Friedman. “We do have a nice mix of youth and experience. We also have a dedicated group who wants to continue the success we have built over the past decade.”

 

13 – Washington

2018 Finish – 5th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Troy Walcott

Runners to Watch – Jadyn Jacobs JR (31, 18:18), Joy English SR (35, 18:24), Brooke Evans SR (49, 18:34), Emily Baker SO (95, 19:12), Katie Geisz JR (103, 19:21), Grace English SO, Karli Milestone SO, Calle Danks SR, Adelyn Davison SO, Sophia Nordhellm FR, Rachel Caruthers FR, Heidi Hudson FR, Morgan Siltman FR.

Preview – Washington finished fifth a year ago and chances were good that they would finish in the top five with five runners back from that state team. Expectations changed when their top runner Jadyn Jacobs tore her ACL in February. “This will be an interesting season for Washington.  We have four runners that are coming back strong and fit, but the status of our number one runner of the last two years is questionable,” said their coach Troy Walcott.  “In February, Jadyn Jacobs tore her ACL while playing soccer and is still in the process of rehab.  We must wait for her Doctor to approve her return to practice and racing.  When that will be is anyone's guess.”  Walcott went on to say that she is still rehabbing the injury.

If Jacobs runs this fall, that would be a bonus. They still have four runners that give the Lady Panthers another chance to run in the state meet. Seniors Joy English and Brooke Evans were in the top 50 at state and give the team a strong 1-2 punch. Emily Baker and Katie Geirsz should lead the pack behind the two. Calie Danks was injured at the end of last year but is healthy now. She should also challenge for a top five spot. The team had a 56 second split off Jacobs at the end of last year. English was only six seconds behind Jacobs at state. The key will be keeping a split of 50 seconds or faster off English or Evans who could be in the top 30 in November. This team could be back at state. Don’t count them out yet.

 

14 – Grayslake (Central)

2018 Finish – 8th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Jimmy Centella

Runners to Watch – Grace Kokkin SO (61, 18:40), Bryn Sato SO (84, 19:00), Anissah Groark JR (87, 19:05), Caroline Kokkin SO, Corinne Heidloff SR, Jenna Dooley JR, Madelyn Struck JR Megan Morissey JR, Ruthie Baldwin SR.

Preview – The Rams return their top four runners from last year’s state team that finished eighth overall. The big thing to watch is who will step up as the team’s fifth runner. Grace Kokkin was the team’s #1 runner in the final two meets of the year including state. Bryn Sato, Anissah Groark, and Caroline Kokkin followed. The four runners were within 27 seconds of each other.

Unless a freshman jumps into the top seven, the next closest runner is 90 seconds behind the group. Caroline Heidloff or Jenna Dooley are amongst the runners that could step into the fifth and final scoring spot.

 

15 – Wheaton (St. Francis)

2018 Finish – 20th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Scott Nelson

Runners to Watch – Minnie Rolston JR (62, 18:40), Madeline Andelbradt SO (65, 18:46), Gabby Hernandez JR (82, 18:57), Leah Gaul SO (151, 19:51), Clare Kolker SR (180, 20:25), Ella Davis SO, Savahi Garcia SR, Annie Wagner SR, Mary Faith Murray JR.

Preview – Things look good for the Spartans to make it back to the state meet for the second year in a row. Five runners are back from the St. Francis team that finished 20th in last year’s state meet. Gabby Hernandez, Minnie Rolston, and Madeline Andelbradt traded off the #1 spot at the end of the last year. Any three of these runners could finish in the top 40 individuals this season. Their split on five runners is projected to be between 90 to 95 seconds this season. Lowering those numbers could get the Spartans into the top 15 teams by the end of the year.

 

16 – Oak Park (Fenwick)

2018 Finish – 6th 3A Marist Sectional

Coach – Kevin Roche

Runners to Watch – Marie O’Brien SR (161, 18:42), Maria Quinn JR, Katie Cahill JR, Mikaela Burns SO, Mia Scharpf SO, Delaney Seligmann JR, Maggie O’Malley JR, Abbie Rogowski SO, Courtney Yungerman JR (transfer from Trinity; 174, 20:19).

Preview – Fenwick came close to qualifying for the state meet in Class 3A last year. The Friars finished sixth missing the fifth spot at Marist by three points. The circumstances are different this year as Fenwick moves down to Class 2A for the first time in eight years.

“Our training this summer went very well,” said Fenwick Coach Kevin Roche. “They have been putting in regular consistent work which we all know is the most potent thing you can do. On the hard days, the times and distances that they perform are solid. The summer training ended with me seeing more excitement and potential for the season than when summer running began.”

