2022 IHSA XC Season Previews - 3A Girls Teams

 

By Michael Newman [email protected]

 

There was not a team that could get close to the dominating races from York last fall on their way to winning their second state championship. Their sights could be big this fall looking at repeating as the state champion in this class but also at the national picture. They could be one of the top teams nationally.

 

Prospect was the one team that was the closest to the Dukes during last season. They will be just as good as last year’s runner-up finish. Can they get close to York this fall? The Knights hope so.

 

Naperville North is focused after finished seventh last year in Peoria. The Huskies, along with crosstown rival Naperville Central have hopes to take a trophy away with them. There are a number of teams behind the two Naperville’s that could challenge for a trophy. There will be fluctuation in the weekly rankings between 5 to 15. It does not look like The top four will change much.

 

There are so many storylines that we will follow this fall in Class 3A. Let’s look at some of those teams that will toe the line this season.

 

 

1 Elmhurst (York)

Coach – Lauren Deangelis; 2021 Finish – 1st, 3A State

 

Top Runners -  Katherine Klimek JR (7, 16:51), Bria Bennis SR (19, 17:04), Brooke Berger SR (21, 17:07), Michaela Quinn JR (27, 17:27), Maggie Owens JR (41, 17:39), Lily Beerhalter SR, Anna McGrail JR, Sofia Stoddard SO, Margaret Maston JR, Katelyn Pratt SR, Maureen Buhrfiend SR, Helen Pygon SR, Tatum Olson SO (transfer from Fenwick)

 

Notes – You could see the smiles on the faces of the York team after they accepted the trophy proclaiming them Class 3A Girls State Champions in Illinois. In their eyes, however, you could see the determination that they still had unfinished business. That showed the following week when they won the Nike Cross Nationals Midwest Regionals. It showed in December when they finished fourth in the high stakes Running Lane Championships. That determination still showed in their eyes when they opened up practice for the 2022 season on August 8. There is still many things that this group wants to accomplish.

 

“We had a solid summer training with a focus on aerobic base and building,” said the York coach, Lauren Deangelis. “Our goal is to develop healthy habits and keep as many girls injury free as possible.” The defending state champions lose all-state runner Katelyn Winton to graduation. It is nice to have three all-state runners returning to this powerhouse. Katherine Klimek had a breakout sophomore season where she ended up the top runner for York at sectionals and state. Bria Bennis was the team’s top runner most of the season and also ended up all-state. Brooke Berger was all-state last fall. She followed that up earning all-state honors last spring in the 800 Meter Run. Michaela Quinn just missed all-state last year by two spots. She won’t miss the top 25 this year.

 

Maggie Owens was the team’s sixth runner most of the time last year. Owens should be in the team’s top five with a top 25 finish in her future. Owens most likely will not start racing until their conference meet according to Deangelis. It was a track injury that was discovered during summer training

 

“All 5 of these girls are laser focused. All 5 of these girls want to be all-state and have their eyes set on breaking 17 minutes,” added Deangelis. “They work so well together. They truly are family to one another.  What is great about these 5 are they truly do not care who is the #1 runner - their focus is on training and racing together.”

 

The team does not stop there. Lily Beerhalter and Anna McGrail stepped up during the summer and should have great seasons. “They (Beerhalter and McGrail) have really stepped up and I am excited to see them respond to opportunities presented to them,” said Deangelis. York also has a good freshman class coming in. It is hard to say if any of these runners could see the top 10. “This freshmen class is very talented,” added the York coach. “I am excited to see who steps up and how they develop over this season.  High School is a different beast than middle school and everyone's adjustment is different.”

 

With Owens out for now, there two runners could be able to step up to the fifth spot. It could also be Maggie Quinn who could make the step into the varsity. “We are in a great position to let Maggie heal and train safely to return strong for conference and beyond while giving others on the team a chance to step up and perform to their potential,” added Deangelis.

 

There is a beauty in the way this team runs. Seven runners in unison on a course achieving mutual goals with domination in the front in races. This is one of those teams that could achieve some great things in the history of cross country. Their team time last fall was the third fastest ever in the state meet. That should improve when they get to November. “Yes, we talk about performing at a high level at all 3 levels in the WSC conference, throughout the state series, and at a national level,” concluded Deangelis. “They have the focus and will be going after some high goals. This entire team is focused and eager to perform on all levels.”

 

2 Mt. Prospect (Prospect)

Coach – Pete Wintermute; 2021 Finish – 2nd, 3A State

 

Top Runners -  Lily Ginsberg JR (11, 16:58), Hailey Erickson SR (39, 17:37), Cameron Kalaway SR (63, 17:54), Ireland Wildhart SO (77, 18:06), Bridget Derengowski JR (90, 18:12), Samantha Patterson SR (122, 18:47), Fiona Chojdecki JR, Veronica Znajda SO, Sophia Anast SR, Jillian Sawadski SR, Kate Woodland SR, Kaitlin Skelton JR

 

Notes – The Knights would get so close to York early in races last fall. Somehow, they were the best of the rest in Illinois Class 3A teams. In most any other year, this team would have won the state title with the race they ran in 2021. This team is good and could be better than last year. They lose only all-state runner Audrey Ginsberg but return the rest of that state team.

 

“The girls had a solid summer of training,” Peter Wintermute said. “They had a team trip with the Prospect Boys to Lorado Taft in July which was awesome.  Also, a number of girls have gone on summer trips together and worked to fit in their training together while away.”

 

One thing that bonded this team even more was when they went to compete in the Oregon Relays during the track season. “The trip to the Oregon Relays was a great opportunity for these girls to showcase their talents outside the Midwest (two years of no Nike XC Nationals),” said Wintermute. “Running the Illinois #1 All-time time Distance Medley was not the goal but is a credit to who these girls are and what they are capable of. They run for each other and that is what is most important.”

 

Lily Ginsberg was one of the team’s top runners last fall and finished 11th at state. Hailey Erickson was outside of all-state in Peoria but came back the following week at NXR Midwest and finished 11th. Cameron Galway is the third runner back that does not get that much attention. She could finish in the top 25. “She is always there and is dependable,” said Wintermute. “Her cool confidence is a result of days and weeks and years of consistent training. Look out for Cam this season as she is good enough to lead the Knights.”

 

This team is deep in talent where this group could be interchangeable in the top seven. Ireland Wildhart, Bridget Derengowski, Samantha Patterson, and Fiona Chojdecki all could find themselves in the top five. Veronica Znajda and Kaitlin Skelton had great track seasons with that improvement continuing this summer. There are eight freshmen that could challenge in the top 12 (maybe top 7) that includes Ella Henni, and Anna Zajac. This group will continue to make this team tough in the future.

 

The Knights have put in the work over the summer to get closer to York. They have also established themselves as one of the top teams in the Midwest. “We have a pretty deep team, and the goal of the team is to improve from top to bottom.  If we can do that we will have a very good season,” Wintermute said. “The top 3 girls have embraced the opportunity to lead their team and they have done a good job encouraging others to join the lead pack.  This is not a me thing, this is a WE thing.”

 

3 Naperville (North)

Coach – Dan Iverson; 2021 Finish – 7th, 3A State

 

Top Runners -  Julie Piot JR (70, 18:01), Emma Berres SO (72, 18:02), Marissa Magana SR (116, 18:30), Logan Brennan SR (134, 18:36), Anika Lovisa SO (174, 19:11), Shania Tandon FR, Rianna Tandon FR, Norah Hess, Bridget Kacedan JR, Sydney Day JR , Kayla Marx JR, Nora Palm SO, Lexi Pera JR

 

Notes – If you would look at last year’s 3A results, you would think that Naperville North’s seventh-place finish was an anomaly. The Huskies had earned trophies at the past nine state meets heading into last year’s race. Injuries and illnesses down the stretch caused that finish but it was an experience to learn from. “Well, sometimes things don’t happen as you think or hope they will,” said North coach Dan Iverson. “Last year was one of those times. However, our ability to return the next week after state to get fourth in Terre Haute was a great victory for us. We hope to capitalize on that resilience we built last year.”

 

Five runners are back from that state team. Add in a few new runners to the depth that this program usually has and you can see that the Huskies are looking to pick up where they left off after NXR MW. Julie Piot and Emma Berres form a solid first two runners for Iverson. “Julie really took a step forward in track, and that continued over the summer,” stated Iverson. “I am really impressed with her attitude, work ethic and leadership. She’ll be a big part of whatever we do. Emma Berres went from the track, to soccer, back to track in her freshman season. Her finish was great earning all-state honors in the 800 Meter Run. “Emma had an unusual track season, to be sure, but her experience at the end of the season was tremendous for her growth,” added Iverson. “She had a great summer and will hopefully take a step forward this fall as well. She has a tremendous attitude. Marissa Magana has been slowed by injuries during the summer. Iverson believes they will need to be patient with her this fall.

 

Logan Brennan and Anika Lovisa were in the top seven last year and will challenge again for those spots. A freshman that could make an immediate impact is Shania Tandon. The incoming freshman shined in Scullen Middle School where she won the Naperville D 204 championships in 204. She could make it into the top seven last year along with her twin sister Rianna who was 12  seconds back in that race. Norah Hess and Lexi Pera are among eight other runners that could challenge for one of the top seven spots.

 

The 2021 season is the past. There is nothing to prove what happened from this team. “We had some difficulty and did not run well, but we have grown from it,” Iverson said. “I hope and expect that we will run at our best informed by experience rather than run trying to prove something to someone.” I think we will see some great improvement from their returning five runners especially Piot and Berres. The setback on Magana is disappointing for now, but the next up mentality comes into play with opportunity to step up to the next level. “This is a group willing to work hard, but I think some of the attention to detail got lost in the pandemic, and we need to rebuild it,” Iverson concluded. “This includes our attention to flexibility, strength and form work, in addition to issues of nutrition and self-care.”

 

4 Naperville (Central)

Coach – Matt Blondell; 2021 Finish – 6th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Liv Phillips JR (26, 17:18), Ava Hendron JR (34, 17:32), Kate Tueting JR (63, 17:54), Addison George SR (104, 18:20), Lola Satre-Morales SO (123, 18:36), Julia Laird SR (168, 19:06), Abby Moog JR, Becca Liaw JR, Allie Opalka SO, Segi Smith-Pariola SR, Emma Orend SO

 

Notes – Naperville Central was one place ahead of cross-town rival Naperville North in last year’s state meet finishing sixth. They have established themselves as a conference and area power in the west suburbs. Now they go after a quest to return from Peoria with a top three trophy. “I have yet to have a team that had a perfect summer,” said their coach, Matt Blondell. “And what I mean is that it is always a challenge to determine how training went while dealing with summer travel conflicts and never really having everyone at camp together at the same time. In my opinion, we held our own.”

 

One runner that held her own last year was Liv Phillips. “Liv is our rock,” said Blondell.  “She is very consistent and leads by example at every practice and meet. As a junior, she is ready to lead this team beyond just her excellent performances.” Phillips missed all-state by one place last year. She won’t miss in 2022. Ava Hendren showed tremendous improvement in track after finishing 34th last fall. Hendren dropped her PR down to 10:45 to finish 12th in last May’s state meet. She is ready to take the next step up this fall. Kate Tueting missed most of outdoor season due to injury but came back to run a leg in the team’s 4x8 in their sectional meet. “She is finally getting back to a full training load,” added Blondell. “She is looking strong and fit. We will be smart with her training so that she can remain healthy and be right in the mix with Liv and Ava.”

