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2025 ILXCTF Cross Country Previews - IHSA Class 1A Boys TeamsPublished by
2025 ILXCTF Cross Country Previews - IHSA Class 1A Boys Teams
By Michael Newman
There will be a new state champion in Class 1A with Northridge Prep now off to Class 2A. It could come down to two central Illinois perennial powers Elmwood and Eureka looking for a state title of their own. Rockford area powers Rockford Christian and Winnebago have showed their strength over the summer and could be in the top of the mountain mix. This Class 1A Boys rankings could flip around this fall like what we saw last year. The new kid on the block, Georgetown La Salette Academy, slowly builds their program finishing ninth year with hopes of finishing higher in 2025.
Here is a look at the top teams in Class 1A along with some teams to watch for this season.
1 – Elmwood Coach – Gregg Meyers 2024 Finish – 2nd, 1A State Prairieland Conference
Runners – Aiden Faulkner SR, Kai Nelson SO. Kam Stevenson SR, Danny Sharp SO, Garrett Webster SR, Silas Schmieg JR, Oliver Funk SO, Hason Hubbard JR, Cole Cahill FR, Danny Ellen FR, Geoffrey Schachtrup FR, Colton Turner FR
Preview – Elmwood is the constant for Boys Class 1A running as they will be looking to qualify for the state meet for the 23rd straight time. The Trojans again came close to a state title but ended up finishing second last November at Detweiller Park. The team was supposed to have five runners returning to the team. Coach Gregg Meyers announced that Darwin Herman, who ran 4:17 last spring and was the team’s fourth runner last fall, decided not to run this fall. There are several quality runners that could fill the gap. Aiden Faulkner will be the glue in the front as he led the team with a 25th place finish. A top 15 finish is in his wheelhouse. He ran 4:28/9:48 during the spring.
Kai Nelson, Kam Stevenson, and Danny Sharp had significant improvements during track and will give this team a boost. Stevenson had a significant improvement according to Meyers dropping his time down to 4:44 for 1600. “Danny might have shown the most improvement,” added Meyers. “He ran 16:46 in the state meet last year as a Freshman. In his Freshman Track season, he was able to run a 4:48 1600 and 10:01 in the 3200.” The addition of a good freshman group led by Cole Cahill and Danny Ellen will strengthen this team. “Cole and Danny could have an immediate impact,” said Meyers. “They have been able to run with our top runners during our summer runs. They have also been able to get significant summer miles for freshmen.” The removal of some of the top teams in this class-to-Class 2A will be one of the stories to watch this fall. It could play nicely in the hands for the Trojans. The philosophy of this program is built into the season and then go after it in the state series meets. That is what again could happen for Elmwood this fall.
2 – Eureka Coach – Olivia Morris 2024 Finish – 3rd, 1A State Heart of Illinois Conference
Runners – Gavin Stalter SR, Connell Roth SR, Landon Wurmnest JR, Timothy Rogers SR, Davin Dingledine SO, Jonny Bender JR, Reilly Wiegand SR, Ian Scott JRColt Ulrich JR, Tate Leman SO
Preview – The Hornets were consistent during their 2024 campaign winning their conference meet, finishing second in both regional and sectional races, before finishing third at the state meet. The talent is there for this team to take some hardware home from Detweiller Park. Tate Hinkle was their top runner but graduated. Eureka does have the rest of their top seven back hungry to accomplish some big things according to their coach Olivia Morris. “We have a strong group of upper classman returning this year.” Said Morris. “Then adding in two returning sophomores that impacted our varsity team as freshman, we have high hopes for them. This group in combination with some newly developed athletes gives us depth and positive outlook this coming season.”
Gavin Statler was the team’s top runner behind Hinkle just missing all-state by finishing 28th. Landon Wurmnest was just seven seconds behind in 50th and will give this team a strong 1-2 punch in the front. Connell Roth and Timothy Rogers were also part of their top five that had a 38 second spread on their four runners that return. A key will be to see who steps into the fifth through seven spots. “Our team has been consistent in our training this summer,” added Morris. “This squad does a great job in holding each other accountable.” Eureka has made it to the state meet the past six years with last year’s finish their best of those meets. The formula is there for Eureka to finish better than they did a year ago.
3 – Rockford Christian Coach – Randy Moore 2024 Finish – 4th, 1A State Big Northern Conference
Runners – Evan White SR, Blake Lindberg JR, Julian Honeyville SR, Joel White SR, Noah Myers FR, Landon Opperman FR, Sam Walsh SR, Lukas White SR.
Preview – The Royal Lions have made it to state nine out of the last ten state meets. They were on the verge of bringing home a trophy finishing fourth. Six runners are back from that state team, five of them seniors. Evan White had a great track season all state in the 4x8 and the 800 Meter Run. Before that, he finished 22nd at Detweiller last fall. Joel White has taken a step up and should be watched. Blake Lindberg might be the biggest surprise of the summer according to their Coach Randy Moore and will be a big cog in this program’s machine. “Blake has shown elite discipline in his training this summer, currently on pace for over 600 miles,” added Moore. “Just as impressive, he has taken greater ownership of his auxiliary strength work and is emerging as a young leader who could help shape the future of this squad. Evan White and Joel White have continued to grow into versatile, all-around runners, excelling from the 400m to the 1600m. Over the past eight months, they’ve made strides not only in performance but also in leadership, work ethic, and commitment. They are at the forefront of shaping and strengthening our team culture.”