Marie O’Brien qualified for state individually and could be in the top 50 individually this year. Teammate Maria Quinn finished one second behind O’Brien in the sectional and could challenge for the #1 spot. Maggie O’Malley is perhaps the most improved runner over the summer according to Roche and should be a factor in the top five. Courtney Yungerman ran in the state meet last year for Trinity and could land in Fenwick’s top five. Having five runners consistently under 20-minutes this fall with a 45 to 50 second top five split could be the formula to get Fenwick back down to the Detweiller Park in November.

 

17 – Arlington Heights (St. Viator)

2018 Finish – 16th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Wayne Edelman

Runners to Watch – Katie Castelli JR (9, 17:38), Joy Bergstrom SO (117, 19:26), Mary Grace Hegberg SO (131, 19:34), Mia Raftery SR, (188, 20:45), Celia Carnel SO, Sophie Limberakis JR, Holly Ferrara SO, Stella Raftery SO.

Preview – With the addition of 3A schools possibly into the sectional that St. Viator is in, it would have been tough to make it to state for the Lady Lions. Then again, nothing is impossible. Four runners are back from the St. Viator team that finished 16th in the Class 2A State Meet. Katie Castelli took the next step up the ladder as one of the top Class 2A runners as he finished 9th a year ago. I am sure her aim will be higher in 2019. Joy Bergstrom and Mary Grace Hegberg should lead the pack behind Castelli. There are a number of athletes that could fill the fourth and fifth spots. We will get an idea of how good this team is by the end of September.

 

18 – Urbana

2018 Finish – 7th 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional

Coach – Forrest Farokhi

Runners to Watch – Olivia Rosenstein SR ( did not run junior year, 5, 17:16 as soph, 2017), Chian Scott SR (54, 18:37), Phoebe Gerstenecker JR, Molly Sweeney SR, Celia Barbieri SO, Ashley Gilbert JR, Sofie Skottene JR, Megan Paluska SR, Emma Fristoe JR, Macy Wirtz SO, Jael Lugano SR.

Preview -  The Tigers did not make it to the state meet last year finishing seventh at the Decatur MacArthur Sectional. State expectations should be higher in 2019 with the return of their top runner Olivia Rosenstein. She missed all of the 2018 cross country season due to an injury. Her track season showed she was back as she finished second in the Class 2A 3200 Meter Run at state last May. Rosenstein ran 17:16 at Detweiller as a sophomore. She will be one of the top runners this fall in Class 2A.

Chian Scott made it to the state meet last year finishing 54th. Scott, along with Rosenstein, give Urbana  a strong 1-2 punch in the front. The Tigers should have a tight three to five pack behind the two with as little as a 20 second split. Moving that pack to within 55 seconds of Scott could move this squad into the top 15 sometime by the end of September.

 

19 – Bloomington

2018 Finish – 9th 2A East Peoria Sectional

Coach – John Szabo

Runners to Watch – Kaitlin Skeate JR (18, 17:51), Ibby Smith JR, Laylani Rivera JR, Paige Kaeb JR, Anita Caltracante SR, Nicte Rivadeneyra-Braswell SO, Bethany Reiser SR, Lauren Gardner SO, Jasmine Dennis SO, Cady Hambleton SO, Lily Hilard SO.

Preview – The Purple Raiders should be in the hunt for a top five finish in their sectional after finishing ninth a year ago. All seven runners from that sectional race are back. Kaitlin Skeate did advance individually coming on strong at the end of the year placing 18th. She should finish higher up the ladder this November. Ibby Smith and Paige Kaeb should lead the pack behind Skeate this season. The split from their second through fifth runners was only 18 seconds in their sectional. This team could be tough come state series time but will need to move the pack to within 80 to 85 seconds of Skeate. It was close to two minutes last year.

 

20 – Mundelein (Carmel Catholic)

2018 Finish – 8th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach -Jim Halford

Runners to Watch – Ezzie Posner SR, Abigail Kuderna SR, Isabel Ashley SO, Brigid Hull JR, Carly Sasman JR, Maddy Ives SO, Alyssa Coe JR, Kylie Jensen JR, Madison Machala FR, Nora Christensen FR.

Preview – Injuries slowed down the Corsairs for a little bit last fall. They finished eighth in their sectional race with hopes of improving on their finish. Six runners are back from last year’s sectional top seven. Ezzie Posner and Abigail Kuderna should again be the top runners on this team. This team had good split numbers through four runners last year (41 seconds at sectionals). The key is finding a fifth runner that can stay with that pack. “Our expectations are to be somewhere in the top 7-8 in the Belvedere Sectional and to have 5 girls with an overall average under 19:00 minutes,” said Coach Jim Halford. “Our top four averaged 18:52 last year, but as mentioned our 5th was injured last year.  All of these athletes are back so we should be able to attain a 18:50 average for our top 5.”