 

Six runners are back from the state team. Addison George missed the two meets before the state meet and finished 26 seconds behind Tueting. She should be a key to the teams success from their fourth through seventh runners. Lola Satre-Morales and Julia Laird were in that state race and have improved. Abby Mogg and Becca Liaw lead five more runners itching to get into the top seven. “The confidence of last year’s team was contagious,” added Blondell. “They had fun and enjoyed competing on the course with one another. When this bond happens, it makes our job as coaches easy.”

 

Naperville Central could place three runners in the top 40 at state with two possible all-state runners. The thing to watch is the gap after the first three. It was 26 seconds at state. It could be as much as 40 seconds this season. Keeping the four runners in the pack closer to the first three runners will determine if they win a state trophy. “This team wants to be better than it was last year, on all levels,” Blondell said. “So many members of our team have this mindset. They have set their goals high, and they look forward to putting forth the effort to achieve them. If they align their work ethic to these goals, great things will happen.”

 

5 Minooka

Coach – Kevin Gummerson; 2021 Finish – 4th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Gabriella McCollum SR (37, 17:35), Gabrielle Kics SR (47, 17:45), Maya Ledesma SO (120, 18:32), Taya Gummerson SO (171, 19:08), Cassie Fuhrman JR, Cassie Brushaber SO, Kylie Myers JR, Carolina Gallegos SO, Liana Blount SO, Abby Villareal JR, Georgia Sweeney JR, Vivienne Forte JR, Caprice Rodely FR, Melinda Torres FR

 

Notes – Coach Kevin Gummerson returns four runners from last year’s state team that finished fourth. There would have been five but their fifth runner from state Cassie Fuhrman came down ill the day of the meet and could not run. “She recently had an unfortunate lower leg injury this summer and will be limited for the time being,” said Gummerson. “It will take a few weeks, but she will bounce back. When she does, she will give us some added depth and can be a difference maker on this team. Cassie has tremendous race instincts, and she is a fierce competitor, and that will be so helpful to some of the younger athletes in this varsity group.”

 

Gabriella McCollum was Minooka’s front runner at state with Gabrielle Kics just 10 places behind. The two will lead what could be a young team and possible to top 25 state finishes. “Gabby (Kics) and Ella McCollom have been around some really strong teams over the years, but now they are ready to take on that leadership role,” said Gummerson. “I feel really good about having these two (Ella and Gabby) as our team leaders.” Maya Ledesma and Taya Gummerson stepped up as freshmen into the team’s top seven. They should contribute even more until Fuhrman returns to their lineup. Sophomores Cassie Brushaber and Carolina Gallegos along with junior Kylie Myers had a good summer of training and will push for spots in the top five. We could even see freshmen Caprice Rodely or Melinda Torres FR contribute in the top seven.

 

“I was pleased with the summer training of this group,” added Gummerson. “They were consistent and have a drive that some of the best teams that I have coached possess. They believe in what they are doing. They understand the work that it takes to be successful in this sport and were willing to put that work in. However, they also realize that this is only part of the equation and are ready to continue to improve and grow over the next few months in order for that summer work to translate into success at Detweiller.” This team will be solid by the time they get to October and then the state series meets. The development of the pack of the five runners behind the front two will be something to watch in September. Fuhrman in that lineup makes this team just that much better. A top five team that again will be chasing after a state trophy.

 

6 LaGrange (Lyons Township)

Coach – Eric Simon; 2021 Finish – 11th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Catherine Sommerfeld SR (12, 16:58), Scarlett Lestina SR, Shannon Cranny JR, Leigh Ferrell SO, Peyton Israel JR, Julianne Melby JR, Charlotte Lange SR, Laura Bohringer JR, Kristina Findley JR, Madison Findley JR, Maddie Reepmeyer SO, Claire McVady SR

 

Notes – It was not meant to be last year for Lyons Township. They looked strong in their meets that preceded the sectional meet. Illness and injury hit this team at the wrong time as they finished 11th at Hinsdale Central. “The team is past the disappointment of sectionals last year, said second year coach, Eric Simon.  “We know we were a very good team that just had a bad day, on the wrong day.  As a distance group, we had a very successful track season and know they know that, so they are aware of the potential for this season.”

 

This team is deep steeped in talent entering this season with only 2 runners graduated out of their top 12. Everything starts with Catherine Sommerfeld who will be one of the top runners in Class 3A. She was all-state last fall and repeated that in May finishing seventh in the 3200 Meter Run. Then comes the pack. Scarlett Lestina, Leigh Ferrell, and Shannon Cranny have improved dramatically over the past year and could close the gap on Sommerfeld. Julianne Melby and Madison Findley also made a huge jump and will be part of the top seven.

 

It is kind of incredible the improvement of this team since Simon took over as coach just last August. “The girls last year were unbelievable in respecting and trusting me as their new coach from day one, Simon reflected. “As should be expected though, we did not quite have the deeper bond of having been together for any period of time. We met on the first day of the season!  The transition evolved and improved all xc season and I think by March of the track season we really got in the groove and have been on the same page. It is going extremely well now.”

 

This could be a dangerous team in what is the toughest conference in the state, the WSC-Silver. The gap between Sommerfeld and second runner Cranny was 60 seconds in their conference race. It grew to 82 seconds in their sectional race where things fell apart. The Lions will have a 30 to 35 split from their second through fifth runners. The key will be what the split is between one and two. “I was intentionally very cautious with training last year, knowing I needed to get to know them before pushing too much.  This summer I wanted to add a bit to their aerobic runs and push more with hill work,” said Simon. “Based on the August 9 time trial, we had a good summer. They did a great job following the summer training plan.”

 

7 Yorkville

Coach – Chris Muth; 2021 Finish – 5th, 3A State

Top Runners – Ava Galloway JR (76, 18:06), Katie Melzer SR (92, 18:14), Makenna Edwards SR (118, 18:22), Lucy Anderson SR (163, 19:00), Alex Stewart SR (176, 19:13), Sophia Keller SO, Emma Jasutis SR, Jayda Stewart SO, Rhiannon Galasso SR, Ashley Schrader FR, Allegra Triner JR

 

Notes – Yorkville came on strong at the end of last season finishing fifth in the state meet. Five runners will be back from that team. They will miss their top 2 runners Margaret and Anna Hunter who graduated. That will require work to replace them. The Foxes certainly did that. “It was great to get back to a normal summer of training.  This group of athletes haven’t really been through that training before, so we needed to reestablish expectations and culture this summer along with a lot of teaching of the sport,” said Yorkville coach Chris Muth. “I think we established that and may not see the results at the beginning of the season, but late during the state series when it counts.”

 

There could be any of six runners that could be the top runner on this team according to Muth. Ava Galloway returns as the top runner from the state race. Injuries slow her down at the end of track season, but she is ready to step to the front. “She has been able to get past those injuries during the summer and her next step in development is the acceptance of her new role as a top runner on this team,” commented Muth. “She has great potential; she just has to gain the confidence to reach those heights.” Makenna Edwards and Katie Melzer will be close to Galloway and give Yorkville a formable front pack. Edwards missed three weeks during the summer but is rounding back into shape. Melzer had a great track season and with that confidence has carried over during the summer. “This was her best summer of training out of any of her high school years,” added Muth  “She is someone to watch by the end of the season, because if she continues on her normal trend and starts stronger than she ever has, then we could be in for a great surprise.

 

Lucy Anderson had a great training summer and could also be right in that front mix. Alex and Jayda Stewart both have the talent to be in the team’s top five along with Emma Jasutis. This is a senior dominated team which means bad news for the rest of their competition. They may not have the front runners to start the season. This squad does have a good pack which will put them higher up in rankings and in races. Yorkville finished fifth last year. They are capable of bettering that finish this fall.

 

“This team being a trophy team would be a great outcome, but our first goal is to work hard enough to establish ourselves as a potential top 10 team in the state,” said Muth. With the twins graduating, the entire team will be working into new racing roles as well as leadership roles.  How kids respond and react to those roles will determine how well we do this season.  At this point our summer training has established some solid season building blocks, but how they respond to racing and adversity is yet to be determined.  I’ve enjoyed this group and can’t wait to get after it this season.  The one thing this team did great during the summer was they consistently worked and learned about the smaller details of running and training.  Understanding the Why behind the training will allow them to take another step in their development which will translate to racing eventually.”

 

8 Wilmette (Loyola Academy)

Coach – ChrisJon Simon; 2021 Finish – 10th, 3A State

Top Runners – Ella Grammas SR (59, 17:53), Morgan Mackie JR (80, 18:07), Jane Lynch SO (89, 18:12), Maeve Norman SR (104, 18:19), Julia Drake SO (111, 18:25), Ana Kimball SR (183, 19:16), Elle Anderson SO (205, 19:30), Erin McCarthy JR, Kathryn San Roman JR, Mim Fritzsche SO, Lauren Woodward JR, Molly Robson SO.

 

Notes – Loyola showed their perseverance last year in their meets towards the end of the year. The Ramblers still qualified for the state meet despite injuries to two of their top runners, Morgan Mackie and Maeve Norman, held them out until the state meet. “Last season both Morgan and Maeve got injured and we made the decision to focus on the state meet and asked other girls to step it up at GCAC, Regional and Sectional to get us down state,” said Loyola coach ChrisJon Simon. “They trained in the pool and bike. Both literally took off the boots the week of state and were our #2 and #3 runners. One of the season goals was to finish in the top 10 and we were 10th. What they did was awesome.”

 

This team has the potential to finish in the top five. That is, if they can stay healthy. The top eight runners were all underclassmen last year and return. Add in the runners that stepped up during that time period of injuries and we could see a competitive team. Morgan Mackie was the team’s top runner at Palatine before forced out of the lineup. “Morgan Mackie is rolling into good shape,” said Simon. “She handled injury last year but was still able to qualify in the 3200m in track and lead our 4x800 relay to a 7th place finish. She will battle to be all-state.” Ella Grammas stepped up to the #1 runner for the rest of last year and will be close to Mackie in races. “Ellie was able to lead the team last year when Morgan and Maeve were injured,” added Simon. “She has had a great summer of training and is eager to compete at state and an eye on all-state.” Jane Lynch could be the surprise of this team in the next couple of months. The sophomore ran 18:06 to finish fifth at Detweiller at Dark in Peoria. Watch for her and Maeve Norman to also challenge for the top spot.

 

It is nice to have four runners that could be your #1 runner. Julia Drake, Ana Kimball, and Ellie Anderson, all sophomores, grew up quick on varsity last season. That experience will benefit this squad during meets this fall. “Our first goal is to stay healthy,” said Simon. “If we are able to do this we feel that we have a very strong team. Limping into the state last season and still able to finish 10th gives us a lot of confidence for this season. We are eyeing a top 5 finish, but we don't want to put pressure on ourselves but rather enjoy the season and let good things happen.”

