ILXCTF 2024 Team Season Previews: Class 2A Girls

By Michael Newman

 

Chatham-Glenwood ended last fall as the Class 2A State team champion dominating who they ran against to get them to the title. They also ended up as one of the top 10 teams in the state regardless of classification. Defending their title will be tougher and Chatham-Glenwood knows that.

 

Washington finished fourth in last year’s state meet. It did not help that they missed two runners that had injuries that hampered their chance to get a trophy. St. Ignatius College Prep has the top returning runner in Annika Swan and a good group that finished third at state.

 

St. Francis surprised many last spring in Charleston when they broke the Class 2A State record in the 4x800 Meter Relay. Will that momentum and confidence carry over this fall for this team that finished sixth at Detweiller Park. Perennial 2A powers and Grayslake Central will also have a say as the season progresses.

 

Here is where we see the 2A Girls Top 30 teams landing to start the season. We look at 20 other Class 2A schools listed in no particular order.

 

1 Chatham (Glenwood)

Coach – Mike Garber

2023 Finish: 1-2A; 1-Jacksnvl Sec; 1-NUH Reg; 1-CS8

Top Runners: Ali Londrigan SO, Ashlyn Chopra JR, Sophie Rentmeister SO, Ally Knudson JR, Brenna Sloman SO. Rachael Behrens SR, Ali Broaddus FR, Demi Matthew FR, Grace Atkinson FR, Addie Hamrick SO, Aubrey Kinkelaar SO.

Notes: It was one of those years that teams dream about. Chatham-Glenwood entered the season as the top ranked team in the state. They ended 2023 as the Class 2A State champions and one of the top teams out of all in the state. It was hard work last year. I am sure the Titans will not think that this will be a cakewalk starting in a couple of weeks. “I would say they are as hungry as they were last year,” said Glenwood Coach Mike Garber. “They have something tangible that was accomplished last year. I think there was trust earned in the process. The key for us is to not let that hunger or expectation rule the day. We will keep them grounded and shooting for the small targets we create each week. I'm looking forward to the layers of growth we will see this season and beyond.

 

The Titans have three all-state runners back ready to finish higher. Ali Londrigan had a fantastic freshman season finishing seventh in the state. “Ali had a wonderful summer,” Garber stated. “ She bumped her run mileage gradually over summer and has been cruising 10+ mile runs over the last month. She is ready to take the next step in cross country after a stellar track season which saw her take down multiple school records. Look for her to set the tone early this Fall.” Her track season was strong qualifying in the 3A 800 Meter Run and both the 4x4 and 4x8.

 

Garber went on to talk about his second and third all-state runners. “Ashlyn Chopra surprised some people last year, but not me,” added Garber. “She is as driven as any young woman I've coached and has put in the work to take a major step forward this school year. She might surprise people again this season, but like last year, she won't surprise me. I'm really looking forward to her growth as an athlete and a leader this season. Sophie Rentmeister took some major steps forward at the end of last Fall and used it as a springboard in track season. She and I talked about what she wanted to race and accomplish for track season and her response was "I don't care, I'll race anything." That is her mindset. She wants to be in the mix and learn while racing. Expect big things from Sophie this Fall.”

 

The team’s top five split was consistent all last fall. Their conference split was 73 seconds, 66 seconds in their regional race, 56 seconds in their sectional race, and then a slick 39 seconds at Detweiller Park. Every race seemed to be an improvement. Every race was a lesson learned. You learn those things on the way to a state title. “Last season was very successful for our team but keeping things in perspective is important,” Garber said. “Each week provided us an opportunity to learn about playing the game of racing and grow as a team. We rarely talked about winning things and almost never talked about the State meet. We were a young team with lots of talent, but we needed to focus on our process and how we wanted to achieve our short-term goals. I don't plan on diverging much from that message this season. We are talking a lot about culture and how to be better people than we are about the outcome of the meet. I care more about the people we create. I hope it works.”

 

Ally Knudsen, Brenna Sloman, and Rachel Behrens were members of the state team and will contribute again to this team. The addition of freshmen Ali Broaddus, Demi Matthew, and Grace Atkinson will just make this team even stronger.

 

“Summer training for this crew was fantastic over summer. Lots of mileage, many runs in groups followed by lifting sessions with our strength coach and overall good vibes. We saw girls work into mileage they've never touched over summer before and they are feeling good because of it,” concluded Garber. “I think the general idea was "be together, run, have fun". From our summer group runs, it was obvious that it was a success. Between the girl’s team and the guy’s team, they might have connected as groups more this summer than any one previous. The grind is easier together. I think they understand that now.”

 

2 Washington

Coach – Troy Walcott

2023 Finish: 4-2A; 1-Geno Sec; 1-Meta Reg; 1-MIC.

Top Runners: Sophia Ramirez JR, Olivia Nordheilm SR, Jayne Hermann JR, Maddie James JR, Caylie Ahten JR, Bailey Butler JR, Allie Woolever SR, Addie Hooste JR, Crista Baker SR, Elizabeth Peterson SO.

Notes: Washington rolled into the state series on a high winning their conference and regional meets. The trouble started in the sectional race when their top runner, Sophia Ramirez, did not run due to a strained quad muscle according to her coach Troy Walcott. The Panthers won the sectional meet with 53 points. In that race, Olivia Nordheilm was the team’s third runner but afterwards, was misdiagnosed with a stress fracture and did not run at state. Ramirez was less than 100% when she ran at state and ended up as the team’s third runner. Washington just missed a trophy finishing fourth.

 

Washington is strong in their top five returning all top 10 runners. Maddie James and Jayne Hermann stepped up at state as the top two runners finishing 28-29. Ramirez was 10 seconds back finishing 40th. Bailey Butler and Allie Woolever was the team’s fourth and fifth runners in that state race. They did not have top five runners Nordheilm and Caylie Ahten who missed the final two races of the season and was the team’s fourth runner. Their split in that state race was 72 seconds. The split on the top five at the Mid Illini Conference Meet was 34 seconds from Ramirez, who won the race, and James was the team’s second runner. Their 2-5 split was 46 seconds.

 

“Everyone has been healthy this summer, trained together as a team and are very self-motivated,” Walcott said. “We're looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish this season, with the hope of improving on last year's state performance.”

 

Their first big race of the season will be at First to the Finish Invitational on September 14 where they will meet Chatham-Glenwood for the only time before the state meet. Washington will travel north to Palatine in two weeks to race against some of the top 3A teams in the state including York, Downers Grove North, Prospect, and Barrington. Those meets will give us an indication of how good this team could be.

 

3 Chicago (St. Ignatius College Prep)

Coach – Matt Haffner

2023 Finish: 3-2A; 1-Trinity Sec; 1-St. Ignatius Reg; 1-GCACR

Top Runners: Annika Swan JR, Lizeth Montes SR, Courtney Beatty JR, Sarah Fitzgerald SR, Mary O’Reilly SO, Allison Leonard SO, Yesenia Maley SR, Katherine McAllister JR, Gabriella Duque JR, Maya Williams JR, Julieta Mayorga SR.

Notes – The Wolfpack timed it right having their best race of the season finishing third in Class 2A and bringing a trophy back to the St. Ignatius campus. St. Ignatius returns four runners back from the state team. It helps that you have a runner favored to win the Class 2A title this fall leading the way. Annika Swan was right with Bella Heitzig the entire race before Heitzig slipped by to win by a tenth of a second. I am sure it is something that will drive Swan this fall.

 

“We don't do a lot together in the Summer since kids live in every direction,” said Coach Matt Haffner.  “We did spend a week together in Colorado for some team building.  That went well. Annika showed great leadership on our trip.  She had a strong summer of training.” That may have started during the track season. The junior was all-state in Charleston twice finishing fourth in the Class 2A 800 Meter Run and second in the 1600 Meter Run. That confidence from the track season will drive her to big things this fall.

 

Lizeth Montes was the team’s third runner at state finishing 51st. She also had a good track season and could find her way into the top 25 in November. Senior Sarah Fitzgerald, junior Courtney Beatty, and sophomore Mary O’Reilly should be close together in the third, fourth, and fifth spots. Three runners might be 40 seconds behind Montes as the season starts. Montes closing the gap to 60 seconds with the three following behind could make this team back in the hunt for a top three finish and another state trophy.

 

4 Wheaton (St. Francis)

Coach – Jason Accardi

2023 Finish: 6-2A; 4-Wood Sec; 1-Kane Reg; 1-GCACW.

Top Runners: Elena Mamminga SO, Erin Hinsdale SO, Alicen Sheldon SO, Margaret Andrzejewski JR, Addy Wordekemper SO, Siena Schwan JR, Caitlin Twomey SO, Cate Eral SR, Amelia Whitacre JR, Ashley Spahn JR.

Notes: The moment that this program took its next step up the ladder was during the spring in the Class 2A State Meet in Charleston when the Spartans won the Class 2A State 4x8 title setting a new meet record. The quartet was in shock right after the race. I am sure they reflected on that moment during the summer wanting to slow down when in fact speeding their workout up, wanting to achieve even more.

 

St. Francis could go even higher this fall after finish sixth in the Class 2A State Meet with five freshman in the top seven. Elena Mamminga and Erin Hinsdale finished 26-27 last November separated by two seconds. Hinsdale had a spectacular spring finishing second in the 800 and anchoring her team to the 4x8 win. There was a separation in the state race of nearly one minute before Alicen Sheldon, Margaret Andrzejewski, and Addy Wordekemper crossed the finish line 39 seconds of each other. The Spartans have the power in the front that should end up in all-state spots. Getting the group closer to the front puts the Spartans in contention for a state trophy.