The big addition to this program is incoming freshman Noah Myers who some feel could be among the team’s top runners this fall. “Fresh off an outstanding summer on the AAU track circuit, Noah enters high school with both speed and endurance in his arsenal,” said Moore. A 2024 IESA 3A state cross country qualifier as an 8th grader at Winnebago middle school, he posted an 11:35 two mile at the state meet. This summer, his 52.22 in the 400m and 2:08.03 in the 800m highlighted the kind of speed that could make an immediate impact for our team this fall.” The addition Myers could mean a 50 second spread on the team’s top five. Evan White could be among the top 10 individuals maybe two more runners in the top 25. This is a driven team that could find a state championship within their grasp. “This is truly a team of veterans, with 7 of our 15 runners being seniors,” concluded Moore. “It’s a tight-knit group of friends who have logged nearly 90% of their summer miles together—often on their own initiative—holding captain’s practices outside of coaching contact days and on weekends. We kicked off the summer with a great team-bonding camp, where the boys further defined the culture and tradition they want to uphold. They decided that regardless of potential, rankings, or predictions, their focus on this fall would not be on times or trophies. Instead, they committed to choosing a disciplined lifestyle over the easy default setting.”
4 – Winnebago Coach – Janet Erb, Joe Erb 2024 Finish – 8th, 1A State Big Northern Conference
Runners – Aidan Vazquez SR, Joseph Erb Jr. SR, Daniel Hodgdon SR, Hudson Pope SR, Blake Linder SR, Brennan Bull SO, Micah Lyons SR, Andrew Woolery FR, Braxton Lindeman FR, Andrew Stahl FR.
Preview – Bago will contend for a trophy this fall after finishing eighth in last year’s state meet. The Indians did lose track state champion and multi all-state xc runner Nicolai Martino to graduation. Three seniors will step into the leadership role. “Our boys team is made up of a bunch of seniors,” said their Coach Janet Erb. “That means they have a pretty good understanding of the purpose of what we are doing in our training.”
Aidan Vazquez had a breakout junior season as he finished 21st at the state meet. Joseph Erb Jr. has suffered through a series of minor injuries but is now healthy for his senior season. Danny Hodgdon could be someone to watch after a strong track season. “Danny had a solid junior CC season and then made grade improvement in track leading off our 4x800 and finished 9th in the 800 at state,” Coach Erb said. “Danny had the most consistent summer of training he has had.” The addition of freshmen Andrew Woolery and Braxton Lindeman could contribute to the team’s top seven. Both runners ran both xc and track last year in middle school. The team is projected to have a 65 to 70 second spread on their top seven. That time will be lower as the season progresses.
5 – Georgetown La Salette Academy Coach – Dan Schreck 2024 Finish – 9th, 1A State Independent
Runners – Marco Cruz SR, Anthony Lillis SR, Andrew Gross SR, Richard Jolly JR, Luke Zis SO. Patrick McDonald SR, Patrick Halligan JR.
Preview – This is a young program not competing in a state series meet until 2021. Since that year, they have competed in three state meets with last year’s ninth place finish their best. Could they finish higher in 2025? It might be tough with only three runners back from that state team. Marco Cruz, Anthony Lillis, and Andrew Gross all were in the top five last year giving the Lions a boost. The three runners were separated by 25 seconds at state. The talent is deep in this roster with Luke Zis and Richard Jolly some of the runners we might see in their top seven. Their top five spread is expected to start in near 80 seconds but watch that fall as the season progresses.
6 – Gillespie Coach – Jay Weber 2024 Finish – 27th, 1A State South Central Conference
Runners – Chaz Oberkfell SR, Marshall Garwood SR, Hank Fletcher SR, Carter Sies SR, Lucas Kapp JR, Nolan Hostettler SO, Matthew Plovich JR
Preview – The Miners made their first state meet experience since 2000 and finished 27th last November. Don’t let that finish fool you. This team is better that what they showed and are ready to prove that. All their top seven runners are back. “This was the most mileage and best commitment we have ever had from a team in the summer,” said their coach Jay Weber. “The culture on the team is great, and the top four returning Seniors set a tone for the season that will push them to new heights and should pull much of the rest of the team with them.”
It helps when you have the defending state champion Chaz Oberkfell leading your team. He had a great track season dropping his times and earning all-state honors. He will be the big favorite this upcoming season. Marshall Garwood suffered a stroke before Sectionals last season, returned to run at State, and is poised for a big breakthrough this season according to Weber. Freshman Todrick Dirks could contribute immediately. Matthew Plovick had a great summer of training and will make the Miners that much better. “The transformation of our program from three years ago (dead last in the SCC Conference in 2022) to now has been remarkable,” added Weber. “This group of guys has committed themselves and put in a lot of work. They are poised to compete at State this season.”
