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2025 ILXCTF Cross Country Previews - IHSA Class 1A Girls TeamsPublished by
2025 ILXCTF Cross Country Previews - IHSA Class 1A Girls Teams
By Michael Newman
It was a second-place finish in 2023 and third place in 2024. Now Anna-Jonesboro looks for the circuit in winning a state title in November. Deg=fending state champion Williamsville starts out in the top five and again will look to climb higher. Winnebago, El Paso-Gridley, and Elmwood look ready to stake their claim for atrophy.
Here is a look at the top Class 1A teams along with some other teams to watch this season.
1 – Anna-Jonesboro Coach – Matt Denny 2024 Finish – 3rd, Class 1A State Southern Illinois River to River Conference
Runners – Jadyn Gerardi JR, Aleah Box SR, Melaina Bundren SO. Raegan Jones SR, Kinley Leek JR, Kenzie Miller SR, Reese Jones SR, Sophia Hill SO, Kylee Myers JR, Mya Clutts SO, Maggie Gooden SR.
Preview – The Wildcats have been one of the most consistent teams in Class 1A the past three years with three conference titles and three sectional wins. They tool home trophies from Peoria the past two years second in 2024 and third last year. This year they are looking to leave Peoria with the top prize. “This summer we had great participation,” said Coach Matt Fenny. “We focused not only on running but strength training and we added a swim day for the entire team. We felt it went well.”
The talent on this team is deep with 11 out of last year’s top 12 Jadyn Gerardi has been the top runner for the Wildcats for the past two years. Gerardi will look for a top 10 finish in November after finally getting healthy after suffering a series of injuries. Aleah Box finished 39th last fall at state. After running 11:26 at the end of April, Box needed surgery to repair her hip and hamstring. Hopes are to have her back by the state series. Remember, this team is deep. This team could still have a top five split of 60 seconds without Box and within Gerardi.
“We have great team continuity,” added Denny “They understand we are deep and that some will not run when it counts, yet they still have each other’s backs and support each other.”
2 – Winnebago Coach – Janet Erb, Joe Erb 2024 Finish – 7th, 1A State Big Northern Conference
Runners – Molly Webb SO, Morgan Capriola SR, Svea Glidden JR, Ella Carlson JR, Ashlynn Robinson SO, Audra Mecum JR, Hannah Roggensack SR, Avery Dimke FR, Emma Ward FR, Emmy Brule FR.
Preview – Bago is in a familiar situation like where they were in 2019 when the program won a state title in its storied history. The Indians have the runners in place to win their 14th state championship when they get to the line this November. Their top six runners return from last year’s seventh place team. “Our team is very close and supportive of one another,” said Bago Coach Janet Erb.” They were very consistent at showing up for our camp and then even better at meeting on their own on non-team days to meet up and run.”
Molly Webb as a freshman stepped up as the team’s top runner and should be joined by veteran Morgan Capriola in the front. The two were separated by 13 seconds at state and could find themselves in top 25 positions. Ella Carlson, Svea Glidden, and Ashlynn Robinson had particularly good summers and are ready to take the next step in the fall along with Capriola and Webb according to Erb. The Indians had a 67 second spread on that top five in last’s year’s state race. That experience should pay off for these state title contenders.
3 – El Paso-Gridley Coach – Michael Melick 2024 Finish – 4th, 1A State Heart of Illinois Conference
Runners – Caroline Wettstein SR, Verity Nowark SO, Sophie Hinthorne SR, Kiley Knapp JR, Haven Miller JR, Madyson Harms JR, Myli Ehrhardt SR, Mya Griffin JR, Adalyn Solomonson SO, Avery Glacinski SO, Audrey Roth FR
Preview – The talent is here for the Titans to make a run at a trophy let alone a state championship. Their top 10 runners at some point last year ran 20 minutes or faster. That is noteworthy especially in Class 1A. “Our girls team has a lot of potential,” stated Coach Michael Melick. “We return our top ten after a 4th place finish last year. Our focus must be on simply doing what it takes to be healthy and happy come November. We cannot control what place we finish, so we will work on being able to control our health, attitudes, and fitness as we progress through the season.”
Caroline Wettstein should again be the team’s top runner looking to improve on her 45th place finish. Verity Nowark as a freshman was just two seconds behind Wettstein at state and again will be a factor on this team. Sophie Hinthorne and Kiley Knapp were also under 19-minutes at Detweiller and strengthen the team’s top five. Haven Miller could be the surprise on the team even though she was the fifth runner at state. Miller had a great track season running a 2:19 split for the Titans’ all-state 4x8 team. “Haven had a breakout track season, slipping under 2:20 for the 800, but she seems to thrive in 400s and 800s with her opponents close, we will see if it translates to cross country,” added Melick.
The team had a spread of 40 seconds at state which could take them places in the next couple of months. “One thing that stood out about our girls team is how decentralized we were,” Said Melick. “I never had our top seven together for a single run. My feeling is that each girl kind of did what she needed to do (rest, run, or recover from injury), and so hopefully most girls are ready to go.”