 

21 – Metamora

2018 Finish – 17th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Gene Jones

Runners to Watch – Katie Lalumandier SO (44, 18:32), Maddie Bennett SR (91, 19:08), Aly Gillum SR (132, 19:34), Karissa Heffernan JR (173, 20:15), Kara Hodel SR (181, 20:28), Taylor Hines JR, Olyvia Pelacios SO, Ally Kough SO, Sydney Goforth SO, Rachel Fisher SO, Alayna Rauch FR.

Preview – Metamora made it to state last year finishing 17th. They could make a repeat appearance to Detweiller Park this November as they return five from their state team. They will miss their top runner Tessa Schwarzentrauber who graduated. Katie Lalumandier should be the #1 runner. She finished only 13 seconds behind her teammate at state. Coach Gene Jones believes that freshman Alayna Rauch, who finished in the top 25 in the IESA Class 1A State Meet last October, could step up to the front and push Lalumandier.

The team will need a tight behind their front two to be difference makers again in their region. A gap of under 40 seconds could accomplish that. “The Mid-Illini is a solid 2A Girls Conference (four Teams made it to State last year) so we are looking for great competition throughout the Season to get us ready for the Mid-Illini Meet & the State Series.  Consistent performances are going to be a major goal. We hope to return to the State Meet as a Team.”

 

22 – Lemont

2018 Finish – 18th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Tim Plotke

Runners to Watch – Kaylie Politza SO (12, 17:41), Marin Schiffman SR (101, 19:19), Destiny Vargas SO (138, 19:39), Jenny Martinez JR (139, 19:39), Kailey Wasylw JR (194, 20:58), Genna Yavarski JR, Mia Stajakovic SO, Grace Vinkler JR, Lexia Kennedy SO, Natalie Halper JR.

Preview – This will be a team to watch by the time we get to the state series. Lemont was consistently in the top 25 last year in which they finished 18th at state. Five runners are back from that state team and will need to fill in the third and fourth spots.

Kaylie Politza had a great track season earning all-state honors in the Class 3A 800 Meter Run. She has gained confidence from last year and will improve on last year’s 12th place finish. Their top five from last year have improved and could put this team on higher grounds. Marin Schiffman has stepped back into her sophomore level of running and should surprise some in the front. Lemont should have a good pack behind their front two which should make things exciting on the Lemont campus. Said Coach Tim Plotke: “We always have the team goals to win conference, be in the mix for a regional title, be in the top 5 at sectionals, and improve on last year’s state finish. We have done a great job in terms of putting forth our best efforts at the state meet.”

 

23 – Mt. Zion

2018 Finish – 22nd IHSA 2A State

Coach – Kelly Fox

Runners to Watch – Lilly Griffith JR (109, 19:24), Lucy Griffith JR (111, 19:24), Emma Mallory SO (124, 19:29), Taylor Fox SR (160, 20:00), Grace Roundcount JR, Celeste Wolf JR, Chloe Karnes SO.

Preview – Mt. Zion surprised some moving up the rankings during the 2018 season. Their success during the year resulted in a trip to the state meet and a 22nd place finish. Four runners are back from that squad including their top three runners. Finding fourth and fifth runners that can stay close to their front three will be something to watch for.

Sisters Lilly and Lucy Griffith along with Emma Mallory were within 24 seconds of each other in their sectional race and only ninth seconds in their race at Detweiller Park. The front three need to be running in the 18’s this fall. Taylor Fox was 30 seconds behind the three at state and should be the team’s fourth runner. The possibility of freshmen stepping in would help this team in 2019.

 

24 – Maple Park (Kaneland)

2018 Finish – 19th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Doug Ecker

Runners to Watch – Rachel Richtman SR (15, 17:47), Olivia Franklin JR (34, 18:23) Aubey Broz JR (167, 20:06), Emma Hockey SR (183, 20:34), Mackenzie Egert JR (197, 210:08), Izzy Mohatt SR, Caroline Nosek SO, Madigan Burton JR, Bethany Duffey SR, Jenna Harper SO.

Preview – The Lady Knights are a team that could make some noise first in the Belvidere Sectional and then in the state meet this fall. Four runners are back from the state team that finished 19th in 2018 including their top two runners Rachel Richtman and Olivia Franklin.

“Summer running went well this year with a strong turnout. Most of the girls were there on a consistent basis and were able to get the mileage & general strength training we wanted for them with no injuries that I am aware of,” said their coach Doug Ecker.

Richtman, who has been all-state in all three years of her high school career, finished 15th last November. She should be in the top 10 when she gets to state. Franklin finished 34th last year and could be within the top 25. A key will be to strengthen the pack between their third through seventh runners. The gap between two through two and three is projected at 90 seconds. That needs to come down. “Our expectations are to do our best to reduce or avoid injuries & for all the girls to have their best performances at the end of the season,” added Ecker. “At the team level we want to be competitive in the invitationals at all levels and put the girls into position to have an opportunity to win the conference championship and qualify for the state meet.”