7 – Pinckneyville Coach – Ryan Bruns 2024 Finish – 15th, 1A State Southern Illinois River-To-River Conference
Runners – Landon Boman SR, Zach Teel JR, RJ Degler SO, Jesse Winter JR, Cale Schreider SR, Miles Doerflein SR, Christian Queen SR, Josh Gale SO.
Preview – An experienced squad and one that shows promise to challenge for a trophy this fall. The Panthers finished 15th in last year’s state meet after finishing third in their regional and second in their sectional. Landon Boman again will be the team’s top runner after finishing 15th last year at state and should be among the top 10 in November. Zach Teel leads the pack behind Boman and will look to close the 50 second gap between the two. RJ Degler and Jesse Winter were third and fourth runners last year and within 33 seconds of Teel. This team could finish in the top ten but will need to close their top five spread. It was 116 seconds in the state meet and projected to be 109 seconds to start the season.
8 – El Paso-Gridley Coach – Michael Mellick 2024 Finish – 8th, 1A Elmwood Sec Heart of Illinois Conference
Runners – Drew Cooper SR, Israel Nowark SR, Luke Hinthorne SO, Elijah Webster JR, Weston Hodel SO, Roman Wenger JR, Finn Zeller SO, Eli Kibler SR, Alex Lartz FR, Chance Price FR
Preview – This could be a team on a mission this fall after their finish a year ago. “Our boys took it personally when we did not advance to State as a team for the first time in over a decade,” said t heir Coach Michael Melick. “It is hard to claim a reputation as a perennial contender if you cannot even qualify and I think some of our boys felt like they let down the program.” The Titans finished eighth and return six of their top seven.
Drew Cooper will be one of the leaders in this group after individually qualifying for the state meet (he finished 72nd). Israel Nowark was a solid second runner for the team and will aim to get closer to the front. “For the first time in his career, Israel has had a solid summer of training, which for us means he averaged about 40mpw for the summer,” added Melick. “Drew repeated his 40mpw summer so those two should come in ready to roll. Weston Hodel also had a solid summer, so he should join Drew and Israel in our top three. I think all three should be sub 16 by November.” The top five split in their sectional was 73 seconds, which is good but not for the Elmwood Sectional. You could see the team having a 50-60 spread by the time they get to the state series. The chips on their shoulders could lead them to big things come November.
9 – Glasford Illini Bluffs Coach – Gary Graham 2024 Finish – 10th, 1A State Tomahawk Conference
Runners – Eric Pincock SR, Peter Stoltz SR, Levi Thomas SR, Ty Basham SR, Brayden Gillies SO, Hendrix Seaman SO, Sam Souba JR.
Preview – 2024 was an eye-opening season for the Tigers making it to the state meet as a program for the first time. Illini Bluffs finished tenth last November and return six runners from that state team. Eric Pinnock again should be the top runner for his team. Pinnock finished 36th well in reach of finishing in the top 25. The Tigers had a 72 second scoring spread at Detweiller and will look to lower that. Seniors Peter Stoltz, Levi Thomas, and Ty Basham form a solid nucleus for the Illini Bluffs pack.
10 – East Dubuque Coach – Michael Eyres 2024 Finish – 11th, 2A Kaneland Sec Northwest Upstate Illini Conference
Runners – Andrew Richardson JR, Vinny Gullone SO, Peter Wagner JR, Liam Mead JR, Devin Bradt SR, Nick Cobine JR, Liam Schauer FR, Lucas Jackson FR.
Preview – The best thing that could have happened for East Dubuque is moving down to Class 1A for this season. They did have a good season finishing 11th at the 2A Metamora Sectional. “We are still a fairly new program with us starting back in 2019,” Coach Michael Eyers said. “With that in mind and us being a tri-op that spans most of the county, we have always struggled to have any form of a team culture. Last year I saw improvements in it, but this summer with our great attendance and great outlook for a season has created something special. They are willing to work hard and hurt for each other.”
Andrew Richardson could have a breakout season in Class 1A. This is only the third year of running for the junior. He did make it to state last year finishing 49th. A top 10 finish for Richardson this fall would not surprise me. “Every offseason he has made massive jumps,” added Eyres. “This summer has been the same. He is eager to show off what he can do at the 1A level.” Vinny Gullone and Pete Wagner ran close together and lead a strong group. East Dubuque has never qualified for the state meet. It could happen for the Warriors on November 2.
11 – Clinton Coach – Rachel Lyons, Leann Sosamon 2024 Finish – 17th, 1A State Central Illinois Conference
Runners – Cayden Bostic SO, Brocton Sumner SO, Abel Koritz SR, Nolan Rhodes SR, Joe Taylor SO, Gavin Klein JR, Shawn Ferguson SO, Justin Droke JR.
Preview – The Maroons will look for their third state meet appearance in a row. Clinton finished 17th at state after winning the Olympia Sectional and just making it out of the Elmwood Sectional placing sixth. Five runners are back from that state team. Cayden Bostic last spring ran 9:50 along with qualifying for the 2A State Meet. He finished 62nd last fall and should move at least into the top 35. They will have a tough pack behind Bostic with Brocton Sumner, Abel Koritz, and Joe Taylor all running within three seconds of each other at state. The team’s top five spread should stay close to 60 seconds. That pack needs to move closer to Bostic to make it back to state.