4 – Williamsville Coach – Hayley Chladny 2024 Finish – 1st, 1A State Sangamo Conference
Runners – Joelle Wilson JR, Brooklyn Turley SO, Kaylea Hollinshead JR, Alaina Woolsey JR, Maddie Overmeyer SO, Ella Knoles JR, Taylor Bressan SR, Molly Hahn SR.
Preview – 2024 was a storied season for Williamsville as they made it to the top of the mountain winning the program’s first state championship. It is tougher to repeat and could show with this talented group after losing leaders Louisa Wilson and Hannah Nation to graduation.
Joelle Wilson just missed all-state last fall but finished 28th overall. A top 15 finish is within her reach especially after dropping her 800 personal best to 2:18 during the track season. Brooklyn Turley had a good freshman season and will lead the pack along with Kaylea Hollinshead behind Wilson. The spread on the group will be something to watch with Alaina Woolsey and Maddie Overmyer. The spread is projected to be near 90 seconds on the four and then 50 to 60 seconds behind Wilson. September will be telling if they can run closer together. The prospects of this leaving Peoria with a trophy could be good.
5 – Elmwood Coach – Kyle Anderson 2024 Finish – 10th, 1A State Prairieland Conference
Runners – Bristol Schmidgall SO, Mya Hill SO, Riley Kelly SO, Taylor Forney JR, Addy Turner SR, Mady On FR, Charley Walker FR, Kolby Shadley FR, Addy Brugger FR, Natalie Babcock SR.
Preview – Elmwood was not on the radar of some entering the 2024 season. The addition of three freshmen rose the team to a state meet appearance where they finished tenth overall. Prospects are good for the Trojans to contend for a trophy this fall. “Overall, we had a pretty good summer,” their coach Kyle Anderson said. “This is the most girls we have had over 200 miles by the end of July since I started coaching.”
Sophomores Bristol Schmidgall, Mya Hill SO, and Riley Kelly were the top three runners that stepped up last season and should be leading this team as the season starts. Schmidgall led the squad finishing 44th at state. After running 5:23 last May and a good summer of training building a strong foundation, we could see big things from her. A key could be the emergence of freshmen Mady On and Charley Walker. “Mady and Charley had fantastic summers, both in the top 5 for our team mileage coming into the first official practice,” Anderson added. “It's hard to give one props without including the other. They've both done everything. Time will tell how well they adjust to racing 3 miles.” Last year’s young team had just a 78 second spread on their top five. The possibility of having two all-state runners and the addition of On and Walker could mean big things for this team.
6 – Pleasant Plains Coach – Rob Havens, Joe Higginson 2024 Finish – 11th, 1A State Sangamo Conference
Runners – Alaina Hawker SR, Madalyn Hegele SO, Caroline Willenborg SR, Alli VanVeldhuizen JR, Jazmyne Albers SR, Peyton Howell SR, Fiona Hilton FR, Finley Ewald FR, Sloan Noble JR Alvia Hopkins SO (from track).
Preview – Pleasant Plains return four from their team that finished 11th in last year’s state meet. Several freshman running for the first time will give this team a huge boost by the time they get to the state series. “The thing that stood out most was the dedication the new Freshmen showed to getting involved in the summer training,” said Coach Joe Higginson. “Usually, it takes a year or more for athletes to "Buy In" to the program. The Freshmen just jumped in and did the work.”
Alaina Hawker again will be the top runner as she enters her senior season. Hawker finished 49th last year with hopes of climbing higher this fall. A key to watch is if the second through fifth runner pack can get closer to their leader. Caroline Willenborg and Alli VanVeldhuizen were close behind. Freshman Fiona Hilton could be an immediate contributor in the top five. Another freshman, Finley Ewald, could be a face that you see in this group by the time they get to October. “The team is amid a transition this year after graduating a large group of incredibly talented seniors. Fortunately, we have some new freshmen and sophomores that look to have the talent to fill these spots,” added Higginson. “We expect there to be some issues with lack of experience early in the season but feel that by November they should all be ready to compete at the state meet.”
7 – Eureka Coach – Olivia Morris 2024 Finish – 9th, 1A State Heart of Illinois Conference
Runners – Reagan Gerber SR, Ava Otto JR, Siera Herrmann JR, Sophia Watson JR, Brenna Metzger SR, Adeline Hubert SR, Molly Gerber JR, Janae Walden SR,
Preview – This could be a dangerous team in the rough and tough Elmwood Sectional that could finish in the top five in the state this year. 11 of their top 12 runners are back from the 2024 team and a good group of freshmen that could find their way into the top seven. “We have a strong group of upper classman returning this year,” stated Coach Olivia Morris. “We are starting the season healthy and with a great base underneath us. This group in combination with some newly developed athletes gives us depth and positive outlook this coming season.”
