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2020 Illinois High School Cross Country Team Previews - Class 2A GirlsPublished by
2020 Illinois High School Cross Country Team Previews - Class 2A Girls Benet Academy has a new coach, same runners, and the team to beat in Class 2A By Michael Newman
The scenery is new in Illinois Cross Country. Invitational meets are gone for the time being replaced by dual, triangular, and quad meets.
The scenery has also changed at the home of the defending Class 2A Champions Benet Academy. Long time Coach Scott Brooks decided to retire and hand over the reigns of the program to his assistant Katie Paski. Brooks had been at the school for more than 25 years.
The one thing that did not change was the roster from Benet Academy. Every runner from that state team is back maybe just a little hungrier to get another state title. I just hope we get to that stage of the season.
Latin School, Fenwick, and last year’s second and third place teams Lakes Community and Prairie Ridge will itch for the chance to compete for a state trophy. But just like the rest of the schools I Illinois, their state trophy may be etched by achievements on cross country courses this fall.
The main thing is that these kids get to run with their friends and race. That is what this sport is all about. It might not be invitational meets. It might be just dual meets and that is okay with me.
In February, when things changed with the formatting of sectionals in the state series, I made the decision to increase the weekly rankings that I do from 25 to 30 teams to reflect the change with the IHSA. At this time, I have yet to determine if we will do weekly rankings due to the fact that it is mathematically tough to compare teams on just dual meets (That might change).
The previews that have been written are focused on IF we have a state series and IF we have a state meet. As of this time, that is yet to be determined.
There was never the chance that these would not be written for the upcoming season. It is more of a tribute to the student/athletes that did not get a chance to compete this spring and now have that opportunity this fall. This preview is for all of you.
Class 2A Girls Teams
1 Lisle Benet Academy
Coach – Katie Paski
2019 Finish – 2019 Class 2A State Champions
Runners to Watch – Emily Spellman SR (12, 17:48), Meaghan Andrews SR (14, 17:49), Joy Jackson SR (26, 17:59), Amelia Parisi JR (44, 18:21), Louisa Diamond SO (55, 18:36), Elisabeth Camic SR (56, 18:37), Mary Weber JR (57, 18:39), Kelly Andrews SR, Karly Keating SR, Laura Mansour JR.
Preview – There will be some change around the Benet Academy team this fall. Their long time coach of over 20 years Scott Brooks retired over the summer. He ran for a state championship at York in 1986 and then coached the Red Wings to a state championship last fall. Katie Paski, who ran for Coach Brooks and has been an assistant coach in the program, steps in as the new coach.
“We are continuing to keep our season and our training as normal as we possibly can under the circumstances and these trying times, but we are ready to adapt to the ever changing environment in which we currently live,” Paski said. “The girls continue to count their blessings and are excited for the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead.”
The possibility of a state championship is still there since the IHSA has not announced whether or not there will be a state series this fall. Brooks did not leave the cupboard bare for Paski. Their entire top seven returns looking to repeat and continue what they started last fall.
“With our first week of the official season in the books, we have several underclassmen who have displayed a great deal of potential and who we are confident will have a bright future in our program,” Paski added. “Senior, Kelly Andrews, who did not run in last year’s state meet but who was on our state championship team, has consistently been at the top of our pack during summer training and this past week. The confidence and determination she brings with her each day in practice certainly does not go unnoticed. She has been solid in all of her workouts, and we are anxious to see all she achieves this season. Both Elisabeth Camic and Louisa Diamond are right with her pushing each other every step of the way and are performing exceptionally well in their training. Elisabeth has shown tremendous leadership skills both this summer and at the start of this season.”
All of their runners at state last year finished in the top 60. Not too many teams, Boys or Girls, can claim that. That is how good Benet was and how much better they can be in 2020. Emily Spellman and Meaghan Andrews were all-state. Andrews was fourth through sixth runner towards the end of last season until she ran a great race at state. Joy Jackson just missed all-state by one spot and will surely be with those two all-state runners this fall. Diamond and Amelia Parisa will move up after a great spring/summer of training. The Red Wings had a top five split of 48 seconds at the state meet. They are projected to have a 33 second split on their scorers entering this season.
“We are blessed to return nine runners from our state meet roster last year,” said Paski. “This group is an extremely tight group who complements each other well. They bring the best out of each other every day in practice pushing each other to become stronger runners physically and mentally; the healthy internal competition they have is what makes them a great team. They are ambitious, setting challenging and attainable goals; they are confident; and they are the textbook definition of teamwork. Seeing them achieve their season goal of becoming the 2A State Champions last year was one of the proudest moments for Coach Frey and me, and we are extremely blessed and fortunate to have them all return this year.”