12 – Murphysboro Coach – Cody Ellermeyer 2024 Finish - 24th, 1A State Southern Illinois River-To-River Conference
Runners – Hunter Douglas JR, Edgar Garcia JR, Jonathan Witzman SR, Aiden Taylor SO, Logan Cowan SO, Tatum Judy SO, Ethan Mueller JR, Carl Harris SO
Preview – The Red Devils could be a top 20 team this year after finishing 24th in the state meet last November. They do have a solid top three that will take them places this fall. Edgar Garcia improved his personal best at 3200 meters from 10:02 at the start of the season to 9:45 where he finished 13 in the 2A state meet. Garcia could do some big things this fall. Hunter Douglas was the team’s top runner at state and sectionals. Jonathan Witzman was the team’s third runner. The three were within 16 seconds of each other at state and should move that pack forward. The team’s top five spread, however, was over two minutes in Peoria. That is something to watch and see if that top five spread decreases.
13 – Elgin Harvest Christian Academy Coach – Steven Bland 2024 Finish – 19th, 1A State Northern Athletic Conference
Runners – Luca Bryja SR, Emmanuez Nunez SO, Tyler Linta SR, Caleb Gonzalez SR, Gus Berry SO, Erza Gonzalez SO, Jeremy Potter SO.
Preview – It could be an up and down season for the Lions after finishing 19th at state. All seven runners were scheduled to return. Lucas Pagan will not be back transferring out of the school. Top runner Luja Bryja finished 62nd last year and has his mind set on finishing much higher in 2025. “Luca had a good track season, we are hoping that he is motivated by his success, and we see that translate into a great XC season,” his Coach Steven Bland said. Immanuel Nunez was only three seconds behind Pagan at the end of the year so it might not affect their spread on their top five which is projected to be 60 seconds on the pack to 90 seconds off Bryja.
14 – St. Joseph-Ogden Coach – Jason Retz 2024 Finish – 12th, 1A State Illini Prairie Conference
Runners – Lance Retz SR, Colin Burnett JR, Nate Farney JR, Eli Franklin SO, Aiden Hundley JR, Henry McCannon SO, Cyrus Zadeh SR.
Preview – The Spartans will look to improve on their 12th place finish in 2024. Four of the top five runners are back from that team. “Consistent mileage, quality workouts, and a commitment to pack running have put the team ahead of previous years in both fitness and cohesion,” said their coach Jason Retz. “The athletes are focused on closing their 1–5 gap, competing at the front of every meet, and supporting each other in becoming the best versions of themselves. If the group stays healthy and maintains its momentum, this could be a special season for the program.”
This team will need to live off pack running led by Lance Retz and Colin Burnett. Eli Franklin and Nate Farney again will give the team a strong base within their top five. Their state spread on the four was 35 seconds. The hunt for a fifth runner to run close to that pack will be something to watch in their meets in September.
15 – Effingham St. Anthony Coach – Art Geen 2024 Finish – 7th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec National Trail Conference
Runners – Julius Ramos SR, Camden Bloemer SO, Oliver Kreke SR, Michael Fearday SO, Isaac Tays SO, Elijah Whittier FR.
Preview – The key for Coach Art Geen’s team is staying healthy heading into this season. The Bulldogs just missed the state meet finishing seventh in their sectional. “We have a small team this year, but they all have been putting in good work over the summer and will surprise some people.” Geen said. “We have a tough 5 guys.” Julius Ramos finished 64th at state last year and is the top runner returning. Camden Bloemer and Isaac Tays had a good summer of training and will complement Ramos well up front. The team had over a two-minute spread on their top five in their sectional race. Tightening the 2-5 spread to 45 seconds would be a plus.
16 – Tolono Unity Coach – Art Georges 2024 Finish – 20th, 1A State Illini Prairie Conference
Runners – Eli Crowe SR, Camden Fairbanks SR. Collin Graven SR, Carter Tiemann SR, Ryan Akers SR, Caleb Coy JR, Lincoln Johnson SO, Carson Fairbanks SO
Preview – A team that shows promise heading into this season. The Rockets made it to state where they finished 20th overall. Six runners out of their top seven are back from this talented group. Caiden Fairbanks came on strong in the final two races to become Unity’s top runner finishing 44th. Eli Crowe was the top runner earlier in the season and push Fairbanks up front. Both runners could have designs on all-state finishes. Colin Graves ran close to Crowe in the final two races and could take a step up after a good summer of training. Their spread at state in 2024 was close to two minutes.
17 – Herscher Coach – Rob Grasso 2024 Finish – 11th, 1A State Illinois Central Eight Conference
Runners – Jackson Kruse SO, Jeremy Szepelak SR, Owen Damptz JR, Michael Ringhofer JR, Brycen Steffen SR, Cole Jackubowski SR, Brenden Graham SO, Conner Heck SO, Freddie Reichert SO, Evan Benoit FR.