Reagan Gerber finished 35th as the Hornets second runner last year and will step into the lead role where they should finish in an all-state position. The pack will need to run closer together as the season progresses led by Ava Otto and Sierra Hermann. The spread on the scoring pack is projected to be between 45 to 50 seconds to start the season. A key will be closing the spread to within 45-50 seconds of Gerber.
8 – Byron Coach – Mike McHale 2024 Finish – 27th, 1A State Big Northern Conference
Runners – Ashley Potter JR, Elinor McHale JR, Gabriella Northrup SR, Grace Burnes SO, Emma Franchi JR, Addison Helms SO, Alayna Swanson JR, Macyn Burris JR.
Preview – This could be a surprise team in Class 1A this fall after finishing 27th in last year’s state meet. All seven runners coming back won’t hurt. Ashley Potter finished in the top 50 last November and could have her eyes on a finish in the top 25. The gap between Potter and the rest of their scorers at state was close to 60 seconds. The group of Elinor McHale, Gabriella Northrup, Grace Burnes, and Emma Franchi were separated by just 29 seconds at state which could bode well for this group. That type of split along with staying within 40 seconds of Potter could make good things better when they get to November.
9 – Marshall Coach – Ryan Arthur 2024 Finish – 8th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Little Illini Conference
Runners – Molly Farrell SR, Madeline Fox JR, Myah Boyd JR, Caroline Crumrin SO, Addie Nava SO.
Preview – Could this be the season that the Lions take the step up to find a place on the Detweiller Park starting line? Marshall got close last year finishing eighth at Toledo Cumberland looking to nab one of the coveted six state qualifying spots at the beginning of November. Molly Farrell is a three-time all-state runner during the fall. Her last track season was impressive especially with her improvement in the 1600 that will give her a boost heading into her final high school campaign. Madeline Fox gives Marshall the top 1-2 Class 1A punch up front finishing ninth last year. Two runners in the top eight this fall gives this team a huge push. Myah Boyd is a solid third runner but will need to move closer to their top two. The spread from their third to fifth runners needs to stay under 45 seconds for this team to punch their ticket to state.
10 – Cambridge (Ridgewood) Coach – Karen Clark 2024 Finish – 13th, 1A State Lincoln Trail Conference
Runners – Emily Downing SR, Jana Vande Kemp JR, Avery Humphrey SO, Hannah Ames SO, Addie Jewett SR, Ella Nimrick JR.
Preview – The Spartans are a team that seems to hide in the shadows but run great in the moment. Cambridge finished 13th in their first time at the state meet. They could finish among the top 10 when we get to state this fall. Emily Downing has been all-state three times in her state meet experiences (13th, 14th, 13th) and will look to get in the top 10. Jane Vande Kemp placed 23rd in 2024 and will look to better that performance. Their top six runners are back with Avery Humphrey leading the pack behind the two all-state runners. The spread at state between third through fifth was close to four minutes. That time needs to decrease in this season.
11 – Delavan Coach – Suzanne LaFary 2024 Finish – 10th. 1A Elmwood Sec Tomahawk Conference
Runners – Annabelle LaFary SR, Elise Brinkmeyer SO, Drew Robison SR, Alaina Karker SR, Olivia Nehmelman JR, Khloe Stockham JR.
Preview – It’s tough to get out of the Elmwood Sectional. The quality of the teams that compete there is amazing. Delavan finished tenth last year. With several teams moving up to Class 2A opening the door for this team to be one of the six qualifying teams. The Panthers have their top six runners back led by Annabelle LaFary. The senior has qualified for three straight state meets and could have company this fall. Elise Brinkmeyer leads the pack that were within 210 seconds of each other.
12 Herscher Coach – Rob Grosso 2024 Finish – 23rd, 1A State Illinois Central Eight Conference
Runners - Kelly O’Connor SR, Sophie Venckauskas SR, Laylah Kent SO, Lily Tucek JR, Gianna High JR, Fabienne Houberg, Olivia White SO, Melody Anderson FR.
Preview - The Tigers will look to qualify for their third straight Class 1A State Meet this fall after finishing 23rd last November. Herscher returns to their top five runners and six of their top seven state runners. Kelly O’Connor finished 38th in last year’s race and will look to place this fall in the top 25. Sophie Venckauskas leads the group that ran within 51 seconds of each other. The gap between O’Connor and the pack was 107 seconds to end the year. Getting the pack closer to O’Connor will be something to watch. “Im really proud of the work that this team has put in this summer,” said Coach Rob Gosso. They seem to be committed to making this a special year.”