 

5 Dunlap

Coach – Chris Friedman

2023 Finish: 17-2A; 2-Geno Sec; 1-Gales Reg; 3-MIC.

Top Runners: Abby Tudeen SR, Katie Sell SR, Kate Robertson SR, Josie Kroll SO, Mia Williams JR, Aubrey Ott FR, Ellie Spanhook SO, Claire Sack JR, Margot McNutt SR, Hannah Parker SO, Sanjana Siddaraju SO.

Notes: Dunlap did not run their best race of the season at state finishing 17th overall. This was after finishing second in the Geneseo Sectional and winning the Galesburg Regional. The talent is deep for Dunlap with all seven runners back from the state team.

 

There was not much difference in the sectional and state splits. Their top five split at Geneseo was 99 seconds. It was 100 seconds the following week at Detweiller for state. Abby Tudeen and Katie Sell were separated by 12 places and nine seconds. Tudeen finished 33rd overall. Both runners should be in position to finish among the top 25. Katie Robertson should be the pack leader on the next four runners that could contain freshman Aubrey Ott along with Josie Kroll and Mia Williams.

 

“We will be able to measure ourselves a few times during the season,” said their coach, Chris Friedman. “Obviously First to the Finish gives us an early idea of where we stand with the rest of the state. We get to race Chatham Glenwood on our home course the following week. At the end of the season, we will race Washington several times, including our conference meet at Detweiller. By the time we arrive back at Detweiller in November, we should be a tested team. Having said all of this, the goal each day is identify our strengths, play to them, work on our weaknesses, and enjoy the process of improving and bonding as a team.”

 

6 Grayslake (Central)

Coach – James Centella

2023 Finish: 2-2A; 1-Wood Sec; 1-Lakes Reg; 1-NLCC.

Top Runners: Ava Henne JR, Jordan Sutter JR, Ellie Chevrier JR, Violet Rowe JR, Bryanna Domier JR, Ava Pietruszynski JR, Jenna Dunn SO, Emma Wentz SR, Safiya Kane FR, Bria Fernstrom FR.

Notes: I would not call it the end of an era for Grayslake Central. It might be better to say that this team is reloading for another run at a state trophy / state championship. Four runners are back from the state team that finished second behind Chatham-Glenwood last year.

 

“We followed a consistent rhythm of endurance training over the course of our 6 weeks of summer camp,” Coach James Centella said. “Monday was a long run, Wednesday was a fartlek, and Friday was tempo with hills. Tuesday evenings in July we added a speed and athleticism session where we focused on sprint drills, wickets, plyos, and med balls. On the other days kids ran on their own or in smaller groups.  Special shout out to some of our parents and upperclassmen athletes who hosted Saturday morning breakfast runs.”

 

Ava Henne was the team’s second runner last year at state as she finished 20th. A top finish for this junior is within her reach. Jordan Sutter should close the gap on Henne this year after finish 46 seconds behind Henne. Both runners were all-state as freshmen in 2022. Violet Rowe took a step into the varsity last year as well as Bryanna Domier. Both runners along with Ellie Chevrier will push to make their top five that much stronger. “Ava Henne has had an excellent summer of training and is poised to be in position for a third all-state medal,” said Centella. “Violet Rowe had a breakout track season with a 5:19 mile and both she and Jordan Sutter have been super consistent with summer miles.  Sutter is also training with an improved level of confidence and volume. The two have been pacing with Henne in summer workouts.  Ellie Chevrier has also had a strong summer, and she has been closing the gap on the pack of Henne, Sutter, and Rowe.  Jenna Dunn was more of a track/sprinter kid in MS and as a freshman but has started to show some XC promise in the final summer workouts. She is a possible diamond in the rough for us.”

 

7 Normal (University)

Coach – Jill Burroughs

2023 Finish: 16-2A; 4-Jacksonvl Sec; 2-NUH Reg; 4-CS8.

Top Runners: Zoe Carter SR, Natalie Bierbaum JR, Lana Alcorn JR, Jocelyn Lewis SO, Reagan Bull SR, Josie Wamsley SO, Eve Whitlow SR, Klara Bouman SR, Kaitlyn Ringler SR.

Notes: Watch for the Pioneers to be among the top 10 teams in Class 2A by the time we get to the state series. U-High returns six of their top seven runners that finished 16th in last year’s state meet. The Pioneers have two of the top runners in Class 2A, 2 of the top runners in the state as their top runners. Natalie Bierbaum was the team’s top runner last year finishing fourth in Class 2A. Zoe Carter finished behind her teammate in fifth. Both runners had great track seasons both earning all-state honors in the 2A 3200 and 2A 1600 Meter Run. Carter took a step into the national spotlight earning All-American honors in the 5000 Meter Run indoors at the Nike Indoor Nationals and outdoor at New Balance Nationals Outdoors. Both runners will challenge for the state title in Class 2A.

 

Lana Alcorn missed more than a month of last fall due to an injury. She did run in sectionals and state finishing 139th. Before the injury in September, she ran 47 seconds faster than she did at state. Alcorn ran 18:28 at Detweiller in 2022, A top 50 finish for this junior is a good possibility. Jocelyn Lewis and Reagan Bull look to be in the top five. Moving the pack closer to Carter and Bierbaum will be something to watch for. The team staying healthy is another thing to watch out for. The split form 3-5 is projected at 54 seconds. Moving the pack closer to 90 seconds of their front two could put the Pioneers among the top five teams at season’s end.

 

8 Chicago (DePaul College Prep)

Coach – Stephanie Stecz

2023 Finish: 10-2A; 3-Trinity Sec; 1-Latin Reg; 2-GCACR.

Top Runners: Emily Stecky SO, Abigail Arseneau SR, Katherine Radich JR, Isabella Shifrin SR, Simrin Anderson JR, Piper Houghton SR, Claire Duman JR, Emily Stoessel JR, Ellie Kapp SR.

Notes: I could see the Rams among the teams challenging for a top five finish this November. DePaul returns six of seven state runners that finished tenth in the Class 2A State Meet. Emily Stecky started her high school career last fall earning all-state honors by finishing 18th in the state race. She built off her fall season by earning all-state honors by finishing third in both the 2A 800 Meter Run and 1600 Meter Run. Her confidence is growing, and she is ready to do some big things this fall.

 

DePaul has the front runner that will get them low points. The Rams have a solid pack behind Stecky with Katherine Reddick, Abigail Arseneau, Simrin Anderson, and Piper Houghton close behind. Those four runners at state were separated by just 23 seconds. It’s a good pack that will need to be moved up to be just 55 seconds behind Stecky. That split formula moves this team into trophy contention.

 

9 Lisle (Benet Academy)

Coach – Dan Billish

2023 Finish: 19-2A; 2-Trinity Sec; 1-Trinity Reg; 1-ESCC.

Top Runners: Delilah Helenhouse SR, Keira Jenke JR, Faye Ferrell SO, Aniela Gaudio SR, Emma Greco JR, Liliana Pervan SO, Sophia Olivares JR, Ava Grant SR, SR, Jordan Marshall SR, Claire Bremner FR.

Notes: Benet Academy will look to improve on their 19th place finish in last year’s Class 2A State Meet. It was not their best race of the season having won their conference, regional, and sectional meets before state. Four runners are back from the state team. The big addition for the Redwings is the addition of Dan Billish, who came aboard as the new coach last indoor season. “We had a solid summer and good participation,” said Billish. “The training challenged the girls a bit as they were not accustomed to strategic summer training in the past.  We have 4 that are progressing nicely and should contribute to a tight back off Delilah. A lot of strength training was put in place from hip mobility, yoga, and lower leg development.  When I took over last spring, there were a handful of DOA's from damage incurred from the previous cross season.   In that group lies our potential rise.  Some extremely talented runners never ran for us during the track season due to surgeries and/or adjustments to the training regimen.  All of them are on the mend, which could provide a substantial boost.  They will be plugged in late September if all continues to progress.”

 

One runner that will not be back for Benet Academy is rising sophomore Payton Mathelier who moved this summer with her family to Mountain Vista CO. Mathelier was the team’s top runner last November, finishing 48th. The team’s top runner should be Delilah Helenhouse. She was the team’s top runner most of last year. She did not have her best race last November and placed 112th. She came back last spring to earn all-state honors finishing third in the Class 3A 3200 Meter Run. Keira Jenke will be the team’s second runner having dramatic improvement in track and into the summer. Faye Ferrell, Anelia Gaudio, and Liliana Pervan are some of the runners you could see in their top five. “Delilah is on another level,” said Billish. “She trained a bit with Julie Piot.  Her confidence has exploded after her track season.  She has confidence in the program and has been incredibly responsive to the training sets.  In addition, sophomore Faye Farrell whose sister runs at Gonzaga--all her siblings went to Lyons Twp., is ridiculously talented.  She is tough and loves being challenged.  When she competes, her eyes appear to transform into daggers.  As a coach, when someone that dialed in fits into the system, the rate of progress is accelerated.  We have worked out the programming to be complimented by her participation in triathlon.  That will not be a conflict in the fall.” 