Preview – It might be a rebuilding year for the Tigers. When it comes to this Herscher program, it is more like reloading. Herscher finished 11th in last year’s state meet with just three runners back from that state team. “When you lose 4 guys from your top 7 to graduation there is usually a pretty big concern about how team culture may change,” said Coach Rob Grosso. “The returners came into the summer committed to building on what was here. I am immensely proud of the leaders we have this year and the dedication they show is truly valued so much as a coach.
Jackson Kruse is the top runner back after finishing 47th with a top 25 finish in his sights this November. Jeremy Szepelak and Owen Damptz also return. Szepelak was only seven seconds behind Kruse at state. Evan Beniot, just a freshman, had a great summer of training and will contribute immediately. “Jackson, Jeremy, and Owen had incredibly successful track seasons,” said Grosso. “I’m proud of the growth they showed. I got to coach Evan for middle school track. He's got racing instincts beyond his years.”
18 – Edwardsville Metro-East Lutheran Coach – Kevin Reiseck 2024 Finish – 29th, 1A State Gateway Metro Conference
Runners – Lukas Abbott JR, Jack Shank SR, Henry Reiseck SO, Dean Hemmer JR, Wyatt Goeckner SR, Elijah Ball SO, Mathias Askins SO, Ronan Askins FR.
Preview – Expectations are high for the Knights after making it to state and finishing 29th. Six runners are back from that state team. Last year’s top runner at state Luke Bright did not come out for the team. “The team has worked hard together to improve this summer,” said Coach Kevin Reiseck. “They have put in the time and grown together as a team.” Lucas Abbott was the top runner for most of last year and was within three seconds of Bright figures to be the top runner for this team. Jack Shank has been on a tear according to his coach since track and should be close to Abbott. The team’s top five split was 68 seconds. The pack needs to move closer to the front in races to be a top 20 team. “The team Is really excited about the upcoming season and look to improve their standing in the State Meet (29th place 2024) this year,” said Reiseck. “With the progress they have made over the summer and their commitment to each other, the sky is the limit for these boys.”
19 – Toledo Cumberland Coach – Jim Miller 2024 Finish – 23rd, 1A State Lincoln Prairie Conference
Runners – Cameron Roedl JR, Kaleb Bierman SR, Gavin Whitaker SO, Brett Matusas SR, Kaden Bradley SR, Damien Chardon SO, Jacob Pierce SO, Kaden Bryant JR.
Preview – The Pirates made it to state for the first time last year since 2018 and they finished 23rd at Detweiller Park. They would like to make the trip to Peoria with five runners coming back, Cameron Roedel will be the clear top runner for this team after being the only runner to go under 16 minutes. What is promising is that the team ran a 63 second top five spread at state. Gavin Whitaker, Kaleb Bierman, and Brett Matusas were within seven seconds of each other at state, but almost a minute behind Roedel. Cumberland will need a fifth runner to get close to that trio. We have a good idea about who steps in by October.
20 – Auburn Coach – Kip Smith 2024 Finish – 7th, 1A Elmwood Sec Sangamo Conference
Runners - James Baisden SR, Wyatt Thurman SR, Jacob Barth SR, Beckem Hudson SR, Hunter Piper SR, Justin Alvazarez FR
Preview – Auburn missed making it to state by 19 points as they finished seventh at the tough Elmwood Sectional. This is a small team with only six runners on their roster to start the season. The Trojans return James Baisden who qualified individually last fall finishing 34th. Wyatt Thurman also made the state trip placing 43rd, Both runners could finish in the top 20 this season. Baisden had a big track season earning all-state honors in the 800 Meter Run. He teamed with Thurman and Jacob Barth to place in the 4x8 and win the 4x4, This team will be hungry to make it to state but will need to stay healthy to accomplish that.
21 – Byron Coach – Mike McHale 2024 Finish – 25th, 1A State Big Northern Conference
Runners – Tim Starwalt SR, Braden Dietrich JR, Michael Muzzarelli SO, Conner Welt JR, River Wygant JR, Micah Hilliker SR, Joel Kerchner SR, Cael O’Horo JR, Jace Jackson JR.
Preview – The Tigers could be one of those surprise teams in Class 1A. Byron finished 25th in last year’s state meet with all seven of those runners all back. Tim Starwalt was all-state last fall placing 14th. The key for this team to move up this year is closing the gap behind Starwalt. Michael Muzzarelli was the second runner at Peoria last year but 100 seconds behind. The spread between their second and fifth runners was another 63 seconds. It was 74 seconds in their sectional race. That gap in between 1-2 and 2-5 both need to come down. The sectional is projected to be tougher than last year so tighter spreads for Byron will need to happen.
22 – Sherrard Coach – Grant Iles 2024 Finish – 8th, 1A Rock Island Alle Sec Three Rivers Athletic Conference
Runners – Alex Belha JR, Luke Anderson SR, David Browning SR, Dominic Fahrenkrog SO, Braiden Krahl JR, Mason Schnell SO, Brayve Wakeland JR.
