2022 IHSA XC Season Previews - 3A Boys Teams

 

By Michael Newman [email protected]

 

The 2022 season in this classification should be quite unique. There were so many teams last year that were senior dominated squads that lost the core of their top seven due to graduation. In all my years of covering this sport, I have never seen the biggest classification in Illinois this wide open.

 

There are two teams that stand out ahead of the rest of the Class 3A teams. Hinsdale Central has a big group returning from last year’s second-place team. They also have momentum entering this season with the Red Devils winning the Nike National Championships in the 4x800m Relay. Plainfield South finished seventh last fall at Detweiller Park. The Cougars return six of their top seven from that race. They are hungry to go after their first state title in the program’s history.

 

After that, through about 25 names of teams in the air. Any of these teams could finish in the top five when all is said in done in November.

 

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 Hinsdale (Central)

Coach – Jim Westphal; 2021 Finish – 2nd, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Daniel Watcke SR (14, 14:46), Aden Bandukwala JR (29, 15:00), Jesse Gamboa SR (131, 15:44), Michael Skora SR (148, 15:51), Grant Miller SR, Kyle Doorhy SR, Ethan Ho SR, James Gruber SR, Nicholas Bergner SR, Aaron Doorhy SR, Cooper Revord SO, Gavin Rose SR

 

Notes – The Red Devils will be looking for their third state championship in their program’s history after finishing second last November. This team is senior dominated and focused. Daniel Watcke, Aden Bandukwala, and Michael Skora were part of the quartet that won the national championship in Oregon last June. Watcke is the heart and soul of this team finishing 14th last fall. His focus could be much higher this season. “Dan has a tremendous work ethic and focus,” his coach Jim Westphal said. “He leads by example. When your top runner is one of your hardest workers, the other athletes across the program see that and respect that. It sets a tone of accountability throughout the program.”

 

That group includes Bandukwala who has improved dramatically over the past two seasons. His potential to finish in the top 15 is within his reach. Skora had a fantastic track season running 1:56 for 800 and 4:18 for 1600. We will see how his success translates to the xc course this fall.

 

“As a group, everyone was consistent,” Westphal added. “ I really won’t have a gauge on who made the most gains until our first time trial and early meets coming up.” The group behind the first three have varsity experience. That includes Grant Miller and Kyle Doorhy that could step into the top five.

 

This team has their eyes on a state title. That trip that they made to Oregon last June could be repeated in December for the Nike Cross Nationals. It is a team that could accomplish both goals. “So sorry for the cliché but we’re simply taking one meet at a time,” stated Westphal. “There are a number of excellent teams and on any given day, could do great things. Our singular focus is to control only what we can control and those are the things within our program. Staying healthy, consistent training and racing are the goals this fall.”

 

2 Plainfield (South)

Coach – Jason Crowe; 2021 Finish – 7th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Camyn Viger JR (7, 14:31), Ethan Reynoso SR (62, 15:17), Gavin Borger JR (73, 15:20), Dylan Maloney SO (76, 15:21), BJ Sorg SR (77, 15:21), Jack Wright SR (162, 15:56), Owen O’Shea SR, Louie Dealba SR, Joaquin DeAlba SR, Curtis Bates SO, Devin Paton SR, Trystian Derengowski SR

Notes – South’s seventh-place finish at last year’s state meet was accented by the fact that six of those seven runners in that race will get a chance to toe the line in November if they make it there. They should be able to accomplish that without a question. This team has the runners to challenge for a state title, but also the possibility to get to the Nike Cross Nationals.

 

“We had consistently 25 to 30 boys show to our scheduled days and our seniors did a great job of leading the days of Captains' Practices,” said Jason Crowe. “Consistency has been a big part of the growth of this team.  Our team leaders have held themselves and each other accountable.” Camyn Viger had a breakout sophomore season last fall finishing seventh at the state meet. He will be one of the top runners in the state this fall. Ethan Reynoso leads a pack that includes Gavin Borger, Dylan Maloney, and BJ Sorg that were 46 seconds behind Viger at state. The split in that race between those four runners was only four seconds. Strong pack running could shut the door on some of the teams chasing after them.

 

Seniors Jack Wright and Owen Shea should provide the Cougars a strong sixth and seventh runners. “These guys have also incorporated the use of Strava to keep connected to their teammates while on vacations,” added Crowe. This has really taken off for us this summer. Not only does it keep everyone accountable but builds confidence and positivity among the team.”

 

South’s finish in 2021 has spurred this team on to a great summer and what could be a powerful fall. They have switched their schedule up a little running at First to the Finish instead of Richard Spring and then at the Nike Twilight Meet at the beginning of October. This team has the potential to do some big things. “The high expectations have actually motivated this team during the summer,” concluded Crowe. “With everyone returning, it has created an exciting and fun environment for this entire program. Yes, we do have some big goals for our team, but more importantly, we will really want to stay focused on simply getting better each day, improving one week at a time while staying healthy and enjoying this journey together.”

 

3 Winnetka (New Trier)

Coach – Matthew Sloan; 2021 Finish – 4th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Oscar Dueno-Aldo SR (54, 15:14), Atticus Miller JR, Gabe Nosek SR, Ben Crane SO, James Flynn JR, Andrew Hepner SR, Charlie Bakos SR, Henry Timmerman SR, Charlie Levaughn SR, Samuel Werts SR, Michael Moran JR, Felix Hekster JR, Joey Papanicholas SO (transfer from Hersey)

 

Notes – New Trier is one of the teams that lost the core of their last year’s team. Six of the top seven runners from their state team that finished fourth have graduated. It won’t be a rebuild rather a reload for the Trevians. They have good depth back that will jump into the top five in 2022.

 

“The summer training has gone quite well,” Coach Matthew Sloan said. “The boys are healthy and primed for a great season. We had consistent attendance and built all facets of their fitness, but with a focus on high end aerobic work.” Oscar Dueno-Aldo is the lone returnee from the state team and will be the top runner this fall for this team. Ben Crane has pushed Dueno-Aldo in workouts and could be a surprise in the front. Crane broke Nick Falk’s freshman school record last fall running 9:42 for the distance. Gabe Nosek, James Flynn, and Atticus Miller will be among the runners pushing for top five positions.

 

This team missed out for a trophy last fall. Some would think it could be tough for this team to duplicate that finish. 3A being wide open could even mean that they could better that 2021 spot. “Our focus remains on daily improvement, enjoying the process, and winning the moment in front of us,” Sloan added. “When we execute on those ideals, we will rise to the meet challenge presented by the great teams Illinois always produces.”

 

4 Oak Park-River Forest

Coach – Chris Baldwin; 2021 Finish – 10th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Liam Newhart SR (45, 15:09), Owen Augustine SR, Nick Parrell SR, Michael Michelotti JR, Daniel Johnson JR, Brady O’Connor SR, Pablo Palmisano JR, Mariano Escobedo JR, Lewis O’Connor JR, Roan Egan SR, Liam O’Connor SO, Zekey Wells SR

 

Notes – Even though the Huskies did not get out of a tough Hinsdale Central Sectional last October finishing 10, there is still something that I have sensed where this team could challenge for a trophy at the end of the season. Some of that has to do with their success in track last spring. Five runners return from that sectional team.

 

“It has been the best summer for our team that I have seen,” said their coach, Chris Baldwin. “I was impressed by the commitment and excitement that our guys had for each other. All levels were cheering on their teammates whenever they finished their workouts, and it was infectious for our program. Our guys are committed to helping their teammates improve which they know helps them get better too.”

 

Liam Newhart made it to Detweiller Park last fall running as an individual in the state meet. He should be one of the top 15 runners in the state and top runner for the Huskies. Owen Augustine should be pushing Newhart this fall and could be in line for a great senior season. Michael Michelotti and Daniel Johnson showed great improvement joining the varsity at the end of last season and then in track. Keep an eye on these two runners. Nick Parrell showed improvement this summer and could take a step up. Brady O’Connor, who ran 16:06 in September at Peoria, also has the talent to be in that top five.

 

The potential for Oak Park to have two all-state runners is there. The team will need to keep their top five within 45 seconds of each other. That is also a possibility. Some may question this team in the top five at the start of the season but will be second guessing themselves when this team is fighting for a state trophy. “Our guys ran some really fast times last track season, but we didn’t put it together at the state meet,” added Baldwin. “Our top guys needed a break, some kids took 1 week, some took up to 3 weeks, so we had a lot of different training plans going on this summer.  We pushed back the timing of some of our summer staple workouts.  We have entered the season hungry and in a good point in our training cycle.”

 

5 Palatine

Coach – Joe Parks; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Mason Krieg SR (21, 14:49), Jack Casaccio SR (50, 15:12), Owen Elliott SR (114, 15:38), Andy Hansen JR (147, 15:51), Christian Keller SR, Nate VanderGiessen JR, Konrad Jakubowski SR, Russell Campbell SR, Carter Hayes SO, Jacob Tallian SR, Alex Krieg FR, James O’Sullivan FR, Christopher Quick FR

 

Notes – The Pirates are one of those teams to keep an eye on at the top of the rankings this fall. Palatine returns four runners from last year’s ninth-place team. Mason Krieg was all-state last year and leads this team. A top 10 finish individually is possible.

 

Jack Casaccio was the team’s top runner in their Mid Suburban League team title but finished 50th at state. Coach Joe Parks believes we could see big things from him especially if he is close to Krieg. Christian Keller did not run his junior year but is back and could be a bonus for Parks and this team. “Keller is a senior who returns to XC, after choosing to not run last year, has made some big strides forward over the past month, running much of his workouts with Krieg and Casaccio,” Parks said. “His confidence has soared. It will be interesting to see how he develops over the season.”

 

Owen Elliot and Andy Hansen were in the top seven last year and will challenge for top five spots. The Pirates have a strong freshman class entering this fall. Alex Krieg ran 4:42.73 at Magis Miles in June and could give this team a boost by state series time.

 

This team will need a tight pack behind their front two pack of Krieg and Casaccio. “We do have a couple relatively unknown seniors in Jacob Tallian and Konrad Jakubowski, who seem to be on the verge of big breakthroughs, so they could add some depth,” Parks added. “Sophomore Carter Hayes (2:03/4:36 as a frosh) could play a big role by the end of the season.”

 

6 Oswego (East)

Coach – James Milner; 2021 Finish – 7th, 3A Oswego East Regional

 

Top Runners – Parker Nold SR (10, 14:39), Alexander Das SR, Jacob Lanzara SR, Carter Pankiewicz SR, Dhairya Trivedi JR, Luke Tam JR, Alexander Hughes SR, Jack Schultz JR, Zachary Benoit SR, Phillip Dart SR

 

Notes – It was not that Oswego East was not good last year. They just got injured and unlucky at the wrong time. The Wolves were a better team their seventh-place finish in their own regional. This could be a state trophy team by the end of the year. The main thing is traveling through the regular season staying healthy.