 

With some of their runners coming back from injuries, Billish is in no hurry to rush them back for the start of the season. They could again be tough to beat by the time they get to the state series. “We just told this team this summer to be the best you,” added Billish. “A lot of focus was on self-growth.  Not focusing on outside expectations, rankings, etc, but on refining one workout, one stretch, one exercise, one conversation, one relationship at a time, etc..  Constantly refining all aspects of their training and controlling the controllables.”

 

10 Crystal Lake (Central)

Coach – Brett Willhoit

2023 Finish: 12-2A; 2-Wood Sec; 2-Wood N Reg; 2-FVC.

Top Runners: Hadley Ferrero SR, Skyler Ferrero SO, Brynn Matthaei SR, Jacqueline Orvis JR, Sophia Parks SO, Molly Sterzik JR, Lauren Peyer JR, Leila Czysczon SR, Agnes Gorski SR, Avery Gracely SO.

Notes: The Tigers return their top three runners and five overall from the state meet team that finished 12th in Class 2A last year. Hadley Ferrero was all-state as a freshman and then finished 20 last November in the 2A State Meet. Ferrero plays soccer in the spring it is hard to tell her fitness level entering this fall. Past seasons show she will be ready to go. Her sister Skyler Ferrero was the Tigers’ second runner at state 50 seconds behind her sister and she should close that gap. Jacqueline Orvis is the third returning state runner followed by Sophia Parks and Brynn Matthaei. “Hadley did a nice job leading our summer running program along with Brynn Matthaei and Francesca Liparoto,” said their coach, Brett Willhoit. “Both Hadley and Skyler are transitioning back to running this summer after winning a state title in soccer this spring. I am looking forward to them leading our team this season as we look to fight for a conference title in the very competitive Fox Valley and fight to qualify out of the brutal northwest Illinois sectional” Packing will be something to keep an eye on with Central. Their split off the sophomore Ferrero could be close to three minutes. It could make it tough for this team to finish among the top 10 teams.

 

11 Morton

Coach – Joe Zeller

2023 Finish: 18-2A; 3-Geno Sec; 2-Meta Reg; 2-MIC.

Top Runners: Avery Braker SR, Brielle Hopkins JR, Isabella Grieder SR, Ava Burgess JR, Nissa Growth SO, Sariah Hoffman SR, Haley Kaluza SO, Sydni Hoffman SR, Annaliese Sanders SO.

Notes: The Potters should better their 18th place finish from last year’s Class 2A State Meet. Four of their top five runners will be back from that state team. One thing to watch for from Morton is finding a fifth runner. Isabella Grieder was one of the team’s top runners last fall having run 18:15 at the Peoria Invitational at the end of September. Grieder missed regional and sectional meets due to an undisclosed injury. She did run state as the team’s fifth runner with a time 101 seconds slower (19:54) than what she ran a month before. Avery Braker stepped up as the team’s top runner at state finishing 61st. Grieder ran in the prelims of the 4x8 to help Morton eventually finish second in the finals. The Braker / Greider duo up front should boost this team to among the top in the state.

 

Brielle Hopkins was the team’s third runner at state for the Potters and should be in the same spot this season. Ava Burgess, Nissa Growth, and Sariah Hoffman will challenge for spots on the top five. Morton should finish better than that they did a year ago. The development of the pack behind Braker and Grieder is something to keep an eye on as the season progresses. The top five split is projected for the year at 135 seconds. A 90 second top five split gets this team finishing in the top 10 in November in Class 2A.

 

12 Crystal Lake (South)

Coach – Ken Greenfield

2023 Finish: 8-2A; 3-Wood Sec; 1-Wood N Reg; 3-FVC.

Top Runners: Olivia Pinta SR, Victoria Pinta SR, Cecelia Piemontese SO, Lily Brooks SO, Laynie Ripley JR, Sedona Semradek SO, Kelsey Kos JR, Caroline Lucas FR, Reagan Marsett FR, Kiera O’Leary FR, Emme Reall FR, Ellie Starnes FR.

Notes: For teams losing their second and third runners after a state meet could cause the squad to call the following year “rebuilding” It won’t be the case for Crystal Lake South. The Gators did finish eighth last season at Detweiller Park and are projected just outside of the top 10 to start this season. This team does return five runners from the state team. Coach Greenfield has a strong freshman group coming in that could contribute immediately. “All our runners were extremely dedicated and disciplined with their summer work,” Greenfield said.  “I’m immensely proud of the effort and consistency I saw. Almost all our girls upped their training from last season and handled it well, so I think they’ve positioned themselves for a strong season. We’ll let racing tell the story of competitive improvement, but I couldn’t have asked for better from our girls this summer than what they gave.”

 

Olivia Pinta was the team’s top runner last year as she finished 31 at state. I think she could surprise some people when she finishes in the top 15 at Detweiller. Victoria Pinta was 68 seconds behind her sister last year and will look to close that gap by benefiting this team. “Liv is coming off a very strong junior year in both XC and Track,” said Greenfield. “She was a remarkably consistent competitor, nearly cracking the top 25 in XC and leading off a state-qualifying 4x800 relay. Liv has always been a very hard worker and fierce competitor, but I challenged her early in the summer to stretch out of her comfort zone in her approach to training and her aspirations for the coming season. I feel that she’s answered the bell in both those areas and in her approach to leadership. I think she’s done what she needs to do to prepare herself mentally and physically to compete with the upper echelon of runners in any race we’re in. I’m proud of how she’s responded to those challenges and am excited to see the results.”

 

There are five freshmen that could contribute immediately to the Varsity top seven led by Caroline Lucas and Reagan Marsett. “They’re all talented and hard-working,” added Greenfield. “I can’t wait to see what they bring to the table when the racing starts.” Lily Brooks, Laynie Ripley, and Cecilia Piemontese were in the top seven last year and again will challenge for top seven spots. It is hard to say how this team’s split will look for starters. Once those freshmen race for a couple of meets is when we will get an idea.

 

“We’ve typically seen our biggest improvements between years 1 and 2 in our program and Laynie Ripley and Lily Brooks have looked particularly strong so far this summer as they enter their 2nd XC season, so I am optimistic for them. Cece Piemontese came back from an Achilles injury that interrupted her indoor season and finished the outdoor season with a sub 2:25 4x800 leg at the State meet. If she can carry that momentum into the summer and season, she should be a strong contributor as well.”

 

13 Rochester

Coach – Bill Owens

2023 Finish: 20-2A; 6-Jacksnvl Sec; 4-NUH Reg; 2-CS8.

Top Runners: Ashley Zeibert JR, Brooke Zeibert SR, Natalie Nichols JR, Maria Olson SR, Madelyn Killion SO, Amara Kaeding SO, Myra Gibson JR, Paige Conklin SO, Jillian Conlon FR, Courtney Long FR.

Notes: Rochester just made it to the state meet last year finishing sixth at the Jacksonville Sectional. The next week they followed that up by finishing 20th at Detweiller Park. The Rockets could soar towards the top 10 this season returning six runners from that state group. Rochester has a solid top three back followed by the next four runners. The two groups were separated by almost two minutes at last year’s state race.

 

Ashley Zeibert and Brooke Zeibert were inseparable on the course last fall and should follow the same path this season. Ashley finished 46th, four seconds ahead of Brooke who finished 53rd. Both runners are possibilities of finishing in the top 25. Natalie Nichols finished 28 seconds behind Brooke Zeibert and should close that gap between the two Zeibert sisters. The team having a top three split of under 25 seconds makes them dangerous.

 

Getting the fourth and fifth runners closer to the first three is something to follow during this season. Maria Olson and Madelyn Killian were in the top five last year. Freshman Courtney Long could contribute immediately giving this team a boost.

 

14 Lemont

Coach – Tim Plotke

2023 Finish: 23-2A; 7-Geno Sec; 1-Tridge Reg; 1-SSCB.

Top Runners: Niki Tselios SR, Maggie Davey JR, Cassie Cunningham JR, Maya Fedko JR, Juliazabeth Martinez SO, Margaret Sinnett JR, Nell Fedko SO, Nora Galateo SR, Hannah Farley FR, Amelia Sinnett FR, Lizzy Rupsis FR, Hannah Kupiec FR.

Notes: This is one team that could be primed in November to finish in the top 10 at state. All seven runners are back from the state team that placed 23rd at Detweiller. There is also a good freshman group enrolled this fall which will give this team a boost. “We had a great summet,” said Lemont Coach Tim Plotke. “We spent the month of June at Waterfall Glen and July at Swallow Cliff. The wonderful thing about living in the Des Plaines River Valley is the hills we get to train on. The girls love Big Bertha at WFG and of course what I affectionately call the Beast at Swallow Cliff. Most of the summer was spent building up our aerobic base, slowly increasing our mileage. As the summer progressed, we added in some tempo/threshold runs. They slayed this summer; I am excited to see what this season holds for them.”

 

One of the runners that was a major surprise last fall in the 2A race was the emergence of Niki Tselios. The senior did not qualify for the state meet in 2022 placing 57 in her sectional race. She rebounded in a big way last season winning her sectional race and then placing ninth at state the following week. “Niki is just starting to realize her potential. ,” Plotke said. “Last year's xc/track seasons were breakthrough seasons for her. Obviously finishing 9th in the fall was a huge improvement. At first blush it doesn't quite look like her track season was as successful. However, at the Lockport Sectional she really went for it! With 300m to go she was leading the 1600m but faded with about 30m to go running a pr time of 5:22 (she was running 5:10-5:15 pace up until then) That was the first time she really took that risk and pushed herself past where she thought her limits were. That race helped her see what she could accomplish. She had a wonderful summer of training.”