13 – Effingham St. Anthony Coach – Art Geen 2024 Finish – 16th, 1A State National Trail Conference
Runners – Isabella Keller JR, Aubrey Denning JR, Emeline Wines SO, Nancy Ruholl SR, Leah Delrossi SO, Nora Niebrugge FR
Preview – The one thing that needs to happen for St. Anthony is to stay healthy. Only six runners are on the Bulldogs roster. It does help that they have two spectacular runners to lead the way. Isabelle Keller finished second last fall after her winning her freshman season. Keller’s track season was rocky as she was diagnosed with OCD (Osteochondritis Dissecans) missing most of the track season. She fought back in May to win the 3200 and finished fourth in the 1600. Aubrey Denning improves with every race, every workout after finishing eighth last fall. Denning was all state last spring finishing fourth in the 800 and fifth in the 1600. “The amount of work Isabella Keller and Aubrey Denning have put in over the summer stood out,” Coach Art Geen said. “They are in great shape to start this year off.” Nora Niebrugge steps in and could challenge for the third spot according to Geen.
14 – Palos Heights Chicago Christian Coach – Jake Christensen 2024 Finish – 7th, 1A Lisle Sec Chicagoland Christian Conference
Runners – Kihra Moes SR, Abby Mullin JR, Mia Caporale SR, Katie Sitko SO, Anais Rivera SR, Haley Van Til SR, Abbey Kosloskus SO.
Preview – The Knights came close to qualify for the state meet finishing seventh at the Lisle Sectional missing by six points. Chances are better that they make the trip down to Peoria this November. All seven runners from their sectional squad return led by state qualifiers Kihra Moes and Abby Mullin. The team had over a three-minute spread on their top five at Lisle. The spread getting closer could mean good things for Chicago Christian,
15 – Sandwich Coach – Emma Schoonover 2024 Finish – 10th, 2A Metamora Sec Kishwaukee River Conference
Runners – Sundara Weber SR, Karlee Henkins SR, Kayla Kressin JR, Emily Urbanski SR, Karlie Hardekopf. Nora Vick JR, Zaza Lesko SR
Preview – Sandwich moves from Class 2A to Class 1A this season after finishing tenth in the Class 2A Metamora Sectional. It helps that they have Sundara Weber leading the way for the Indians. Weber will look to win the 1A title this season after winning in Class 2A last November. The last time Sandwich made it to state was 2022, Weber’s freshman season. 2 other runners from the top sectional five are back led by Karlee Harkins. Ignore the top five spreads of Weber. We know it will be huge. The gap on the four other scorers are projected to be between 60 to 65 seconds. Keeping the gap off Weber under four minutes will be something to watch.
16 – Elgin Harvest Christian Academy Coach – Steven Bland 2024 Finish – 10th, 1A Lisle Sec Northern Athletic Conference
Runners – Giselle Moret SO, Sophie Lang SR, Sophia Learned SO, Julia Winkelman SR, Leslie Uriostegui SR, Yulia Stefanyuk SO, Molly Lang FR
Preview – A team that is small with possibly 10 runners on their roster. The Lions missed state last year finishing tenth at the Lisle Sectional. Their top five runners from that sectional team return. “This team is a good group of girls, maybe not the run junkies a lot of XC athletes are but a good group,” said their coach Steven Bland. “Hopefully, they will have fun, embrace the "hard of XC and have a solid season.”
Giselle Moret had a solid freshman season qualifying for state individually and finishing 34th. A top 25 finish could be within her reach. The team had a 64 second spread between second runner Sophia Leonard and their fifth runner Leslie Uriostegui. The pack might move closer to Moret especially with the addition of freshman Molly Lang who could be the team’s third runner according to Bland.
17 – Fairfield Coach – Justin Sanders 2024 Finish – 28th, 1A State Black Diamond Conference
Runners – Emeri Sager SO, Remington Taylor JR, Adi Hickey SR, Ellanie Vanway JR, Brianna Meeks SO, Jaycie Couch SR, Addy Spencer FR, Jilliona Olivier-Wilkerson FR.
Preview – This could be a big year for Fairfield after finishing 28th at last year’s state meet. The Mules will lose their top runner Ella Sager who graduated and is now at Florida @ Southeastern University. They return their remaining six from that state squad. Adi Hickey stepped up in a big way at state as the team’s top runner. Emeri Sager was among the top runners for the Mules and will also push for the top spot. What could move this team in the top 15 in Class 1A is that there five runner split at state was 74 seconds. A key will being able to move either Hicker or Sager closer to the front. “We had consistency this summer,” Coach Justin Sanders said. “The girls were very consistent in showing up to summer workouts. Adi (Hickey) had a terrific end to her junior year XC season. She was consistent in her workouts this summer. I anticipate she is going to have a great final season as a Lady Mule.”
18 – Sherrard Coach – Grant Iles 2024 Finish –20th, 1A State Three Rivers Athletic Conference
Runners – Anna Churchill JR, Tori Browning SR, Kylie Mathis SO. Cami Anderson SR, Sophia Bradarich SO
Preview – The Tigers will look to improve on last year’s finish of 20th [lace at last year’s state meet. Anna Churchill leads a group of five runners back from that state team. Churchill finished 69th as the team’s top runner and will look for a higher finish. Tori Browning and Kylie Mathis give this team a solid two-three behind Churchill. The development of the top five spread will be something to watch for. It is projected to be between 2 to 2:30 as we enter this season.