 

The injury to Alex Das after the Palatine Invitational set this team back. The dynamic that Das and all-state runner Parker Nold have in races is great. Nold finished 10 at Detweiller. Imagine if Das was there? That is the scenario we are looking at this fall. “In their position, they're usually running to win the race,” said their coach James Milner. “Over the years we've seen both of them show the ability to win by leading from start to finish and also running with the top pack then kicking. It's great to be able to race with different styles. They've pushed each other every day for years now so they're very comfortable racing together, however, they're both extremely competitive.  That characteristic helps them hold each other accountable when they race. “They definitely bring the best out of each other.” 

 

The pack from third through the fifth men could be between 15 and 20 seconds of each other. Jacob Lanzara improved over the summer and could lead that pack. Carter Pankiewicz, Dhairya Trivedi, and Luke Tam are some of the runners that could be part of that pack.

 

A key is keeping that pack close to each other and at the same time getting closer to Nold and Das as the season progresses. “At this point we've been focusing on bringing the team together and working into packs,” stated Milner. “Nold and Das, do a great job of getting out front in workouts so that our packs can work off of them. It is wonderful to see that total team approach where everyone is there to help everyone be their best.  The great attitude that this group has, paired with their strong bond can really propel them this season”

 

7 Downers Grove (North)

Coach – John Sipple; 2021 Finish – 3rd, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Topher Ferris SR (60, 15:16), Caden Weber JR (61, 15:17), Ryan Eddington JR (100, 15:33), Asa Gasper SR (145, 15:49), Curtis Mysliwiec JR, Zach Bender JR, Grant Schroder SO, John Courtney SO, Jonathan Hogg SR, Weston Mathieu SO, Owen Kelly SO, Isaac Moss JR

 

Notes – Downers Grove North rose to the top again at the end of the season leaving Detweiller Park with a trophy finishing third. They lost some great senior leadership to graduation which included all-state runner Roy Lewellyn. Coach John Sipple welcomes back four runners from that state team. “Our summer went pretty well for our team overall,” said Sipple. “The guys have good energy and are working into their new roles on the team that were left vacant with the graduation of a large senior class.”

 

Topher Ferris will be one of the top runners for this team. He was the fourth runner for the Trojans at state. Asa Gasper, another senior, also ran at state and will contribute to the team’s top five.

 

Caden Weber and Ryan Eddington ran at state last year as sophomores. They should be among the team’s top runners this fall after a good track season. “Coach (Andrew) Adelmann did a very good job working with our distance crew for the first time to help them progress into excellent positions throughout the track season,” added Sipple. “In addition, these guys have shown a lot of growth and maturity.  Along with that, their energy and love for the sport has really grown too.”

 

Jonathan Hogg showed improvement over the summer and will challenge for the top seven. There are four sophomores that could jump into the top seven led by Grant Schroeder and John Courtney. Juniors Zach Bender and Curtis Mysliwiec are also runners that you could see in the top seven.

 

This team is young but with so much experience. Pack running for this team could be on the schedule. They could have a 40-45 split on their top five with two all-state runners in that group. That could mean another state trophy or perhaps something bigger. “These guys have some pretty lofty outcome goals at the conference/state/national level that they would like to accomplish,” Sipple concluded. “In the end if they are true to their values/purposes and work to achieve the process goals they set forth, they can be proud of any accomplishments that they achieve. We are really looking forward to this fall.”

 

8 Plainfield (North)

Coach – Andy Derks; 2021 Finish – 11th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Oliver Burns SR (13, 14:43), Ryan Tracey SR (55, 15:14), Owen Stahl JR (121, 15:39), Josh Furnish SR (167, 15:59), Quinn Davis SO, Alex Brennan JR, Easton Miller JR, Matthew Jimenez SR, Cullen Williams JR, Anthony Fau SO, Vincent Pantaleo SO, Aidan Connors FR, James Maso FR

 

Notes – This could be a strong year for the Tigers after finishing 11 in last fall’s state meet. Coach Andy Derks welcomes back four runners with state meet experience that could catapult this squad to one of the top five teams in the state. “We are having a great summer of training,” Derks said. ”We value consistency, and I've been pleased with how consistent our guys have been. Our core group is healthy, and guys have progressed from what they did last summer and throughout the last year. I am seeing more ownership of training than ever. These guys know what they need to do, they aren't afraid to try new things, and do a great job of getting together on days we don't meet as a team. The guys know how to train and are self-motivated to be great runners. I get to be along for the ride.”

 

Oliver Burns took the next up last fall running 14:43 to finish 13th in Peoria. A higher finish is in the cards for him in November. Ryan Tracey had a great summer of training and could be close to Burns in races this fall. Expect a gap between these two runners, but Derks has good talent behind these two led by Josh Furnish, Owen Stahl, and Easton Miller lead a group of five other runners that will challenge for top five spots. “A key for us will be getting that group to continue closing the gap, but they've set themselves up for big improvements,” added Derks.

 

Plainfield North changed up their 2022 schedule taking their top seven (along with Neuqua Valley) to the Roy Griak Invitational in Minnesota at the end of September. We will get an idea how they compare to some of the regional powers. “No single day or single workout is as important as the overall consistent body of work,” said Derks. “Our success will be determined by our willingness to develop and stick to positive habits when it comes to sleep, nutrition, and training. Keep it simple but realize that simple isn’t easy." Burns and Tracey have put themselves in all-state positions with their summer work. The thing to watch is if the pack behind these two can close that gap. If that happens, that could cause problems for their competition.

 

9 LaGrange (Lyons Township)

Coach – Michael Danner; 2021 Finish – 12th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Nicholas Strayer JR (46, 15:09), Aidan Collins SR (104, 15:34), Cillian Henning JR (153, 15:44), Matt McGovern SR (162, 16:08), Michael Ferrell SR, Vincent Stobart SR, Brendan Whelton JR, Eric Coyne SR, Reuben Guevara SR, John O’Halloran SO, Ben Wugazzer SO, Issac Constas SO

 

Notes – It was not the way that this program wanted their season to end in 2021. Lyons Township was hit with injuries and illness down the stretch. The Lions still made it to the state meet finishing 12. This is a talented group with four runners back from that state team. “Last year’s team showed some signs of getting to level we want, but we were unable to a avoid some mishaps down the stretch,” said their coach, Michael Danner.  “Hopefully things will be different for this group.”

 

Nicholas Strayer stepped up at state after a sub-par race in his sectional to be the team’s top runner at Detweiller Park. That should not change this season. Lyons Township will need to thrive by pack running. We should see that with state returning runners Aidan Collins , Cillian Henning, and Matt McGovern leading that group. Mike Ferrell had a good summer and should be within the confines of that pack. Danner feels that a strong sophomore group led by John O’Halloran and Ben Wugazzer could contribute to the top seven by the state series. There could be up to 10 runners that will challenge for a top seven spot.

 

Lyons Township was on a rollercoaster ride in their racing in 2021. That will need to change. This team is good and could sneak up on teams this season. “We are still working on reestablish some standards and expectations,” said Danner. “Hopefully we continue to develop over the next couple of months and would expect some FS kids to step up and make the top 7.”

 

10 Lake Zurich

Coach – JB Hanson; 2021 Finish – 6th, 3A State

Top Runners – Dylan Myers SR (11, 14:40), Braden Eckman SR (57, 15:15), Will Perez SR (97, 15:32), Cole Boudreault SR (175, 16:01), Alex Todoran SR, George Sabev JR, Aidan Kanppstein SR, Patrick Baartmans SR, David Carr SR, Spencer Kinsey SR, Dalton Leitz JR, Sawyer Trullinger SO

 

Notes – It seems that the Bears start out the season in the shadows of everyone else. By the time they get to the state series, this program is ready to roll. Such was the case last year for this program. They won the North Suburban Conference Championship and followed that up by winning the Libertyville Regional. They finished the season with a third place finish at Hoffman Estates and then sixth in the state meet. Coach JB Hanson motto is Consistency is the key. It showed last year and should repeat itself again this fall as they four runners from that state team.

 

Dylan Myers did not have his best track season with an unexpected illness slowing him down at the end of last spring. A good summer of training according to Hanson as put Myers in position to finish better than his 2021 11 place finish and to lead this team. Braden Eckman surprised some last year as the team’s third runner at state. A top 25 finish this fall is within his reach. Lake Zurich should have a nice pack behind these two led by Will Perez. Good summers by DJ Carr, Campbell Stawarz, and Alex Todoran will have them challenging for top five spots and making this team tough by state series time. Their pack split on three through five is projected to be near 30 seconds this fall. That needs to tighten up and close the gap on Eckman for this team to challenge for one of the top five spots in the state meet.

 

11 Naperville (Neuqua Valley)

Coach – Paul Vandersteen; 2021 Finish – 10th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Ryan Palmer SR (53, 15:13), Zac Close JR (79, 15:23), Logan Brown SR (160, 15:55), Matthew Gutierrez SR (193, 16:15), Robert Glenn JR, Andres Lopez SR, Nicolas Castrillon SR, Connor Boehm SR, Anthony Pastore JR, Josh Nauman JR, Alex Herrera SR, Tony Hinderliter JR

 

Notes – Legendary coach Paul Vandersteen coaches Neuqua Valley’s team one more time before he retires from teaching and coaching at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. He does have four runners returning from his team that finished tenth in the state meet. He has a good group also returning itching to get into the Wildcats’ top seven. “Our summer training went well,” said Vandersteen. “We had more interruptions because of families taking back some vacation time, but overall, we are healthy and looking forward to a great season.”

 

Ryan Palmer is back for his senior season and to lead this team on and off the course. Palmer could be in position to earn an all-state spot along with Zac Close. The team has the talent to have a strong pack which has been a trademark in this program.  Last year’s split was 30 seconds starting at 44th place in the state meet. It could be close to that again this year, this time with two possible all-state runners. That could put them into trophy contention. Matthew Gutierrez and Logan Brown lead this pack. Robert Glenn and Andres Lopez lead at least five more runners that will aim for top seven spots. Palmer, Close, and Glenn ran under 4:25 on the track for 1600-meters last spring. Big things could be ahead for the trio. We will have to see how that transfers to 3-miles.

 

Vandersteen will work his magic with this talented group one more time. The talent is there for this group to finish in the top five or perhaps return to Naperville with a trophy. “Last season, we didn't have the depth to really work together in races like we are known to do,” Vandersteen added. “However, I was very proud of how we persevered and finished in the top ten.  Most people are probably not aware, but we don't plan to 'pack up' during races.  It simply happens naturally because the guys are committed to one another, and they do it in practice.”