 

25 – Highland

2018 Finish – 21st IHSA 2A State

Coach – Doug Bradley

Runners to Watch – Jessica Borror JR (108, 19:24), Julia Loeh JR (119, 19:28), Samantha Hengehold SR (135, 19:36), Grace Meyer JR (157 19:56), Britin Machuca SO (175, 20:19), Danielle Little SO (215, 22:13), Maggie Von Hatten JR, Faith Brindley SO, Maddie Dortch FR, Liv Heinzmann FR, Chloe Marti JR.

Preview – A team that should be among the top five in their sectional and among the top 25 in the state throughout the 2019 season. Six of their top seven state records will be back. This team had good pack running last year culminating with a 44 second top five split at state. Julia Loeh, Samantha Hengehold, and Jessica Borror are interchangeable talent wise in the front and will lead this team. Freshman Maddie Dortch, who finished eighth in the Southern Illinois MS State Meet last fall, should strengthen their top five.

“The girls are pretty upbeat about their prospects this fall. They lost one really important runner from last year’s team, but all of the others are here and have been running well,” said Coach Doug Bradley. “Additionally, there are some newcomers to the team that have demonstrated this summer that they have the ability to compete for spots. Eight girls on the roster have high school cross country experience and they will be counted upon to bring the newbies along. Also important to the development of the team is that lots of teams in our conference and sectional complex are on upswings in terms of talent and development. If this team can rise to the challenge of competing against those elite teams, a special season is on the horizon.”

 

Next 15 Teams (in alphabetical order)

 

Aurora (Illinois Math & Science Academy)

2018 Finish – 8th 2A Kaneland Sectional

Coach – Grant Bell

Runners to Watch – Monika Narain JR (55, 18:38), Delicia Chen JR (18:51), Amber Bautista JR, Vaynn Rinkel SR, Diana Gonzalez SR, Zac Kurzweil SR, Grace Smith JR.

Preview – You won’t see this team in the huge Illinois invitational meets. You will see some of their runners or perhaps their team at the IHSA State Meet. That will be the case again this fall. Six of last year’s seven are back that finished eighth at the Kaneland Sectional. Monika Narain and Delicia Chen both qualified individually last year and should be among the top 50 in the state. Cutting the three to five split under 60 seconds with that pack within 45 seconds of their first two could get this team close to a state qualifying team position.

 

Carbondale

2018 Finish – 25th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Greg Storm

Runners to Watch – Anna Schurz SO (52, 18:36), Madeline Prideaux JR (66, 18:47), Kara Holub JR (196, 21:02), Rose Kippenbrock SR (205, 21:24), Abby Menkhaus SO (209, 21:35), Sadie Torre JR (216, 22:18), Alyvia Bergman SO, Lauren LeBeau JR.

Preview – The pack up front of Anna Schurz and Madeline Prideaux led the Terriers to the state meet last year finishing 25th. Six runners are back from that team. Prideaux suffered an injury during the track season and appears to be healthy to start this year. Schurz and Prideaux could be among the state’s top 40. The gap between the two and the remaining three scorers will be something watch for. The gap is over two minutes. That needs to decrease for this team to make it back to Peoria.

“We try to stay consistent as possible at beginning of the season in terms of our running and really build towards the post season.  Our girls group may not show to much depth or that quick of times early on, but us coaches think if we stay healthy that the post season will be a success,” said their coach Greg Storm. “Obviously, we would like to make a return trip to the state meet and with the projected lineup we have that is doable.  Depth and health have always been our issue towards the end of the season, and we hope that taking it slower with smaller meets and less travel at the beginning of the season will benefit us come October.”

 

Geneseo

2018 Finish – 7th 2A East Peoria Sectional

Coach – Kelley Timmerman

Runners to Watch – Lacey Laxton SO, Lauren Belvel SR, Anna Girten SR, Avery Magerkurth JR, Anna Pierce SR, Megan Sorva JR, Anna Snyder SO, Taya Fouts SO, Joci Hasson, Ashton Would JR.

Preview – Geneseo will look to improve on last year’s seventh-place sectional finish. Five runners will be back. The Maple Leafs will miss Josie Brown who finished 28th at state last year. Lacey Laxton, the team’s number two/three runner all last year, should be the runner that steps to the front for Geneseo. Laurel Belvel should lead the two through five pack that is projected to have a split near 45 seconds. The key is keeping the pack within 35 seconds of Laxton. Geneseo moves into the Western Big Six Conference where they will be the favorite to win.