19 – Urbana University Coach – Kyle Hummel 2024 Finish – 9th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec East Central Illinois Conference
Runners – Clara Knutson SO, Shriya Nagaraj SR, Cadence Scheunemann JR, Ella Ylagan SR, Julia Smith SR, Sofia Macdonald SO, Layla Zong SO, Eve Anderson.
Preview – U-High will look to make their first state appearance since 2022 after ending last season finishing tenth at the Toledo Cumberland. Their top six runners return from that team. Clara Knutson made it to qualifying individually finishing 96th at Peoria. The Illineks had close to a three-minute split on their top five at sectionals. Shriya Nagaraj and Cadence Scheunemann will be counted on to get closer to Knutson. The spread on their top two runners in that sectional race was just 29 seconds.
20 – Shelbyville Coach – Levi Pruemer 2024 Finish – 8th, 1A State Central Illinois Conference
Runners – Tessa Bowers SR, Laynie Lockhart JR, Sara Tynan SR, Kinley Hardy SO, Alyah Logan SR, Kylie Wright SR, Kyndall Bennett SO.
Preview – The Rams are expected to make it back to Peoria this November. The graduation of top five runners Lily Woolery and Aly Douglass could make it tough for Shelbyville again to finish in the top 10. Tessa Bowers was their top runner throughout last year. She finished fifth at Peoria and will look to better that at the end of the year. Laynie Lockhart was fourth runner last year. She will move up to lead the pack led by Sara Tynan. The Rams could have close to a minute spread on their second through fourth runners. Finding a fifth runner will be something to watch for that can stay in that pack. The spread of three minutes from Bowers to the rest of the team will be something to watch to narrow.
21 – Breese Mater Dei Coach - Colton Strotheide 2024 Finish – 29th, 1A State Independent
Runners – Emma Diekemper SR, Finley Haag JR, Reagan Napovanice SR, Reid Emig SR, Ashtyn Wheeler SR, Heidi Beer JR.
Preview – The Knights made it to the state meet last year finishing 29th. Five runners are back from that state team led by Finley Haag and Reagan Napovanice. The two ran withing 12 seconds of each other in their sectional race, 30 seconds in their state race, Emma Diekemper did not compete in the state meet but was the team’s third runner at the Benton Sectional. Reid Imig and Ashtyn Wheeler could be among their top five. The top five spread to start the season is expected to be near two minutes. That will need to come down for Mater Dei to return to Peoria.
22 – Elmhurst Timothy Christian Coach – Laura Pergande 2024 Finish – 8th, 1A Lisle Sec Chicagoland Christian Conference
Runners – Maddie Turner SO, Ella Potoshnick SR, Jen Carreon SR, Abbee Baker SO, Bella Hackert JR, Sienna Azzinaro SR, Lucy Wilgenburg SO, Brianna Pasek JR.
Preview – A team that could make it back to the state meet for the first time since 2919. The Trojans finished eighth last year at the Lisle Sectional missing making it to state by nine points. All seven runners are back from that team led by individual state qualifier Maddie Turner, only a sophomore. Ella Potoshnick leads the pack behind Turner that was 44 seconds within each other. Their overall spread in that sectional race was 100 seconds. Timothy Christian came close to making the state trip in 2024. They should get that opportunity in a couple of months.
23 – Monticello Coach – Matthew Miller 2024 Finish – 7th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Illini Prairie Conference
Runners – Macie Owen SO, Taylor Mabry JR, Madison Morrow JR, Caitlynn Sanders SO, Olivia Gerdes, SR, Annie Robinson JR,
Preview – Matthew Miller steps in as the new coach for the Sages. He inherits a team that just missed making the state meet finishing seventh at the Toledo Cumberland Sectional. Taylor Mabry and Macie Owen are interchangeable as the top runners for Monticello. Owen was the top runner in their regional race while Mabry took charge at Cumberland. Madison Morrow and Caitlyn Sanders were constant runners in the top five making this team stronger. The top five spread was 65 seconds in their sectional race. Watch for that spread to narrow this fall as the season progresses.
24 – St. Joseph-Ogden Coach – Jason Retz 2024 Finish – 12th, 1A State Illini Prairie Conference
Runners – Grace Bressner SO, Kyla Franckey SR (transfer / Paxton-Buckley-Loda), Tessa Walker SO, Abigail Bello JR, Sydney Steinbach SR, Kiah Riesel JR, Taylor Vaughn FR, Charlne Barbee FR.
Preview – Five runners are back from the team that finished 12th last year at the state meet. One thing to watch is who steps up to become the top runner to replace graduated Savannah Fransen. The clear choice should be Grace Bressner who was all-state last year placing 25th, Tessa Walker and transfer Kyla Franckey give the Spartans a solid second and third runners. The two runners were separated by 15 seconds at state while Walker was close to 50 seconds of Bressner in the state race. SJO could be another top 15 team by the time we get to November. Their split at state was over five minutes on their top five runners. It could be like that this fall but there is plenty of races to improve on that. “The team’s youthful makeup promises steady growth throughout the season as athletes gain valuable race experience and learn to compete at a high level,” Coach Jason Retz said. “Early practices have been filled with laughter, positivity, and a willingness to push through tough workouts — all signs of a group ready to take on challenges together.”