 

9  Downers Grove (North)

Coach – Tim McDonald; 2021 Finish – 13th, 3A State

Top Runners – Claire Pyne SR (67, 17:56), Sydney Hnautik JR (74, 18:03), Ava Geiger SR (129, 18:41), Audrey Casten SO (139, 18:44), Hannah Renner SO (148, 18:52), Karly Harkness JR, Lily Eddington FR, Madelyn Walter SO, Pallavi Fisher JR, Maeve Courtney SR, Maddie Casey SR, Alayna Todnem SO

 

Notes – Downers Grove North is one of those teams where you may not see them up front in a race. When you look at the results, you try to figure out how they finished so high up. The Trojans do not have that “superstar” runner leading a race. They do have some great instincts of staying close to their teammate in every race. Coach Tim McDonald welcomes back six runners from that state race where they finished 13th. “Our focus this summer has been to steadily increase volume and density so that we are ready to start regular season training,” said McDonald. “This group is extremely close, they enjoy being together, and that makes it so much fun for everyone.”

 

The team had a 48 second split on their top five last November in Peoria. That started with Claire Pyne who finished 64 to lead this team. “Claire is in great shape and looking forward to the season,” McDonald said. “She stepped up to the next level at the track sectional meet at Hinsdale Central in the 3200m. She did not repeat that performance the following week, but I think that experience helped her see that she can run at a higher level. We have talked about looking at that race as a new baseline and squeezing it down from there. I am looking forward to her season and seeing what she can do.”

 

Sydney Hnatiuk was seven seconds behind Pyne at state and should again be close to her teammate in races. McDonald feels that freshman Lily Eddington is ready to run on the varsity level right now. We will see where she fits in the top five. Ava Geiger, Karly Harkness, and sophomores Audrey Casten and Hannah Renner solidify North’s top seven and will make this team tough in bigger invitationals.

 

The key is to keep up that pack running consistent in this team. I am sure that will continue this season. This is a good team. More people will realize that as the season goes on. “We have six runners back from last year and a talented freshman entering the program,” said McDonald. “Our sophomore team was very talented last year and that was with 4 frosh/soph kids running varsity. This is by far the deepest team I have ever coached. I think we will be able to field some very strong teams on all three levels at invitationals. Our expectation is that we are not in a rebuilding year, this is the team.  We want to steadily improve and put ourselves in position to have our strongest finish in a long time.”

 

10  Barrington

Coach – Debbie Revolta; 2021 Finish – 14th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Scout Storms SO (8, 16:53), Kari Drage JR (75, 18:05), Samantha Rowley SO (103, 18:20), Allie Edwards JR (135, 18:44), Claire Thome SO (170, 19:07), Sydney Sukel JR (215, 19:46), Kaleigh Burns JR, Hannah Blue SO, Lauren Bergman SR, Julia Gonzalez SO

 

Notes – Barrington returns six runners from the team that finished 1 in Peoria. Things did not go as planned this summer for their Coach Debbie Revolta who had her top two runners, Scout Storms and Kari Drage, go down with injuries. “Scout just got back to running after suffering a fracture in her foot in the prelims of the 1600 at the state meet,” said Revolta. “That is why she was unable to compete in the 3200 the next day. At the time we did not know she had  a fracture.  We just knew she was in a lot of pain.  She was diagnosed a week after we got back from state.” Drage had hip surgery in May according to Revolta. She just returned to running.

 

Storms when she is healthy should one of the top runners in the state this fall. The 10:28 for 3200-meters last spring demonstrates that. Drage, when healthy could finish in the top 50, maybe closer to the top 25. The team had a 62 second split from two to five in that state race with Samantha Rowley, Allie Edwards, and Claire Thome part of that group. Freshmen Abby Lewis and Daniela Elizalde.

 

You could see the Fillies on that pack running until Storms and Drage are back at full strength. I had this team pegged in the top five to start the year. They could take a little time to get to the point. “We have been and will continue to work on getting our 1-5 split down as I feel this will be a key for us all year,” said Revolta.

 

11 Park Ridge (Maine South)

Coach – Jeff Downing; 2021 Finish – 16th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Sofia Arcuri SO (31, 17:30), Olivia DeLuca JR (100, 18:19), Mary Claire Koch SR (115, 18:29), Ryan Mullarkey JR (193, 19:24), Luisa Arcuri SO (197, 19:26), Caitlin Seurynck SR (201, 19:28), Ally Seurynck SO, Reese LaBorne JR, Morgan Giola SR, Meghan Callahan SR, Reese Lawrence SR, Sophie Jaroch JR, Isabella Godinez SR, Lucia Fuentes FR

 

Notes – Expectations are high with the Hawks entering this season. Maine South finished 16 at state and return six runners from that squad. “We had a nice summer of training and expect that we will be ready to go for our Invite schedule,” said South coach Jeff Downing. “We put in the miles over the summer, but our focus was the paced runs and pushing the envelope on the pace. At times, it spread the group out, but hopefully we will stay close enough as a pack to have the necessary top 5 split to be very successful.”

 

Sofia Arcuri got close to all-state last year as a freshman but finished 31st. Arcuri qualified for both the 3200 and 1600 last May. The team ran a time trial last week and she ran 5:02 for 1600-meters after a summer of hard mileage. I think she could be all—state this fall. She is ready for the next step up. Olivia DeLuca will lead the pack behind Arcuri. Mary Claire Koch, Ryan Mullarkey, Luisa Arcuri, and Caitlin Seurynck should be part of that group. The team will have the low number up front with Sofia Arcuri. The Hawks will need to improve on a pack split that could be close to 60 seconds.

 

“Our returning runners have to be more up front,” Downing said. “Our pack at the beginning of the season was very tight but did spread out toward the end.  As well our 2-5 were a bit too far back to make a difference in the top 10. Using the experience of last season, we need to believe in ourselves and trust in our talent and training as we compete against those other teams in the top 10. Getting the pack more up front will be important for us.”

 

12 St. Charles (East)

Coach – Brad Kaplan; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Morgan Sandlund SR (36, 17:35), Marley Andelman JR (65, 17:56), Brooklyn Walker SR (97, 18:18), Eleanor Clark SR (126, 18:37), Colleen Thumm JR, Lauren Lewison SR, Abby Harrington SO, Lainey Poole FR, Allyson Walker SO, Maahi Patel SR

 

Notes – The Saints finished eighth in last year’s state meet. It could be tough to duplicate or better that finish with four runners back from that team. They will need to find a runner to step into the top five. They have about eight runners that could step into the spot. “Our training went well,” Brad Kaplan, their coach, said. “We had a consistent group show up all summer in between vacations. Very pleased that we come into the season healthy.”

 

Morgan Sandlund stepped up last fall and again was the team’s top runner finishing 36th in Peoria. Expectations to finish in the top 25 are high. Mandy Andelman is coming off a strong track season and could get closer to her teammate in races. “Marley had a great track season and has been training all summer and competing in Triathlons. She's very fit and looking to have a great Junior season, said Kaplan. “I'm expecting her to build nicely through the season and run well when it counts. Along with Morgan and other seniors, I look for her to lead this team.”

 

Brooklyn Walker and Eleanor Clark are also back and will again contribute to the team’s top five. Colleen Thumm had a great summer of training and should step into the top five. Freshman Lainey Poole along with sophomores Abby Harrington and Ally Walker could also step into the top 5.

 

There is veteran leadership in the front for East. There is also young runners that will step up. There might be growing pains. I doubt that from this group. It is a team that could again finish in the top 10 come November. “The best thing I've seen all summer was the consistency of girls showing up, working hard and being excited to get better each day,” added Kaplan. “While we had vacations like everyone does, when vacations were done, our team was together training. The girls did many team activities over the summer and so they are a close group coming into this season. It will be fun watching this younger team develop all season and we'll be racing to do our best at the DuKane Conference meet and into the IHSA post-season.”

 

13 Batavia

Coach – Chad Hillman; 2021 Finish – 11th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Liliana Bednarek SR (54, 17:49), Olivia Gebhardt SO (121, 18:33), Brooke Silbernagel SR (130, 18:41), Ava Thomas SR (133, 18:43), Madison Wnek SO (134, 18:44), Sasha Semanision SO (143, 18:53), Mary Fornelli SO, Alli Olson JR, Maddison Cassidy FR, Alli Thomas FR, Taylor Schaffer JR, Olivia Parmelee SR.

 

Notes – Batavia made lemonade out of lemons after finding out last September that they were assigned to the toughest sectional in the state. The Bulldogs went out to win their conference and regional meets before advancing to state placing fifth at Hinsdale Central. Coach Chad Hillman returns six runners from their 11 place state team. The one loss is multi all-state athlete Katrina Schlenker who graduated. All this team will do again this fall is drink lemonade.

 

“Katrina's teammates have learned a "bring it on" mentality from her,” Hillman said. “Katrina was always asking for more when it came to working out. Her teammates witnessed that love of being challenged and have adopted that mentality. This team has the opportunity to be better through team racing. We have a tight training group which could cover a lot of points together within a race.”

 

This team will have the same pack that they had behind Schlenker the past four years. The question will be finding someone to step up as the #1 runner. The logical choice is Lilliana Bednarek who finished in the top 60 at state. She will be closer to the top 25 this fall. “Lili has been a very determined runner since the beginning of her career. As a senior, she is more determined than ever to have her best season,” said Hillman. “She works as hard as anyone we've had and will be another key component to our team success with her leadership. She has worked to improve every year and has put herself in a position to improve again this year.” This team is deep with talent led by Brooke Silbernagel and Olivia Gebhardt up front with Ava Thomas, Madison Wnek, and Sasha Semanision close behind. Freshmen Maddison Cassidy and Alli Thomas may also step into the varsity seven.

 

The top five split off Bednarek could be close to 65 seconds to start the year. That will come down with every meet. They will again challenge to defend their conference title and should make it to state. They will run their best races at the end of the year like they always have. “Our returning girls were consistent with their mileage. Our incoming freshman showed improvement in the mileage throughout the summer,” said Hillman. “Every summer we stress consistency with training. We talk a lot about challenging themselves to take their training and racing to the next level and not be complacent.”

 

14 Hinsdale (Central)

Coach – Mark McCabe; 2021 Finish – 3rd, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Catie McCabe SR (14, 16:58), Sarah Fischer SR (58, 17:53), Gabby Thanos SO (68, 17:50), Camden Griffin JR (139, 19:22), Sara Skora SR, Kennedy Boyd JR, Addie Krogstie FR, Pola Dygon JR, Mai-Jeanna Sakho SR, Katie Gilmartin JR

 

Notes – The Red Devilettes were one of the elite teams in the state last fall bringing home a third-place trophy back to their school. They could be back to that level again this fall, but it may took a little time. Coach Mark McCabe returns four from that state team. “We have a good group of veterans and younger runners,” said McCabe. “Even more so than last year, we will have a stronger presence in the front. We will have a lot of questions about our younger runners, but that will be answered as the season progresses.”

 

Catie McCabe had a strong junior season finishing 14 in the fall and then coming back to earn all-state honors in the 800 Meter Run. She will be one of the top runners in the state in her senior year. Sarah Fischer took a huge step up the past track season lowering her 3200 time from 11:55 at the end of the 2021 season to 10:50.72 last spring finishing 14th in the state finals. “Catie and Sarah make a great 1-2 combo in the front,” added the elder McCabe. “They will be one of the best runners in the state and potentially as a good of top 2 as we have had in this program which is saying a lot.”