 

Glen Ellyn (Glenbard South)

2018 Finish – 9th 2A Kaneland Sectional

Coach – Mark Tacchi

Runners to Watch – Kylie DeNardo SO, Ellie Stewart JR, Ali Salt SR, Kelly Anderson JR, Alyssa Kain SO, Naomi Friedman SO, Alex Gonzalez JR, Erin Sowl JR.

Preview – The Lady Raiders will look to improve on last year’s ninth-place finish at the Kaneland Sectional. Four of their top five runners are back. Glenbard South is also in position to win the Upstate Eight Conference Meet. Kylie DeNardo should be the team’s top runner. They will need to work on the two through five pack in getting that closer to their front runner.

“Our training went well. Last year we had numerous injuries that impacted us all year. This year we adjusted training and we should be full speed, health wise when the season starts. The girls were fairly consistent with attendance and made the commitment early to having a better year,” said South Coach Mark Tacchi. “We don’t just want to make the State Meet, we want to improve on our performance at the meet. It’s hard to be “Happy to be there.” We can’t limit our vision as a team.”

 

Lake Villa (Lakes Community)

2018 Finish – 7th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Keith West

Runners to Watch – Brooke Stromsland JR (1, 16:32), Olivia Schmitt SR, Alex Bryant JR, Rebecca Runyan FR, Madison Perez FR, Kayla Dieringer JR, Gretchen Good SO, Ashley Whitis SR, Sophia Goodale SO, Sarah Lucier SO, Danika Dortch JR.

Preview – Injuries slowed down Lakes hard last fall which caused them to finish seventh at the Woodstock North Sectional. Graduation hit this team hard. The talent is there to get this team back t the state meet. It helps when you have a state champion leading the way.

Brooke Stromsland had a great sophomore season which ended with the Class 2A Individual State Championship. She will be the favorite to repeat in November. They have a good to two runner pack behind Stromsland including Olivia Schmitt and Alex Bryant. Schmitt had a great track season and could be in the low 18’s with Bryant. Building the rest of the top seven will be a key. Freshmen Rebecca Runyan and Madison Perez could jump into the other scoring spots.

“We lose a lot of athletes and go from a deep and experienced team to a young team still searching for an identity,” said Lakes Boys Coach Travis Shepherd. “We do have potential this year and will surprise some teams. We have tweaked our training and I think that will allow us to come on strong when it matters most. Don't expect to see impressive team results early but keep an eye out for us during Championship season. We'll have a strong front 3 (Stromsland, Schmitt, and Bryant) and if the rest of the top 7 develop like we know they can, we should be in the mix at every meet in October/ November.”

 

Mattoon

2018 Finish – 12th 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional

Coach – Troy Haacke

Runners to Watch – Quincy Collings SR (149, 19:49), Kylie Haacke JR (185, 20:37), Mackenzie Schofield SR, Sage Owens SO, Chaselyn Himes SR, Allie Wells SO.

Preview – The Green Wave will look to improve on their sectional finish of 12th place last year at Decatur MacArthur. Their top six runners are back from that team led by state individual qualifiers Quincy Collings and Kylie Haacke. The split on their top five last year was close to four minutes. That will need to come down for this team to get within the sectional top 10. “We have had a great summer of running with the Cross Country team we even went on a team trip to Colorado for some extra training,” said Mattoon Coach Troy Haacke. “A big change to the schedule is the Mattoon Invite is returning to its roots and is running down the middle of Mattoon.  It once was called the greatest race in the Nation and included 42 teams.  Craig Virgin ran in it and I believe won it 3 out of the 4 years.  So, we are very excited to bring this race back.”

 

Morton

2018 Finish – 9th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Joel Zehr

Runners to Watch – Emma Skinner SO (20, 17:54), Adeline Smith SO (143, 19:42), Katie Honegger JR (192, 20:54), Aly Cigelnik SR, Olivia Knight SR, Cali Fitzgerald FR.

Preview – It is hard to see where this team will land by the time they get to the state series. The Potters finished ninth at the Class 2A State Meet but will miss two of their leaders Aspen Gordon and Meagan Moreno to graduation. Emma Skinner learned a lot from them her freshman year and will step to the top spot. Skinner finished 20th at state last year. Adeline Smith had a good summer of training and could be a surprise on this team. “Our team lost 4 of our 7 from last year's ninth place state team to graduation so we will have to wait and see how our varsity roster fills out early this fall to have a better idea of where we will be as a team come the end of season,” Morton Coach Joel Zehr said.

 

Peoria (Notre Dame)

2018 Finish – 8th 2A East Peoria Sectional

Coach – Dan Gray

Runners to Watch – Teagan Cover SO, Maci Cove SO, Katie Schliepsiek SR, Anna Wolter SR, Genevieve Scoby SR, Grace Streitmatter SO, Suzi Russell JR, Addison Ginglen SR.