25 – Manteno Coach – Troy Mitchell 2024 Finish – 11th, 2A Metamora Sec Illinois Central Eight Conference
Runners – Klarke Goranson SO, Lyla Nevek SO, Olivia Swirkowski JR, Sawyer Maveety SO, Addison Whitter SO, Delaine Monroe FR, Riley Powell FR, Sara Schmidt FR
Preview – A young team that does have big meet experience which should bode well for them moving from Class 2A down to Class 1A for this season. Three runners are back from the sectional team that finished 12th at Metamora. A fourth runner, Joey Karas, moved out of state. It does help to have Klarke Goranson as their top runner finishing sixth last fall in Peoria and was double all-state in track. Big things could be in store for her this fall. Lyla Nevek also made it to state last November and again will give Manteno a strong 1-2 in the front. “Our two Sophomores Klarke Goranson & Lyla Nevel have continued to put in the work following excellent Freshman XC Seasons, continuing through Track, and into the Summer,” said Coach Troy Mitchell. What will help is that Mitchell has another strong freshman class coming in led by Delaine Monroe who was 14th in the IESA 3A State Meet running 12:24. “Our young team is looking forward to competing at the 1A level this season, after racing against much larger schools in 2A during the past two years,” added Mitchell. “Our top four runners of Klarke, Lyla, Olivia and Delanie are looking forward to racing as individuals early in the season, with our new & returning runners.”
26 – Downs Tri Valley Coach – Kenneth Albin 2024 Finish – 12th, 1A Elmwood Sec Heart of Illinois Conference
Runners – Adelin Bruce SR, Gracie Van Hoof SO, Izzy Bruning SO, Amelia Masters SO, Addison Zwilling JR, Maddie Gentry JR, Joslyn Baughman SO, Hannah Rodgers FR, Tenley Brian FR
Preview – The Vikings could be a team to watch as this season goes on. All seven runners from their 12th place Elmwood Sectional team return. Grace Van Roof made it to state individually finishing in the top 100. A stress fracture sidelined her most of the track season and is slowly recovering for the start of this fall. Adelin Bruce stepped up and was all-state in the 3200 and could make some noise during her senior season, Freshman Hannah Rodgers made it to the IESA State Meet where she gained critical racing experience. An injury during track has slowed her down but has not missed a practice during the summer. “My team is very young,” said their coach Kenneth Albin. “Most of the varsity will be underclassmen, and most of them did not run in junior high they are figuring things out but there is a lot of talent on the team.” The team’s third through five runner spread was close to 60 seconds at the end of the year but over two minutes behind Van Hoof/Bruce. Narrowing that gap will be needed to advance this year out of their sectional.
27 – Pinckneyville Coach – Ryan Bruns 2024 Finish – 25th, 1A State Southern Illinois River-To-River Conference
Runners – Kadence Bruno SO, Jessi Baggett SO, Madison Bruno SR, Maddy Dill JR, Love Rojek JR, Brileah Lane SO.
Preview – The Panthers could again be one of the top teams from the southern part of the state after finishing 25th last year the state meet. A big question will be who will step up as the top runner replacing two-time all-state Vanessa Teel who has graduated. Five runners return from the state team. Two sophomores, Kadence Bruno and Jessi Baggett ran close together last year as the second and third runners. They are projected to be under 10 seconds within each other to start the year. A key for this team to get the rest of the pack closer to the two sophomores. There could be up to a 90 second gap from two to three and then who knows how close the next three runners will be. This program traditionally makes its way up to Peoria. The Panthers have run in the state meet the past four years.
28 – Paxton-Buckley-Loda Coach – Sally Ellis 2024 Finish – 24th, 1A State Illini Prairie Conference
Runners – Audrey McCoy JR, Maddison DeOrnellas JR, Ella Strebeck SO, Brooklyn Stafford FR, Harper Swinford FR.
Preview – This could be a rebuilding season for PBL after making the program’s first appearance at the state meet. Sally Ellis steps in as the new coach. A big loss for the Panthers is the loss of their top runner Kyla Franckey who transferred to St. Joseph-Ogden. Audrey McCoy and Maddison DeOrnellas should give the team a strong presence in the front. The development of their freshman group will be something to watch during the season.