 

12 Park Ridge (Maine South)

Coach – Greg Nordahl; 2021 Finish – 24th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Luca Arcuri SR (74, 15:20), William Huddleston SR (109, 15:36), Joey Karlesky SR (132, 15:44), Alex Wille SR (168, 16:00), Luke Pravecek SR (198, 16:18), Dominic Parrillo SR (207, 16:23), Owynn Garrelts SO (216, 16:29), Nico Lospalluto SR, Connor Foley JR, Gino Arcuri SO, Owen Charley JR, Sebastian Ramirez JR

 

Notes – The Hawks ran into a load of illnesses and injuries early last year. They rebounded in the state series finishing sixth at the Lake Park and then 24 in Peoria. This team could challenge for a trophy this fall. They return their top seven from their state race and their top 19 runners from last year. This veteran team could be a threat in big invites this fall. “We had a very solid summer,” said Maine South coach Greg Nordahl. “The senior class is very strong and has done a great job with our typical summer training. We had twelve boys head to the Camp of Champions this year as we split the summer training to allow for this. We have about eight boys that are on their way to our targeted 800 summer miles. There have been no injuries as to this point of the season and we should be able to be at full strength to start.”

 

Luca Arcuri stepped up last fall to be their #1 runner in the state series. Luke Pravecek and Joey Karlesky had good summers in training and could push Arcuri in the front. All three runners could be close to all-state according to Nordahl. “Luca has developed into a solid number one runner,” added Nordahl. “He is very competitive and should be an all-state contender. He has battled many injuries since being on the team and has learned to do the little things to keep himself healthy. His mental attitude is perfect when he competes and his desire to be a great runner matches his dedication.” William Huddleston, Owynn Garrelts, and Alex Wille are a group of perhaps 7 runners that could challenge for the final spots in the top seven. “Last season was very difficult to coach with juggling all of our injuries and COVID,” said Nordahl. “We were only able to run only two of our top seven at the CSL conference championship and placed 11th of 12. However, I knew that we were getting our top guys back for the state series and predicted at the conference race that we would qualify for state. We qualified but did not have the best race at state (two of the top five fell at the turn).

 

If they can get to the state series healthy, Maine South could be in the hunt for a state trophy. Three runners in the top 40 is a possibility. A 45 second split on five runners this fall puts this team in good position. “Last year we had a deficit of senior leadership and this year we have a surplus - an experienced group of athletes that have been running varsity since their sophomore year,” added Nordahl. “Additionally, we have a lot of internal competition for the top seven slots with should make us much stronger 1-5. Last year I predicted that we would be top 20 (we should have been), and this year our goal is top 10 with a strong potential for top 5 if things go well.”

 

13 Naperville (Central)

Coach – Grant Baganz – 2021 Finish – 13th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Luke Noren SR, Thomas Mask SR, Luke Flessner JR, Foster Shelbert JR, Lucas De La Cruz SR, Tyler Browning JR, Samuel Barnard SR, Dylan Evans JR, Payton Etzel SR, Nick Kamp JR, Tim Chan JR, Ted Anderson SR

 

Notes – The 2021 season did not end the way that the Redhawks wanted as they finished 13th at the Hinsdale Central Sectional. Grant Baganz steps in as the new coach replacing retired David Ashton. Baganz coaches the distance runners during track season so this team should not miss a beat. “I will certainly add a bit more of my own personality and twist to the whole mix, but we are a veteran staff that has been together for a decade, and not a lot of core fundamentals will change,” said Baganz. “We work well together and are on the same page. The culture has been established over time, and it is a very good one. We aim to build on the recent successes and confidence established on the track and we'll see what happens.”

 

Even though only two runners are back from that sectional team, this team has the talent to catapult themselves into the elite team level in Class 3A. Thomas Mask and Luke Flessner return from that sectional race. It could be Luke Noren that steps into the top spot. Noren had a great track season running 4:14 in his conference meet for 1600-meters. He qualified for state in that event but did not make the finals. He was part of the 4x8 quartet that finished sixth at state. “Luke is a fun and coachable guy who relates well to everyone,” added Baganz. “He is confident, as he should be, and very competitive. Nothing seems to faze him. We aren't asking him to do anything special...just be himself. When he does that, we know that very good things will happen. Predictions are silly, but we know he will capitalize and build upon his successful track and field season and the confidence-building mindset that went along with it. He established himself among the top returning runners, and it will be fun to be with him on his senior year journey.

 

Tim Browning ran in the regional race where he was the team’s seventh runner. He will contribute this fall. Foster Shelbert could be the surprise for this team. Shelbert was part of Naperville Central’s all-state 4x4 and 4x8 teams. He ran 48.8 in the finals in the 4x4. He opened eyes at Magis Miles a week later running 4:24. His switch flipped. Let’s see if this trend continues this fall.

 

“The importance of confidence has definitely been stressed,” said Baganz. “We have given great evidence as to why we should be very confident in who and what we are. We have a very lofty goals, both in the short term and the long term, and our belief will play a key role in reaching those goals.” I am sure that Naperville Central is hurting from last year’s finish. Tight pack running keeping their top five at or under 35 seconds could put them in the hunt to get to the state meet.

 

14 DeKalb

Coach – Mike Wolf; 2021 Finish – 23rd, 3A State

Top Runners – Riley Newport SR (3, 14:15), Jacob Barraza SO (170, 16:00), Angel Fernandez SR (191, 16:13), Riley Collins JR (215, 16:28), Jack Harrison SR (229, 16:52), Eduardo Castro JR, Nathan Tumminaro SO, Christopher Thunder SO, Calvin VanderSchee JR, Tristan Bogolin JR, Sam DeLaCruz SO, Rafeal Forney SO, Zach Gennardo SR

 

Notes – It would not surprise me to see the Barbs challenge for a top 10 finish in November. The talent and last year’s seasonal experience shows that. DeKalb qualified for the state meet for the first time since 1977 in first finishing fifth at the Lake Park Sectional and then finishing 23rd at state. “Our group learned that they can do more - in training and in races,” their coach Mike Wolf said. “They gained confidence during the season, and they responded well to some ups and downs. They trained at a high level, stayed healthy, and focused on competing in races.”

 

Riley Newport’s time to breakout was last fall when he finished third in the 3A state race. He should do some big things this fall. Jacob Barraza came on strong during his freshman track season and should surprise some people on the course this fall. Riley Collins, Jack Harrison, and Zach Gennardo had strong summers according to Wolf and will work on tightening the pack split on Barraza.

 

The team’s split from their second through fifth runners could be near 35 seconds. That kind of split could mean big things on how this team finishes at state series time. A key to watch is how close can Barraza get close to Newport in races at the end of the year.

 

15 Wheaton-Warrenville South

Coach – Chris Kuntz & Craig Lawrence; 2021 Finish – 19th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Nathan Virginelli SR (70, 15:19), Lucas Yonker SR (136, 15:45), Colin Nelson SR (179, 16:04), Samuel Cruz SR (208, 16:24), Caleb Hatzinger SR (231, 17:03), Josiah Narayanan SO, Carson Fenne SR, Angelo Ruggio JR, Christopher Striedl JR, Nathan Banowetz SR, Aiden Noel SO

Notes – The Tigers again made the trip down to Peoria last November finishing 19th overall. Coaches Chris Kuntz and Craig Lawrence welcome five runners from that team. “The kids have had a Great summer of running,” Kuntz said. “They've been "All In" and they have worked really hard.  We've built our program around pack running once again.”

 

Their all-state runner Michael Adkins graduated. Nathan Virginelli ran well at state last fall and had a breakout track season could be among the top 25 runners in the state. Lucas Yonker will be one of the leaders of that pack along with Colin Nelson, Samuel Cruz, and Caleb Hatzinger.

 

Sophomores Aidan Noel and Josiah Narayanan showed improvement during the summer and could at some point this season step into the Varsity Top 7. This team is deep where at least 12 runners could challenge for the varsity lineup. Keeping that pack close together could guarantee another state trip.

 

16 O’Fallon

Coach – Jon Burnett; 2021 Finish – 22nd, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Dylan Ybarra JR (41, 15:07), Eli Greenstreet JR (80, 15:23), Zach Thoman SO (88, 15:27), Ethan Nieroda SR (195, 16:16), Robert Wocking SO, Chad Brown SO, Dominic Goetz SR, Andrew Roberts JR, Landon Mihalik JR, John Stephenson JR, Mihret Wade JR

 

Notes – Four runners are back for O’Fallon who finished 22nd at last November’s State Meet. This team will have a dynamite first three. Coach Jon Burnett will need to develop their fourth and fifth runners to be in the mix for the top 10 by the state series which is possible.

 

“We stress the same thing that we always stress,” said Burnett. “Consistency is key.  The most important thing about today’s training is coming back tomorrow. The more consistent the training, the more consistent the success.”

 

Dylan Ybarra showed consistency at the end of track season winning the first section of the 3200 at the state meet and lowering his PR down to 9:21. He also ran 4:19 for 1600-meters. A place in the top 10 is not out of the question. Eli Greenstreet was within 10 seconds of Ybarra at times last fall. His training this summer indicates he could be closer to the front for this team. The big plus for this top three is Zach Thoman who is ready to take the next step up. “Thoman also had a great track season (1:58, 4:41, & 10:00),” said Burnett. “He is unafraid of hard work and competition.  He will be a major factor in the team’s success this season.”

 

Their top three could finish in the top 35 at state. The Panthers are deep in talent to fill the final scoring spots including Ethan Nieroda, Robert Wocking, and Chad Scott. Keeping their pack within 20 seconds of each other, and then 40 seconds of the top three could mean big things for this Southern Illinois powerhouse. “We had a very good summer of training. The team is young. The few older team members we have did a great job of working with the younger team members and bringing them along,” added Burnett. “The team learned that they can perform their best on the biggest stage last November. Even though none of these guys had ever run the state meet before, each one set a personal record.”

 

17 Arlington Heights (Hersey)

Coach – Kevin Young; 2021 Finish – 16th, 3A State

 

Top Runners -  Liam Naughton JR (137, 15:45), Aidan Nishimura SR (146, 15:59), Zach Frayder JR (238, 20:17), Cameron Donner JR, Rob Geissenberger JR, AJ Svienty JR, Zach Sheehan JR, Alonso Froy SR, Shawn Simon SO, Owen Wade SO, Nowak Patrick SR, Andy Loh JR

 

Notes – It seems that it is a right of passage. Hersey runs well at state. They graduate half their team that ran in that race. Yet their coach Kevin Young has his team ready to go for the state series. The Huskies only have three runners back from that state team. They do have the talent to challenge in the Mid Suburban League and again make their journey back to Detweiller Park. “Training went pretty well this summer,” Young said. “ Like every summer, a bunch of guys haven taken a leap of faith and increased their commitment to their craft.”

 

This will be a young team. Eight of their top ten runners back are underclassmen. Don’t be fooled by their youth. Liam Naughton ran 4:21 as a sophomore last spring and expects to lead this team. “Liam's had a solid summer,” added Young. “He's been very fortunate the last few years to have Connor Oiler and Sean Safford show him what true commitment to the team looks like. His biggest growth has been consistency and leadership. I expect to see his continued growth this year, and I know he wants his name among the best in the state.” Joey Papanicholas would have been in the team’s top five but transferred to New Trier. Aidan Nishimura and Zach Frayder have state experience and could be among the team’s top five. Great summer running by Cameron Donner, Rob Geissenbergerm, and AJ Svienty puts them in top five spots and in position to do some great things this fall.