2 Chicago Latin School
Coach – Dan Daly
2019 Finish – 8th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Ava Parekh JR (3, 17:00), Marianne Mihas SR (28,18:03), Bea Parr SR (30, 18:05), Olivia Syftestad SR (72, 18:53), McKenna Fellows JR, Erica Darcy JR, Reese Benford FR, Kimika Darcy SO, Quincy George JR, Charlotte O’Toole SR.
Preview – Latin School was among the top Class 2A teams for most of last season until they got to the state meet. One of their top five runners not finishing added to not the best race of the season for the team earned them an eighth-place finish in Peoria. What can be said is that the talent on this roster is capable of doing some big things this fall.
Ava Parekh is one of the top runners in the state and will contend for the Class 2A individual state title. Marianne Mihas was slowed last fall by injuries that delayed the start of her season. She is back and 100% healthy and could challenge for a top 10 individual finish. Bea Parr had a great summer of training and could be ready for a breakout senior season even though she finished 30th last year. Her coach Dan Daly believes that she could be the second runner on this team by the end of the year. McKenna Fellows did not finish her state race but was the team’s third/fourth runner coming down the stretch to state. Fellows along with Olivia Syftestad should be in the final two scoring positions. Newcomer Reese Benford could give the team depth in their top seven.
What was evident last year is this team was a five runner squad. Staying healthy will be something they will need to be lucky with. The Romans could have three runners in the first ten places. They may have the most talent in their lineup in Class 2A. Latin School will contend for a trophy. It could be a state championship if we get to that point.
3 Oak Park Fenwick
Coach – Kevin Roche
2019 Finish – 4th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Maggie O’Malley SR (34, 18:11), Maria Quinn SR (38, 18:14), Bella Daley SO (62, 18:45), Katie Cahill SR (74, 18:55), Mikaela Burns JR (91, 19:09), Delaney Seligmann SR (189, 20:41), Ava Martinez SO, Mia Scharpf JR, Adelai Kaiser SO,
Preview - The Friars missed a trophy last year finishing fourth at state. Six of the seven state runners are back. This is a young team that again will grow during the season. What could have slowed them down was when the track season was postponed then cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We trained virtually, running on our own and logging using Final Surge. We did a virtual meet before the IHSA asked that we stop those,” said their coach Kevin Roche. “We had every other day phone calls just to say hello and to talk for about 25 minutes. We had some light questions and some serious questions. We did not really talk much about training, because that was not really what it was about. I knew we were all yearning for that connection with each other and these 25 minutes 3 days a week really were helpful. We also did a virtual marathon relay with the alumnae. We had different classes make teams and divvy up the miles as they saw fit. It was a ton of fun and the coaches even had a team too. Br. Joe Trout was the mastermind behind that. We had a decade of teams competing and it really created connections virtually as we were all so apart.”
The key in a talented state title chase like Class 2A again will have this fall is having runners in all-state positions and a tight five runner split. Fenwick could achieve both this season. Maggie O’Malley is their top returning runner that could earn all-state honors. Maria Quinn finished only three seconds behind O’Malley at state and should retain that closeness in races. Bella Daley has improved dramatically over the summer according to Roche and could be close or ahead of O’Malley this season. Katie Cahill and Mikaela Burns should round out the possible top five. There were no transfers out of Fenwick. That is good news for a private based school in a pandemic.
Fenwick will be in the mix for a trophy at state if we get a go ahead to travel to Peoria. The main thing is that this squad that cherishes the time they get to be together will get to do so this fall. “My message is to just be grateful we are together,” Roche added. “This season is a season of gratitude for each day we get to be together.”
4 Peoria Notre Dame
Coach – Dan Gray
2019 Finish – 10th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Maria Stedwill SO (19, 17:54), Eileen Zopel SO (46, 18:26), Irene Ehrhart SR (53, 18:34), Teagan Cover JR (80, 19:01), Caroline Williams SR (121, 19:28), Maci Cave JR (195, 21:09), Regan Ruggiero SO, Olivia Finch SO, Elle Couri SO, Kaitlyn Bentley SR, Abby Socha SR
Preview – The Irish could take the next step up in a loaded and tough Class 2A this fall. Six of their top seven runners return from their 10th place state team. Only fifth runner Kate Schlepesiek, who graduated, does not return from their top seven. Audrey Elward, a senior did not come out for the team. Their push towards this season started with the stoppage of track in the spring.