 

Maggie Davey and Cassie Cunningham improved over the summer and will get closer to Tselios during the season. The addition of freshmen Hannah Farley and Amelia Sinnett has been a big plus for Lemont. They have fit in nicely with the front group which will make this team tough by state series time.

 

“Our motto has been "Take A Risk" since I started coaching 32 years ago. You never know what you can accomplish until you push yourself past those limits you thought you had,” Plotke said. “There's a song by Rob Zombie called Superbeast...which for me has been a pretty hype tune. In order to become that superbeast on the xc course, they need to feed the beast, hydrate the beast, and rest the beast. All three of the components will help them train and race the way they want to.”

 

15 Geneseo

Coach – Aaron Skopec

2023 Finish: 8-Geno Sec; 2-Gales Reg; 1-WB6.

Top Runners: Brooklyn Smith SO, Evelyn DeBaene FR, Lucille Wachtel SO, Ayla Schultz SO, Elanor DeBlieck SR, Jeslen Rink SR, Kady Fouts SR, Bella Curcuru SR.

Notes: The Maple Leafs just missed making it to the state meet by one point finishing eighth in their own sectional. Geneseo has a very good chance to advance to state in 2024 returning their top four runners from the sectional team. “We had a core group of dedicated runners this summer,” said Coach Aaron Skopec. “We had more conflicts this summer with vacations, work, and camps than we have had in the past.  This resulted in a handful of our runners having to get the runs in on their own.  We still had group runs and had runners eager to build up their long runs and work hard during workouts.  We have a group that is eager to work hard and get better.  That has been evident from those at the team runs and those who have been committed to do their training solo due to conflicts.”

 

This team is young with three freshmen running up from last year. They may be young but strong with experience. Brooklyn Smith advanced to the state meet last season as an individual finishing 54th. A top 25 finish could be within her grasp. “I expect Brooklyn to have a highly successful year,” said Skopec.  “She is highly motivated and has big goals for herself.  She did a lot of training this summer and has been reaping the benefits already.  She PR'd at many road races this summer and was within a few seconds of a PR at Detweiller at Dark. She is a great athlete to have on the team because she sets the tone and example for how to work and get better.  I think she will continue to develop her racing strategy and tactics this season and compete at the front of most of our meets.”

 

Lucille Wuchter, Ayla Schultz, and Elanor DeBlieck were only separated by 15 seconds of each other but 64 seconds behind Smith. Packing like that is good but getting closer to Smith will be something to watch. Freshman Evelyn DeBaene has been running in the team’s top group all summer and should give this team a boost in the front.  Jeslin Rink is the one runner that could step up into the top five but will need to be within touch of that pack. She was close to a minute behind DeBlieck during last season.

 

“I tried to emphasize the long-term view all summer,” added Skopec. “Many high school runners don't understand the difference summer training can make later in the season. So, my message wasn't unique or anything too deep.  I just emphasized to keep laying the foundation and talked about how beneficial it was that they were already training.”

 

16 Mahomet (Seymour)

Coach – Jama Grotelueschen

2023 Finish: 8-Jacksnvl Sec; 5-NUH Reg; 2-Apollo.

Top Runners: Taylor Mills SO, Chloe Bundren SR, Emma Frazier SR, Zoey Wallace SO, Ava Jansen SR, Morgan Waisath SR, Emmaline Culp SR, Cecily Smith FR, Finley Smith FR, Kennedy Ashby FR, Emily Anand JR (last ran XC for St Thomas More ‘22)

Notes: It was so close for the Bulldogs last season finishing eighth at the Jacksonville Sectional missing the state meet by one point. What could hurt Mahomet-Seymour to start the season is losing three of last year’s top five runners. Top runner Ava Boyd graduated. Third runner Jaci Kellenberger decided to play golf instead of running. Fifth runner Hadley Grotelueschen will play club soccer this fall.

 

This team does have some good talent coming back. Taylor Mills made it to state along with Boyd finishing 64th in the 2A race. “Taylor had a great freshman seasons in both XC and track,” said their coach, Jama Grotelueschen. “Her experience at state should give her confidence going into her sophomore year.  She is very coachable and an extremely hard worker.  I look for her to have an even better year this year.”

 

Chloe Bundren, Ava Jansen, Emma Frazier, and Zoey Wallace give this team a good nucleus for the top five. Emily Anand did not run last fall after transferring in form St. Thomas More. She did run at 12:05 during track. I would watch for her to challenge for a top 5 spot. Cecily and Finley Smith along with Kennedy Ashby are freshmen that could give this team a boost in the top seven. Even with the roster losses, I could see the Bulldogs advancing to the state meet. “All we told this team this summer was to try to enjoy the process and not overthink the training,” said Grotelueschen. “We worked this summer on trying to build a good foundation to start in-season trying off strong.  Nothing fancy.”

 

17 Mundelein (Carmel)

Coach – Jim Halford

2023 Finish: 11-Wood Sec; 4-Lakes Reg; 3-ESCC.

Top Runners: Izzy Bing SR, Norah Belmonte SR, Isabella Renguso SO, Ashlyn Beattie JR, Chloe Bing SO, Adelyn Albanese SO, Sydney Krcmarik SR, Ashlyn Beattie JR (from track).

Notes: A team that I would keep an eye on in a deep and talented Northwest 2A sectional again this fall.  This team finished 11th at the Woodstock Sectional. The Corsairs return all seven sectional runners including two runners that made it to the Class 2A State Meet. Izzy Bing earned all-state honors last fall finishing 19 in the Class 2A race. She followed that up in track finishing sixth in the Class 2A State 1600 Meter Run. She had a good summer training according to her coach, Jim Halford. She tweaked her back according to Halford. He hopes she returns soon.

 

Norah Belmonte also qualified for state finishing 59th. The senior will surprise some runners in Class 2A this season. Halford looks to tighten up the 3-5 pack this season. Now, that split is expected to be near 60 seconds, but with a projected two-minute gap between Belmonte and the pack.

 

18 Effingham

Coach – Jennifer Kirk

2023 Finish: 22-2A; 7-Jacksnvl Sec; 2-ORC Reg; 3-Apollo.

Top Runners: Jessica Larsen SR, Baylee Summers JR, Drew Weis SO, Haddie Hill SR, Morgan Springer SR, Laney Myers JR, Lauren Etheridge SO.

Notes: It might be a tough year for Effingham to make it back to the Class 2A State Meet but do have the talent to accomplish back-to-back state trips. The Flaming Hearts finished 22nd last year at state. Their top three runners return along with five of their top seven. Jessica Larsen and Baylee Summers were separated by just six seconds at Detweiller last November giving this team strong duo in the front. Having Larsen and Summers near 18:10 this season could be a huge plus. Drew Weis was a minute behind the front two runners and will need to close down that split. Haddie Hill and Morgan Springer, sixth and seventh runners were at points 60 seconds behind Weis. If Effingham can close that spread, it main repeating the trip on I-74 to Peoria.

 

19 Waterloo

Coach – Larry Huffman

2023 Finish: 9-2A; 3-Jacksnvl Sec; 1-High Reg; 1-MVC.

Top Runners: Cameron Crump SR, Ava Rau SR, Kamryn Rader SR, Emily Lepp SR, Calla Espenscheid JR, Emily Vogt SO, Mary Jones JR, Norah Kettler JR, Bella Jones SO, Reese Davis Grandcolas FR, Charley Funk FR.

Notes: Waterloo will reload this year after finishing ninth in the Class 2A State Meet. The Bulldogs will miss their 2-3 runners Danielle Mudd and Angelynn Kanyuck who have graduated. They do have Cameron Crump back. Crump finished tenth last November in the 2A race. She then ran a great race in Charleston that ended up finishing fourth in the Class 2A 3200 Meter Run. She dropped her best down from 11:05 to 110:38. Crump has bettered her Detweiller best already this season running 17:40 at Detweiller at Dark. She ran 17:42 last November at state.

 

The Bulldogs will need to have a tight pack behind Crump to go where they want to go. Ava Rau gives the team a solid second runner. Emily Lapp, Kamryn Rader, and Calle Espenschied have the possibility of having a tight pack. This group was only separated by two seconds while behind Rau by 25 seconds in their sectional race. Rau was 39 seconds ahead of the pack at the state while that pack was separated by 63 seconds. The pack split in their conference meet was 28 seconds. The potential is there to build this pack. It could mean grandiose things for Waterloo getting back to state.

 

20 Carterville

Coach – Nancy Adams

2023 Finish: 9-Jacksnvl Sec; 3-High Reg; 1-SIRR OH

Top Runners: Molly Robertson SR, Lyla Seaman SO, Dani Williamson JR, Marcela Wood SR, Liesel Balmforth SO, Lillian Carsrud SR, Lexie Watts SR.

Notes: Another team from a tough southern Class 2A sectional that could move up to state this season. Carterville did have a good season last fall finishing ninth at the Jacksonville Sectional and just missed making it up to Peoria. Molly Robertson leads six runners back from their sectional team. The senior finished 30 at state last year with visions to be among the 25 best runners in Class 2A. Senior Marcela Wood, Junior Dani Williamson, and sophomores Lyla Seaman and Liesel Balmforth had a 94 second split on the four runners. The promising thing is their split from Seaman to Wood was at 54 seconds. Addressing the split from four to five is something to watch for from this team.