 

This will be fun  to watch their development. It does not matter where they start this year. The Huskies could be among the top 10 by the time they get to Peoria. “We stressed team but process as well. Young said. “Connor Oiler has been the rock of the team since his junior year, and now with his absence there's a "changing of the guard." The junior class has become the core of this team and have really taken on every challenge that's been placed in front of them. We expect big things by the end of our season, but it's going to be a lot of fun to watch their growth from week to week. A lot of guys will be experiencing varsity for the first time, and that's exciting”

 

18 Mt. Prospect (Prospect)

Coach – Jay Renaud; 2021 Finish – 26th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Michael Piagari JR (149, 15:51), Luka Kuzmanovic SR (169, 16:00), Jack Murphy SR (184, 16:10), Andrew Katsogianos SR (211, 16:27), Finely Moss SO, John Peterson JR, Demetri Panagakos JR, Alex Bonnette JR, Owen Smith JR, Colin Awe JR, Aidan Letzel JR, Heathrow Hammar JR (transfer from Guthrie OK)

 

Notes – The Knights made it back to state for the first time since 2016 first finishing seventh at the Hoffman Estates Sectional and then 26 the following week in Peoria. “Summer running has gone extremely well,” Jay Renaud said. “I'm happy where our guys are at. We are 100% healthy right now, but we might have a slow start to the season as some of our top guys will be getting into running a little late.”

 

One runner that started late was Luka Kuzmanovic who was slowed by shin splints for most of the summer. He is now getting back into shape. And should be ready in September. Their top runner from state, Michael Piagari, suffered a stress fracture during track and has now been training for the past two weeks. Finley Moss has move up into the top seven and could be a surprise on this team. Andrew Katsogianos and Jack Murphy had good summers and again should be in their team’s top five.

 

We may not see Prospect at full strength until the end of September. This squad has the talent to repeat last year’s Peoria state trip. They have everything in place to accomplish that. “We took a team trip to Lorado Taft this summer, and it made me realize how close this team is to one another,” said Renaud. “Our seniors have made our freshmen feel included in everything they've done all summer.”

 

19 Orland Park (Sandburg)

Coach – John O’Malley – 2021 Finish – 1st, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Grant Giblin JR (49, 15:11), Trent Anderson SR (58, 15:16), Ibrahim Tineh SR (107, 15:36), Evan Diemling SR (183, 16:09), Luke Atzman SO, Matt Coleman SO, Damian Martinez SO, Matteo Lugo SR, Connor Wholley SO, Nick Charles SR

 

Notes – This could be a rebuilding season for the defending state champions. Four runners are back from that state championship team. Coach John O’Malley only has three runners back that have run under five-minutes for the mile. “Our summer was fantastic in the sense that I witnessed tremendous growth in our group and a strong connection to our incoming freshmen and younger guys,” Coach O’Malley said. “We definitely lost some powerful guys both competitively and from the standpoint of how they made others better. So, the challenge of the summer was for guys to step into some new roles, take on the opportunity to be leaders and step up, and to make really strong connections. We really had a successful summer in that regard and that makes me excited.”

 

Trent Anderson was one of their top five last fall. He could be the top runner for the team this season after lowering his 1600 PR down to 4:20 at Magis Miles. He is someone to watch in the top 25. It is hard to tell how Grant Giblin entering this season. Injuries slowed him down his summer training. “I could see him rolling 14:30 or 15:15,” O’Malley speculated. “I don't know.” Ibrahim Tineh made huge strides last fall and could be close to these two runners this fall. Evan Diemling also ran state and should be a part of their top five. Sophomores Luke Atzman, Matt Coleman, and Damian Martinez should all play a part of the team’s top seven.

 

Sandburg is going to be a work in progress. We could see them struggle to make it out of sectionals or we can see them finish in the top 10 at state. Staying healthy will be something that will need to happen. I know they will show improvement this season but how much? “We will be a construction project. We normally do a TON of work to get kids out but covid disabled us from doing so for the last two years. We will be thin but also building a new generation of guys with a fun freshmen class. We got back to basics,” O’Malley said. “We have a total of 11 upperclassmen. I like our guys and I will saddle up and ride with them any day of the week. I'm really excited!”

 

20 Elmhurst (York)

Coach – Charlie Kern; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Aidan Hill SR (83, 15:24), Max Zangan SO, Payton Bryk SR, Daniel O’Shaughnessy SR, Luke Lestina SR, Jack Carroll SR, Ian Davies JR, Evan Zapata SO, Conor Bradford SO, Zach Salteil SO

 

Notes – Graduation hit this program hard that finished eighth in last year’s state meet. 7  of last year’s top 12 graduated. Work will need to be done to get this team back to the state meet. Coach Charlie Kern made sure that work began in the summer. “We used the summer to slowly increase mileage and complete one highly taxing workout each week,” Kern said. “We were able to avoid injuries and consistently train.  Their consistency allowed everyone to improve over the course of the summer.  This was very important for the development of our very inexperienced team.  With one returner with state meet experience, we find ourselves focusing on self and team improvement.  The boys have found value in working and accepted it as a virtue in and of itself.  Regardless of our final place at conference and IHSA events, the boys will be better equipped for their future.”

 

Two seniors will be the leaders on this team. Aidan Hill is the only returning state runner finishing 83rd. His improvement over the past year shows he could surprise people this fall. “He has relied on his natural talent but is now discovering he can best improve by putting in consistent work,” said Kern. “While his summer was not without some setbacks, he has trained more than ever before.  We are excited to see the fruits of his labor.” Payton Bryk ran in his team’s sectional race and has taken his running up another level. “He started the summer running a half marathon in 1:19,” added Kern. “His training went to a new level from that point forward.  Besides being an accomplished runner, he is a phenomenal saxophone player and was invited to a national level camp in NY.  This amazing opportunity separated him from the team, but it was also an opportunity for Payton to prove how much he wants to succeed.”

 

Daniel O’Shaughnessy showed improvement in track and could be the surprise on this team. Luke Lestina missed most fall due to a stress fracture but is back and could be an integral part of their top five. Max Zangan was the team’s seventh runner at the NXR Midwest meet at the end of the season. His improvement this fall will play a part of the team’s success.

 

There are some that are downplaying this team because of the people they lost to graduation but not considering the team that York has. The top eight runners have separated themselves from the rest of the team. An injury free season needs to be something that this York team experiences to return to Peoria in November once again. “Graduation has significantly impacted our team.  We do not have any stars; we have inexperienced varsity runners,” Kern said. “But what we do have is a group of athletes that are great kids.  They have been very open to instruction and have been very focused on the process of improving.  I don't know the final outcome of the season, but I do know that it will be an exciting one and this group will do everything they can to maximize their potential.”

 

21 Chicago (Lane Tech)

Coach – Kris Roof; 2021 Finish – 7th, 3A Lyons Township Regional

 

Top Runners – Hunter Whitney SR (23, 14:51), Will Kozlowski JR, Tommy Stecz SR, Ian Yeagle SR, Anan Bauman JR, William Archer SR, Eli Furgeson SR, Sam Osorio SR, Cullen Kehoe JR, Brendan Bradish JR, Paul Neely JR, Charlie Beals SR.

 

Notes – Lane Tech had the misfortunate to be assigned to the toughest regional last fall at Lyons Township. Their season ended prematurely finishing seventh at that race. This team is determined not to let that happen again. The Indians return four runners from that regional team. “Our returning varsity and top FS guys had a great summer of training,” said their coach, Kris Roof. “There was a great balance of quality and quantity.”

 

This team starts with Hunter Whitney who has stepped into the state spotlight over the past 12 months. Whitney earned all-state honors last fall finishing 23rd. A month later he ran 15:05 for 5k at the RunningLane Championships. His track season included all-state in the 1600 and running 9:07 post-season. He will lead this team. He could also lead this state. Will Kozlowski had a solid summer training and should be the team’s second runner. Ian Yeagle, Anan Bauman, and Tommy Stecz will be some of the runners that challenge for a top five spot.

 

Lane Tech could make it to state but that depends which way their road will lead them in the state series. The team could have a 50 second split on Kozlowski from 2 to 5. They need to narrow that down and stay within 25 seconds of Whitney. A lot of learning happened last fall. We will see how that translates this fall. After their regional race, Roof reflected that “it would be nice to actually bring an entire team to STATE!”

 

22 Barrington

Coach – Thomas Root; 2021 Finish – 14th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Max Lewis JR (135, 15:45), Andre Von Vuren SR (157, 15:51), Avery Erickson SO (196, 16:17), Manasyu Chaudhari JR (transfer from Fremd), Ethan Scott SO, Justin Hurtado SO, Joe Bregenzer SO, Sam Deweerdt SR, Jack Ward SR, Connor Baird JR, Alex Anderson SR, Srinivas Jagannath JR, Jack Kusmerz SO.

 

Notes – Barrington is one of those teams that will need to rebuild. Coach Thomas Root returns three runners from last year’s team that finished 14th in the 3A State Meet. “Our group has been extremely motivated and unified in their training,” said Root. “We are definitely on the "young side" but our young guys are extremely eager to prove themselves and make their mark this season.”

 

Max Lewis was the team’s fourth runner and should be one of the top runners for Barrington this fall. “Max is shaping into a leader within our squad,” Root said. “He's hungrier than ever to prove himself after a frustrating injury-riddled sophomore campaign.” Andre Von Vuren and Avery Erickson have state meet experience and will also be the core of this team’s top seven. Manasyu Chaudhari, a transfer for Fremd, could jump into the team’s top five and will be a plus for Barrington. Sophomores Ethan Scott and Joe Bregenzer made enormous leaps in improvement according to Root and should find their way into the top five.

 

This team will be a work in progress this fall. We may not find out until October how good this team is. “This group desperately wants to secure a state trophy, something that the boys' side at Barrington has never achieved,” added Root. “We've focused on the process, sacrifices, and mentality that that will require.”

 

23 Wheaton (North)

Coach – Nate Roe; 2021 Finish – 15th, 3A State

Top Runners – Caleb Youngstedt SR (125, 15:40), Aidan Murphy SO (165, 15:58), Ben Shebar SR (187, 16:11), Aidan Herbel SR (197, 16:17), Jude Hubbard JR, Hudson Romaine SR, Simeon Turner SR, Isaac Schuda JR, Dixon Stapleton SR, Luke Haworth SO, Anthony Curiale SR, Donovan Lake JR, Jason Aviles SR, Daniel Xochitecatl FR

 

Notes – There have been years where the Falcons have just missed out on making the end of year Peoria trip. That was not the case last year when they finished 15th at the state meet. Coach Nate Roe did lose some of his top seven but returns four runners from that group. “Our summer training has been very steady,” said Roe. “We tend to build into the season and spend most of our time with longer runs and threshold runs. Almost everyone has come out healthy and they are ready to take the next step. As usual, we'll do our best racing in October and November.  We'll have a bit of a learning curve early for some guys moving up, but I think we return enough experience to help with that.”