“We used the Athletic.net APP and HOKA One One Summer Miles program so they could check in their mileage and allow me to get feedback,” said their coach Dan Gray. “Some runners were much better than others at uploading their info! We also did a "Timed Tuesday" where I asked them to do a 3 mile route each Tuesday (starting back in April) and time the effort just so they can have a target to hit/beat. That had some success and helped keep them on their toes rather than just slogging out the slower mileage.”
Maria Stedwell started her freshman season running in the lower level races. When she “grew out of that level, she moved up to the varsity where she was the #1 runner for the rest of the year. Stedwell finished 19 at state to finish her season. Eileen Zopel, a sophomore, also had a good freshman season as she ended up as the team’s second runner. Irene Ehrhart again will be a top five runner for this team.
“Junior Teagan Cover has been the biggest surprise (yet not really a surprise at all!),” said Gray. “After starting her freshman year looking like an All-State runner, she ran into ongoing injury issues, that lingered and really compromised most of her soph CC season, and obviously no track. She has been very fit and able to log some bigger mileage than in the past with no issues thus far. She is a very gifted runner, who races with a lot of confidence.”
The Irish could challenge for a trophy (if we get there) at state) but will need to work on their top five split. Stedwell will be in front with Zopel staying at the least 15 to 20 seconds close to her teammate. A top five split under 80 seconds, a second through five split of under 60 seconds is something that will need to be watched for.
“Elle Couri, and Senior newcomers Kaitlyn Bentley and Abbi Socha have stepped right into a very good girls team like they had been there for a couple of seasons,” said Gray about some of his newcomers to the team. “They are strong and will push some of our returnees.”
5 Crystal Lake Prairie Ridge
Coach – Kelly MacDonald
2019 Finish – 3rd, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Colette Janik JR (16, 17:50), Rylee Lydon SO (22, 17:56), Rachel Soukup SO (33, 18:11), Bridget Jewell JR (86, 19:05), Allie Klauser JR (139, 19:44), Sophie Robinson JR (144, 19:47), Leah Walters JR, Alexis Soukup SO, Afton Reimen-Schneider SO, Elani Nanos JR.
Preview – One of the greatest things that I saw at last year’s state meet was when Prairie Ridge found out that they finished third in the Class 2A Girls Meet. There were screams of joy, jubilation, and teammates sharing that moment.
“Last year's state meet was magical,” their Coach Kelly MacDonald said. “We knew we were strong, and we had a belief in ourselves that we could rise to the occasion and finally put a whole team race together. In all reality, we knew there was 10-12 teams fighting it out for the 3rd place trophy. We thought 5th-7th was most realistic. If you would have seen our first race of the year, you never would have believed what we accomplished. The majority of this team were rookies to cross country. At our first meet, (the hilly, hot, and humid Veterans Acre course) many of these State runners begged to be pulled out of that first race. We finished 6th! I wondered out loud with my assistant coach, “How are we going to turn this train wreck around.” We never pushed them. We allowed them to gain confidence in their own time and when it came down to the last meet, they did something incredible. They ran not for themselves. They ran for each other.”
Prairie Ridge will be just as good in 2020 as they were last year when they finished third at state. Six of their top seven runners are back from that team. The time off this spring and summer did not slow them down. The culture and their work ethic showed during this “down” time.
“During the winter, a nice group of girls decided to be part of a book club. We would meet on Tuesday mornings before school,” MacDonald said. “We would read, complete a worksheet and discuss what we read. The discuss how we could apply these truths to our lives. When COVID-19 hit these girls wanted to continue this tradition. We found a new book and started meeting twice a week with Google Hangouts. All of us felt grateful for this opportunity, as it gave us a small fragment of normalcy during that crazy time. In the spring, once we had permission to give the girls workouts, we had an official kickoff Google Hangout meeting. All the freshmen and last year's team were invited. We had two meetings a week, Mondays, and Fridays, to start and to wrap up the week. Prior to our official start these girls organized themselves and ran on their own. They did an incredible job preparing for the upcoming year. I am very blessed to have such a dynamic group.”
The top three in last year’s state meet finished in the first 33. Colette Janik is back after her 16th place finish. Rylee Lydon (22nd) and Rachel Soukup (33rd) followed with only a 21 second split between them. Bridget Jewell and Allie Klauser should step into the fourth and fifth spots. They also have a strong group of freshman that will give this already strong team a boost.
“Every day that we get to practice is a blessing,” added MacDonald. “We are a small % of students who are able to have some sort of normalcy in our lives. It is a privilege for us to be meeting. We need to be grateful for this opportunity and to use it to the fullest. It can be taken away at any moment. We try to celebrate every day we are able to meet and work out together. None of us knows what the future has in-store for us, but we can definitely make the best of every day we have together.”