 

Gabby Thanos has a strong freshman season last fall as the team’s fourth runner. An injury caused her to miss all of outdoor track. She will be brought along slowly and will be ready to go by the state series. Camden Griffen ran state last year and should contribute to the top seven along with Sara Skora, Pola Dygon, and Kennedy Boyd.

 

This team will need to be a tale of two packs this fall with McCabe and Fischer picking up single digit numbers with their pack within 40 seconds of the top two and 35 seconds within the next five. The development of that pack will be interesting to watch for. “This is a very close knit team on and off the course, said Coach McCabe. “They set high goals and have worked very hard this summer to reach them. This fall should be a fun ride.”

 

15 Oswego

Coach – Alicia Rafferty; 2021 Finish – 10th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Audra Soderlind SR (15, 17:00), Lucy Cler SO, Sophia Marasco SR, Kelly Wong JR, Ryan Jednachowski SR, Addison Richter SO, Kate Soderlind JR, Hallie Fioresi SR, Samantha Ventura SO, Amanda Farrow SR, Madison Chriskie  SR

 

Notes – Alicia Rafferty starts her first year as the head coach of the Panthers. Rafferty has been associated with the program as an assistant coach. “I am making the transition from training partner to head coach and Eric Simon taught me that communication is key between the athletes and the coach,” Rafferty said. “He also helped me learn how to create a program rather than a group of individuals by focusing on consistency and leaning on the strengths of my assistant coach to help me in the places that I need help.  My new assistant coach is JR Wilson who has previously coached at the University of IL and specializes in strength training.  Although he has coached throws and multis, he knows distance training and is going to be a great asset to the program with his background in kinesiology.”

 

Rafferty has plenty of talent to work with as she starts this season. Five runners are back from their 10 place finish at the Hinsdale Central Sectional. Good things could happen from this returning group. “Several girls were very consistent and put in a lot of mileage,” their coach said. “The varsity group showed improvement in cohesiveness and synergy that hopefully will play out during the season.  The sophomores now have a year of running under them which will help them improve this year.”

 

Audra Soderlind will again be the team’s top runner. She was all-state last fall finishing 15th. She was all-state in the 3200 Meter Run finishing ninth and dropping her personal best down to 10:40. This senior should be one of the top 10 runners in the state this fall. Kelly Wong made huge strides last track season. “Kelly made a huge leap during track season (11:32 3200) and that leap continued during the summertime,” added Rafferty.  She is trailing Audra in every workout and every run. She and Audra put in three 50 mile weeks this summer which was incredibly impressive.”

 

Lucy Cler was the team’s second runner at sectionals. Sophia Marasco, Ryan Jednachowski, and Addison Richter had good summers of training. All of these runners will form the core of this top seven pack. Soderlind will be challenging for individual wins. It will be interesting to see how close Wong is to the front and watching this pack develop. “We were 10th last year,” concluded Rafferty. “My personal goal would be to get both Audra and Kelly out and I will have to see how our 3-6 shape up that determines where we will end up at sectionals.  I have a young team that is still growing in the racing aspect even though I have three seniors and one junior in the top 7.  The other 3 are sophomores.   Audra will be a "phenomenal front runner" who will be in the top 2-5 in most races including state. Kelly will be a "normal front runner" who will be in the top 20  most likely in most races.  I have girls that could go anywhere from 18:30-20:30 as my next 3-6 but they need to gain more racing experience so it's kind of a guessing game until they start racing more.”   

 

16 Edwardsville

Coach – George Patrylak; 2021 Finish – 22nd, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Emily Nuttall SR (69, 17:59), Olivia Coll JR (119, 18:32), Emma Patrick JR (140, 18:44), Maya Kueking JR (147, 18:52), Madison Strotheide SR (164, 19:01), Whitney Dyckman JR (165, 19:02), Belle Horsfall JR (213, 19:39), Madison Popelar FR, Riley Knoyle SR, Dylan Peel JR, Emily Hagedorn SO, Arabella Ford SR

 

Notes – This should be an interesting year for Edwardsville. All seven runners are back from the team that finished 22nd in the state meet. “I am actually excited to see our girls compete early this season to see where we are at.  On paper, this is one of the best teams we have had,” said their coach, George Patrylak. “Most of our top girls are running together on most days and have had slight separation on the few strength workouts we did this summer. Once the gun goes off, we will have a better idea where everyone is at.”

 

Emily Nuttall fit in well last fall after transferring in from Richland County. The senior was the team’s #1 runner just getting under 18 minutes in the state meet. “Emily continues to impress,” said Patrylak “Her work ethic and passion are fun to watch.  She was over a minute and a half faster at Mud Mountain this summer than a year ago.  She is also confident after running 5:09 in the 1600 last year.  If the conditions are right and she stays healthy, she could come close to reaching her dreams of becoming All-State.”

 

Riley Knoyle, who missed all last fall with an injury, suffered another injury at the end of last track season. She has slowly been coming back and is following doctor’s orders. Patrylak does not know when she will start racing. Knoyle was all-state as a freshman (20th) and finished 14th the following year at the ShaZam Club Championships.

 

The top seven spots after Nuttall are interchangeable. Maya Lueking had a good summer and will challenge for the second spot along with Emma Patrick and Olivia Coll. Patrylak believes that freshman Madison Popelar could contribute immediately to the team’s top five. Madison Strotheide, Whitney Dyckman, and Belle Horsfall ran at state and will challenge for the top seven.

 

The Tigers will be the top team in the south this fall. There is a good chance of getting into the top 15 or even higher. The key will be where Nuttall will finish and the finish of how close the next six runners will be. “One thing that has been missing on the girls' side is that tight group/family feel that our boys team tends to have. I think this year we have made some improvements in that area.  This team is deep, and they need to rely on one another and be there for each other, while also holding each other accountable.  We were able to get the girls to stick together more this summer during runs,” Patrylak said. “The team ultimately wants to be in the top 10 at State.  If we see some improvement and can stay healthy, it is a realistic goal.”

 

17 Winnetka (New Trier)

Coach – John Burnside; 2021 Finish – 12th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Beatrix Gilson SR (38, 17:37), Clare Finnigan SR (78, 18:07), Kate Forbes SR (128, 18:40), Josie Cahill SO (137, 18:44), Hannah Falk JR, Eva Scarborough JR, Riley Botjer JR, Ally Therivel SO, Mia Burton SR, Carolie Gillum JR

 

Notes – New Trier returns four runners from the state team that finished 12 in last year’s state meet. Beatrix Gilson was running cross country for the first time last year as a junior. She ended up as the team’s top runner at state and could finish in the top 25 as she continues to progress. The runner that has showed the greatest improvement has been Josie Cahill. The freshman just missed qualifying for state during the track season in the 3200 Meter Run. Her time of 11:09.96 indicates she is ready to take a huge step up this fall. Clare Finnigan missed most of track season but has rebounded this summer. She should be close to Gilson and Cahill in races.

 

Kate Forbes and Hannah Falk have also showed summer improvement and should make the Trevians top five even stronger. This team is sneaky good and could finish in the top 10. We will see how strong this team is in their first couple of meets. “We are focused on entering the season with high expectations and the knowledge that the team can rely on the depth of talent withing the team,” said their coach, John Burnside.

 

18 Wheaton-Warrenville South

Coach – Rob Harvey; 2021 Finish – 17th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Nicole Poglitsch SO (52, 17:49), Frida Martinez SO (125, 18:36), Jenna Bachara JR (161, 18:56), Payton Fleming SR (184, 19:17), Kira Mothershed SR, Claire Siebert JR, Karin Skura SR, Allie Fecke JR, Haley Phillips JR, Emma Cowen SR, Olivia Martinez FR

 

Notes – This could be an interesting season for the Tigers as they try to qualify for the state meet for the 14 year in a row. Coach Rob Harvey had five underclassmen toe the line in last year’s state meet. Only four of those runners return as Ashlynn Adams, who was in the top five at times last season, opted to play soccer this season.

 

Their top runner and their team leader last fall was Annie Macabobby who has graduated. One of the things to watch is who will step up in this group. Nicole Poglitsch will be the top runner on this team entering her sophomore season. She had her ups and downs in races last season, but still ended up finishing 52nd at state. Poglitsch was the fifth freshman in that race. She could take a huge step up in the next couple of months. Frida Martinez made huge strides at the end of last season and will be one of the runners in the top five. Jenna Bachara and Payton Fleming improved during track season and should be near Martinez in the top five. Fleming appears she could be the only runner in the top five. Kira Mothershed, Claire Siebert, Karin Skura, and Allie Fecke will be interchangeable from the fifth through eighth spots.

 

This team has state meet experience but is extremely young in regard to racing experience in big meets. This team may show some growing pains early in the season, but Rob Harvey’s team will be ready by the time of the state series in mid-October. The development of the pack will be a key. Poglitsch will be up front. Keeping their two through five split under 50 seconds and staying within 45 seconds of Poglitsch could be the secret of getting this team back down to the state meet.

 

19 Huntley

Coach – Matt Kaplan; 2021 Finish – 19th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Molly Allen SR (33, 17:32), Brittney Burak SR (110, 18:23), Breanna Burak SR (122, 18:35), Ava Allison JR (196, 19:26), Kate Patel SR, Brooke Garcia SR, Madelyn Stein SO, Gabby Sweeney FR, McKenna Corso SO, Mackenzie Billard SO

 

Notes – The Red Raiders made a trip back to state last year finishing 19th at the state meet. Four runners return from that state team for Coach Matt Kaplan. “Our top group was able to be together for the majority of the summer weeks,” said Kaplan  “We had 20-25 girls participate and overall, the best part of the summer was the daily positive attitudes seen.  Our team will return 4 of the top 8 from last season so there are openings on the varsity level for some new faces to take those spots.  There were a group of sophomore girls pushing themselves to work up with our front group.”

 

The key for this team of how strong their top three runners could be. Molly Allen ran her best race of the season in Peoria and will be pushing towards the front. Breanna Burak did not have her best race at the end of last fall. She came back in track to run an 11:05 PR for 3200-meters. Her sister Brittney is the last of the trio. She had her best race last November. Watch for big things from her.

 

“Top 7 returning runner Ava Allison (junior) is someone who has worked hard this summer to improve her ability to close the gap on our top 3,” added Kaplan. “That was a big summer focus for our team was to have Ava focus on weekly closing that gap.  During the season races if Ava is able to keep closing the gap on our front 3 runners our team could see an improvement from last year. Madelyn Stein, Ava Berardi (so), Abbie William (so) and Gabby Sweeney (Fr) are other girls who were pushing up with our front 3 girls during the summer weeks.  As a team we spent the summer focusing on finding that consistent 4,5,6,7 group of runners.  Our top 3 returning girls have done a great job encouraging others to keep stepping up as we will have open spots that need to be filled.  From a team perspective it'll be fun seeing how this 2022 team comes together and look forward to watching some new faces impact our top 7.”

 

20 Frankfort (Lincoln-Way East)

Coach – Wendy Hegarty; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A Quincy Sectional

 

Top Runners – Kara Waishwell SO (105, 18:21), Maura Hanrahan JR, Elyse DeFrank JR, Makayla Kelly JR, Rachel Zambrano SR, Tori Tverdek SR, Ava Conway JR, Ellie Feigl SO, Katie O’Brien JR, Riley Drzewiecki JR.