 

Caleb Youngstedt’s track season started slow due to IT band problems. He still made it to state in the 3200 Meter Run. “He'd like to finish high in the big invites and lead our team to a higher state finish,” Roe stated. “He continues to get stronger and will work on pushing through the middle of races.” Aidan Murphy, Ben Shebar, and Aidan Herbel wert part of the top seven and form a strong top five. Simeon Turner and Isaac Schuda are some of a talented group that will challenge for varsity spots.

 

No doubt on this team this fall making it back to Peoria. Keeping their top five split under 45 seconds could mean big things when they get to the state series meets. “We've really stressed consistency and accountability,” stated Roe “There have been several times that guys have had to train on their own because of travel or other obligations.  Nevertheless, they have been able to keep training and get the work in.  I'm ready for school to start so that we can all consistently be together.”

 

24 Chicago (Jones Prep)

Coach – Carson Vittorio; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

Top Runners – Sam Berlinghof JR (67, 15:18), Matthew DeSantis SR, Daniel Leonard SR, Alexander Leonard JR, Samuel Mortensen SR, Spencer Dixon JR, Jayden Reyes SR, Esteban Medina SR, Andrew Nelson JR, Shammai Winitzer SR

 

Notes – The Eagles just missed out on a trip to Peoria last October finishing eighth at the Hinsdale Central Sectional. Five runners are back from that team. The head coach of that team Andrew Adelman is not having taken a teaching position at Downers Grove North. Carson Vittorio steps in as the new coach. Vittorio coached the distance runners last spring during track. “I definitely learned that this team needed some improvement when it came to the mental aspect,” stated Vittorio. “That is something we really addressed over the last 6 or so months and I think that it's really showing now. We have focused on making ourselves not overthink things when it comes to racing and just going off our instincts. The culture at the school being a selective enrollment school makes kids very nervous and afraid at times to fail, which causes them to overthink racing.”

 

Sam Berlinghof starts his junior season as the top runner for Jones Prep. He ran 4:21/9:36 during the frack season. The junior suffered a repetitive stress injury that has slowed down his training the past month. He should be ready to go by the start of the season according to his coach. Matthew DeSantis stepped up with a great summer of training and could push for the top spot. Jayden Reyes, Danny Leonard, and Sam Mortensen are runners that you could see in the top five along with Andrew Leonard.

 

This team could make it to state in November. The big factor could be the adaption of training with their new coach. This is Vittorio’s second year in coaching. He was an assistant at Minooka Junior High last fall. “I've keep team culture items from Coach Adelmann's time at Jones but have definitely changed up some training philosophy,” Vittorio added. “Instead of peaking mileage in the summertime we now hold our peak mileage week over a span of 6 weeks until around Naperville Twilight, with rest weeks added in as well. We have upped mileage as well to athletes now reaching around 65 miles as their peak weeks. We have also had a bigger emphasis on doing fast paced speed development items after our runs. Mainly flying 150s as well as flying 30s, 40s, etc. I've seen a major increase in the athletes' finishes and flat end speed which was something that needed to be addressed.”

 

25 Oswego

Coach – Chase Hall; 2021 Finish – 5th, 3A State

Top Runners – Brady Nelson SR (66, 15:18), Brodey Skipworth SR, Matt Padilla SR, Stephen Lundy SR, Christian McDaniel JR, Mitchell Bucher JR, Adam Kararo SO, Matthew Everix SO, Logan Stogentin JR, Andrew Anderson SO, Max Bonesz SO, Matthew Sobecki FR, Jeremiah Houston FR

 

Notes – Chase Hall, an assistant coach for this team, steps in as the new coach replacing Dan Whipple who retired. It may be hard to better this team’s accomplishments last fall including winning the Southwest Prairie Conference and finishing fifth in the state meet. Only one runner is back from that state team. Only four of last year’s top 12 runners are back. “We had a strong tight knit group of guys, many of which made the transition from developmental training up to a varsity level of training,” Hall said.

 

Brady Nelson is the only runner back. He was the team’s fourth runner at state. “Brady had a good summer,” added Hall. “He is getting used to his new training partners and hopes to be in the top 20 at the state meet.” After Nelson, it could be 12 runners that do not have varsity experience looking for one of the six remaining top seven spots. Brodey Skipworth and Matt Padilla should lead that group. Stephen Lundy along with sophomores Adam Kararo, Matt Everex, and Andrew Anderson should also give the Panthers top five a boost.

 

“The thing we lost most from our graduation class is leadership,” Hall stated. “Due to their talent and dedication, the class of 2022 spent most of their high school careers as the leaders of the program. Class of 2022 was a large graduating class I am a little stressed about having low numbers come out of the season, but we are up to 25+ for the season.”

 

26 St. Charles (East)

Coach – Chris Bosworth; 2021 Finish – 17th, 3A State

Top Runners – Mitch Garcia SR (92, 15:29), Jedidiah Wilson JR (151, 15:52), Lexton Rockwell SR (176, 16:03), Michael Wilson FR, Ben Leidig SR, Liam King SR, Greyson Ellensohn SO, Oscar Frontjes JR, James Heuser SO, Ryan Zenkner SR, Ryan Sponzilli SR, Sebastian Semenek JR, AJ Komerska SR

 

Notes – The Saints will rebuild/reload for the 2022 season. It is hard to replace a state champion like Micah Wilson and how he influenced this program. “One thing that I have stressed over the summer is that we have to improve on our team culture,” their coach Chris Bosworth said. “Also, establishing this team's identity instead of looking at the past is something that has been discussed numerous times over the summer.”

 

Three runners are back from last year’s team led by Mitch Garcia who was the team’s second runner in the state meet. “He has continued to train at a high level throughout the summer,” Bosworth added. “He has learned a lot over the last year. Track sectionals were a rough time for him. He was on pace for state qualifying time in the 3200 with 600 to go. He is using this as a little bit of extra motivation this year. Mitch is a great teammate who strives to be at his best daily and works to help others do the same.”

 

Jedidiah Wilson was the team’s fourth runner at state. A series of injuries during track season and then again this summer halted his training until two weeks ago. He could be a factor for this team when they get closer to the state series. Michael Wilson (no relation to Jed & Micah) is a freshman that Bosworth has high hopes for. He will stay on the frosh/soph level for most of the season gaining high school experience. Leyton Rockwell, Ben Leidig, Liam Hill, and Greyson Ellensohn are expected to contribute to the team’s top five.

 

This team will need to stress on pack running this fall for success. The Saints still have a good chance of returning to the house on the hill and Detweiller Park. “We will be very young and inexperienced this year,” Bosworth concluded. “Throughout the season, the lineup will have many moving parts. We are focused on taking the season one week at a time, learning from workouts and races, and creating attainable/realistic goals both individually and as a team). Bringing the team's culture to a higher level than last season is something I am going to focus on during the season.  Our motto is WE before ME this year.”

 

27 Bolingbrook

Coach – Jeff Lester; 2021 Finish – 12th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Hussein Almousawi JR, Ignacio Escamilla SO, Vincent DeFarno JR, Luke Sarofim SR, Benjamin Cabas JR, Aidan Rybialek SR, Sean O’Donnell SR, Cameron Crosier SR, Logan Sourile SR, Aaron DeMille JR, Isaac Stowers FR

 

Notes – One of the surprise teams in Class 3A last fall was this Bolingbrook team. Despite the fact that they lost 800 state champion Brett Wasick to graduation, the youth and promise on this team indicates that 2021 was not a one-time shot.

“Our training went well. We had the biggest XC camp we have ever had, and many guys bought in and stayed consistent over the summer,” Bolingbrook coach Jeff Lester said. “Throughout the summer, we have talked a lot about consistency and keeping the end goal in mind. Many of the guys have held each other accountable in that sense.”

 

Four runners are back from the sectional team that finished 12th at the Hinsdale Central Sectional. Ignacio Escamilla was the team’s top runner in most meets last year as a freshman. “Ignacio had a few injuries pop up in the Track season,” added Lester “This led to very inconsistent performances. This summer he has gotten fully healthy and has looked really great this summer. We are very excited for what he do this fall.” Vincent DeFarno had a good summer of training and could challenge Hussein Almousawi for the second spot. Isaac Stowers, Luke Sarofim, and Ben Cabas will also challenge for the top five. A key will be the development of the pack behind Escamilla this fall. Keeping their top five within 60 seconds of each other pushes them closer to a chance to make it to Peoria in November.

 

28 Downers Grove (South)

Coach – Brian Caldwell; 2021 Finish – 18th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Jeffrey Spirek SR (144, 15:49), Carter Smott SR (158, 15:54), Josh Poeschel JR (164, 15:57), Shane Hosty SR, Logan Rodi SR, Jeremy Wilczak SR, Anthony Addante JR, Nolan Crooks SR, Luke Urban SR, Colin McLaughlin SR, Joshua Traugott SR, Billy Neumann SO

 

Notes – Four runners have graduated from last year’s state team that finished 18. There is still talent on this team that could repeat another state trip. “We've seen the entire group seemingly gain fitness without any significant setbacks to any prospective varsity runners,” their coach Brian Caldwell said. ”It's been really great to see new leaders emerge after the loss of some great runners and leaders.”

 

Jeffrey Spirek, Josh Poeschel, and Carter Smott have state meet experience. They should be the front runners for this team. “Carter looks really good at this point,” said Caldwell. “He's had a solid summer and I can tell he's extremely motivated and ready to be a leader for the team. He's been a captain for years now, but now clearly knows it's his time to also lead by example. Along with teammate Josh Poeschel (who beat Carter by a couple seconds in our 3k time trial), we have a couple potential studs up front.”

 

Shane Hosty and Logan Rodi are seniors that could lead this team’s pack in the top five. Nolan Crooks and Jeremy Wilczak had good summers of running and should jump into that group. “We are really optimistic about the coming season despite losing immense talent and incredible character from our entire senior class,” Caldwell said. “We've put in a lot of quality, albeit not flashy work as a group since June, but ultimately this summer was prioritized in the following way: Team culture was #1, everything else was tied for #2.”

 

29 Minooka

Coach – Kevin Gummerson; 2021 Finish – 13th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Zachary Balzer SR (18, 14:47), Caleb Kies JR (190, 16:12), Hayden Host JR (210, 16:25), Jax Todd JR, Nick Paugys SR, Ben Resar SR, Tyler Herrera JR, Benjamin Paugys SR, Liam Anderson JR, Sam Cernetich SO, Max Balkema SR, Mason Boles JR, Nico Cimino FR, Nathan Schalk FR

 

Notes – It could be a reloading year for the Indians after finishing 13th in the state meet. Three runners are back from that team. “I have been very pleased with their effort this summer,” said their coach, Kevin Gummerson. “These boys have been consistent and have been willing to do the work that it takes to be successful.”