Preview – It was a heartbreaking finish last year for the Tigers as they finished eighth at Rock Island Alleman missing the state trip by just four points. The good news for them is their entire top seven from that race return with a chip on their shoulder. Alex Belha did qualify individually finishing 54th. Seniors Luke Anderson and David Browning were close to 60 seconds behind Belha in that sectional race. That gap might narrow down this season. Sherrard key will be getting that top five spread to 100 seconds. It was 125 seconds at Saulke Golf Course.
23 – Rock Falls Coach Mark Truesdell 2024 Finish – 9th, 2A Kaneland Sec Big Northern Conference
Runners – Gabe Moyer SR, Jeffrey Sommer SR, IJeffrean Finney SR, Michael Kopita JR, Jace Westlund JR, Rylan Jordan JR, Dashawn Boyd SO, Keith Ross SO.
Preview – It might be a rebuilding year for the Rockets after a good performance last year at the Class 2A Kaneland Sectional where they finished ninth. Four runners are back from that sectional team. Gabe Moyer will use the experience from last year when he finished 97th in the Class 2A State Meet. Don’t count Moyer out of finishing in the top 35. Ian Finney and Jeffrey Sommer were separated by just 12 seconds and will give Rock Falls a strong top three. Constructing the rest of the pack will be something to watch for. Their top five spread to start the season is projected to be at 150 seconds.
24 – Glen Carbon Father McGivney Coach – Joe Shannon 2024 Finish – 30th, 1A State Gateway Metro Conference
Runners – Connor Schmidt SR, Liam Schmidt SR, Aidan Schmidt SR, Eli Germann JR, Nolan Schmieder SO, Andrew Leonelli SO, Eric Rybak SO, Harrison Siegel SO.
Preview – Joe Shannon steps us as the program’s new coach replacing James Helton who retired. Last year’s state meet appearance was the Boys team fourth back in 2018. Connor Schmidt and Liam Schmidt led the team last year and return along with the team’s fifth, sixth, and seventh state runners. The top five spread at state last year was 34 seconds. Both Schmidts ran under 17 minutes last year at state.
25 – Cullom Tri-Point Coach – Brendan Elens 2024 Finish – 26th, 1A State River Valley Conference
Runners – Allen Lucero JR, Miguel Amador SO, Aiden Pelehowski SR, Mitch Woods JR, Garrett Smolkovich JR, Glen Richie SR, Rafael Campos SO
Preview – It was the first appearance last year in the program’s history at the state meet. The Chargers in that race finished 26th; Tripoint returns five from that race. Allen Lucero will step up as the team’s top runner with his teammate Miguel Amador less than ten seconds behind. Last year’s state meet experience should payoff big for this team this fall.
26 – Dieterich Coach – Ryan Woltman 2024 Finish – 9th, 1A Robinson Reg National Trail Conference
Runners – Trevor Crutcher SR, Sylus Niland SO, Keith Hoelscher SO, Jaden Ordner JR, Cody Landers JR, Tanner Niemerg SR, Gavin French JR.
Preview – Dieterich has never appeared at Detweiller Park in the IHSA State Meet, This could be the season for the Movin’ Maroons even though they did not make it to the sectional meet. One of the big breakthrough runners in Class 1A has been Trevor Crutcher. The senior did not make it to state last year finishing 36th at the Toledo Cumberland. He came back during the track season earning all-state honors finishing eighth. Big things could be in store for him and this team. “His training has been solid and is in the best shape of his life,” said his coach Ryan Woltman. “His gate and mechanics have improved and he’s eager to start competing.” Five out of their top six runners from the regional race are back led behind Crutcher with Keith Hoelscher. “These kids are tough and I’m proud of the efforts thus far,” Woltman said. “Cross country is still an afterthought at Dieterich High School, but these kids are earning more and more respect from their peers and the community.”
27 – Deer Creek-Mackinaw Coach – Sam Ingram 2024 Finish – 9th, 1A Elmwood Sec Heart of Illinois Conference
Runners – Noah Burrell JR, Andrew Sauder SR, Orion Mahannah SR, Lucas Whalen SR, Ty Brownlee SO, Lincoln Rassi SR, Samuel Awbrey SO.
Preview – The Chiefs just missed out making it to the state meet finishing ninth at the Elmwood Sectional. The only runner that had state meet experience was Ryan Kuhn who has graduated. The rest of their top seven is back led by Noah Burrell. This is veteran team with four seniors possibly within the top five. The team is projected to start the season with a 70 second spread. Andrew Sauder and Lucas Whalen were within 30 seconds of Burrell and will need to stay that close for this team to be successful this fall.
28 – Broadlands Heritage Coach – Corey White 2024 Finish – 11th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Lincoln Prairie Conference
Runners – Christian Paul SO, Clark Roland JR, Eli Denmark-Collins SR, Joshua Stierwalt SR, Colby Schrock SO
Preview – The roster is small with only five runners starting the season. There is promise in this squad after finishing eleventh at the Toledo Cumberland Sectional. Christian Paul and Clark Roland were interchangeable up-front trading off the top spot for the final two weeks of last season. Expect a 10 second gap between these two runners. The team had a 137 second spread in their sectional race, 117 seconds in their regional race.