 

21 Morris

Coach – Joe Blumberg

2023 Finish: 28-2A; 4-Geno Sec; 3-Meta Reg; 1-I8C

Top Runners: Makensi Martin SR, Danica Martin SR, Leah Ortiz SR, Aubrey Lines SO, Hope Emmerich JR, Paityn Valentine SR, Zara Lugo JR, Aubrey Bormet JR, Leah Laughary SO, Ava Conley JR (from track/tennis), Addi Olson JR (cheer/xc), Caitlyn Gile JR.

Notes: The 28th place finish in last year’s Class 2A State Meet is not indicative of how good this team was in 2023. This will be a hungry team this fall with all their top seven runners coming back. “We ended the season with eight girls on our roster due to injuries. Not the postseason roster… on our entire team, and only 5 (4?) healthy bodies for the state finals,” said Morris Coach Joe Blumberg. “Tough admitting that, because a casual observer may question our team culture. We were hanging by a thread during sectional week and ran so hard for each other to earn a third-straight state bid, but unfortunately were not healthy for the finals. Our girls worked hard to recruit some other athletes in the MCHS hallways, and we have doubled our numbers going into the 2024 season. We also learned through adversity the importance of listening to our bodies and being more honest about pain.”

 

Makensi Martin was all-state as a sophomore in 2022 finishing 22nd and could finish higher than that in her senior season. “Kensi was an all-stater as a sophomore and had a disappointing junior season by her standards. High school soccer is her first love (or maybe fostering animals). As her role on the Morris soccer team has increased, the amount of time to train and compete for our track team has decreased. And I think she started last cross season behind and tried to make up for the setback too quickly, resulting in injuries,” said Blumberg. “She is more mature, more patient, and has made intelligent training decisions this summer. She ran 20:20 at Detweiller at Dark. Last year, she would have reacted with some panic and immediately tried to make up for lost ground. She didn't. She immediately turned her attention to her teammates and having fun. But she's a confident competitor, and the improvements are starting to show. She has goals of running in the 17s. Seems crazy from a 20:20 in late July. I don't think she will run any times in August or September that will add her to the All-State conversation. But by the time late October rolls around, I would not count her out.”

 

Makensi’s sister Danica Martin was the team’s most of last season but ended up as the team’s sixth runner at state. Martin also plays soccer like her sister. She was diagnosed with a stress reaction to her tibia plateau and tried to run through it according to Blumberg. Danica is healthy now and ready for the season. Leah Ortiz ran a second faster at Detweiller at Dark than her best at the park. She will push Danica for the second spot. Hope Emmerich and Aubrey Lines had great summers of training and will be ready to go for this fall.

 

You can look back and learn things but not dwell on it at the same time. Morris learned from last year and you can see that with their training this summer. I think this team is better than some think. We will get a good idea how good it will be when we get to October. “As far as the season goes, we've talked about healthy internal competition and trusting the training,” said Blumberg. “The past three years, we've had a set #1, 2, 3, and the finishes were rarely ever jumbled. We don't think that will be the case this season. I think our top five, six?, seven? will vary meet to meet. And if our girls are pushing each other and competing, we won't care how our lineup shakes out. If we stay healthy and push each other, we think six girls can run sub 19:30 by the end of the season. But that's not going to happen in September, and that's ok. We must be patient, realize we are starting a bit behind, stay healthy and not overreact to any regular season results, and make sure we get to Championship Season healthy.”

 

22 Champaign (Centennial)

Coach – Laura Koterba-Buss

2023 Finish: 14-2A; 5-Jacksnvl Sec; 1-ORC Reg; 3-Big 12.

Top Runners: Farah Scott SO, Brenna Hooper SO, Lauren Kleber SO, Molly Pate JR, Kaylee Sweikar SR, Nicole Granger SR, Avery Benson SO, Josie Potter JR, Grace Elrick SR. Diana Dimani JR.

Notes: You must take a closer look at a team that finishes in the top 15 in their Class 2A Meet with three freshmen among their top five runners. Such is the case for the Chargers who finished 15th last fall. Five of their top seven runners are back from that team. They will miss last year’s top runner Brooklyn Sweikar. Farah Scott is one of the now sophomores back most likely leading this group. Scott finished 47 last year just one spot behind Sweikar. Brenna Hooper and Lauren Kleiber finished the season well as the team’s third and fourth runners and both under 20-minutes. Hooper was 44 seconds behind Scott at state. Watch for Kleiber to be closer to Hooper in races the next couple of months. Molle Pate and Kaylee Sweikar look to be the runners that you will see among their top five. Scott has a good chance to finish in the top 25 in November. Keeping the split off Hooper at 80 seconds keeps this team among the top 20 teams this fall in Class 2A.

 

23 LaGrange Park (Nazareth Academy)

Coach – Joe Wejman

2023 Finish: 13-2A; 4-Trinity Sec; 2-Trinity Reg; 4-ESCC.

Top Runners: Sophia Towne SO, Allie O’Halloran SO, Julia Parker SO, Ashley Kenna SO, Sarah Owen SR, Alayna Plahm SR, Claire Sigmund SO, Lexie Prefect SO, Claire Sandoval SR, Isabel Cervantes SR.

Notes: The dynamic of this team will be different after losing two seniors from the state team that finished 13th last year at Detweiller Park. The positive look at this is four of their top five runners are projected to be sophomores with state meet experience. “We've really pulled back on our direct contact with athletes and let them do more of their own thing given the dynamics of our student body, but the days we met were strong and consistent,” said coach, Joe Wejman. “It was very apparent that we have depth and will have strong training groups competing to be top 14/ top 7.”

 

The one runner that we could see a big jump from this season is Sophie Towne. The sophomore was the top runner at state last fall for the Roadrunners finishing 77th. “Sophia is really an interesting athlete, before practice and races she's rather loose and easy going, but when it's time to work, she really kicks it in,” said Wejman. “Sophia loves to compete.  She had a minor injury late last season, and I think that held her back a little bit, so hopefully she can stay fully healthy and start to find out what she is capable of.” Julia Parker improved during the end of track and into summer training according to Wejman. She will be challenging in the top three along with Alice O’Halloran. Sarah Owen and Ashley Kenna have also shown improvement and should be in the top five.

 

The Roadrunners may start the season with a large split in the first couple of races in September. By the time they get to October, this will be a tough team. “Our mantra is consistency,” added Wejman. “We graduated a strong group last year that aside from being strong runners, they were tremendous leaders, always keeping the training strong and keeping all athletes accountable.  We feel confident that we have the talent this year to make a return to state but will need to keep the work level where it has been the last four seasons.”

 

24 Crystal Lake (Prairie Ridge)

Coach – Kelly MacDonald

2023 Finish: 10-Wood Sec; 5-Lakes Reg; 5-FVC.

Top Runners: Lila Stewart JR, Brenna Benjamin JR, Nella Robinson SR, Genevieve Torgerson SO, Lydia Jensen SR, Emily McPherson SO, Savannah Monahan JR, Flynn Wolff JR, Leah Berning SO.

Notes: Prairie Ridge will look to improve on last year’s 10th place finish at the Woodstock Sectional and perhaps back to the IHSA State Meet. Five runners are back from that sectional team. Lila Stewart and Breanna Benjamin appear to be the top runners for the Wolves. Benjamin did not run in the Fox Valley Conference Meet, but Stewart did as the top runner. Benjamin was the team’s second runner at sectionals behind graduated Olivia McPherson. The top five split projected off Benjamin’s lead to start the season at just 36 seconds. This pack needs to move closer to the front with that kind of split to get their tickets punched in November for state.

 

25 Aurora (Rosary)

Coach – Vic Mead

2023 Finish: 15-2A; 7 Tie-Wood Sec; 3-Kane Reg; 4-GCACR.

Top Runners: Chiara Surtz SR, Ellie Gengler SR, Caroline Goettsch SO, Kayla Garcia SO, Natalie Goettsch SR, Ali Palmer JR.

Notes: The Royals just made it out of the Woodstock Sectional last season, tying for seventh. Rosary went on to finish 15th the following week at the Class 2A State Meet.  Five runners are back from that team. Ciarra Surtz was the #2 runner last year for the team, placing 63rd. It will not surprise me if she finishes in the top 35 or higher. Ellie Gengler was a minute behind Surtz a year ago and will lead the 2-5 pack. Caroline Goettsch, Kayla Garcia, and Ali Palmer have state experience which will benefit this team this fall. The split from Gengler at this point is close to four minutes. Cutting that split in half will help this team advance to Detweiller Park in November.

 

26 Lake Forest

Coach – Steve Clegg

2023 Finish: 11-2A; 7 Tie-Wood Sec; 3-Lakes Reg; 3-NSC.

Top Runners: Shalini Krishnaswamy SR, Pilar Rosales JR, Emma LeGrand SO, Kate McGann JR, Cassidy Gorham SR, Emily Witte SR, Megan Lawniczak SR, Gabby Heintzelman SR, Catie Sedushak JR.