The Wolves will be a team that will be among the elite in the insanely strong 2A North Sectional. Could they repeat with a third trophy? They could. The memories of that finish and afterwards again will push this team.
“It all came down to the last mile of the race,” McDonald said looking back at the state race. “Every girl passed a significant number of runners to secure our finish. As an example, just the other day I found new footage of the last 400 meters, Janik and Lydon were sitting around 46-48 on the zig-zag, both of them moved up to All-state ranks in that final stretch. This team is good at trusting and believing in what they are asked to do.”
6 Vernon Hills
Coach – Suzanne Curry
2019 Finish – 11th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Rose Sheridan SO (18, 17:52), Emma Wakefield JR (66, 18:49), Anna Todd SO (73, 18:54), Reina Hill SO (90, 19:02), Rachel Ackerman SO (116, 19:25), Hannah Thomas SO (152, 19:57), CJ Leuck JR, Anja Hofmeier JR, Itzel Ocampo SR.
Preview – It was an up and down season for Vernon Hills. That tends to happen when five of your to seven runners are freshmen. That year of growing should benefit this team this fall. They finished 11th at state. The Cougars should contend for a state trophy when all is said and done.
“We are happy to have the opportunity for a season and to compete. Although it will look different than what many of us are used to, we are willing to make the modifications and sacrifices needed to be able to be together and still compete as a team,” coach Suzanne Curry said. “We know that we can be successful and still have a great team atmosphere despite the restrictions we will follow. The IHSA, along with our AD and conference ADs, have worked hard to outline the requirements to ensure safe practices and competitions and we are grateful to all of them.”
Rose Sheridan and Emma Wakefield should again be the team’s top runners. Wakefield was the team’s #1 runner at their conference and sectional races. She did not have her best race at state finishing 59 seconds behind Sheridan. In that state race, Sheridan earned all-state honors placing 18th. There were moments also that Sheridan finished almost a minute behind Wakefield at the end of the year. Watch for the two runners to be close to each other this fall.
Anna Todd and CJ Leuck had a good summer of training. They could close the gap on Sheridan and Wakefield. Hannah Thomas, Reina Hill, and Rachel Ackerman are the other three sophomores that could also step into the top five.
This team is deep with talent. Vernon Hills only had a 70 second split at state on their top five runners in what was not their best race of the season. The 11th place finish at Detweiller is deceiving. There is tradition in this program as we all know. The Cougars could be within reach of a trophy. “I know they've been really good about running the miles, and sometimes not so good about actually logging them,” Curry said. “Based on the logged runs and conversations, a number of girls have increased their summer mileage and seem to be training very well, most notably, sophomore Anna Todd and CJ Leuck have made a nice jump this summer.”
7 Bloomington
Coach – John Szabo
2019 Finish – 17th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Kaitlin Skeate SR (21, 17:56), Lavern Gardner JR (135, 19:39), Laylani Rivera SR (150, 19:48), Raegan Kaeb SO (167, 20:17), Paige Kaeb SR (169, 20:20), Nicte Rivadeneyra-Braswell JR, Lilliana Ifft JR, Ibby Smith SR.
Preview – This is one team that I would watch for as this 2020 season progresses even though they only finished 17th at last year’s state meet. Five runners are back from that team looking forward to completing the story that they started a year ago. “We haven't had one individual surprise us, but I feel our team is in good shape at this time considering everything that is going on,” said Bloomington Coach John Szabo.
Kaitlin Skeate has finished in an all-state spot the past two years. She will look for a third time leading this team in her senior season. Raegan Kaeb was the second runner for most of her freshman season. She did not have her best race at state last fall s she was the team’s sixth runner in that race. She does have a personal best of 18:35 at Detweiller Park. She ran 105 seconds slower in her state race.
The pack led by Kaeb behind Skeate will need to stay fewer than 60 seconds within each other. It was only 11 seconds at state, but the pack was 102 seconds behind Skeate. Kaeb should be closer as the team’s second runner.
“We have been training like we were going to have a normal season, knowing that we were actually hoping we would have a normal season,” Szabo said. “We will compete in whatever we allowed to and be excited for any opportunities.”
8 Dixon
Coach – Simon Thorpe
2019 Finish – 9th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Paige Stees SR (11, 17:47), Jade Miller SR (15, 17:49), Grace Johnson SR (110, 19:21), Taylor Hills SR (126, 19:34), Emily Conderman SO (151, 19:56), Kait Knipple SO, Paige Riley JR, Madison Van Oosten SO., Fatima Rivera SO, Shea Lahey JR.