Preview – Four runners are back from this Peoria school that finished eight last year in the East Peoria Sectional. Notre Dame’s Teagan Cover and Maci Cove should be the top runners on this team. Work will need to be done on the split of their third through fifth runners (approx. 100 seconds) to improve on last year’s finish.

 

Richmond-Burton

2018 Finish – 12th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Ryan Carlson

Runners to Watch – Catherine Miller JR, Amanda Allport SO, Lillian Maclean SR, Jane Wisniewski JR, Victoria Rockwell SR, Rose Falch JR, Kayla Fischer SR, Frances Hennigan JR, Mackenzie Kopp JR.

Preview – The Belvidere Sectional is traditionally one of the toughest in Class 2A. This year will again be no exception. Richmond-Burton will look to climb the ladder in this sectional to improve on last year’s 12 place finish. Their top four runners are back led by Catherine Miller and Amanda Allport. The top seven could be wide open after these two. Having two runners under 19-minutes as well as keeping their five runner split under 90 seconds improves their placing.

 

River Forest (Trinity)

2018 Finish – 23rd IHSA 2A State

Coach – Johann Gonzalez

Runners to Watch – Sylvia Ritzer JR (113, 19:25), Kate Foley JR (125, 19:31), Annabel Halloran JR (191, 20:52), Jessica Hoffman JR (201, 21:21), Nora Clements JR, Larissa Cano JR, Valeria Fuentis SR, Angela Lopez SO, Mary Jacobs JR, Nadia Gonzalez SR, Amanda McGreal FR, Ella Miller FR, Laura Murphy FR, Delaney Burns FR.

Preview – The Class 2A “Chicago” Sectional got a little tougher this fall with the possible addition of 3A schools St. Ignatius, Fenwick, and Payton Prep. Trinity finished fourth in that sectional last year and 23rd in the state meet. Four runners are back from that team. They did lose Courtney Yungerman, their state fourth runner, who transferred to Fenwick. The blazers still have the talent to repeat the trip to Peoria.

“We had a great summer not only running but having fun doing it. The girls ran more miles than in the

previous summers and the response was great,” their coach Johann Gonzalez said. “Like most of the teams, our goal is to extend the season into November. Despite losing a couple of seniors(graduation) and a junior to injury, our expectations are still the same. The exciting thing about this season is that we will have 9-10 girls who can make up our top 7 with good times.” Sylvia Ritzer and Kate Foley should be the top runners on this team. Gonzalez has a strong freshman group coming in led by Amanda McGreal that will help with their top seven.

 

Springfield

2018 Finish – 9th 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional

Coach – Dan Devlin

Runners to Watch – Varsha Iyer SR, Shay Doty SR, Aurora Barnes JR, Maggie O’Brien SR, Lucy Souva JR, Anna Kropid SR, Hayleigh Dillon JR, Alysa Samanwgo JR, Abi Fittzgibbon JR.

Preview – The Lady Senators finished ninth at the Decatur MacArthur Sectional to finish their season. Three of their top five runners from the sectional lineup are back hoping to improve on last year’s finish. Lucy Souva was among the team’s top five most of the season but an injury / illness after her conference meet ended her season early. Souwa could help in the top five this fall which will be led by Varsha Iyer and Shay Doty.

 

Troy (Triad)

2018 Finish – 8th 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional

Coach – Andy Brendel

Runners to Watch – Alyssa Kowalski JR (45, 18:32), Samantha Kilzer SR, Sydney Hartoin JR, Clare Schaft SO, Reaghyn Dean SO, Mattie Noyes SO, Alyssa Postma SR, Allison Dempsey JR, Mya Bain SR, Madison Taylor SO, Chloe Gough FR, Sophie Hernandez FR, Kayla Edwards SO.

Preview – Triad is a team to make it out of the Decatur MacArthur Sectional. They finished eighth a year ago. The entire top seven of the sectional lineup returns. The Knights also welcome a strong freshman class that could make this team even stronger.

Alyssa Kowalski finished 45th as an individual last year and could get into the top 25 this November. Samantha Kilzer, Sydney Hartoin, and Mattie Noyes should give this team a solid two through four pack. Freshman Chloe Gough could be the ace in the hole for Coach Andy Brendel. By the time they get to the state series, she could be the teams second runner. “This girls squad has looked really solid during summer training,” Brendel said. “We will have a great mix of talented returning athletes with some exciting freshmen that will give our team some depth.”

 

Waterloo

2018 Finish – 14th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Larry Huffman

Runners to Watch – Sydney Haddick SR (92, 19:09), Colleen Sliment SR (110, 19:24), Emma Rick JR (165, 20:03), Lauren Cooper JR (206, 21:26), Joely Goulding SO, Lauren Lunk JR, Reece Diekmann JR.