 

Notes – It is hard to explain what happened with Lincoln-Way East in last year’s sectional whether it was just a bad race or something else. The Griffins, who were ranked in the top 30 most of last season, failed to advance out of the Quincy Sectional placing eighth. Kara Waishwell was one of the team’s top runners and should be the top runner this fall. This team is deep with returning talent. 16 of their top 20 runners from last year return.

 

Solidifying their pack behind Waishwell will be something to watch for. Maura Hanrahan, Elyse DeFrank, Makayla Kelly, Rachel Zambrano, and Tori Tverdek could run within 30 seconds of each other which happened at times last fall. The key is keeping their pack within 30 seconds of the front. The Griffins are better than the inexperienced runners that they were in 2021. East could surprise a number of teams this fall.

 

21 Gurnee (Warren)

Coach – Jacob Buddell; 2021 Finish – 11th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – Mia Pasha SR (6, 16:50), Emma Leung JR, Victoria Higgins SO, Grace Wiser SO, Morgan Vawter SR, Kylie Florance SR, Carolyn Whalen SR, Lia Tondeva SR, Justyce Sieber SO, Grace Metcalf JR, Madi Tyler JR, Kayla Elliot FR, Elizabeth Mertz FR

 

Notes – This another of those young teams that could surprise some by the time we get to the state series. Coach Jacob Buddell welcomes six runners back from the team that finished 11th at the Hoffman Estates Sectional. “We had a very productive and strong summer training camp this summer,” said Buddell. “Our summer camp numbers were the highest they have ever been since I have been Head Coach. The girls worked hard, but more importantly worked smart and are feeling good for this upcoming season.”

 

It helps when your top senior is one of the top runners in the state. Such is the case for this team with Mia Pasha. Her junior season took her the next step up as she strives for an individual state title. One thing to watch for is the development of the pack behind Pasha. It was close to three minutes in their sectional race. It obviously needs to drop for success of this team in the state series. Emma Leung, Victoria Higgins, Grace Wiser, and Morgan Vawter were part of that top five. Emily Towson, Madi Tyler, and Carolyn Whalen could have breakout seasons this fall after a great training summer. Newcomers Kayla Elliott and Elizabeth Mertz may also find their way into the team’s top five. Their depth this fall is one of the reasons why we could see this group qualify as a team for the state meet.

 

“Consistency and staying physically sharp will be our two biggest factors to get the team to Detweiller Park in November,” Buddell said. “I have no doubt the top 7 through the top 14 will put in all the work that needs to be done in order to be ready to race well at the IHSA state series meets. As a whole team, including coaching staff, we will need to evaluate our training plans and our conditioning on a regular basis in order to make sure we are as ready as possible for our shot to make it down as a team to Detweiller.”

 

22 Oswego (East)

Coach – Lisa Cook; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Morgan Dick JR (17:29), Angeles Mendoza SR (94, 18:16), Josslyn Gaona JR, Sydney Williams SR, Monica Lopez SR, Grace Praxmarer SR, Meghan Johnson SR, Olivia Van Denend SO, Ava Saalfeld JR, Mae Robinson SO, Julia Burney FR

 

Notes – Coach Lisa Cook has four runners back from their sectional team that finished ninth last year at Hinsdale Central. The Wolves should have a solid top 2, but it will be rebuilding the pack behind them to keep an eye on. “Summer training went really well for our team,” said Cook. “It wasn’t anything flashy or fancy, but our team got solid mileage and had a lot of consistent workouts to continue to build upon moving into the season.  I’m very excited about Angeles Mendoza, Sydney Williams, and Grace Praxmarer having the most consistent summer training they’ve ever had.  Morgan Dick is looking great, and we have a group of 9-10 girls that are all in the hunt for our top 7 positions.  Our chase pack is mostly returning sophomores and has 12-15 running together on any given day. We have a lot to be excited about and a lot of goals to accomplish this season.”

 

Morgan Dick ran her best race of the season placing 30 in Peoria. Big things could be in store for her this fall. “Morgan is back and running great.  We know Morgan wants to build upon her state race that right away and has some huge goals for herself and for our team this season. Morgan has a lot of charisma and attacks races in ways you just can’t teach–so we hope to see that influence the rest of the team.  She and Monica Lopez have been great training partners this summer, often running stride for stride.  We can’t wait to see what Morgan is capable of–she has only scratched the surface.”

 

Angeles Mendoza was the team’s top runner in their sectional race and could be close to her teammate up front. After that, it is a matter of rebuilding their top seven. Monica Lopez and Sydney Williams put in some good mileage this summer and should be a part of the top five. Grace Praxmarer also showed improvement over the past couple of months and will be pushing this top five. There are at least seven more runners that could challenge for the final two varsity spots.

 

“I think the aspect I’ve enjoyed watching unfold the most is how the girls have worked in groups and packs,” Cook added. “I know we’ll have work to do in order to carry this over to races, but it’s a great start.  We love the community and sense of team that running provides, and it’s really special to watch it come together.  We graduated some pretty special seniors, but I think the love for the sport and for the team has carried over from last fall and the spring as well, and I think that will help us accomplish big things this season.”

 

23 Libertyville

Coach – Megan Sharp; 2021 Finish – 21st, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Sheila Tucker SR (83, 18:08, Margaret McGormley JR (117, 18:30), Natalie Schlitt SO (166, 19:03), Liz George SO (192, 19:23), Anna George SO (206, 19:31), Lauren Hilts JR (209, 19:33), Veronica Leonard JR, Ava Torres JR, Paytin Grana SR, Katherine Gajewicz JR

 

Notes – Libertyville has lost last year’s top runner Bree Ponchak who has graduated. They do return the rest of the top seven that finished 21 in the state meet. Sheila Tucker ran a seasonal best race at Detweiller Park in November and should step up as the team’s top runner. Margaret McGormley was within 28 seconds of Tucker and state and should close the gap between the two in this fall’s races. Sophomores Natalie Schlitt and Anna George along with junior Liz George give the Tigers a solid pack behind their top two runners. The group needs to stay from 20-25 seconds within each other for success for this team. Tucker could be close to a top 40 finish when they get to Peoria. The pack will also need to move up with her.

 

24 Oak Park-River Forest

Coach – Ashley Raymond; 2021 Finish – 15th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Katie Stabb JR (57, 17:51), Avery Minnis SR (93, 18:14), Natalie Quinn SR (156, 18:55), Lenny Sterritt JR (200, 19:28), Annie Stine SR (220, 19:55), Malie Cassel SO, Annie Lynch SO, Amelia Hammersley SO, Leora Kurtz SR, Anna Scholtens JR, Abigail Lofgren SR

 

Notes – The Huskies will miss two-time state champion Josephine Welin who has graduated and is now at the University of Washington. Her legacy and what her teammates learned from her will live on in this program. “Josephine had such a positive impact on our team. Whether she was 100% healthy or working hard to get back to running, her spirit lifted up her teammates,” said OPRF Coach Ashley Raymond. “Josephine showed her teammates they could compete at the highest level, have fun, and be an incredible teammate. She focused on her teammates when she couldn't race for most of the track season. She helped her teammates with their race plans, turned into our team photographer, and helped with splits. Josephine's balance of hard work and outstanding leadership skills will continue to impact our team in the future. She's just the role model that I hope OPRF athletes have to look up to, and I am so grateful that she was a part of our team.”

 

Oak Park returns five runners from 15th place state team. Katie Stabb stepped up last spring while Welin and put up some fast 3200 times including going under 11 minutes (10:57.61) in the state meet. “Katie is patient and has quietly improved over her first two seasons,” Raymond said. “She put in the miles this summer and is ready to do big things this season. Katie loves to negative split in cross country but breaking 11:00 for 3200m should give her the confidence to go out with the leaders from the start of this season.” Avery Minnis ran close to Stabb last fall and gives OPRF a solid #2 runner. Natalie Quinn, Lenny Sterritt, Annie Lynch, and Annie Stine should give their team a solid top five.

 

It is tough to replace the low scores that Welin provided up front. Stabb should step in to lighten that problem. The split from the two through five runners could be big as this season starts. We will have an idea of how good this team is by the start of October. “We had a great group of girls at summer camp and countless athletes that committed to putting in extra hours in the pool and on the bike,” Raymond said. “I can think of more than a handful of girls that are ready to step up and make an impact this season.

 

25 Naperville (Neuqua Valley)

Coach – Bruyn Yunk; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A Oswego East Regional

 

Top Runners – Carissa Hamilton SR, Gretchen Leland SR, Maggie Kalish SO, Elizabeth Byrne SR, Grace O’Malley SO, Sienna McEneaney SO, Katie Shen SO, Grace Anderson JR, Elaine Huang SR, Megan Huynh SR, Ava Stipp JR

 

Notes – The season did not end the way that Neuqua Valley wanted it to last October. The Wildcats failed to make it to sectionals finishing 8th in the tough Oswego East Regional. “Training this summer went very well with our group,” said their coach Bruyn Yunk. “We were able to do a lot more this summer than the past two (due to COVID guidelines) and you could see those team bonding activities improving our culture dramatically.”

 

Four runners return from that regional team. It is the one runner that was not in the lineup that could help change the team’s fortunes this fall. Carissa Hamilton was the team’s third runner at Naperville Twilight in October. She missed the rest of the year due to injury. She came back in a big way during the track season earning all-state honors in the 1600 Meter Run. “During a goal session discussion with Carissa this summer it was clear that she is very focused, excited, and ready to make an impact on the State this season,” Yunk said. “She continues to do everything I ask and embraces every challenge she faces during her training. Competing at a higher level is where she wants to be, not something that intimidates her.”

 

Gretchen Leland is the team’s top runner back from that team and could run close to Hamilton. Yunk has a strong sophomore class that will make a difference for this team after a good summer of running. Maggie Kalish, Katie Shen, and Sienna McEneaney will be runners to watch in the team’s top five.

 

“This summer it became clear to the coaching staff that we will have a very strong group of 4 girls this season,” Yunk said. “What it will take to be a State qualifying team this year is someone, or multiple girls, stepping up for our 5th scoring position. The change in leadership this summer really started to indicate that we have girls who want to step up to fill that spot. We can't wait to see what they are capable of.”

 

26 Glen Ellyn (Glenbard West)

Coach – Paul Hass; 2021 Finish – 18th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Carlin Hass SR (118, 18:31), Maggie Hibbard JR (150, 18:52), Devyn Carr SR (167, 19:05),  Moira Ahern JR (173, 19:10), Elayna Boeh JR, Kaylee Lange SR, Maia Kaslewicz SO, Paige King SR, Amelia Yob JR, Maileigh Cousins SR

 

Notes – This will be a different season for Paul Hass and his coaching staff. This will be the first season in almost a decade where the Hilltoppers have not had a runner in the top five. Madeline Perez, Lindsey Graham, Lindsey Payne, Katelynne Hart, and Audrey Allman set a standard and a legacy that will live on in this program. The team finished in the top 20 last year at state and could be back with four runners from that state team that are hungry to make that happen.