Preview – Simon Thorpe steps in as the new coach at Dixon replacing his dad Evan who will now coach the middle school team. Five runners are back for Dixon from the state team finished ninth. Two of those runners that are back are all-state. Paige Stees (11th) and Jade Miller (15th) are both good enough to finish in the top 10.
The pack behind Stees and Miller will be something to be worked on. They are lucky that they will have a strong group of freshmen joining the team. Emma Smith could be the freshman that might be close to Dixon’s top two runners. “The girls have added seven freshman to the roster from our middle school program,” Thorpe said. “A key freshman is Emma Smith. She ran a 5:35 1600 as a 7th grader and was primed to be an all-state IESA 3A runner last year but came down with walking pneumonia the week of sectionals. She is dedicated and loves the aspect of sport. I look forward to working with her over the next few years. In the place of Emma being sick last year, a fellow incoming 9th grader named Keeley Mick stepped up and won our sectional meet as the individual champion. She ran 5:40 as a 7th grader and has great potential.”
9 Lake Villa Lakes Community
Coach – Travis Shepherd
2019 Finish – 2nd, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Brooke Stromsland SR(2, 16:33), Rebecca Runyan SO (52, 18:33), Maddie Perez SO (61, 18:44), Alex Bryant SR (81, 19:01), Krista Gfesser SO (170, 20:22), Kayla Dieringer SO (179, 20:38), Madison Twarling FR, Gretchen Good JR, Sarah Lucier JR, Elise Coleman SO, Thea Liengay SO.
Preview – The 2019 season for Lakes Community was a journey they would love to re-live again after finishing second in the state meet. Not that many people expected that outcome last November. That team and their followers did. The Eagles did lose their second runner Olivia Schmitt to graduation. They did return everyone else including all-state runner Brooke Stromsland.
“The team stayed in touch using Google Classroom and REMIND,” said their coach Travis Shepherd. “We trained until the track season was officially cancelled. I know the girls were heartbroken as they were looking to build on their amazing Fall with a stellar track season. We have tried to stay mentally fresh and really enjoy the sport. We have attempted to stay connected socially and support each other in our individual training.”
The spotlight will once again be on Stromsland after finishing second at state last November. With defending champion Tatum David moving out of state, she will be one of the favorites for the state title. There is a solid pack of three runners that should fit in nicely behind their senior leader. Senior Alex Bryant along with sophomores Rebecca Runyan and Maddie Perez should stay within 20 seconds of each other during races. Staying within 90 seconds of Stromsland could also be possible. This team has depth from last year but watch for freshman Madison Twarling to challenge for a fifth spot. A strong pack from their second through fifth runners puts them in position to challenge for back to back state trophies.
“I want them to focus on running for fun and personal bests,” Shepherd added. “Winning a trophy last Fall helped put into perspective the importance of enjoying the journey. You will miss out on so much if you are always focused on the end result. I know I really tried to savor each moment throughout the year, especially the state series. We had such a fun group who found the balance between competing and enjoyment. I really look forward to those experiences again. Making memories is the other message we talk about. The memories are what we cherish the most after high school and I want them to make as many as possible. This group knows how to laugh and are enjoyable to be around.”
10 Dunlap
Coach – Chris Friedman
2019 Finish – 13th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Saniya Mathew SO (23, 17:57), Macy Priess SR (70, 18:50), Aasiyah Adrian SR (111, 19:22), Paige Acklie JR (137, 19:41), Taya Zimmerman SO (165, 20:13), Alexis Wirth SR, Faith Meghrian SO, Ella Blue Ramirez SO, Swetha Yegappan SO, Abbie Gleason FR, Morgan Catt FR, Morgan Phillips FR.
Preview – The powerhouse program just north of Peoria keeps on rolling. Dunlap should be among the top teams in the central region of the state. The Eagles finished 13th in last year’s state meet. Chances of placing higher are certain especially with five runners back from last year’s state team.
The cancellation of track season and the limitations on summer running let this team grow. “In reality, much of the approach was letting the kids take some ownership over the training. This was especially true for the distance runners,” said Dunlap Coach Chris Friedman. “What made me happiest was when I was out for my own run or walk in the morning and I'd see girls from the team running through the neighborhood or on the trail. Those most committed to the sport and who have a love of running will end up shining throughout all of this. We have several girls who fit this bill.”
The Eagles will be tough in the front in races led by Saniya Mathew and Macy Priess. There was a 53 second split between the two runners at state. That gap was only 17 seconds in their sectional race and 35 seconds in their conference race. Keeping Mathew and Pries within 10 to 15 seconds of each other will be a plus for this squad.