29 - Pleasant Plains Coach – Jared Driskill 2024 Finish – 14th, 1A State Sangamo Conference
Runners – Elijah Teefey SR, Ryan Driskill SR, Braeden Galloway JR, Ty Copeland JR, Alex Bye SO, Toby Nass-Helfer JR, Charlie Willenborg FR
Preview – This team will competitive this fall despite the fact they have only three runners back from the team that finished 14th a year ago. “Losing four seniors on a smaller team (three from our top 7) can be a recipe for disaster, but we have backfilled with some really good track runners and more mature underclassmen from last year,” said their Coach Jared Driskill. I like our chances in the post season.” Elijah Teefey finished eighth in last year’s state meet and is hungry for this fall as one of the top Class 1A runners in the state. Teefey and fellow senior Ryan Driskill both suffered stress fractures during track season and were unable to run in Charleston. “Their injuries after they struggled at times during last year's XC season due to iron deficiencies,” added Driskill. “Having cross trained like crazy post injury, they are both hungry to make an impact during this XC season.” Braeden Galloway and Ty Copeland, along with freshman Charlie Willenborg should be a part of their top five. The Cardinals could be tough by the time they get to October.
30 – Fairfield Coach – Justin Sanders 2024 Finish – 13th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Black Diamond Conference
Runners – Skylar Bladel JR, Jarrett Vaughan JR, Kanyen Lingafelter JR, Treyton Lewis JR, Kanyen Lingafelter JR, Justin Johnson JR, Ashton King JR.
Preview – A team that still might challenge for a state meet berth. A big loss for the Mules is that their top runner Grant Jennette, who finished 41st last fall, decided not to come out for the team this fall. Five other runners are back from their sectional team. Kanyen Lingafelter had a great summer of training and could be the team’s top runner. “Kanyen stands out the most to me,” said Coach Justin Sanders. “Mentally, he seems locked. I can tell he really wants to have success this year and help the team more.”
Other Class 1A Schools to watch this fall; schools listed in Alphabetical order
Bloomington Central Catholic Coach – Bill Rhodes 2024 Finish – 11th, 1A Elmwood Sec Illini Prairie Conference
Runners – Jonathan Blankenship JR, Nicholas Jelinek JR, Daniel Becker SR, Jude Bordewick SO, Ian Bryson JR, Paul Koetters JR, Simon Hammaker SO, Leo Triveno, Liam Kohn FR
Preview – The Saints were scheduled to have all seven runners back from their sectional team until two of their top four runners Ben Meyer and Mason Clark choosing to just play soccer. This team ran tight packs last season and should continue that racing strategy this fall. Their top five spread at the Elmwood was just 15 seconds and 41 seconds on their top seven. Jonathan Blankenship and Nicholas Jelinek, both juniors, should again be the top runners for this team. The key will be moving this team closer to the front in races.
Cowden-Herrick Coach – Clint Lorton 2024 Finish – 10th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec National Trail Conference
Runners – August Cosart SR, Griffin Vaughn JR, Deacon Sutter SO, Porter Lilly JR. Hayden Sarver JR, Kaiden Garrido SO, Charlie Witteborg SO.
Preview – A team that we might see in Peoria the second weekend of November. The Bobcats return six from last year’s team that finished tenth in their sectional race. August Cosart qualified for the state meet in that race as he finished 79th the following week, Griffin Vaughn should be within 20 seconds of Cosart giving the team a solid 1-2 in the front. What will need to be worked on is getting their pack, led by Deacon Sutter or Porter Lilly, within 60 seconds of the top two to have this team in state qualifying position.
Johnsburg Coach – Chris Setzler 2024 Finish – 8th, 1A Lisle Sec Kishwaukee River Conference
Runners – Grady Smith SO, Micah Klos JR, Cayden Moran SO, Carson Klos SO, Ignatius Karr FR, Luke Jablonski FR.
Preview – The Skyhawks are young with their roster comprised of all underclassmen losing just one runner to graduation. The last time Johnsburg made it to state was in 2015. They might do it this year. It helps if you also have one of the top Class 1A runners on your team in the state. Grady Smith had a standout freshman campaign finishing ninth in the state and is the third returning runner. Micah Klos looks to be the second runner on this small squad. The team is projected to have a three-minute spread on their top five to start this season,
Monticello Coach – Matthew Miller 2024 Finish – 8th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Illini Prairie Conference
Runners – Tim Sikorski SO, Xander Anawaty SR, Jack Krumtinger JR, Lukas Whitt JR, Eli Anderson SO, Wolfgang Derby SO, Quinlan Gleason JR, Jaxon Clark SO, Kyle Wilson JR,
Preview – The Sages could be a team to watch in making it to state. New Coach Matthew Miller welcomes back five of their top seven runners from the sectional team that finished eighth. Tim Sikorski had a fine freshman season and should be the runner in front leading the team’s pack. The gap between Sikorski and third runner Xander Anawaty appears to be near 70 seconds. That will need to come down. Monticello is projected to have a 5-runner split above two minutes. Decreasing that gap to 90 seconds could mean good things for the Sages by the time we get to the state series.