 

Minooka is benefitted by the fact is last year’s top runner Zachary Balzer is back. Balzer was all-state runners last fall and added to that with a successful track campaign. A top five individual finish is not out of the question. Caleb Kies and Hayden Host were the team’s sixth and seventh runners at state. They should move into leading the pack behind Balzer.

 

Tyler Herrera showed improvement this summer and could join Kies and Host in front of that pack. Ben Resar along with Ben and Nick Paugys showed improvement this summer and should be among that group. A solid pack will be needed behind Balzer to get this team back to the state meet. “We have lost a lot to graduation and while we will miss those guys, it is exciting to see a new group of seniors that has been working, waiting, and learning. Now they will get their shot,” added Gummerson.

 

30 Frankfort (Lincoln-Way East)

Coach – Ross Widinski; 2021 Finish – 27th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Kevin Chomiak JR (167, 15:55), Jack Roberts SR (184, 16:11), Justin Falejczyk SR (206, 16:21), Miguel Garcia SR (222, 16:37),  Kyle Arnold JR, Michael O’Brien JR, Jacob Pinkston JR, Landon Johnson SO, Gerry Cushing SR, Sean Hanrahan SO, Drew Arnold JR, Declan Hurley JR

 

Notes – The Griffins made it to Detweiller Park last fall finishing 27th in the 3A State race. They do lose their top runner Nolan Rogers to graduation but do return four runners from that state team. Kevin Chomiak, a junior, steps up and should be the team’s top runner. “Kevin was one of our top three runners last year as a sophomore (including an all-regional finish),” said East coach Ross Widinski. “He needed to step away from track but has a shot at returning to form this season. The depth I hope to see from our team this season should allow him to work back slowly and be ready for the end of the season meets. I'm glad he is back with us.”

 

Justin Falejczyk, Jack Roberts, and Miguel Garcia all ran at state last year. That experience will benefit this team especially in the state series. Kyle Arnold ran in their regional race and could challenge for a top five spot along with Ryan Dell, Tizoc Landeros, and Sean Hanrahan. The team has that depth where their five through seven spots could be interchangeable. East may go through some growing pains early this season. They could be tough when we get to the state series.

 

Teams to Watch (In Alphabetical Order)

 

Algonquin (Jacobs)

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

 

Top Runners – Alec Melendez SR, Andrew Beyer JR, Aidan DeMuth SR, Adam Lakeman SR, Matthew Andreano JR, Jake Fetting JR, Julian Van Antwerp SR, Brendan Sweet SR, Charlie Mason JR, Trent Trella SR

 

Notes – The Golden Eagles should improve from last year’s 12 place finish at the Hoffman Estates Sectional.  This team should be senior oriented with five runners back from that sectional team. Alec Melendez was the team’s top runner in their conference meet and lead runner from the sectional. He could be the top runner this fall along with Aidan DeMuth ran 9:46 on the track last spring and has showed even more improvement over the summer. He could be with Melendez in the front.

 

Andrew Beyer who showed improvement over the summer. “Last year in track, Andrew  ran a 4:55 in the 1600, but has made a huge improvement this summer, even beating our top 2 guys in workouts,” said his coach, Kevin Christian. “We were expecting to have a strong top 2 in Aiden DeMuth and Alec Melendez, but Andrew Beyer is showing he is just as good as those two and will make for a solid top 3.” Seniors Adam Lakeman and Julian Van Antwerp along with junior Matthew Andreano are runners to watch in that top five.

 

This team has state potential but will need to get their front three closer to the front in races along with a top 5 split under 50 seconds. “With the improvement of Andrew Beyer, we have three runners who could all finish right behind the top couple runners in the FVC, and possibly all of them in the top 20 to 30 at sectionals,” said Christian. “The next three, Julian Van Antwerp, Adam Lakeman, and Matt Andreano are all ahead of where they were last year and if they can continue to improve at this rate we could have our best team ever. We will be a pack team, but that pack is only successful if they can push each other and that is what they've done all summer.”

 

Aurora (Waubonsie Valley)

Coach – Kevin Rafferty; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Zach Self SR, Gavin Ebenezer SR, Austin McInturff JR, Kyle Sullivan SR, Parth Thakkar SR, Jonathan Treuhaft SR, Zach Hayden JR, Aryan Sapre SR, Alexander Trimeloni SR (transfer from Metea Valley)

 

Notes – The Warriors came close to make it out of the tough Hinsdale Central last fall being ranked all season. They graduate all but one runner from their top seven that finished ninth. “I think the main thing was that I'm finally old enough and confident in myself enough to appreciate the journey even if the destination wasn't what we wanted,” said Waubonsie Valley coach, Kevin Rafferty. “I was pretty crushed that the boys missed out on qualifying for state in cross country. I truly think last year's group is up there with the 2007 and 2001 teams, but we don't have that 1 to 1 comparison of the state meet to compare times.”

 

Zach Self was the team’s seventh runner in that sectional race and lone returning runner from that group. “He's a good kid and legitimately cares about his teammates,” added Rafferty. “I don't think Self cares what man he is on the team as long as the team is doing well.” Gavin Ebenezer ran in their regional race and should be part of the top five. Kyle Sullivan, Austin McInturff, or Zach Hayden all should be in the top five and fighting for the #1 spot. This team believes in great pack running. We should see more of that again this fall. “We had a really great summer,” Rafferty said. “The timed effort we had on our last week of the summer was good and showed an immense amount of progress. We're still building that connective tissue and trust between the guys, but we have talent.”

 

Aurora (West Aurora)

Coach – Tony Rizzo; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A Oswego East Regional

 

Top Runners – Sean Heetland JR, Ayden Jenkins JR, Devyn Jenkins JR, Branden DeLeon JR, Aiden Massaro JR, Dominic Serio SO, Giovanni Garcia JR, Samuel Rocio JR, Martin Alanis SR, Eddie Deems JR

 

Notes – The Blackhawks did not advance out of regionals finishing eighth at Oswego East. There is promise this fall since the majority of their top seven should be underclassmen. “I stressed the team mindset. In order to move forward, we need to work together and race together,” said their coach Tony Rizzo. “Due to the competitive nature of our Regional and the Sectional, we made changes to the training to better prepare the athletes for that level of competition.  While we may not have a distinct front runner, I have a team that will have a fantastic top 5 spread.”

 

Sean Heetland advanced individually to sectionals last year. He should be the top runner for this team. “There is not enough positive things I can say about Sean,” Rizzo said. “As a 3 sport athlete, he spent tons of summertime with us and basketball. His training was spot on, and he worked extremely hard, and the racing will speak for itself. Devyn and Ayden Jenkins are solid second and third runners for this team. Brandon DeLeon and Aiden Massaro lead three other runners that will challenge for spots in the top five. Their pack on five needs to be at 47 seconds or under for this team to run after regionals.

 

Batavia

Coach – Bruno Meeks; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A Oswego East Regional

 

Top Runners – Quintin Lowe SR (119, 15:39), Francesco Benelli SO, David Bednarek SO, Colin Knowles JR, Alejandro Jacob SO, Ethan Storie JR, Felipe Wickler JR, William Streepey JR, Corne DuToit JR, Adam Miller SR, Cody Rummel FR

 

Notes – Batavia success during the track season winning a 3A team title could rub off on this team. This squad is young with four runners back from a team that failed to advance out of a tough Oswego East Regional. “With such a young group, the main message has been to focus on growth and only on variables that we can control,” said their coach Bronco Meeks. “If they can focus on getting better as a team, they will have a very successful season.”

 

Quintin Lowe played a significant role on the team during the spring and will again be the team’s top runner. “He has showed tremendous growth the past few seasons,” Meeks said. “One thing that he struggled with in the past was being consistent at high level meets. During the past track season, it was really great to see him grow into an athlete that not only has confidence, but now craves high pressure situations. Quintin's newfound confidence has enabled him to grow into a leader this year. I feel that the growth we are seeing in some of are younger athletes can be attributed to the example of excellence and the encouragement that he offers them.”

 

9 of the next 11 runners behind Lowe from last year were underclassmen. We will have to see how this team grows as the season progresses. Juniors Felipe Wickler and Colin Knowles should lead the team’s pack with sophomores Francesco Benelli, David Bednarek, and Alejandro Jacob should be close behind. “Our group is young,” concluded Meeks. “We will only have 2 seniors that will be on our varsity. It will take a few meets for this group to build confidence and really understand what they are capable of. They have lofty goals that are achievable if they maintain their work ethic and a growth mindset throughout the season. The team as a whole is fun and I am excited to be a part of their journey this year.”

 

Chicago (St. Ignatius Prep)

Coach – Ed Ernst – 2021 Finish; 15th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Matthew Conroy JR, Thomas Fitzpatrick SR, Brandon Mendoza JR, Duncan DeProfio SR, Henry Fink JR, Logan Meyers SR, Henry Wright SR, Sean Burke SR, Christian Turner SR, Luke Turner SR, Daniel Trevino SO

 

Notes – It could be a rebuilding year for the Wolfpack after graduating five runners from their 15th place team at the Hinsdale Central Sectional. “We had a successful summer training camp, with a fun week in Denver for 14 boys,” said Ed Ernst. “We had a lot of seniors with commitments—jobs and other programs--this summer, who trained on their own.”

 

Brandon Mendoza and Thomas Fitzpatrick ran in that sectional race. “Our three top runners look to be juniors with Matthew Conroy, Brandon Mendoza, and Henry Fink—who all trained well this summer and ran well in Colorado,” added Ernst. Fitzpatrick, and Dustin DeProfio will challenge for top five spots. Conroy was injured at the end of last fall but came back during the track season. Keep an eye on him this fall.

 

Help may also come from a strong freshman class. “In recent years we’ve begun season with 15-17 boys already in competition for 14 postseason spots.  This year that number is more like nine,” said Ernst. “We have open spots for new team members to step into. That will include freshmen runners from IESA state champ St. Benedict and from trophy winner Old Saint Mary’s, including Ethan Petrillo, Cameron Shure, Zach Tan, and Brady Vacek, and Patrick and Aidan Tansor.”

 

Edwardsville

Coach – George Patrylak; 2021 Finish – 20th, 3A State

 

Top Runners – Hugh Davis SO (203, 16:20), Ben Perulfi JR ( 230, 16:53), Parker Weaver SO, Alex Uder JR, Jackson Amick SO, Noah Lewis SO, Sam Wittek SR, Ben Ziobro SR, Daniel Story SO, Kenan Strahm JR

 

Notes – This will be rebuilding season for the Tigers since multiple state champion Ryan Watts and last spring’s all stater Geordan Patrylak have graduated. Two runners are back from last year’s state team. “This has been a summer of adjustments,” said Edwardsville Coach George Patrylak. “We went from our largest group of seniors to one of our smallest.  They have been doing a great job leading, but it will be a work in progress.  Several of our athletes have been working hard, as they know they have some gaps to fill after returning only one runner who raced at State last year.”