The most improved runner from the summer according to Friedman is Aasiyah Adrian. She was a last minute substitution in last year’s state race. Adrian took advantage of the opportunity and was the team’s third runner. She could close the gap on the front two. Michelle Sun would have been in the top five but transferred to Illinois Math & Science Academy this summer. The Eagles do have the talent to fill in the top five including a strong freshman group joining the team led by Abbie Gleason.
Tradition in this program will help them transition into this new normal IHSA season. “All we can tell them is be patient, Friedman added. “No one knows what will happen this year, so patience becomes the key to success. It seems appropriate for distance runners since it might be the most important trait of good distance runners. Nothing happens quickly in distance training.”
11 Crystal Lake South
Coach – Ken Greenfield
2019 Finish – 6th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Isabella Gonzalez SO (10, 17:46), Addie Frisch JR (47, 18:28), Emma Murphy SR (93,19:09), Bianca Garay SR (112, 19:23), Chelsea Greene SR (123, 19:29), Anna McDermott JR (175, 20:28), Elise Gorman JR, Delaney Eschman SO, Gianna Pinta SO, Natalia Pocica SO.
Preview – To demonstrate how good this team was last year was the Gators finished third in a tough Fox Valley Conference, just advanced to state by finishing fourth at the Belvidere Sectional, and then sixth at state. It will hurt the team that they will not have their leader Mackenzie Aldridge around. She has graduated but was the team’s second runner just missing all-state last year by four places. Everyone else is back from the state team hoping they get a chance to race again at state.
“We were really restricted in the spring after the shut down, so there was a period of time I wasn’t
really able to communicate with the girls very much,” Coach Ken Greenfield said. “Once I was able to start training them remotely and we realized there was not going to be a competitive track season, I tried to get them going on building their base a little earlier than most years. Most communication was via email and Remind. I thought the kids might be video chatted out after the spring, so I tried to just send quick little individual messages to try to let them know I was there for them.”
When a freshman is in the top 10 on the state level, you have to take notice. Isabella Gonzalez finished her first high school season finishing 10th at Detweiller Park. Addie Frisch was 42 seconds behind Gonzalez at state. Closing that gap in half is possible for Frisch. The pack behind Gonzalez is projected to have a 40 second split between them. The key is moving that pack closer to their star runner.
“One of our pillars is “Control What You Can Control”. I cannot think of a time when that has been
more important than this season,” Greenfield added. “I also want to emphasize that every day is a gift. When things are “normal” we take so many things for granted. I want them to enjoy the camaraderie of daily training and being together and improving themselves. Then we have to let the chips fall where they may.”
12 Chicago St. Ignatius Prep
Coach – Matthew Haffner
2019 Finish – 5th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Lexi Affolter SR (36, 18:13), Lexi Noonan SO (99, 19:12), Mia Trotter SR (114, 19:24), Zoey Holland (134, 19:38), Isabella Corral SR, Maeve White SR, Rosie Sullivan SR, Montserrat Curran SR, Haley Fitzgerald SO, Lizzie Higgins SR, Annie O’Neill JR, Anna Jablonski JR.
Preview – The Wolfpack were pushing for a trophy most of last season. They did finish fifth at state and could duplicate that finish with four runners coming back. They will miss all-state runners Kristina Dalton and Rhiannon O’Keefe who graduated.
The situation of being within the Chicago borders has caused some problems this summer with practices according to their Coach Matt Hafner. “The team did a good job training during the Spring. Our one challenge was that the city kids were not always allowed to run outside on the sidewalks,” Haffner said. “Our camps were canceled by the school. We met on two days last week and it seems like some of the kids will be ready to go for the season.”
One of the runners that should be ready for the season is Lexi Affolter. She was the team’s third runner at state placing 36th. An all-state placing could be in the cards for this senior. The team should have a good pack behind Affolter led by Lexi Noonan, Mia Trotter, and Zoey Holland. Their second through fifth runner split is projected to be near 40 seconds. The key will be keeping the pack within 45 seconds of Affolter.
Unless the level changes in Chicago for guidelines, the Wolfpack will be limited to teams within the city limits as well as their league. The culture within this team will help St. Ignatius get through this season. “We will stick with our main goals: running and training are two different things,” added Haffner. “All aspects of training at practice need to be done well, not just the run. We also encourage everyone to be a leader regardless of their personal bests.”