 

“We have been blessed with nine consecutive years of at least one top-five  runner at the state meet. By all accounts, that streak will more than likely end with this  season (but it was one heckuva run!),” said Hass. “Junior Maggie Hibbard is probably the one athlete that stepped up her dedication and mileage this year more than any other; she really came on at the end of last season in cross country in the Regional and Sectional  meets and was the 3200 frosh-soph conference champion in the 3200, and runner-up  in the 1600 last spring. We are anxious to see how Maggie’s hard work will pay off this  fall.”

 

The top returning runner from that state team that will be up front with Hubbard is Carlin Hass. “Being able to coach my daughter has been one of the absolute true joys of my coaching  career,” said Hass about his daughter. “I couldn’t be prouder of her dedication and team leadership. Since her freshman year she cut nearly 5 minutes off of the 3-mile time she first ran freshman year. Having Carlin on the team has also made me a better coach as I see, up close,  the impact of the demands of my coaching as well as those of the sport. It will not be easy for my wife, Kelly, and I to see her leave the program at the conclusion of this season.”

 

The top seven could be within 55 seconds of each other this fall. Devyn Carr, Moira Ahern, Elayna Boeh, Kaylee Lange, and Maia Kaslewicz will be some of the runners to make that happen. This team needs to move the pack up with the absence of a top runner. That will need to happen if this team wants to return to the state meet. “Since it’s the first season in a decade without a “low-stick” (frontrunner) on the team, we have really emphasized the need for us to adopt a pack mentality,” Hass added. “If we are going to be successful as a team, it’s a fact that we need to finish with a low split. We have some experience with pack-running as we placed second in the Lake Park Sectional last year largely because our 2-5 split behind Audrey was only 14 seconds. If we can repeat such an effort with our current team, it will certainly improve our chances of making it downstate. We will likely be a work in progress through much of the season but, we hope, with the benefit of good health and a dedicated work ethic, that split amongst our top five finishers will be under thirty seconds.”

 

27 Downers Grove (South)

Coach – Doug Plunkett; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Holly Johnson SO (13, 16:58), Nora Joy SR (190, 19:22), Sophie Ring JR (208, 19:33), Sophie Ring JR, Raina Murphy SO, Sophia Nelson JR, Elizabeth Culcasi SR, Madelyn Sumlin SR, Arianna Deleon SR, Lindsey Spear SR, Claire Posmer, Elle Watson FR

 

Notes – The Mustangs graduated four of their top five runners returning three runner’s from last year’s ninth-place finish in the state meet. “We had a productive summer<” Doug Plunkett said. “We backed off the mileage a little bit compared to previous years, but we are coming into the season healthy and ready to go.”

 

It is helped their top runner from state, Holly Johnson, has returned and will be one of the top 10 runners in the state. “Holly was injured at the end of track season and unfortunately missed out on the state series this past spring,” said Plunkett. “But after taking some time off, she has gotten better, and has slowly been working her way back into shape. During her time off, Holly biked with her teammates and did everything she could to encourage them while she couldn't run.” Her performance at Detweiller at Dark shows she is ready for the 2022 campaign.

 

This team will be young. It might be tough to duplicate their finish from a year ago or make the trip to Detweiller in November. Nora Joy and Sophie Ring have state experience and will lead the pack behind Johnson. Rachel Rodi, Raina Murphy, and Sophia Nelson will be some of the runners that could be in the top seven. There will be a big gap between Johnson and this group. Keeping tight split on those six runners will be necessary. “We focused on confidence this summer,” added Plunkett. “After graduating 4 of our top 6, we have a group of mostly juniors & seniors as the next ones up. They are making that transition from JV races to varsity races, and it seems a little scary. They have talent, but they need to be more confident in that talent. A couple of state meet returners (Nora Joy & Sophie Ring) have helped set the example for all of the newcomers. The team has made good progress over the summer and has been running better as of late, especially after getting Holly back running with the group. We just need to keep that transformation going as we head into the fall season.

 

28 Lockport Township

Coach – Regan Cronholm; 2021 Finish – 27th, 3A State

 

Top Runners -  Kayla Shea SR (109, 18:22), Sydney Fontaine SO (179, 19:14), Lexi Shea SO (202, 19:28), Hannah Miller SR (218, 19:48), Monica Skibicki SR, Maya Chudoba JR, Elizabeth Berg SR, Brooke Kemp SO, Alexa Trower SR, Emily Pubentz JR

 

Notes – It could be a rebuilding year for the Porters after finishing 27 in the state meet. Four runners are back from that team. Kayla Shea it seems has been the top runner on this team in forever. Shea is back starting her senior season as the team’s #1 runner. Sydney Fontaine was almost a minute behind Shea and should be the #2 runner. She will need to close the gap on her teammate this fall. Monica Skibicki, Hannah Miller, and Hannah Miller could all be within 20 seconds of each other. Keeping that split on the four runners and lowering the gap on Shea will be things to watch for if Lockport wants to return to state.

 

29 Arlington Heights (Hersey)

Coach – Mikayla Olsen; 2021 Finish – 25th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Anna Harden SR (25, 17:16), Gabi Makowski SR (152, 18:53), Madeline Bialko SO (182, 19:16), Claire Hackmann SR (207, 19:31), Mackenzie Ginder SR (216, 19:46), Lauren Rocks JR (223, 20:16), Emily Lifka SO, Margaretha Grabske SO, Renee Skiera SR, Catherine Hany JR

 

Notes – Mikayla Olsen is the new coach of the Hersey Girls team replacing Danielle Freeman who stepped down to spend more time with her family. Olsen inherits six runners back from a state team that finished 25. 17 out of the top 18 runners from last year all return.

 

Anna Harden again will be the leader of this team and is ready for her senior season. Harden’s winning time at Detweiller at Dark is only two seconds off her state time in winning the race. Four of the top five runners are expected to be seniors. Gabbi Makowski, Mackenzie Ginder, Claire Hackman, and sophomore Madeline Bialko are expected some of the runners to watch for. “Our training went well for those runners who were involved. Always could appreciate a better attendance,” Olsen said. “We wanted to establish a powerful and dynamic culture and having the girls’ sense of belief and belonging emphasized on the team,” Olsen said.  “All the girls on this team are capable of great things beyond what they think they can do.”

 

30 Palatine

Coach – Anthony DeStephano; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – Abigail Jordan SO (96, 18:17), Monika Urbaniak FR, Ruth Hall SR, Emma Zach SR, Tara O’Sullivan SR, Katelyn Whitcomb SR, Fatima Siddiqui JR, Brooke Donnelly SR, Caroline Kawiecki SR

 

Notes – Anthony DeStephano steps in as the new coach for the Lady Pirates. The talent is back for this team with six runners back from  the sectional team that just missed advancing for state placing eighth. “Our training has gone well for the team all around, the girls were consistent and got their mileage in and were fortunate to stay pretty injury free, with nothing major occurring,” DeStephano said. “Definitely excited to see their improvement and gains this upcoming season.”

 

Abigail Jordan qualified individually for state and again should be one of the team’s top runners. A big plus for this team is the addition of freshman Monika Urbaniak who ran 5:14 for 1600-meters in middle school. “I know Abigail is very excited to have her good friend Monika to join her on the team and as well for the training. They could very be our 1,2 this upcoming season.”

 

Ruth Hall, Emma Zach, and Tara O’Sullivan are all seniors and will solidify their top five. There could be 13 runners challenging for 7 spots. This is a team that we could see at state especially with the strong 1-2 punch that they will have in the front. “We have a very special group of seniors this year, they are fantastic teammates who care about one another and have been great leaders to our underclassmen and team,” added DeStephano. I have also been impressed with their level of commitment to the sport and each other over these past few months.”

 

Teams to Watch (In Alphabetical Order)

 

Algonquin (Jacobs)

Coach – Kevin Christian; 2021 Finish – 23rd, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Bailey Schwartz SO (91, 18:13), Natalia Maciorowski SR (194, 19:24), Natali Varela SR (221, 19:56), Adeline Gorman SR, Kathleen Kamia SO (Christina Beyer SR, Madeline Osmanski JR, Alyssa Madera SR, Bridget Moore SR

 

Notes – The Golden Eagles made it to state for the first time since 1985. The team finished 23rd in the state race. This could be a rebuilding year for this team as they return three from the team with only one runner back from their top five. “Last year's team was something special for us,” said their coach, Kevin Christian. “To qualify with four seniors for the first time was impressive.  It wasn't a team built on freshman studs, it was built on girls who worked hard for four years and finally made it.  This group saw that you don't have to be a stud freshman to still become a great runner and have modeled that teams work ethic while they try to make their mark.  Last year's team set the template for how to improve every year as a female runner, and this year's group is following that template.”

 

Bailey Schwartz is the lone top five runner back. The sophomore could make it to state in her second year. Natalia Maciorowski and Natali Varela were on that state team and will be the foundation of their pack.

 

Aurora (Metea Valley)

Coach – Eric Anerino; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Taylor Poces-Bell SR, Kamea Baker JR, Maya Hall JR, Zoe Kirkman JR, Gianna Cannek SR, Nilaya Badam JR, Brooke Horning JR, Shriya Pingle SR

 

Notes – Metea Valley just missed making it to state finishing eighth in the tough Hinsdale Central Sectional. Their top three runners graduated. The rest of that top seven is back. “Our junior class, holistically, has truly improved in terms of their training and their leadership within our team. This will translate to an incredible fall season,” said their coach, Eric Anerino. “After just missing State as a team last year, the whole team was motivated to log great, consistent miles throughout the summer. We will continue to be exceptionally competitive within this area while searching for our 5th and 6th runner to emerge from the next pack.”

 

There are no runners back that ran faster than 19 minutes last fall. You should see some drop in times from this group. Taylor Poces-Bell, Kamea Baker, and Maya Hall look to be the top runners on this team. We will have a better idea by the Naperville Twilight Invitational in October how good this team could be.

 

Aurora (West Aurora)

Coach – Tony Rizzo – 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A Oswego East Regional

 

Top Runners – Avery Littlejohn SO, Baylee Geni SO, Kendall Byrne JR, Roselynne Orrala JR, McKenna Smith JR, Jocelyn Burnett SO, Kelly Reyes SR

 

Notes – The Blackhawks will look to improve on last year’s ninth place finish in the Oswego East Regional. Their projected top runner senior Daizy Lustrup is unknown if she will be out for the team according to Coach Tony Rizzo. Sophomores Avery Littlejohn and Baylee Geni appear to be the top runners heading into this season. “We stressed on building the program and bring the fun atmosphere back to XC that has been gone since COVID,” Rizzo said. “Doing more team activities are what the team wants, as well as the coaching staff.”

 

Chicago (Jones Prep)

Coach – Tanner Beebe; 2021 Finish – 7th, 3A Lyons Township Regional

 

Top Runners – Evelyn Hett SR, Hastings BaCote SR, Lena Almer JR, Selma Taylor JR, Eva Kay Papadopoulos SR, Anna Korfmacher JR, Katalina Menjivar SR, Sophie Kantoff JR

 

Notes – Jones had the worst luck at the end of last season getting placed in one of the toughest regionals in the state, losing their top runner Evelyn Hett to injury where she was held out of the regional race. Jones missed qualifying to sectionals finishing seventh at the Lyons Township Regional. Their top seven from that race is back for new coach Tanner Beebe. Hett is back at full strength recovered from injury. That showed in track when she ran 10:46 at the end of the year in the 3200 Meter Run then coming back two weeks later to run 5:00.93 at Magis Miles.