Paris Coach – Missy Tingley 2024 Finish – 15th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Little Illini Conference
Runners – Harrison Hays JR, Nathan Fonner JR, Grayson Craffets JR, Kinser Holloway SO, Gage Wright JR, Christian Perez SR
Preview – The Tigers could be a year away from making it to the state meet. At the same time, this team could make the Peoria trip in a couple of months. Paris finished 15th in their sectional race where Class 1A takes only six teams to the state meet. Six runners from the sectional race. Harrison Hays and Nathan Fonner are the team’s top runners. Both might make it to state individually. There is about a 70 second gap between those two and the rest of the pack. The spread in the sectional race was around three minutes. That needs to come down for good things to happen for the Tigers.
Petersburg PORTA Coach – Jacob Wooldridge 2024 Finish – 15th, 1A Elmwood Sec Sangamo Conference
Runners – Kade Parker SR. DJ French SR, Max King SO, Max Kesselring SR, Dylan Woods JR, Jake Schwartz SO, Drew Zimmerman FR
Preview – PORTA starts this season without two of last year’s top five runners, Second runner at sectionals Caden Cave has moved, Third sectional runner Justin Zimmerman decided to concentrate on wrestling. Kade Parker and DH French will be the top runners for the Bluejays. Parker qualified for state last fall finishing 66th. A top 25 finish is a possibility for that senior. Drew Zimmerman is new to the program as a freshman and could contribute to the top five immediately. Keeping a tight pack after these three top runners will be something to watch for. “Summer training has gone about how it always has; I wish it was more consistent, but I know kids come as much as they can,” said their coach Jacob Wooldridge. “Our team is co-opped between the PORTA and A-C School Districts, which at its biggest is over 40 miles across, so transportation is a hurdle just getting kids to Petersburg to run together. Add in fighting summer jobs, other sport activities, vacations, and such, we hope the kids can come to a minimum of 1 of the 3 opportunities we offer each week in June and July and then must trust that the miles they type into the summer running log we share with them are truthful. We always tell the kids, “We won’t punish you for not running in the summer, but your own body will do those 1st few weeks of the season in August.”
Robinson Coach – Lauren Clark 2024 Finish – 16th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Little Illini Conference
Runners – Wyatt Herrington JR, Austin Carter JR, Jason Tingley SO, Kaden Pasero SO, Ben Coonce JR, Nikolas Antes JR, Braxton Pethtel SR.
Preview – The Maroons their entire top seven from the sectional team that finished 16th at Toledo Cumberland. Wyatt Herrington again will be the top runner for Robinson. The junior made it to the state meet where he finished 31st. A top 20 state finish should be within his reach. The spread on the next four runners will be something to watch. Austin Carter was within 80 seconds of Hendricksen towards the end of the season. The spread on the next four runners with Carter was over two minutes.
Rockford Boylan Coach – Nathan Kohnle 2024 Finish – 10th, 2A Belvidere No Reg Big Northern Illinois Ten Conference
Runners – Luke Wedwick SR, Andrew Horst SR, Jake Barker SO, Joshua Martorana SO, Angelo Becker SR, Dominic Canova JR, Nathan Nooner SR.
Preview – Rockford Boyland is one of the schools in the IHSA that will have their Girls team still in Class 2A with the Boys team moved down to Class 1A. The Boys team did not make it out of regionals last year finishing 10th in the 2A Belvidere North Regional. Six runners are back from that team. Andrew Horst should be the front runner on this team with Jake Barker the closest Boylan to him. The team comes in with a projected two-minute spread, That kind of spread should advance them out of the regional. Closing the gap from two to five runners to under 45 seconds could help get this team to the state meet.
Roxana Coach – Ben Scamihorn 2024 Finish – 22nd, 1A State Cahokia Conference
Runners – Anthony Hardin SR, Noah Crump JR, Easton Johnston JR, Joshua Ervin JR, Peyton Pride SR, Alessandro Vazquez SO, Jordan Jessie SO
Preview – Four runners are back from the state team that finished 22nd last November at Detweiller Park. Anthony Hardin and Noah Crump are interchangeable up front and could switch as the team’s top runner. Easton Johnston and Joshua Ervin are the next runners that should step into the top five. Jordan Jessie might have the edge on the fifth spot; The Shells had a spread near 60 seconds on their state returning runners. Keeping their top five spread under 80 seconds will be a plus.
Shelbyville Coach – Levi Pruemer 2024 Finish – 12th, 1A Tol Cumb Sec Central Illinois Conference
Runners – Henry Woolery JR, Ryne Peavler SR, Ayson Fisher SR, Silas Hicks JR, Jake Palmer JR, Warren Weekly JR, Jonah Bowers JR.
Preview – The Rams have the talent entering this year to make a push for the state meet. Shelbyville did finish 12th in their sectional race but return six runners from that team. Henry Woolery was the team’s top runner at the end of the season and should be the team’s top runner. Ayson Fisher and Sylas Hicks gives the Rams a solid second and third runners. The team had a 94 second spread on their top five, but only 35 seconds separating their pack runners. IT could be an encouraging season for Shelbyville. More news |