Preview – It could be a rebuilding or a reloading year for the Bulldogs after finishing 14th in the state meet in 2018. Their third through seventh runners are all back. Waterloo will miss their leader Jenna Schwartz who was an multi all-state runner including winning the Class 2A State XC title in 2017. She will do some great things the next our years at the University of Missouri.

Sydney Haddick and Colleen Sliment finished in the top 110 last year at state and will aim to better those performances. The development of the pack behind their 1-2 runners will be something to watch for the first month of the season.

 

Wauconda

2018 Finish – 8th 2A Antioch Regional

Coach – Emily Morzy

Runners to Watch – Jessie Pakaski SO, Sara Meyer SO, Alana Vodicka SO, Emma Schuett SO, Katherine Karecki SO, Morgan Thompson SR, Tessa Kleiner SO, Ritika Jawale JR, Itzel Barrios SO, Amanda Krachtos SO.

Preview – It was a year of learning for Wauconda in 2018 as six of their top seven runners were freshmen. Their journey of a year ago could benefit them in 2019. Six of their top seven is back looking to advance to their sectional. They failed to advance last year finishing 8th at the Antioch Regional.

Jessie Pakaski was nearly a minute ahead of her teammates last season and again should be the #1 runner for Wauconda. There should be a close tight pack from their second to fifth runners but will need to get closer to their teammate in the front. “We did a different approach than years prior and gave the athletes some more time off in the beginning of the summer training season just to give their bodies some more rest due to participation in other sports,” Emily Morzy said. “We saw some great results during the summer training and hoping it will transfer to our season. Some of the expectations we have during our season is to train hard but have fun. We are incorporating a lot of new workouts throughout our season and are hoping for a lot of success because of it.”

 

Woodstock (Marian Central Catholic)

2018 Finish – 16th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Murray Domich

Runners to Watch – Siobhan Stoll SR, Caroline Binotti JR, Jane Walsdorf JR, Reagan Kelly SR, Sara Kranenburg SR, Alexis Bauman SO, Molly Fitzgerald JR.

Preview -the top four runners are back from Marian Central’s 16th place sectional team. Siobhan Stoll will be the team’s top runner and could qualify for the state meet individually.

 

Other Teams to Watch (in alphabetical order)

 

Antioch

2018 Finish – 14th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Christopher Bailey

Runners to Watch – Sarah Benes SO, Natalie Svarc SR, Allyson Pierce JR, Lily Highley SR, Chloe Harrison JR, Amber Carson, Jasmine Amitovski SO, Allison Kane SR, Tiana Fox SR.

Preview – Antioch looks to improve on last year’s sectional 14th place finish. Sarah Benes is close to a minute ahead of the rest of her team and should again be the #1 runner for the Sequoits. “Sarah had a really good freshman year, earning all NLCC, but her mental focus and confidence has improved,” said her Coach Chris Bailey. “I'm excited to see what she will do this year.” Natalie Svarc will lead a pack that will need to stay within 30 seconds of each other. “We need to change our mindset and be willing to believe in ourselves more.  We will focus on the mental side of running and competing,” added Bailey.

 

Chicago (Payton Prep)

2018 Finish – 7th 3A Jones College Prep Regional

Coach – Kelly Block

Runners to Watch – Julia Brandfonbrenner JR, Hannah Bartels SO, Lucia Roth SR, Caitlynn Fardy SO, Stella Dziedzic JR, Catherine Foster SO, Isabella Chittaro SO, Katie Gillespie SO, Olivia Sotos JR, Olivia Raemisch SO.

Preview – The move to Class 2A should benefit the Grizzlies this season after finishing seventh in the 3A Jones Regional. Advancing out of the regionals should be strong. They return five of their top seven with their top two runners graduating. Hannah Bartels had a good summer of training and could be the top runner for this team. “We are expecting to do well at Regionals, and ultimately to be top 5 at our Sectionals,” said their coach Kelly Brock. “That's our major goal for the season, especially now that we're back down to 2A. We want to be at Detweiller in November.”

 

Chicago (Solorio Academy)

2018 Finish – 26th IHSA 2A State

Coach – Jason Beer

Runners to Watch – Jasmine Reyes JR (172, 20:10), Kaylani Esteban SR (176, 20:21), Aryam James SR (210, 21:36), Stephanie Delgado SR, Lesly Garcia JR, Destiny Rodriguez JR, Aranely Avalos SR.

Preview – It could be a rebuilding year for Solorio after making it to state for the first time. The Sun Warriors return three from that state team led by Jasmine Reyes and Kaylani Esteban. It can be an interesting journey for this team this fall that could turn into some good things.

Solorio coach Jason Beer said: “I always try to paint a picture in my head of what we could achieve by the end of the year with everyone healthy and reaching their full potential. However, sometimes things do not go as planned with injuries, sickness, and also some surprise improvements. Keeping this in mind, I honestly want us to be the best possible version of ourselves at the end of the year. Wherever that gets us is fine by me as long as we know we did everything we could to prepare ourselves to be at our best when it counts.