Notes: The Scouts escaped out of the Woodstock Sectional tying Rosary for seventh and advancing to the state meet. Lake Forest followed that up the following week with their best race of the season finishing 11th. It could be a rebuilding season with just three runners from that state team led by Shalini Krishnaswamy was the fourth team runner on that day. Pilar Rosales missed the races at Woodstock and Peoria. Rosales was the second runner at conference, third runner in their regional race and will challenge for the #1 spot. Kate McGann and Emma LeGrand were 6-7 at state and should work their way among the top five at some point this season.

 

27 Lake Villa (Lakes)

Coach – Travis Sheppard

2023 Finish: 7-3A; 5-Wood Sec; 2-Lakes Reg; 2-NLCC.

Top Runners: Brianna Gara SR, Hannah Salbilla SO, Kate Catalano SO, Kylie Smith FR, Timyra Caces FR, Diksha Guganathan JR, Hannah Rojas SR, Maia Nash JR, Lauren Rymer SR, Wrenna Streicher JR.

Notes: The Eagles lost all-staters Paige-Elicia Caruth and Madison Twarling to graduation which could set Lakes back a little to start the season. Four runners are back from last year’s state team. “We had an average summer, which is perfectly fine,” said Lakes Coach Travis Shepard.  Athletes were busy, and we only had our full squad once or twice. The girls have been consistently putting in the work and we're pleased with the progress that they've made. What I noticed is that individually, many of our runners are figuring out what's best for them, which is great. They're also beginning to test their limits. For example, we did a Fartlek in the middle of July and the girls really pushed the envelope. IT was cool to see them challenge themselves and move up throughout the workout. Many of the girls surprised themselves and it opened their eyes to what they're capable of. It was also great to see our pack form and move up with multiple girls making contributions.”

 

It might have been a worry for this team at the end of the track season when their top runner last fall Brianna Gara missed all track season due to injury. She is at 100% physically and should be ready to better her 13th place finish from a year ago. “Bri has looked good this Summer and we're excited to have her back,” Shepard said.  “Unfortunately, she was not able to race during the track season and I know that was a huge bummer. She hasn't let that stop her and has diligently worked her way back. She is focused on consistency and managing her workload. I've been impressed with her ability to focus on the day to day and stay centered. In addition, the girls are looking up to her lead and she is stepping into the role well. While Bri had a breakout postseason last year, we are working with her to focus on the process and preparing her for positive outcomes. We have no expectations other than being consistent and aspiring for quality in training. No moment is too big for Bri, so the focus will be getting her to the starting line healthy and fit. If we can help her do that, we know that she'll be ready to roll.”

 

Hannah Salbilla is ready for a breakout sophomore season after building a great foundation and in the best shape early in her career. She ran 19:27 at state last year but could cut that down to near 18-minutes by state series time. Kate Catalano was the team’s fifth runner last year and could take a step to the next level. “We were just focusing on the right things and getting in quality work on a consistent basis,” Sheppard added. “It doesn't have to be glamorous or in large quantities, but it does need to be consistent.”

 

28 Troy (Triad)

Coach – Andy Brendel

2023 Finish: 15-Jacksnvl Sec; 5-High Sec; 3-MVC.

Top Runners: Kennedy Bowman SR, Morgan Mason JR, Abigail James JR, Bradynn Carey JR, Aliva Phillips JR, Mikayla Niehaus SR, Hannah York SR, Cameron Powers JR.

Notes: The Knights will look to better their finish of 15 last year at the Jacksonville Sectional. Chances are good that could happen six runners back from that sectional. “Training went great,” said their coach, Andrew Brendel. “We have a dedicated group of ladies with solid upperclassmen leadership.”

 

Kennedy Bowman was the team’s top runner last year and this year looks to make it to state hopefully with her teammates. Juniors Morgan Mason, Abi James, and Bradynn Carey are all top five returning runners. Mason was within 15 seconds of Bowman in their final race of the season. Carey and James will be looked to stay within 20 seconds of each other this fall. The top five split because of graduation is popped up to three minutes. That will need to come down as the season goes on.

 

29 Olney Richland County

Coach – Amy Julian

2023 Finish: 11-Jacksnvl Sec; 3-ORC Reg; 1-LIC.

Top Runners: Mackenzi Thomas SR, Lily Stevens SO, Josie Ginder JR, Briley Kocher JR, Karlee Piercefield JR, McKenna Snider SR.

Notes: Richland County will be on their home course for sectionals this year which might help getting close to one of the top seven qualifying teams to the state meet. The Tigers finished 11 at the Jacksonville Sectional a year ago with six runners back from that team. McKenzi Thomas and Lily Stevens came in together in the sectional meet with the same time. Thomas was the top runner most of the season and should lead this team. Stevens being up front will be a plus. Brice Kocher should lead a strong 3-5 that could include Karlee Piercefield and Briley Kocher. That pack is projected 60 second split. Both packs should move up during the season to put Richland County in position to finish in the top seven sectional teams.

 

30 Antioch

Coach – Chris Bailey

2023 Finish: 12-Wood Sec; 6-Lakes Reg; 3-NLCC.

Top Runners: Rosalyn Gonzalez SR, Piper Ipsen SR, Angela Ortiz SR, Annalise Lowrance SR, Lelaina Mateja FR, Abby Sooley SR, Marilyn Moore JR, Hannah Gonzalez JR.

Notes: Antioch has two runners back that got state meet experience last November. The Sequoits placed 12 last year at a tough Woodstock Sectional. Three other runners other than the state qualifiers are back. “Training went very well this summer,” said Coach Chris Bailey. “We had 4 girls put in over 300 miles and were very consistent throughout the entire summer.  Several of the girls improved on their time trial from the start of summer camp.”

 

Rosalynn Gonzalez finished 80 while Piper Ipsen placed 121 in last November’s Class 2A State Meet. This again will give Antioch a strong duo in the front. “Piper and Rosie each have had their best summer of training, and I will look to them to lead this team throughout the 2024 season,” Bailey said. “Both are coming off of solid track seasons and have put in over 300 miles this summer.  They are determined to get back to the state championships for the 3rd year in a row. They are two of the toughest and most focused runners I've coached at ACHS.”

 

Angela Ortiz had a good track season and a better summer of training according to Bailey that will keep her 45 seconds within Gonzalez and Ipsen. Lelaina Mateja is the top freshman for the team this year which Bailey believes to be in the top five by state series time. The top five split is projected to be close to three minutes to start the season. It should go a minute lower by the middle of October. “We have several seniors on our varsity group and the season is going to fly by,” Bailey stated. “I want them to enjoy the journey and make it all worth it.”

 

Other Class 2A Teams to Watch

 

Dixon

Coach – Simon Thorpe

2023 Finish: 9-Wood Sec; 2-Kane Reg; 1-BNC.

Top Runners: Danielle Lovett JR, Kamryn Rogers JR, Kyara Chavez SO, Isabella Cecchetti SO, Ireland O’Neal SO, Ava Williams SR.

Notes: This could be a rebuilding year for the Duchesses after two of their top seven runners from the sectional team are not returning as of now according to Dixon Coach Simon Thorpe. Top five runners Daniela Lovett and Kamryn Rogers, who was the team’s top runner in their conference meet, are the only runners back with big meet experience. “We will have ~ 8 girls on the team, 3 of whom have never run before,” said Thorpe. “We hope to be competitive within the Big Northern Conference, focus on self-improvement and actualization, and enjoy this sport together.”

 

Chicago (Payton Prep)

Coach – Aaron Lai

2023 Finish: 27-2A; 6-Trinity; 3-Latin Reg; 3-CPL.

Top Runners: Isabel McCarthy SR, Dominique Bennett SR, Inanna Rusu SO, Emily Cheng SR, Cyriana Lara SR, Alexandra Park SO, Victoire Berton SO, Anabel Seiler JR, Connolly Nugent JR, Ella Geerdes SO, Macy Ferschinger FR, Mora Verigan FR, Ella Gerdes SO.

Notes: The Grizzlies are one of those teams that we will see back at Detweiller Park this November. Payton Prep finished third in the City Championships, sixth in their sectional meet, and then 27th in the Class 2A State Meet. Six runners return ready for a repeat Detweiller trip. “Training this summer was all about building on the foundation we've established in previous years, with a focus on progressively increasing our mileage,” Coach Aaron Lai said. “The main priority was staying healthy while also pushing ourselves beyond our comfort zones.”

 

The top five split for the team last November was 94 seconds. Isabel McCarthy is the top runner returning for this team as she looks for a time in the mid-18:30’s. She was the leader of this team last season. “Isabel McCarthy is one of our seniors who have seen this team go through the highest of highs and lowest of lows and is a part of the senior core that held together the team last year when they were coach-less,” added Lai. “From starting freshmen year JV to our top returning runner, she is a model of what hard work and dedication can.”

 

Dominique Bennett will be the leader of the pack behind McCarthy. That pack that should include Emily Cheng and Ella Gerdes could have a 60 second split, McCarthy and Bennett starts with a split of 45 seconds. “All I have told them this summer was to let go of outcomes,” Lai stated. “Trying to dedicate themselves to the process - showing up, putting in the effort, and pushing each other to find out who we are when things get tough. Being able to take a moment to enjoy the journey and being grateful that we have the privilege to put ourselves out there and just go for it. The accolades and results are just byproducts of those things.”

 

Rockford (Boylan Catholic)

Coach – Nathan Kohnle

2023 Finish: 21-2A; 6-Wood Sec; 3-Wood N Reg; 1-NIC 10.

Top Runners: Natalie Tekampe SR, Reese Kohnle SR, Vanessa Tekampe SO, Nora Wedwick FR, Elle Sosnowski FR, Evelyn Rozanski JR.