 

Hugh Davis was the team’s fifth state runner and Ben Perulfi was seventh lead this group. “Last year, Hugh was just trying to figure cross country out and determine where he belongs,” Patrylak said. “Obviously, Hugh is talented, but he has started to pair that talent with hard work and commitment. I think Hugh will continue to improve and has a very good chance of making it to State this year. This is still only Hugh's second season of cross country, so we are hoping for a big jump.”

 

Patrylak has a talented group of freshmen led by Matthew Lueking and Taylor Davis that may step into the team’s stop seven. Jackson Amick had a strong summer and could find his way into the top seven. This team is a mystery especially with the graduation losses. It also provides opportunity for runners to step up. “We have a young and talented team,” added Patrylak. “Honestly, by the postseason, I would expect 3-4 of our varsity runners to be freshman and up to 6 total fresh/soph athletes. With losing so many seniors to graduation, there is a lot more teaching and explaining going on this summer.  Once we get the team to understand the expectations for workouts and what we are trying to achieve, I think things will really start to take off.  We have had two solid classes back-to-back, now we need some of our juniors and seniors to take the reins and continue to guide our underclassmen in the right direction.”

 

Evanston Township

Coach – Don Michelin; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – Henry O’Malley JR, Samuel Froum SO, Jack Kleinschmit JR, Andrew Ross SR, Declan Ahern SR, Luke Ng SR, Torin Ravi SR, Emerson Warren SR, Patrick Tu SO, Sachin Clark SR

 

Notes – Two runners are back from Evanston’s team that finished ninth last year at the Hoffman Estates Sectional. Henry O’Malley displayed improvement during his sophomore track season and should be the team’s top runner. Samuel Froum as a freshman was the team’s fourth sectional runner. He could make a huge jump this fall. Jack Kleinschmit, Andrew Ross, and Declan Ahern are projected to be in the team’s top five. O’Malley could surprise some in bigger races this season. Keeping their top five split under 45 seconds could keep the Wildkits among the top half of their sectional.

 

Flossmoor (Homewood-F.)

Coach – Brian O’Connell; 2021 Finish – 13th, 3A Quincy Sectional

 

Top Runners – Habtamu Epley JR (163, 15:56), Dane Ivancevic SR, John Hockenberry JR, Damarion Best JR, Tyler Moore SR, Ryan Castady SO, Langston Walton SR, Alexander Pease SR, Nelson Speaks JR

 

Notes – The Vikings made it to sectionals for the first time since 2010. Things look bright for this team after finishing 13 at the Quincy Sectional. “Our returning athletes had their most productive summer in terms of overall mileage and consistency,” said Brian O’Donnell “While we had a well-attended and positive summer contact period, much of the success of this summer was the result of the great deal of independent commitment demonstrated by the veteran athletes on the team. When we were not running together at camp these athletes held the team accountable in order to avoid lapses in training.”

 

Habtamu Epley qualified individually last fall for the state meet and again will lead this team. Dane Ivancevic, John Hockenberry, and Damarion Best had a good summer of training and are ready to make the next step up in sectionals. This could be a top 10 sectional team this fall. “This is a wonderful group of athletes to work with and I have enjoyed every minute of it,” O’Donnell said. “I think the most important aspect of the improvement the team experienced last season is that these athletes began to believe in themselves. Out of that belief came the setting of larger goals, both for individual achievement and for the team. In response to these goals being discussed came the acknowledgement that our commitment to training would have to change in order to realistically chase these goals. It showed in their approach to this summer, and I am excited to see how they all develop during this upcoming season.”

 

Geneva

Coach – Peter Raak; 2021 Finish – 11th, 3A Lake Park Sectional

 

Top Runners – Anthony Ross SR, Julian Hipp SO, David Roeder SR, Jack Kuehl SR, Evan Kirby SR, Andrew Warcup SR, Dominic Ross SO, Caleb Walton SR, Brady Stoermer JR, Luke Gaston SO, Wyatt Gross JR

 

Notes – Geneva will gear up for hopefully a great 2022 season after finishing 11 last year at the Lake Park Sectional. The Vikings have some great talent returning with six of their top seven back. “This was a quality summer of training for us,” said Peter Raak.   “The kids were very dedicated over June and July to get their daily and weekly miles in.  They are a very motivated and focused group and have some big goals this year.”

 

The big goals they have could be a trip to the state meet. Anthony Ross leads this team after running as the team’s #2 runner last season. “Anthony has tremendous upside as a runner,” said Raak. “He is a tremendous athlete and an extremely strong individual who also competes NATIONALLY in Ninja Warrior.  He's had seasons and summers interrupted by some nagging injuries and appendicitis.  Because of this, he is very eager to have a healthy and complete season where he can really show what he's capable of.” Julian Hipp came on strong at the end of his freshman season as the team’s third runner. Andrew Warcup, David Roeper, Jack Kuehl, and Evan Kirby put in good work and will also challenge for the top spot. Wyatt Gross has been hit by the injury bug the past couple of years. He is healthy and could be a surprise for this team.

 

Glen Ellyn (Glenbard West)

Coach – Kyle Nugent; 2021 Finish – 10th, 3A Lake Park Sectional

 

Top Runners – Anthony Nitti JR, Owen Reifel SR, Gio Hernandez JR, Chuck Halden JR, Nolan Nuccio SR, Julian Hernandez JR, Drew Bennett JR, Matthew Verbiser SR, Cayden Camp SO, Ryan Fader SO, Nile Woods FR

 

Notes – It could be a rebuilding year for the Hilltoppers finishing 10th to end last year at the Lake Park Sectional. Only two runners are back from that team. This squad will be young. “Yes, we do have a very young team,” said their coach, Kyle Nugent. “The message to them is to buy in 100% and fully commit to this team. We emphasize consistency with this group as much as possible. We are just focusing on putting in the work every day, one day at a time.”

 

Anthony Nitti had a great track season and was projected to be the top runner to start this season. “Anthony had a great track season, running 1:56 in the conference meet as a sophomore,” Nugent said. “Right before the state track meet he developed a stress-related injury that he is still working his way back from. It might take a while for Anthony to start racing again, but we think he'll be back to 100% at some point this season.”

 

Owen Reifel is the only other runner back and will step into the top position. He showed great improvement during the summer along with freshman Nile Woods who was impressive according to Nugent. There will be growing pains for the first month but could be ready for the state series after a tough conference schedule. “We have a good group of senior captains who lead the way for summer training,” Nugent added. “Our top group is very young, so our captains did a great job of helping those younger runners adjust to the increase in training pace/volume. We have a couple guys in our top group still recovering from injury, but we had some freshmen and sophomores really step up this summer.”

 

Gurnee (Warren)

Coach – Brett Heimstead; 2021 Finish – 21st, 3A State

Top Runners – Cole Kaether SR (146, 15:49), Fahim Rafi SR (224, 16:37), Ryan Moats JR, Kimi Vesely JR, Connor Lockwood SR, Jesse Kowalski JR, Henry Lester SR, Jakob Biondo JR, Luke Etienne SR, Ryan Phariss SR

 

Notes – Warren had a great season making it to state. They did not have the race that they wanted finishing 21st in that race. They lost the core of their top seven including all-state runners and Luke Wiley and David Lara. Two runners return. “We had a lot of athletes building some base mileage and running fairly easy. We did not perform as well as we wanted at the state meet last year,” said their coach, Brett Heim stead.  We dialed back the intensity a bit this summer and let the kids get back to enjoying running and being able to be together.”

 

Cole Kaether was the team’s third runner in November and is back to lead this team. “I am really proud of Cole and the runner he has become,” Heimstead said.  “More importantly, he has stepped up a bit more as a leader.” Ryan Moats was the team’s third runner in their conference meet but did not run the rest of the year. He will give this team a boost. Kimi Vesely had a good summer of training and should also be near the front. Fahim Rafi and Connor Lockwood are runners to watch to challenge for spots in the top five.

 

This should be a year of discovery for the Blue Devils. They could challenge for a state spot at the end of October. “We did lose a lot, no hiding that, Heimstead said. “The goal this season is to race more as a pack. We have a couple of strong guys who can run well up front with Kimi and Cole. If you look at the past results, the potential for Fahim Rafi and Ryan Moats to run with those guys is very possible. Once we get to the later parts in the season I am hoping to see some one step up and take charge of those 5-7 spots.”

 

Highland Park

Coach – Steve Buti; 2021 Finish – 10th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – Nate Wehner JR (96, 15:31), Noah Jackson SR, Angel Zeferino SR, Alex Bradshaw SR, Barak Goldstein JR, Doug Anderson JR, Nolan Schott JR, Lukaas Nales JR, Yonatan Garfinkel JR, Eli Neiman JR, Josh Brown FR, Logan Liu FR

 

Notes – This team is young with possibly five of the top seven runners this year underclassmen. The Giants return five runners from last year’s 10th place sectional team. “Our training okay this summer,” said Steve Buti, the Highland Park coach. “The overall team mileage was not as high as we would have liked, but several team members stepped up their training to a new level.”

 

Nate Wehner qualified individually for the state meet where he finished in the top 100. He did not make it state in track but did lower his time in the 1600 Meter Run to 4:23. “Nate has been feeling good and recently has been hitting his highest mileage,” Buti said. “He went to the Duke and Stanford running camps this summer and gained extra motivation from those key experiences. He is looking to make big improvements on his performance from last year's State Meet.” There will be a gap after Wehner. Seniors Noah Jackson and Alex Bradshaw will be among the runners that should form the core of their top five.

 

Their pack behind Wehner is projected to be 60 seconds to start the season. It needs to come down to 40 seconds staying within 35 seconds of their top runner. “We will need consistency of training and doing so together as a team,” added Buti.

 

Huntley

Coach – Matt Kaplan; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A Lake Park Sectional

 

Top Runners – Tommy Nitz SO (111, 15:37), Hudson Fisher SR, Luke Grubbs JR, Zachary Zuzzio JR, Ty Rasmussen SR, Bret Graunke SR, Jaden Gutierrez JR, Nolan Hilton JR, Pranav Vangari SR, Andrew McVeen JR, Andrew Raistrick FR, Logan Barreto FR

 

Notes – The Red Raiders just missed a trip to state last fall by four points finishing eighth at the Lake Park Sectional. Huntley returns five runners from that top seven. Only of last year’s top 12 runners graduated. “Summer training was consistent for our boys team,” said Matthew Kaplan. “This summer I saw an improved daily attitude from this group of boys. Lots of positivity going around the group which is encouraging as we start the 2022 season. Our returning group of runners were able to spend the majority of the summer weeks together which is always a good thing to know where we stand as a team.”