 

Hastings BaCote was the team’s top runner in the regional race and will lead the pack behind Hett. This team could make it to sectionals depending which direction and sectional they are assigned to. Development of this team this fall will be determined on their improvement and direction that they head in training under a new coach.

 

Chicago (Whitney Young)

Coach – Philip Wallace; 2021 Finish – 13th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Nikki Chopra SR (61, 17:54), Xochitl Lopez SO, Jade Lavallee SR, Kori Henderson JR, Theresa Giba JR, Margaux Bailey JR, Adrienne Weiner SR, Ada Liberzon JR, Gabby Liang JR, Nina Sherman JR

 

Notes - Phillip Wallace steps in as the new coach for the Dolphins. This program has a good group back that advanced out of the Lyons Township Regional and then finishing 13th in the Hinsdale Central Sectional. There basically were no seniors on last year’s roster. So, promise of improvement is high for this team. Nikki Chopra qualified individually for the state meet where she ran under 18 minutes for the first time. Xochitl Lopez and Jade Lavallee took a step up during the track season and should close the gap on Chopra as the 2-3 runners. Their top five split could be an issue. Their split was close to three minutes in their sectional race. That needs to come down in a big way for this team to challenge for a top seven finish in their sectional.

 

Lake Zurich

Coach – Jeremy Kauffman; 2021 Finish – 10th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – Brooke Johnston SR (3, 16:35), Lindsey Bitzer JR, McKenzie Bergfeld JR, Luciya Kojenova SR, Jocelyn Dice JR, Louisa Hagen SR, Bianca Perez SO, Ruby Nissen FR, Polina Krupsy FR

 

Notes – The Bears could be on an upswing heading into the 2022 season despite losing all-state runner Kristin Loftus to graduation and potential top 5 runner Ashley Fearday that moved out of state. Coach Jeremy Kauffman still returns four runners from the team that finished 10 at the Hoffman Estates Sectional. “This was our best summer that we have had with our incoming Frosh and Junior High Runners as far as numbers and training,” said Kauffman. “The rest of our team had a great summer with consistency and accountability, and we are in the right training place right now due to their hard work.  A really easy group to coach. They LOVE to run and be together.”

 

Brooke Johnston will be chasing after a state individual title and again will be the team’s top runner after finishing third at Detweiller Park. The sky is the limit for her this fall both on the state level but also the national level. Ignore top five splits since Johnston will be way ahead. Lindsey Bitzer, Olivia Verden, Bianca Perez, and freshmen Ruby Nissen and Polina Krupsy will be some of the runners that will be in that pack. They will also be challenged to keep the two to five split under 50 seconds and keep their pack under two minutes from Johnston. This team could surprise some in the sectional meet.. The Bears will need those things to occur for a high finish.

 

“I was impressed with their humility and work ethic,” added Kauffman. “They are runners and its part of who they are and that has allowed a team that is very young to grow into a team that will be a solid xc team that is together on and off the course.”

 

Lisle (Benet Academy)

Coach – Katie Paski; 2021 Finish – 7th, 3A Oswego East Regional

 

Top Runners – Louisa Diamond SR (46, 17:42), Grace Andringa JR, Terese Tully JR, Aniela Gaudio SO, Delilah Helenhouse SO, Kailey Frangella JR, Nora Delaney JR, Faith Harrold SR, Audrey Giedraitis SR, Diana Singzon SR

 

Notes – The Redwings just missed advancing to the Hinsdale Central Sectional last year finishing seventh in the tough Oswego East Regional. Five runners are back from that team. Louisa Diamond continued to improve last season qualifying individually for the state meet and then last spring when she was all-state in the 2A State Meet in both the 3200 Meter Run and 1600 Meter Run. Her 10:49.53 in that state race indicates she is ready to take the next step up and could contend for a high finish in the top 25. There will be a gap between Diamond and the rest of the top seven. It could be close to two minutes. Their two through five pack could be as close as 40 seconds led by Grace Andringa and Terese Tully.

 

McHenry

Coach – Kevin Horst; 2021 Finish – 12th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – Danielle Jensen JR (50, 17:45), Alyssa Moore SR, Lynda Rotundo SR, Skyler Balzer JR, Bri Amedio FR, Haley Oeffling SR, Lauren Blake SO, Angelina DuBois JR, Hannah Miles JR

 

Notes – Coach Kevin Horst welcomes back five runners from their top seven that will look to improve on their 12th place finish in the Hoffman Estates Sectional. We should see improvement from this team this year. How much will it be to get into that top seven sectional range? “By the numbers, we had the best summer in seven years coaching at McHenry by a large margin,” said Horst. “We had a nice core group that is ready for the season.”

 

Danielle Jensen did get some state meet experience last year as a sophomore placing 50th at Detweiller Park. She will surprise people this fall. “She is a very driven athlete. Danielle loves to run as she put in about 500 miles this summer,” added Horst. “She is  Dedicated in the weightroom and is completely  back from injuries that hampered her track season. She is ready to roll.” Jensen along with Alyssa Moore, Lynda Rotundo, and Skyler Balzer had great summers that could catapult this team up to challenge for the Fox Valley Conference title. They finished fifth in that meet in 2021.

 

“This year's squad does not need encouragement to run and train, so my focus is mainly on building the team's trust and connectedness,” said Horst. “I want them mentally prepared to step up to the next level this season, which for us would be to compete for a FVC championship and qualify for state as a team.”

 

New Lenox (Lincoln-Way Central)

Coach – Ryan Stapinski; 2021 Finish – 11th, 3A Quincy Sectional

 

Top Runners – Claire Carter JR (177, 19:13), Ella Maldonado SR, Ruby Hillegass SO, Shea Martin SR, Ceci Nilson SR, Ava Dughelti FR, Nancy Flais JR, Emersynn Smith JR, Jaylin Sustr SO, Taylor White JR, Molly Muehlnickel SO.

 

Notes – Expectations are high for the Knights this fall. Coach Ryan Stapinski returns their entire top 7 and top 11 overall from the team that finished 11 in the Quincy Sectional. “I loved being able to look at a workout and see a pack of 8 to 10 girls all together pushing and encouraging each other,” Stapinski said. “A lot of girls have been putting in the work and helping each other get better which will make for a really fun season.”

 

Clare Carter started the season as one of the runners that would challenge for the #1 spot on the team. She ended up as the one as the then sophomore qualified individually for the state meet. Big things could be ahead of her for this fall. “Claire has a tremendous work ethic, but she cares more about the team than herself,” said Stapinski.  “She's focused on having fun and running for PR's and that's a contagious attitude to have. I was thrilled to see her do track last spring and she had a great summer of running. That consistency is going to pay off huge for her this year.”

 

The pack behind Carter was close to 55 seconds in the sectional race. That time will need to come down. Ruby Hillegass led that group at the end of last year followed by Ella Maldonado and Shea Martin. Freshman Ava Dughelti qualified for the middle school state meet. Her training indicates she could be in the top five.

 

New Lenox (Lincoln-Way West)

Coach – Matt Bowden; 2021 Finish – 28th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Gianna Arizzi SR (107, 18:22), Chloe Miller SO (136, 18:44), Annie Pinciak JR (169, 19:07), Makenna Zitkus SO (219, 19:49), Elizabeth Hergji SR (230, 21:51), Morgan Sallese JR, Ellie Pacyga SO, Mia Klosowski SO, Ellie Trench FR, Jayden Gurgone FR

 

Notes – Westside took advantage of a sub-par race by Lincoln-Way East to finish seventh in the Quincy Sectional and advancing to the state meet. That experience last November should pay off this fall with five runners back from that team. “We focused mainly on building a foundation this summer,” said their coach, Matt Bowden. “We didn’t emphasize speed as much as we have in the past, instead placing more importance on consistent effort every day. We lost 14 seniors to graduation, so there was a lot of focus on retaining the culture they built.”

 

Gianna Arizzi should continue to be the team’s top runner heading into this season. “Gianna is one-in-a-million, just a terrific kid. She’s kind, thoughtful, generous, and one of the best team captains I’ve ever had,” added Bowden. “She’s doing a great job getting our underclassmen (19 of our 27 runners) to buy in to Westside XC.  She leads by example on and off the field, and she really elevates everyone around her.  She was bit by the injury bug during outdoor track (5:29/11:42 indoor) so she spent the summer building base mileage and working her way back to 100%.  She wants to break 18 and lead the team back to State, and she’s got the heart, soul, and determination to do it.”

 

Four of last year’s state top five are back led by Arizzi and then Chloe Miller, Annie Pinciak, Makenna Zitkus, and Elizabeth Hergji. Freshmen Ellie Trench and Jayden Gurgone had experience in big races during their middle school careers. They could contribute immediately.

 

The key is closing their gap on the top five and closing the gap on their top runner Arizzi. Their split on five was 87 seconds at state. That will need to come down if this team wants to return back to Peoria. “The top 4 (Arizzi, Miller, Pinciak, Zitkus) are on par with where they were at this time last year,” Bowden concluded. “They’ve put the work in, and they could do some damage—especially if we can get all of them sub-19.  Behind them is a good group of 5-6 runners in the 20-21:00 range. Their improvement will be the key if the squad wants to return to Peoria in November.”

 

Normal (Community)

Coach – Tom Patten; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A Quincy Sectional

 

Top Runners – Allison Ince JR (32, 17:30), Lily Kavanaugh FR, Abigail Ziemer JR, Megan Metz SR, Annika Luthe SR, Rachel Brozenec SR, Amber Hitchins SR, Claire Fitzgerald SR

 

Notes – This could be the year that this team makes the short trip from Normal to Peoria in November. They do lose a state qualifier with Olivia Hartke but return five runners from their ninth-place sectional team. One of those runners is multi track state champion Allison Ince who missed all-state honors by seven places despite the fact that she did not have the season she wanted. “Ali had a very strong early summer of high quality races then took some down time to reload,” said her coach, Tom Patten. “Her training has been very solid through July with a slight uptick in mileage and intensity compared to the two previous years. Last XC season she was racing with a diminished iron level, but that has been rectified, and she looks to have a very successful campaign this year.”

 

Lily Kavanaugh finished seventh last fall in the IESA 3A State Meet and should play a big part in this team’s success this season. Abigail Ziemer had a good summer training and should be close to the freshman. The Ironmen will have three low scorers in the front for most races. Work on lowering the split on five will be something needed for Normal to make it as a team to the state meet.

 

Northbrook (Glenbrook North)

Coach – Bob Leblanc; 2021 Finish – 16th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – Juliet Frum SO (17, 17:02), Maria Polyakov SO (DNF at state), Vivien Qian SO, Nora Skiest JR, Sarah Zhang SR, Izzy Seiler JR, Katie Wallace SR

 

Notes – Glenbrook North will look to improve on their 16 place finish at last year’s Hoffman Estates Sectional. Six runners return from that team including the possibility of two all-state runners. Juliet Frum was all-state as a freshman placing 17. Maria Polyakov did not finish in the state meet. She was the team’s top runner in their conference and regional meets and just 11 seconds behind her teammate at sectionals. The two sophomores ran close together all last season. That should not change in 2022. The third through fifth runner pack will need to close their split and close the gap on the front two. Their split could be only 10 to 15 seconds on those three runners. The gap, however, on Frum and Polyakov in sectionals was over four minutes.