Notes: Things looked promising for Boylan Catholic at the beginning of summer after finishing 21 in the Class 2A State Meet. All seven runners were scheduled to return. That will change with four runners choosing to compete in club soccer this fall. It changes the scenario for this team of finishing in the top 10 now hoping just to make it into their sectional meet.

 

The one message that we stressed was consistency,” said Coach, Nathan Kohnle. “That is always rule #1 and if we are being honest, rule #2 as well.  Beyond that we stressed putting time into our strength and mobility routines.  We want to be a team that finishes the season strong.  The last few years have been a mixed bag in that area.  It’s always tough to get a full team peaking in the post season.  If we can build that strong foundation in the summer, we should have a higher probability of success and have everyone available at the end.”

 

Natalie Tekampe and Reese Kohnle give the Titans a strong 1-2 punch in the front. Both runners should be among the top 35 runners at the end of the season. Vanessa Tekampe was the team’s sixth runner at Detweiller Park and will look to run under 20-minutes this season. After that, getting a fourth and fifth runner close to Vanessa could mean go things for this team. “True leaders/captains in every way,” said Kohnle. “Natalie and Reese organized and led practices throughout summer.  The way they carry themselves as runners, young adults, and the support they offer to our suddenly noticeably young team will be felt for the next 3-4 years.  They personify the expectations we have for Boylan XC runners and as a result will hand off the program in November with higher expectations than when they arrived.”

 

Burlington (Central)

Coach – Vince Neil

2023 Finish: 14-Wood Sec; 4-Wood N Reg; 9-FVC

Top Runners: Abigail Burke SR, Teagan Cathcart SR, Emalyn Davis JR, Ivy DiDomenico JR, Izzy Gutierrez SO, Aanya Vyas JR, Sophia Arnold SR (from LAX), Marlee Christiansen SO (track), Callie Pflug FR, Gianna Monaco FR, Sophia Monaco FR, Paisley Pollock FR, Valentina Klassy FR, Gracelin Turschman FR.

Notes: The Rockets will look to improve on last year’s 14 place finish at the Woodstock Sectional. The top six runners are back from that team. “The girls’ team had a nice showing this fall and continued to progress with their mileage,” Coach Vince Neil said. “Abby Burke was a workhorse this summer and enters the season in great shape. Teagan Cathcart also enters the season ready for her senior year and did a great job inspiring our younger athletes to be ready for the fall.”

 

Burke finished 37th last year at state. She might be among the top 25 this fall. This roster could go 12 deep in deciding who could run in the top seven. The split from Cathcart to whomever the fifth runners will be is projected to be 74 seconds. The key is closing the gap on Burke. Last year it was 83 seconds. “We have a nice group of girls who have the potential to be a competitive team down the stretch,” added Neil.

 

Grayslake (North)

Coach – Jenny Spangler

2023 Finish: 7-Lakes Reg; 4-NLCC.

Top Runners: Madison Petersen JR, Yaremi Ramos SR, Lucy Roscoe JR, Julia Flannery JR, Breyanna Villanueva JR, Sydney Wilson SR

Notes: Grayslake North missed making to sectionals by 10 points finishing seventh at the Lakes Regional. The Knights did have two runners that advanced to sectionals with Madison Petersen and Yaremi Ramos. “Madison Petersen, like the others, put in a lot of work this summer. She also competes in the triathlon over the summer so besides doing more mileage, she also put in a lot of time on the bike and in the pool. I would say that this is the fittest I have ever seen her so excited to see what she can do this fall. Yaremi Ramos is entering her senior season and looking to cap off her senior season with a trip to State.” Ramos and Petersen were within five seconds of each other with Ramos finishing 38th at Woodstock.

 

Highland

Coach – Joe Shannon

2023 Finish: 14-Jacksnvl Sec; 4-High Reg; 2-MVC.

Top Runners: Payton Frey JR, Rowan Passmore SO, Ava McPherson SR, Lola Schlarmann SR, Vivian Marron SO, Elley Seger SR, Layna Powers JR, Lyla Rembisz SO.

Notes: The Bulldogs finished 14th last year at the Jacksonville Sectional and will look to improve on that finish with six runners coming back. Peyton Frey was consistently the #1 runner for this team and will have hopes of leading her team to state. Lola Schlarman was 79 seconds behind Frey and will be one of the runners to lead this pack. Their split in that sectional pack was just 27 seconds. Moving this team further up front in races and in a position to finish in the sectional top 10.

 

Maple Park (Kaneland)

Coach – Doug Ecker

2023 Finish: 13-Wood Sec; 4-Kane Reg; 2-IS8.

Top Runners: Dannie Bower JR, Graycen Cole JR, Jade Unzueta SR, Audrey Walker SR, Abigail Lechocki SR, Natalie Atenco SO, Abbie Mederich SR.

Notes: This is a veteran team with six of the seven runners back that are either juniors or seniors. The Knights placed 13th at the Woodstock Sectional last October. Danielle Bower again will be the team’s #1 runner as she was last season. “Danielle made the greatest strides during the summer,” said Coach Doug Ecker. “She built up a good mileage base from the end of track through the summer for the upcoming XC season. Her goal is to qualify for the state meet this year. So far, she is on track to giving herself an opportunity to do just that.” Graycen Cole is bad and will lead the pack behind Bower.

 

Sandwich

Coach – Elizabeth Vick

2023 Finish: 7-Kane Reg; 2-KRC.

Top Runners: Sundara Weber JR, Emily Urbanski JR, Joanna Rivera SR, Hannah Treptow SR, Erin Lissman SR, Norak Vick SO, Karlee Henkins JR.

Notes: Sandwich just missed advancing to the Woodstock Sectional by one point finishing seventh at the Kaneland Regional. All seven runners from the regional race are back and vastly improved over the summer. It also helps if you have one of the top runners in the state leading you. Sunny Weber was third in the state last year and ready to take the next step up. “Sunny has been an incredibly reliable athlete since she started with us at the high school two years ago,” said Coach Elizabeth Vick. “She continues to hit her times in any workout we do, so the 16:32 at Detweiler wasn't a huge surprise. She's coming off of an excellent track season and she has been chasing a state title in cross country since her freshman year, so I anticipate her having another great season.”

 

Sterling

Coach – Megan Grady

2023 Finish: 24-2A; 5-Geno Sec; 3-Gales Reg; 2-WB6.

Top Runners: Delia Block JR, Jaz’Mya Castaneda SO, Laney Zuithoff JR, Kierra South SO, Aleha Munoz SO, Lillian Hauck FR, Kaelin Morris FR, Eleanor Redfield FR.

Notes: Sterling made it to the state meet last year finishing 24th at the Class 2A State Meet. “We had a consistent group showing up three days a week this summer,” said Sterling Coach Grady. “It was, by far, the best turnout I've had in my four years of coaching.” Delia Block was the second runner at state last year and should be the #1 runner followed by Jaz’Mya Castenda and Laney Zuithoff. “We stressed control what you can control,” added Grady. “Sometimes running is hard and our motivation is low, but we need to find it within ourselves to get the job done. Like any test or quiz, you have to study in order to do well. Similar to cross country, we have to put in the work during the summer months to get the results we want in the fall.”

 

Metamora

Coach – Amanda Young

2023 Finish: 26-2A; 6-Geno Sec; 4-Meta Reg; 4-MIC

Top Runners: Callie Sturgell SR, Ruthie Stamm SR, Isabel Olson SO, Madison Marsh SR, Adisen Sparry SR, Kassidy Mullins SR, Cameron Duhon SR, Violet Weinman SO.

Notes: The Redbirds made the short trip to Detweiller Park last November for the Class 2A State Meet where they finished 26th overall. It might be more of a rebuilding year for the Mid-Illini Conference team where they return just three runners from that state team. Callie Sturgell ran under 20-minutes with a 19:48 time and 144th placing. She was the team’s second runner last year and will be the top runner this fall. Ruthie Stamm and Madison Marsh, state runners, are also back. Isabel Olsen was the team’s fifth runner most of last season did not finish at state. She too should be among one of the top five runners along with Kassidy Mullins. Metamora will host a sectional this season in Class 2A in which this team should be a part of.

 

West Chicago (Wheaton Academy)

Coach – Daniel Ball

2023 Finish: 15-Wood Sec; 5-Kane; 3-CSC.

Top Runners: Addie Painter SO, Rachel Nelson SR, Annie Stoner SR, Halle Van Zee SO, Annaliese Bristow JR, Annie Roth JR, Kristen Holwerda JR, Shaylee Powell JR.

Notes: The Warriors return their top four runners from the sectional team that finished 15th at Woodstock. Addie Painter as a freshman last year made it to the state meet where she finished in 83rd place. The freshman to sophomore year is where you see bug improvement from. Painter does not run during the spring, yet we should see a big sophomore season from her. Halle Van Zee, Rachel Nelson, and Annie Stoner were close to two minutes behind Painter last year. That split needs to be reduced to 75 seconds for an improved team finish. Finding a fifth runner will be interesting to watch for Wheaton Academy. Annaliese Bristow leads a group of three seniors that are two minutes behind the sectional trio but will need to close that spread if this team wants to improve on their sectional performance from a year ago.