 

Tommy Nitz qualified for last falls state meet as a freshman where he ran 15:37. After a great track season, big things should be ahead for him. “Tommy has impressed me with his determination to keep getting better throughout the season,” added Kaplan. “He is a fun person to have on the team but what he does well is focus when it comes time to compete. Tommy has put in a consistent summer of weeks, and I expect him to help lead his team by putting himself in that top group in every meet of the season.”

 

There should be a good pack behind Nitz. Staying within 35 seconds of him should be something to watch. Hudson Fisher, Luke Grubbs, and Zachary Zuzzio are runners that should lead that pack. “My message to this group has been to close out their races, finish strong,” concluded Kaplan. “This team needs to improve their racing focus and will look to execute our plan better. When you miss by 4 points it really drives home that everyone needs to step up. This group returning has already shown that they want to improve from last season and if they keep that idea of being so close and missing all season.”

 

Lisle (Benet Academy)

Coach – Kevin Renicker; 2021 Finish – 14th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Aidan Hulett SO, Ryan Amidei JR; Charlie Phelan JR, Finn Richards SO; Danny Shannon JR, Payton Knox SO, Jonah Koplinski JR, Griffin Schneid SO, Quinn Knox SO, Jeff Lange SO

 

Notes – The Redwings will look to defend their team title in the East Suburban Catholic Conference and improve on last fall’s 14th place finish at the Hinsdale Central Sectional. This team has big meet experience but will be young with their top seven runners all projected to be underclassmen. Sophomores Aidan Hulett and Finn Richards along with juniors Ryan Amedi and Charlie Phelan could be interchangeable in the first four. The team is projected to have a 25 second split on their first four. Keeping their top five split under 50 seconds could mean big things for this team.

 

Lockport (Township)

Coach – Tom Razo; 2021 Finish – 11th, 3A Quincy Sectional

 

Top Runners – Max Maloney JR, Cameron Valcich JR, Michael Welcome SR, Bryce Flood SO, Rocco Biamonte SR, Jake Cruz SO, Alex Johnson SR, Chris Johnson SR, Glen Earnest SO, Owen Miller SO

 

Notes – The Porters will look to improve on last year’s sectional finish where they placed 11th at Quincy. It could be a rebuilding year for Lockport missing their top two runners but returning four from that sectional team. “Our focus this summer was on running for daily goals for each runner,” said Tom Razo. “We ran for personal growth. If the guys can do this as individuals the team goals will be achieved.”

 

Max Maloney, Carson Valcich, and Michael Welcome are back from that sectional team and will challenge for the #1 spot on this team. Senior Rocco Biamonte and sophomores Ben Flood and Jake Cruz will be among the runners challenging for a top five position.

 

Naperville (North)

Coach – Tim Brown; 2021 Finish – 11th, 3A Hinsdale Central Sectional

 

Top Runners – Colin Corcoran SR, Addisu Wolski SR, Gabe Russell SR, Luke Donaldson JR, Ervin Deleon SR, Jack Robertz JR, Miles Taylor JR, Sean Chilcoat SR, Tommy Morrison SR, Amamr Bhanpuri SO

 

Notes – Three runners are back from the sectional team that finished 11th at Hinsdale Central. They also lose last year’s #1 runner Gabe Ryan to graduation but have a talented group back that could possibly challenge for a trip to the state meet. “It seemed, though, that this summer more athletes were on vacation/college visits throughout the camp…more so than in the recent past (COVID, obviously), so it always felt a bit ‘incomplete’ in terms of the team,” said their coach, Tim Brown. “But when everyone finally seemed to be there for an entire week, there was a great team energy that I think will carry over to the season.”

 

There are a number of runners that could step into the top spot for the Huskies in races. Luke Donaldson leads those runners. He was the team’s fourth runner in that sectional race. “Luke was probably the most consistent runner this summer in terms of fitness, workouts, and hard work,” Brown said. “He had a lot of success early in the season last year as a sophomore, and we asked a lot of him at the end of the season.  That’s pretty intimidating, but I thought Luke did well given his inexperience due to his young age.  This year, though, there’s a lot more confidence and he’s already exhibited leadership on the team.  I think Luke’s success is key for our team’s success during the state series.  He’s a lot more mature and able to put team ahead of his own needs.”

 

Colin Cochran and Gabe Russell ran in that sectional race and will need to be close to Donaldson for this team to be successful. Addisu Wolski improved this summer and could also be in that group. “I think the biggest message I emphasized with our team and training this summer is controlling the controllable,” added Brown. “We can’t control the challenges, difficulties, obstacles, etc., but we have the choice in the attitude we pick when we face them. I want our mental training to be just as strong as our physical training.”

 

New Lenox (Lincoln-Way Central)

Coach – John Taylor; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A Quincy Sectional

 

Top Runners – Ethan Hoff SR, Evan Jensen JR, Vincent Demma JR, Connor LeBeau SR, Devin Smith SR; Leo Grzesiak JR, Braden Hoff SO, Kurt Kreis SR, Jack Galminas SO, Kyle Friedl SO.

 

Notes – The Knights will look to improve on last year’s ninth-place sectional finish even without all-state runner Caden Simone who graduated. Five runners are back from that team with Ethan Hoff, who was the team’s second runner at Quincy, their top returnee. Connor LeBeau was the team’s second runner in their conference race and will challenge Hoff up front. Evan Jensen, Vincent Demma, and Devin Smith could fill in spots in the top five. This team will need to focus on pack running without that star runner that they have had in the past. Their top five split is projected near 30 seconds. That kind of split could take this team places, but that pack will need to be closer to the front in races.

 

Northbrook (Glenbrook North)

Coach – Bill Race; 2021 Finish – 15th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – John Ihrke JR, Hayato Majoros SR, Gabe Johnson SR, Allan Sung SR, Matthew Rubin JR, Graham Hetzler SR, Owen Oldani SR, Sam Rubenstein SR, Domenic Auriemma JR, Brandon Mesirow SR

 

Notes – Glenbrook North will look to improve on last fall’s 15th place finish at the Hoffman Estates Sectional. Four runners are back from that race including their entire top three. John Ihrke stepped up to the team’s top runner at Hoffman Estates.. He should lead this team again. Gabe Johnson, Alan Sung, and Hayato Majoros should lead the pack behind Ihrke. This team could have a top five split between 45 to 50 seconds. The key is moving that pack up in races.

 

Palatine (Fremd)

Coach - Matt Zaluckyj; 2021 Finish – 14th, 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

 

Top Runners – Theodore Cunningham SR (126, 15:40), Cooper Hewson SO, Matthew Jones SR, Rory Gaan SO, Thomas Border JR, Glenn Hadcock SR, Adarsh Prathap JR, Miheer Dharwadkar SR, Garv Khera SR

 

Notes – Fremd returns five runners from last year’s team that finished 14th at the Hoffman Estates Sectional. Theodore Cunningham had a good junior season qualifying for state meets in the fall and the spring. He again will be the front runner for the Vikings. “This track season really showed what Theo is capable of doing (All-State 800 and a 4:20 1600) and I think he had more than that left in him,” said his coach, Matt Zaluckyj. “This will give him the confidence to be near the front at our big invites this season.”

 

Four other runners along with Cunningham are back from that sectional team. Matt Jones is a senior. Cooper Hewson, Rory Gann, and Thomas Border will again be in the top five. This team has improved. I could see them in the top ten in their sectional meet. A state meet appearance is not out of their reach. “We had a very solid summer of training coming off a great track season for this group,” Zaluckyji said. “Like most teams we had some ups/downs but the whole group is ready to go for Day 1.”

 

Rockford (Guilford)

Coach – Rick Durso; 2021 Finish – 9th, 3A Lake Park Sectional

 

Top Runners – Brandon Lawson JR (95, 15:31), Juan Del Real SR (123, 15:39), Landon Bachta SO, Nathan Sevey SR, Connor Schroeder JR, Micah Stanley SO, Hayden Johnson JR, Jack Carlson JR, Ander Toldo JR, Doc Blakeney SO, Gavin Osbourne FR, Wyatt Olsen FR

 

Notes – This could be a team that we see in Peoria this November. The Vikings missed qualifying for state finishing ninth at Lake Park. They return two runners that qualified individually along with three other runners from that sectional team. “Our focus this summer has been to learn to run closer together and not be reluctant to challenge each other, nobody is guaranteed a slot in the top seven,” said their coach, Rick Durso.

 

Brandon Lawson had the opportunity to run in Peoria along with teammate Jun Del Real. Both runners again should lead this team. “Brandon had a breakthrough season in 2021 and we expect a lot more from him this season, especially in terms of leadership and lifting his teammate up to a higher level. He is confident in himself, and he has learned that this is a process, and the target is November,” said Durso. “Juan will go back and forth with Brandon all season long; he is a special talent, and we expect him and Brandon to lead our team to Peoria in November.”

 

This team will challenge 2A Belvidere North for the NIC-10 title before heading to the state series. Nathan Sevey, Connor Schroeder, and sophomores Landon Bachta and Micah Stanley should all challenge for spots in the top five. Lawson and Del Real should be within 10 seconds of each other. The pack needs to stay within 30 seconds from three to five to take a journey in November down to Detweiller Park.

 

Yorkville

Coach – Chris Muth; 2021 Finish – 8th, 3A Quincy Sectional

 

Top Runners – Ben Whaley SR, Jake Younger JR, Ryan Rotramel SO, Brody Greyer SO, George Werderich JR, Walter Strait SO, Eyan Meyer JR, Adam Klemm JR, Lukas Summers SO, Owen Horeni FR

 

Notes – The Foxes just missed out on a state trip last fall finishing eighth at the Quincy Sectional. This will be a young team this season with only one senior projected among the top 10 runners. “This was a summer to reestablish the culture and expectations,” said Chris Muth. “We had a small group that was very dedicated to the goals and willing to put in the work.  We are a young team, so it was a great building block for the future.”

 

The lone senior leading the way is Ben Whaley. He was  the team’s second runner in the sectional race. “Ben will always come down to his health, stated Muth. “His ability has always been there to be great but has always come with heath issues. He has done a great job this summer, developing a better running gate, which in turn I believe will go a long way in keeping him healthy. If he can have a healthy year, he should be one of our top runners on the team.”

 

Jake Younger had a strong summer according to Muth and could be one of the top runners on this team. Sophomores Ryan Rotramel and Brody Greyer will give the team a strong nucleus in their top five. Freshman Owen Horeni has the talent to make the top five by the end of the year. He ran 51 seconds for 400-meters in middle school. He has the talent. It will be his adapting to a three-mile race which could be interesting. “This team I have no doubt has the talent to make the state meet, but will we develop quick enough and stay healthy enough to see that happen will be the question that has to be answered,” added Muth. “The biggest question we still have to answer is which athletes are willing to step up and take our 5th, 6th, and 7th spots. This is a team with a bright future but has the desire to get after it in the present.  You will see our best at the end of the season.”