29 – Toulon Stark County Coach – Bob Rennick 2024 Finish – 19th, 1A State Lincoln Trail Conference
Runners – Dusti Smith JR, Cheyenh Smith SR, Norah Rorem FR, Darilis Knobloch SO, Paytin Terwilliger SR, Haylie Moodie SR
Previews – The Rebels made it to the state meet last year finishing 19th. Their position to start the season is no indication where they could finish at the end of the season. Dusti Smith missed all-state by two spots last year but should achieve that honor this season. Cheyenh Smith continues to improve giving this team a strong presence in the front of races. “Cheyenh Smith & Dusti Smith had terrific track seasons and took big steps that will carry over into this season,” added Bob Rennick. Cheyenh ran the following PRs in track 800 2:16.97; 1600 5:20.16; 3200 11:52.10. Dusti ran the following PRs in track 800 2:17.10, 1600 5:04.29 3200 11:38.61. Both runners were key to the success of the 4x800 (4th in state) and 4x400 (10th in state). These young ladies are workers, and it shows.” A big addition is freshman Norah Rorem could also push for the top spot. “Norah is very talented and is an extremely hard worker,” said Rennick. “She has a quiet confidence and is very, very, competitive. I am excited to have her on the team to say the least! She is the real deal.”
30 – Belleville Althoff Catholic Coach – Thomas Fischer 2024 Finish – 30th, 1A State Gateway Metro Conference
Runners – Breigh Desmond JR, Grace Jansen SO, Ava Lock JR, Bethany Kee JR, Megan Massie SO
Preview – The Crusaders made it to state for the second year in a row and would like to make it three years in a row. Five runners return from that state team led by Breigh Desmond who finished 81st in that state race. It was not her best race of the year, and she should dhow with a top 40 finish this fall. Grace Jansen again should be a solid second runner for the team.
Other Class 1A Schools to watch this fall; schools listed in Alphabetical order
Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond Coach – Austin Romine 2024 Finish – 15th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Lincoln Prairie Conference
Runners – Ruby Burton SR, Kimberly Krutsinger SR, Embrey Reardon JR, Sophia Johnson SO, Gwen Herring FR, Ella Oye SO, Esmeralda Diaz JR.
Preview – The Knights return all their top runners from the team that made it to their sectional race where they finished fifteenth. Ruby Burton will be again the team’s top runner after placing 130th at state. Kimberly Krutsinger gives their team a solid second runner as she was within 30 seconds of Burton at the end of the season. This group has close to a seven-minute split in their sectional race, a split that will need to decrease as the season progresses. The Knights do have the runners that could finish in their sectional top 10.
Elmhurst IC Catholic Prep Coach – Jeff Frederickson 2024 Finish – 14th, 1A State Girls Catholic Athletic Conference
Runners – Grace Gildea SR, Hayden Calcagno SO, Chloe Brandt SR, Gabby Graham JR, Janny Techamontreekul SR, Clara Samayoa JR.
Preview – A surprise to make it to the state meet after finishing sixth in their regional race but rebounded to finish fourth at Lisle to make it to Peoria. Jeff Fredrickson steps in as the new coach of the program. Grace Gildea should step in as the team’s top runner after making it to the state meet last spring. Hayden Calcagno and Chloe Brandt are interchangeable and ran within six seconds of each other as the fourth and fifth team runners. Gildea could be close to all-state this fall, but a gap of over two minutes on the rest of the pack could cause problems getting back to the state meet.
Fithian Oakwood Coach – Emily Mills 2024 Finish – 12th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Vermillion Valley Conference
Runners – Callie Richardson JR, Bracie Hird SR, Taylor Wells SO, Taylor Remole JR, Zoe Moudy SR, Jordyn Colby JR, Janie Birge JR, Lauren Miller SO
Preview – It could be tough for the Comets to get out of the East Central Illinois sectional as it is projected it will be. Oakwood does have all seven runners back from their sectional team. Carrie Richardson is expected to be the top runner on this team after finishing 49th at state. Richardson got a boost by qualifying for state in both the 3200 and 1600 last May. Bracie Hird leads a strong returning pack behind Richardson that ran close to a two-minute split between the other four scorers. The gap needs to narrow to 100 seconds for this group to have a shot of finishing higher than in 2024.
Glen Carbon Father McGivney Coach – Joe Shannon 2024 Finish – 21st, 1A State Gateway Metro Conference
Runners – McKenzie Jones JR, Bella Redenius JR, Ainsley Turkington JR, Miley Badgett SO, Arabella Sumnlers SO, Anna Moore SO, Kaylee Kohl SO.
Preview – A team that I would not count out even after losing their top all-state runners Elana Rybak and Jane Cummings due to graduation. Joe Shannon steps up as the new coach replacing James Melton. McKenzie Jones and Bella Redenius are the only top runners back from the state team. They were separated by 22 seconds at state. The key is moving the rest of the pack to within 60 seconds off the top two runners to make the trip back to Detweiller Park.
Murphysboro Coach – Cody Ellermeyer 2024 Finish – 15th, 1A State Southern Illinois River-To-River Conference
Runners – Harper Ellermeyer SO, Ava Stuemke SR, Aniya Proctor SR, Clare Green JR, Macie Cunningham SR, Ashleigh Boyle SO.