13 Chatham-Glenwood
Coach – Mike Garber
2019 Finish – 14th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Nia Gibson JR (65, 18:49), Emma Leahy JR (75, 18:55), Reagan Wechold SR (117, 19:27), Abby Teaman SR (138, 19:42), Parker Doggett JR (141, 19:45), Kiersten Patzia SR (174, 20:27), Ava Gorrie FR, Lydia Gurnsey FR, Savannah Bell SO, Carly Wilcoxen SO.
Preview – It is a good bet that Chatham-Glenwood should be the top team in the southern most sectional of Class 2A. They were dominant last fall sweeping sectional, regional, and conference titles on their way to finishing 14th in the state meet. The core of last year’s team is back returning six of the state meet top seven runners. The addition of runners from their middle school team that were team state champions is another bonus for this program.
“We had some disappointed girls after losing track season,” Coach Mike Garber said. “When we lost our outdoor season, I had everyone shut down and refocus. Some found it more difficult than others to look for Cross-Country, which was so far away, but the girls team came together like no other I have coached. They created their own small group runs (when allowed), started spreadsheets so all the new girls could meet all the vets and really pushed each other. It was something special. They also used Strava on a regular basis. We have used the app in previous years, but this one was the best.”
Nia Gibson and Emma Leahy were on their way to great track seasons before the COVID-19 Pandemic shut sports down. They are in great shape and could do some special things this fall. The team ran a 56 second five runner split off Gibson at last year’s state meet. We could see that come down. What Garber is looking forward to are the freshmen group joining his team. “Ava Gorrie and Lydia Gurnsey are both going to have an immediate impact on our Top 7. We have done a time trial already this summer and some solid workouts,” added Garber. “Our freshmen girls won the IESA State Meet last year and are bringing that same drive and desire to the high school level. They are both young runners to watch.”
The addition of the freshman to this veteran team could give them a spark. A top ten finish is definitely something to watch for. I would not count out a finish among the first five Class 2A teams. “We have had the same "One Shot" message on both guys and girls teams,” Garber concluded. “It is important everyone does the safety precautions and is conscious about mask wearing, hand washing and social distancing. This season could be over very quickly if people get complacent. These ladies really want this XC season and are doing everything to ensure it. Our ladies team is very tight knit and fun to coach. We are all excited to get them racing in 2020.”
14 Wheaton St. Francis
Coach Scott Nelson
2019 Finish – 6th, Class 2A Fenton Sectional
Runners to Watch – Minnie Rolston SR (105, 19:17), Leah Gaul JR, Emily Butz SO, Leann Ringsrud SO, Gillian Muniz SR, Alyssa Falco SO, Ella Davis JR, Izzy Naling JR.
Preview – St. Francis just missed making it to the state meet last fall finishing sixth at the Fenton Sectional. Minnie Rolston made it to state as an individual placing 105. Five other runners with sectional race experience also return. Their second through five split is projected to be near 40 seconds. Rolston was ahead of the pack by on an average 80 seconds. That number will need to come down if this team wants to get to state.
15 Mahomet-Seymour
Coach – Jama Grotelueschen
2019 Finish – 18th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Klein Powell JR (92, 19:09), Elizabeth Sims JR (94, 19:09), Grace Lietz JR (128, 19:35), Chloe Allen JR (140, 19:44), Ella Scott SO (142, 19:46), Callie Jansen SO (160, 20:04), Olivia Bunting SR (184, 20:45), Emily Bednar JR, Delaney King JR, Alyssa Christensen JR, Ella Walters SR, Ava Boyd FR.
Preview – Jama Grotelueschen steps in as the new coach for Mahomet-Seymour. She was hired at the end of June. The team has the talent to be one of the top 10 teams in Class 2A. All of their runners are back from the state team that finished 18th. Klein Powell and Elizabeth Sims were within two seconds of each other in the state race. Sims did not have her best race of the season after finishing eighth in 2018. Watch for her to bounce back in 2020.
Grace Leitz could be close to Powell as the season begins. Keeping the pack within 34 seconds of each other and stay within 50 seconds of Sims would be a plus. “Our message to the girls this year is to make the best of whatever we are given,” said Grotelueschen. “We are training as if there will be a post season; however, we are being light-hearted in our approach and not talking too much about team goals. The girls have shown amazing maturity during this time of uncertainty. They are a pleasure to coach.”
16 Mt. Zion
Coach – Kelly Fox
2019 Finish – 15th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Ashleigh Anderson JR (97, 19:12), Lucy Griffith SR (102, 19:14), Sofia Munoz SO (124, 19:30), Lilly Griffith SR (125, 19:32), Emma Mallory JR (129, 19:37), Alexia Finch SO (185, 20:49), Celeste Wolf SR, Raina Wolf SO.