 

Crystal Lake (Central)

2018 Finish – 10th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Brett Willhoit

Runners to Watch – Kylie Smith JR, Meghan Easterday JR, Nadia Sardjer JR, Grace Brickey SR, Kayla Lemke JR, Sophia Augustine SR, Olivia Lockwood SR.

Preview – State individual qualifier Kylie Smith, who finished 40th last year, leads four other runners back from their 10th place sectional team. Meghan Easterday, who finished more than a minute behind Smith, will be their leader of the pack. The Tigers have the tradition of making it to state. Keep an eye on them especially during the first month of this season.

 

Darien (Hinsdale South)

2018 Finish – 11th 2A Kaneland Sectional

Coach – Gail Huster

Runners to Watch – Patrice Trzupek SR (146, 19:44), Victoria Cius SO, Nicole Pacasova SO, Jasmine Hobbs SO, Olivia Rogers SO, Ashley Slaybough SR, Sierra Carder SR, Zofia Oles SR, Ashley Hobbs SO.

Preview – The Hornets will look to improve on their 11th place sectional finish. Six runners are back from that team. Patrice Trzupek, who qualified individually for state last year, will be the front runner on this team. The team is young with four of their top seven runners being sophomores.

 

Mascoutah

2018 Finish – 10th 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional

Coach – Darren Latham

Runners to Watch – Naya Busbea SR, Arianna Climaco SR, Bella Dixon SR, Abigail Uptergrove SO, Natalie Hart SR, Eve Slago SR, Miranda Schmiskie JR, Olivia Huerta SO, Jenna Schanz JR, Maggie Benton JR.

Preview – Five runners return form last year’s 10th place sectional team led by Naya Busbea. The sectional is wide-open so that this team can move closer to the top five. Their top five split is projected to be close to 100 seconds. That needs to be cut in half in order for Mascoutah to climb up the sectional rankings.

 

Rockford (Boylan)

2018 Finish – 15th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Linda Schmitt

Runners to Watch – Annie Sweeney SR, Emma Strobeck SR, Christina La Mantra, Lindsey Arrequin JR, Cecilia Haffield SO, Juliana Mace SR, Lauren Mariano SO, Julianna Lorden SO, Joanah Caliston JR.

Preview- This team has the opportunity to climb into the sectional top 10 this fall. Boylan returns four of their top five led by Annie Sweeney.

 

Sterling

2018 Finish – 17th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Hannah Carbaugh

Runners to Watch – Andrea Cervantes SR, Lillian Peavy SO, Madilyn Barnhart SR, Madisyn Nicklaus SR, Katelynn Trobaugh SR, Mika Martinez JR, Celiste Lopez SO, Estella Gardner SO, Hannah Mobarak JR.

Preview – Sterling should move up in their sectional rankings. They return six of their top seven from the team that finished 17th last year at Woodstock North. Andrea Cervantes was the second runner most of last year should step into the top spot. Keeping their top five split under 67 seconds could mean moving into the top ten of their sectional.

 

Sycamore

2018 Finish – 13th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Adam Bezinovich

Runners to Watch – Lily Baker SO, Ali Flatter JR, Kristin Plauck SR, Kylie von Schnase SO, Chey Judd SO, Emma Doyle SO, Laura Aviles SO, Loryn Heil SO.

Preview – Sycamore moves into the Interstate Eight Conference this fall. They could also move up into the upper portion of their sectional. Five return from the sectional team with Lily Baker leading the way. “ We would like to have good showing at conference this year and qualify for sectionals,” Sycamore Coach Adam Bezinovich. “Our sectional is always very tough, but we have continued to move up in the standings the last few years.  We would like to finish the season by improving upon our 13th place finish at the sectional last year.”

 

Woodstock

2018 Finish – 9th 2A Woodstock North Sectional

Coach – Jay Fuller

Runners to Watch – Shannon Koscinski SR, Theresa Presisto JR, Emily Albrecht SO, Cara Orndahl SR, Megan Weber SR, Amelia Ferrarini SO, Ireland Dunnett SO, Abygale Smith FR, Emma Meiners FR, Kathleen Thomas FR.

Preview – A team that could surprise some and make it back to the state meet. There are four runners back from their ninth-place sectional team headed by Shannon Koscinski. Building a pack behind Koscinski will be something to watch the first month of the season. Theresa Presisto could lead that group. Abygale Smith leads a strong incoming freshman group that will make this team even stronger. “The girls goal this year is to compete for and win the conference championship,” Coach Jay Fuller said. “This will happen with the competition we will have for the top 7 with the runners we have coming back plus the new runners we have added this year.

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