Preview – It could be a rebuilding year for the Red Devils with four graduated from last year’s 15th place state team. Harper Ellermeyer was the team’s second runner as a freshman most of last season finishing in the top 70 in November. Ava Stuemke should be within 30 seconds of Ellermeyer as the season progresses. We might see freshmen runners step into the top five to get this team even out of the regional portion of state qualifying.
Okawville Coach – Val Tepe 2024 Finish – 7th, 1A Benton Sec Cahokia Conference
Runners – Caroline Tepe SR. Kaylee Wolf SO, Katelyn Gogolek SO, Sophia Wood JR, Emma Hokeness SO, Taylor Statler SO
Preview – The Rockets came close to making it to the state meet last year finishing seventh at the Benton Sectional. This team could make the trip north in November returning six from their sectional team. Caroline Tepe will be the lone senior in this top seven with many things to prove after a successful track season. Tepe earned all-state honors in the 800 Meter Run last May. Tepe was 41st in last year’s state meet with her eyes on a top 25 finish. Kaylee Wolf and Katelyn Gogolek, both sophomores will lead a pack that could be within 90 seconds of each other. Something to watch for is how close they can stay close to Tepe. The gap was three minutes at Benton last year.
Robinson Coach – Lauren Clark 2024 Finish – 10th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Little Illini Conference
Runners – Terynn Loftis JR, Mallory Moseby SR, Milaina Kramme SR, Sophia Miller SO, Laylani Beard JR.
Preview – It could be a year of rebuilding for the Maroons after finishing tenth in their sectional meet. Terryn Loftis made to state qualifying individually and will be the team’s top runner. Mallory Mosey could be within 60 seconds of Loftis and will lead the team pack. A group of freshmen runners will need to contribute immediately to get this team ready for the state series.
Rock Falls 2024 Coach – Mark Truesdell 2024 Finish – 16th, 2A Kaneland Sec Big Northern Conference
Runners – Kat Scott SR, Brenna Burlach SR, Emma Peterson SR, Amy Finney SO, Lyndsey Hallowell SO, Abby Cochran JR, Gracie Peterson SR.
Preview – It is a change of scenery for Rock Falls going from one of the smallest schools in Class 22A to one of the largest in Class 1A. The Rockets have six of their top seven back from their state series lineups led by Cat Scott. The senior will step into the team’s top spot after being the team’s second runner most of last year. Brenna Burlach and Emma Peterson was close to a minute of Scott in their sectional race. That could prove beneficial especially in a Class 1A state series race. There was close to a three-minute spread between Peterson and the rest of the pack. That will need to be narrowed down for Rock Falls to make the trip in November to Detweiller Park.
Tolono Unity Coach – Kara Leaman 2024 Finish – 2nd, 1A State Illini Prairie Conference
Runners – Mackenzie Pound SR, Grace Wherley JR, Galina Fairbanks JR, Carolina Popovics FR, Kelsey Adcock FR, Giulietta DiBello FR, Maya Behrends FR, Amelia Good FR, Brooklyn Mumm JR, Mia Reifsteck SO, Payten Niles SO, Kylee Reinhart SO.
Preview – It is hard to see this state program out of the top 30 to start the season. The Rockets came close to winning another state title by missing by two points. It will be different this year after losing five of their top seven to graduation. “This team has a fresh start feel with 75% new faces,” said Coach Kara Leaman, “While looking to Mackenzie Pound as an exemplary model, we have a handful of girls who didn’t run further than a 400 in track. With a gentle transition, this summer we learned how to start working together and embrace the race distance of cross country.”
Pound will be the top runner after finishing 19th as the team’s second runner. Pound should be among the top 10 in 1A this fall. Grace Wherley is the only other runner that has state meet experience. This team is young as Leaman stated. Freshman Carolina Popovics could lead this group in the top five. There should be a lot of bumps in the road, especially in September. It would not surprise me if the Rockets are on the starting line at Detweiller in November. “I’m looking forward to seeing how their confidence builds over the next two months once they start competing,” added Leaman. “I expect their drive and intensity that we saw in the shorter distances to transfer to cross country. We hope to be a state qualifying team and perhaps bring some surprises.”
Tuscola Coach – Drew Sterkel 2024 Finish – 16th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Central Illinois Conference
Runners – Kate Foltz SR, Bella Dueker JR, Sami Walker SO, Hanna Carswell JR, Celeste Rebolle JR, Bailey Ritter SR, Addie Presson JR.
Preview – Tuscola will look to improve on last year’s 16th place sectional finish. Their top six runners are back led by defending state champion Kate Foltz. The senior might have company on the starting line. There was a six-minute gap between Foltz and the rest of the pack in the sectional race led by Bella Dueker and Sami Walker. The spread on the next four runners in the sectional race was close to three minutes. The experience from last year’s race could help get the spread lower. If the pack can get within four minutes of Foltz, the Warriors might find their way into the sectional top 10.
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