 

Orland Park (Sandburg)

Coach – Tony Pena; 2021 Finish – 12th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Ava Giblin JR (86, 18:09), Lily Molloy JR, Katie Roche JR, Abigail Vaughan-Lee SR, Makayla Ras SO, Raegan Howaniec SR, Klaudia Sieczka JR, Gabby Dittmer SO, Lindsey Gerhardstein FR, Kelli Ellis FR

 

Notes – Coach Tony Pena has a good group back for 2002 with six runners that ran in the sectional meet. The Eagles finished 12th in the tough Hinsdale Central Sectional. “We have a really dedicated group of girls that worked really hard this summer,” Pena said. ”They worked hard through camp and the gaps between camp and the T&F and cross country seasons. I'm looking forward to seeing their hard work pay dividends this fall.”

 

Ava Giblin it seems has been the team’s top runner since she entered the doors at Sandburg. Her hard work is paying off after qualifying for the state meet individually. I am guessing she would like her teammates with her on the Peoria starting line. “Ava has evolved from the impressive 11 year old at our summer camp to now the leader of our program”. Pena added. “She is a total gamer and has a knack for elevating her performances when the lights are brightest. I'm confident she will continue to improve and have a great fall. I am also very excited to see how she handles the increased responsibilities of now being an upperclassman and leader.”

 

Lily Molloy and Katie Roche are a solid 2-3 for this team. Roche did not have the fall that she wanted last fall. That was corrected by a great track season and improvement during the summer. Look for her to be closer to Molloy. The two were separated by 25 seconds in sectionals. Abigail Vaughan-Lee is the top runner back that could lead the pack behind the trio. Freshmen Lindsey Gerhardtein and Kelli Ellis may contribute to the top seven at some point this fall. “We try to do a lot of aerobic to high-end aerobic running in the summer,” Pena said about his training. “We sprinkle in some fast stuff from sprints to 5k pace work, but our focus in the summer is trying to build aerobic strength.” That strength could result in a trip to the state meet.

 

Plainfield (North)

Coach – Tammy Gummerson; 2021 Finish – 26th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Claire Wilson JR (99, 18:18), Elsie Czarniewski SO (142, 18:45), Kaitlyn Ward JR (195, 19:25), Ella Powell SR (227, 20:47), Nora Rudakas JR, Lauren Dellangelo SO, Lindsey Wenz SO, Olivia Powell SR, Vivika Ramos SR, Olivia Owens SO, Emaan Hussain FR, Tessa Russo FR

 

Notes – Coach Tammy Gummerson welcomes back four runners that ran in last year’s state meet. The Tigers finished 26 last fall in Peoria. This could be a sneaky good team that could make a Peoria return. “We had a very good summer,” Gummerson said. “This group in some good miles. Our turnout the past couple of months has been great.”

 

Claire Wilson stepped up as the team’s top runner last fall on and off the course. She should be leading this team in races once again. “Claire is a very hard worker,” added Gummerson. “She does soccer in the spring and does a great job splitting her time in the summer and fall with us and her club team. We are very fortunate to have her a part of Tiger XC.”

 

Elsie Czarniewski should close the 27 gap that she had on Carter at state to give Plainfield North a solid 1-2 in the front. Kaitlyn Ward and Ella Powell should lead the pack behind their front two. Nora Rudakas missed last year due to an injury but could step into the top five along with newcomers Olivia Owens, Emaan Hussain, and Tessa Russo.

 

Rockton (Hononegah)

Coach – Jorge Pichardo; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A Lake Park Sectional

 

Top Runners – Indigo Sterud SR (151, 18:53), Allyson Niedfeldt JR (191, 19:23), Isabelle Molitor JR, Sam Risley SR, Sophie Balsley SR, Iniya Ilankovan SO, Michelle Perez SR, Kayla Tubbs JR, Kylie Simpson FR, Gia Fraley FR

 

Notes – Hononegah just missed making the state meet finishing eighth at the Lake Park Sectional. Five runners are back from that team that has hopes of extending their season another week. “Our team stayed consistent and put it in the work this summer. It is a strong group, and they know it,” said their coach, Jorge Pichardo. “They know what they are capable of doing this season.”

 

Pichardo had three individuals to qualify for the state meet. Two of those runners return with valuable state meet experience. Indigo Sterud was the team’s top runner all season and again should lead this team. “She is going to be the one to lead this talented squad this season,” Pichardo stated.  “She's coming off a great track season being an all-stater in the 300 Hurdles and running several PRs in her distance events. She has been working super hard this summer. It's her senior year, she wants to make the best out of it. I am excited for her.” Allyson Niedfeldt also ran state and is coming off a great summer along with Isabelle Molitor and Sam Risley. The team had a top five split under 60 seconds last year. Sterud moving up in races and keeping that split low could mean big things for this team.

 

“All we can do is trust the process,” Pichardo added. “We switched our training from miles to minutes this season. Our girls have adapted to it.”

 

St. Charles (North)

Coach – Shari Hayes; 2021 Finish – 24th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Norah Dorrance SO (71, 18:01),  Camille Sabau JR (199, 19:26), Zoe Ulaszek JR (222, 20:04), Elizabeth Kadyschuk JR (229, 21:14), Kathryn Kadyschuk JR, Tia Kilroy SO, Paiten Kruse FR, Sidney Lainio FR, Dillon Marcotte FR, Meshva Patel FR, Skye Santiago FR

 

Notes – The North Stars came on strong at the end of last season to make it to the state meet where they finished 24th. Coach Shari Hayes lost two of her top three runners due to graduation along with fourth runner Katherine Erickson who will play club soccer in her sophomore year. There are still four runners back from that state team.

 

“Norah Dorrance showed improvement and learning about thigh school running last fall in her freshman season where she moved up to the second runner. She will lead this team this fall. Camille Sabau should step into the #2 spot. This team will need to work on their pack behind these two runners now that Erickson is not running. They have a good group of freshmen led by Paiten Kruse and Sidney Lainio that could contribute immediately in their top seven.

 

“We had a large number of underclassmen this summer and we saw a lot of improvement,” said Hayes. “With 3 seniors graduating and 1 runner not returning from our top 8, we were unsure who was going to step up and fill those positions this season.  The girls really put in a lot of good work this summer.  We should be ready to go in August.”

 

Tinley Park (Andrew)

Coach – Mark Luttrell; 2021 Finish – 14th, 3A Quincy Sectional

 

Top Runners – Paige Swaw SO (87, 18:09), Krysta Stanko SR, Grace Gerhardstein JR, Nicole Prassas SO, Alyssa Bartlett JR, Denna Prassas SO, Grace Wood JR

 

Notes – Andrew will look to improve on last year’s 14th place sectional finish. All of their top five runners last year were underclassmen and return. Paige Swaw was one of the big surprises for the team as she rose to the top spot and also qualified for the state meet. It will be interesting to see where her improvement during the summer leads her to. There will be a gap again between Swaw and the rest of the top five. It was 60 seconds in that sectional race. Krysta Stanko should lead that second group. That split is projected to be close to 90 seconds which will need to come down.

 

Wheaton (North)

Coach – Peter Anderson; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A Lake Park Sectional

 

Top Runners – Janna Postma SR (138, 18:44), Maddie Romaine SO, Angelina Grimm SR, Bella Massaro SR, Mackenzie Skidmore SO, Ashley Wilkinson JR, Rebecca Farrell SO, Monica Kading JR, Ema Eissler FR, Sienna Keith FR

 

Notes – Wheaton North just missed out on making it to last year’s state meet finishing ninth at the Lake Park Sectional. Four runners have that sectional race and return back for Coach Peter Anderson. “ Our summer went really well,” said Anderson. “Our top three girls trained with faster times in tempo, intervals, and the time trial than last year's top three did in the summer.”

 

Janna Postma was the one runner that made it to state for Wheaton North. She will hope for company on the starting line this fall. “She trained with us the first 3 weeks of summer and did very well as part of our top 3,” said Anderson. “She was in Greece and The Netherlands the rest of the summer, but she got up early to beat the heat there and did her workouts on her own. She is excited to see how she can improve on her breakout junior season.”

 

This team will be tough with six of their top seven runners underclassmen in 2021. Maddie Romaine, Angelina Grimm, and Bella Massaro should be within 20 seconds of each other this fall and will lead what should be a strong pack. Romaine was within 143 seconds of Postma in the sectional race. The top seven moving up in races could be the key to get this group in Peoria in November.

 

Wheeling

Coach – Erin Pedersen; 2021 Finish – 7th, 3A Glenbrook South Regional

 

Top Runners – Brenda Torres SR (24, 17:15), Gabriela Roman SR, Daisy Contreras SR, Lauren Ruan SR, Karen Luna-Gutierrez SO, Nathaly Frausto SO, Sherlyn Ruiz SO

 

Notes – Wheeling will look to improve on their seventh-place finish at the Glenbrook South Regional. This team just has three runners back from that regional team. One of those runners is Brenda Torres who earned all-state honors last fall. “Brenda is on pace to have an awesome senior year,” said her coach, Erin Pedersen. “She has been very committed to her running and to her teammates all summer and really stepped up as a leader. I am proud of her as a runner, a teammate, and a captain on our team. It will be very exciting to see what she is able to accomplish this season.”

 

Gabriella Roman and Daisy Contreras give the team experience in the front of the pack behind Torres. It is hard to say who will step into the next two spots. “Our training went well this summer with the girls that we had, but our numbers were definitely small,” Pedersen said. “We are hoping to invite more freshmen to join our team in the first couple of weeks of the school year. “

 

Zion-Benton

Coach - Christine DiGrazia; 2021 Finish – 13th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – Audrey Luell SR (43, 17:41), Riley Franz SR, Rachel Varsek FR, Lauren Hamilton SO, Katelin Hamilton SR, Sofia Gutierrez SO, Brionne Webb JR, Estrella Navarrete SR

 

Notes – This is a team I feel could be one of the surprise teams in Class 3A this fall. The Zee-Bees finished 13th in last year’s sectional race. Four of their top five runners are back from that race. They could be in the top 10. Zion-Benton possibly could rise into the top seven. “This summer has felt more "normal" training-wise,” said their coach, Christine DiGrazia. “We were able to bring our top group back to our mini-camp in Oshkosh for the first time since 2019.  Everyone is feeling healthy and looking forward to the season.”

 

Audrey Luell made it to state last fall. She has hopes of entering that all-state room. “Audrey has had her most consistent summer yet (and that is saying a lot since she is such a solid kid when it comes to training),” DiGrazia added. “After such a fun track season, I am excited to see her continue that momentum this fall. She has grown so much as a runner since freshman year; I am incredibly proud of her hard work.” Riley Franz had a great breakout race in sectionals where she was only 13 seconds behind Luell. What that gap narrow again this fall. Katelin Hamilton took a step up in her training and could be a plus for this team. Lauren Hamilton and freshmen Rachel Varsek could also jump into the top five. “We had a small group this summer, but I am so proud of the progress that group made,” stated DiGrazia. “They really elevate each other, and I can't wait to see our pack race.”