 

Chicago (University)

Coach – Diane Jackson

2023 Finish: 9-Trinity Sec; 2-St Ignatius Reg; 2-ISL.

Top Runners: Taara Sajdeh SO, Suna Choi-Hortacsu SO, Sofia Picciola SR, Celia Lukas SO, Claire McRoberts SR, Tyra DeWeese SO, Brianna Chang SR, Ledya Wreden SO.

Notes: Could we see this team be one of the seven sectional qualifying team this fall at Hinsdale? The Maroons could be a team that could pull it off after finishing ninth last fall at the Trinity Sectional. Taara Sajdeh had a strong freshman season as she made it to the state meet where she finished 86th. Four other sectional runners are back to join their teammate on the starting line. Sofia Picciola ran 72 seconds behind Sajdeh in last year’s sectional race. Suna Choi-Hortacsu and Celia Lukas joined Picciola in a 14 second 2-4 split. Work will be need done of the fifth runner split. The spread at the start of this season is projected to be more than two minutes.

 

Chicago (Northside)

Coach – Jon Hootman

2023 Finish: 8-Trinity Sec; 4-Latin Reg; 8-CPL.

Top Runners: Lulu Ton-That SR, Emilia Pabian JR, Charlotte Wik-Ford JR, Elizabeth Schieleit SR, Regan Gould SO, Isha Shankar JR, Maizy Peer SR, Eva Weber SR.

Notes: We might see this team on the starting line at Detweiller Park in November. The Mustangs missed making to the state meet by four points as they finished eighth at the Trinity Sectional. Lulu Ton-That finished sixth in last year’s 2A state race making her a three-time all-state runner. Ton That finished tenth as a sophomore and eighth as a freshman 2021. Ton-That missed the indoor track season due to an undisclosed injury but did run limitedly outdoors making it to state with her team in the 4x4 and winning the Chicago City title in the 3200 Meter Run. A good summer of training will put her back in the spotlight this fall. There are four runners back from the sectional team led by Elizabeth Schieleit and Charlotte Wik-Ford. Schieleit was close to three minutes behind her senior teammate last season. The spread will need to get tighter on the pack closing from a projected three minutes to under 80 seconds to get this team to the top seven sectional spots.

 

Mt. Zion

Coach – Kelly Fox

2023 Finish: 5-2A; 2-Jacksnvl Sec; 3-NUH Reg; 1-Apollo.

Top Runners: Avery Sommer SR, Maddy Spangler JR, Kadence Miller JR, McKenna Scribner SO, Taylor Beiler SR, Makayle Garland SO, Lola Maldonado SO, Elena Coon FR, Sandra Munoz FR, Ruby Baker FR, Addy Patterson FR, McKenzie Krieger SR (from soccer), Alyssa Thompson SR (from track).

Notes: What Mt. Zion will go through is a good definition of “rebuilding”. The Braves finished last year in a great way placing fifth in the Class 2A State Meet. Mt. Zion just returns last year’s second runner, Avery Sommer, from that team. New runners McKenzie Krieger and Alyssa Thompson, both seniors and from other sports, could be looked to jump into the top five immediately. Sommer finished 39 in last year’s state race with sights on a top 25 finish this fall. “Avery Sommer is back and running well but this will be a TOTAL rebuilding year for us,” said their coach, Kelly Fox. “Avery is such a great leader and is helping our young freshman adjust to the higher mileage.” The freshmen group is good and led by Elena Coon and Sandra Munoz. I am sure we will see some freshmen in the top five this season. It is not inconceivable that Mt. Zion makes it to sectional. Fox does a good job of reloading/rebuilding with both the Girls / Boys teams. Don’t count them out going to the state meet in November. It is not out of the question.

 

Champaign (Central)

Coach – Guthrie Hood

2023 Finish: 10-Jacksnvl Sec; 4-ORC Reg; 5-Big 12.

Top Runners: Kitty Miller JR, Reese Baumann JR, Maria Buzing SR, Kelly Richmond SO, Anna Sweet SR, Lillian Plankell SR, Sarah Donahue JR, Mariam Bouba SO (from Volleyball), Emma Konstanty JR (from Volleyball), Jacki Maggi FR, Lily Simon FR, Ramona Sly FR, Ella White FR, Cadence Wright FR.

Notes: The Maroons finished tenth last season at the Jacksonville Sectional. They lost their top runner and state qualifier Aleigha Garrison to graduation. The Maroons do return five runners from that team led by second runner Kitty Miller. “Kitty is a strong member of our team,” said Central Coach Guthrie Hood.  “She drives the pace in a lot of our workouts.   She is usually a strong influence on the training paces, and she feeds off her teammates as well and as a result thrives when she's part of a unit. I believe she will be a key part of a core group of our varsity team this year.”

 

This team could have a tight split through four at 47 seconds projected, maybe under 90 seconds on the top five. They can be put in the state meet discussion if that pack moves up. “Our training went well this summer,” said Hood.  “Maria Buzing put in over 400 miles and led our group. We had several different girls that were consistent throughout the summer as well; Reese Baumann, Kitty Miller, Keely Richmond, Anna Sweet, and Carly Lamoreux.”

 

Oak Park (Fenwick)

Coach – Latoya Hill

2023 Finish: 25-2A; 5-Trinity Sec; 2-Latin Reg; 6-GCACR

Top Runners: Juliana Gamboa SO, Lily Kotynek SO, Allison Austin SO, Romy Bergetz JR, Kyra Miller SR, Francesca Reale SR, Emma Brennan SR, Teresa Urso SO, Isabelle Lefko SO.

Notes: Things look promising for Fenwick as they end the 2024 cross-country season.  The Friars finished 25th in the Class 2A State Meet. Fenwick has the talent this fall with nine out of their top ten runners back including six runners with state experience. Three of their top four runners in the state meet were just freshman. Julia Gamboa leads that group. She is one of the elite sophomores in the state this season having finished 14th in the Class 2A State Meet. Lily Kotynek and Allison Austin will lead the pack behind Gamboa which there was a three-minute spread. The 2-5 split is projected to be under 90 seconds. Fenwick should advance to state but cutting down their 1-2 and 2-5 splits need to shrink those spreads during the season.

 

Woodstock

Coach – Jay Fuller

2023 Finish: 17-Wood Sec; 5-Wood N Reg; 1-KRC.

Top Runners: Sophia Sarabia JR, Lily Novelle SR, Anna Wickersheim SR, Keira Bogott SR, Yaxiri Juarez SO, Mia Huicochea JR.

Notes: Woodstock ended their 2023 season finishing 17th in their own sectional. Their top three runners from that race led by Sophia Sarabia are back. Kierra Bogott was the team’s top runner in the Kishwaukee River Conference Meet as well as the regional meet. The two runners will give the team a good1-2 punch in the front. Lily Novelle will lead the pack trailing Sarabia and Bogott.

 

Belvidere (North)

Coach – Andrew Pivoras

2023 Finish: 16-Wood Sec; 6-Wood N Reg; 4-NIC 10.

Top Runners: Haylee Gallas JR, Noelle Wiebe SO, Lydia Bryant JR, Camryn Diercks JR, Amelia Kackley SR, Avery Jamison JR, Lauren Andrist JR, Anna Polasky SR.

Notes: The Blue Thunder return five runners from their team that finished 16th at the Woodstock Sectional. Haylee Gallas again will be the top runner on the course as she was in 2023. A key will be narrowing the gap between her and the rest of the top five runners. Gallas is projected to have an 87 second spread between her and the pack led by Noelle Wiebe and Camryn Diercks. The top five split is projected to be nearly four minutes. The experience that this team received last year will benefit them this fall. They should improve on their 2023 finish in what is a tough sectional complex.

 

Sycamore

Coach – Adam Bezinovich

2023 Finish: 18-Wood Sec; 6-Kane Reg; 3-I8C

Top Runners: Layla Janisch JR, Alyssa Stacy SR, Maya Rivera SR, Layna Berry FR, Zoe Field JR, Emma Cox JR, Kendall Green SO, Carley Jones SR, Ashley Ortiz SO. Kaitlyn Page FR

Notes: Sycamore should improve on last year’s 18 place finish at the Woodstock Sectional. Five runners are back from that team, but it could be freshmen Layna Berry and Kaitlyn Page that could give this team a boost in the top five. Layla Janisch was the second runner last year. A good summer puts her leading this team. “Layna Berry and Layla Janisch really committed to the summer workouts and looked strong during hill workouts and long temp runs,” said their coach, Adam Bezinovich. “Layna Berry should be our number two this season and will be a big part of our cross country and track teams for the next four years. Kaitlyn Page should also be a part of our top 5 this season.”

 

Mascoutah

Coach – Darren Latham

2023 Finish: 12-Jacksnvl Sec; 2-High Reg; 4-MVC

Top Runners: Brynn Behrmann SR, Ryleigh Piller SO, Bria Akins SO, Faith Wells SO, Chloe Millett SO, Paiton Waggoner SR, Layla Bradshaw JR.

Notes: Mascoutah has a strong nucleus returning that could move them into sectional qualifying positions. The Indians finished 12 in last year’s Jacksonville Sectional and return six runners that ran in that race. Brynn Behrmann was the team’s top runner towards the end of the year. Ryleigh Piller was three seconds behind Behrmann in the sectionals and will challenge for the top spot. Bria Akins will lead the pack that was just 21 seconds back in their final race. The top five split at sectionals was just 77 seconds. Moving their five runners closer to the front gets this team closer to making it to the state meet.