Preview – The Braves made it to state last year finishing 15th overall. Six of their top seven runners from that race return. The front spot could be switching between Ashleigh Anderson, Sofia Munoz, and Lucy Griffith. All were within 18 seconds of each other in the state race. All have the talent to be the #1 runner for this team. Emma Malloy did not have her best race at state. She was the team’s sixth runner in that race but was their #1 runner in the regional and sectionals. She will also be in the mix.
17 Chicago Payton Prep
Coach – Kelly Block
2019 Finish – 10th, Class 2A Fenton Sectional
Runners to Watch – Josephine Dziedzic SO (84, 19:04), Hannah Bartels JR, Catherine Foster JR, Caitlyn Fardy JR, Veronica Fuller SO, Katie Gillespie JR, Lola Feurer SO, Kate Feurer SO, Stella Dziedzic SR.
Preview – Their finish in their sectional race was not indicative of how good this squad was last year. Two and a half weeks of turmoil leading to a 10th place sectional finish. It depends what happens to the Chicago Public League this fall if they do end up having a season that Mather could be one of the top 15 teams in Class 2A. Josephine Dziedzic made it to state finishing 84th. Lola Feurer was the team’s top runner at the Chicago Public League Championships and will challenge Dziedzic for the top spot. Payton Prep keeping their split under 50 seconds would be a good thing for this team.
18 Highland
Coach – Doug Bradley
2019 Finish – 16th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Grace Meyer SR (64, 18:48), Julie Loeh SR (89, 19:06), Faith Brindley JR (96, 19:09), Maddie Dortch SO (154, 19:59), Jessica Borror SR (164, 20:13), Liv Heinzmann SO (178, 20:35), Paige Schaible SR (188, 20:57), Madalyn McCall JR, Maggie van Hatten SR, Danielle Little JR.
Preview – After finishing second in their sectional last year, Highland stepped up finishing 16th in Peoria. This team is loaded with all seven state runners back. This squad knows they could do big things this fall. It showed in their actions after track season was cancelled.
“I’ve never had a team with endurance this group has,” Coach Doug Bradley said. “When the track season got shut down in late April we had a time trial day. After that we took two weeks off and started at home workouts again in mid-May. They will have 12 weeks of really valuable training when we go to start the season on the 10th. The kids were so excited to see and run with teammates that our attendance was great all summer and we also saw less family vacations, camps, etc. I like where the girls are at with their training. With that being said, I think a season with no postseason is going to require a team that can somehow generate a great deal of communal, intrinsic motivation. I think this might be a larger variable in a team’s success than training.”
Grace Meyer was the team’s top runner at the end of last season and looks to be the #1 runner again once the season starts. Julia Loeh and Faith Brindley were within three seconds of each other in Peoria. They were only 18 seconds behind Meyer. What will need to be worked on is their five runner split. It was 85 seconds at state compared to the 46 second split they ran in their sectional race. A low split puts them challenging for a sectional title.
“Our motto from the first day we met back the second week of June has been “6 feet apart together” and we’ve stressed that we want to get 6 feet better every day,” Bradley said. “That is been the mantra and as all of the chaos regarding the season has unfolded I have tried to focus on getting 6 feet better and not letting the things we cannot control distract us. Regardless of the message, it has got to be tough to be an athlete right now in this environment.”
19 Lemont
Coach – Tim Plotke
2019 Finish – 12th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Kaylie Politza JR (5, 17:22), Destiny Vargas JR (69, 18:49), Kailey Wasyliw SR (150, 19:55), Jenny Martinez SR (173, 20:27), Casey Kittridge FR, Emma Amberg FR, Tamara Boder SR, Mia Stojakovic JR, Alexis Uthapan JR, Maggie Knuttle SR.
Preview – Where there is a will, there is a way for Lemont, The Indians finished 12 at state last year and return only four runners. This team never rebuilds. They just seem to reload regardless of the conditions surrounding them. “This has been "One Crazy Summer" (what a classic 1980's movie),” said their Coach Tim Plotke. “During June when we were allowed to meet for voluntary conditioning almost the whole team showed up on a regular basis. That trend continued when we were able to have official contact days. The entire team has taken their training seriously. Our fitness levels are outstanding, we are right where I feel we should be at this time of the summer.”
The runners that showed the most improvement according to Plotke included Kaylie Politza, Kailey Wasyliw, and Destiny Vargas. They all three ran last fall in Peoria. Politza missed the first half of last season due to injury. She came back strong and finished fifth at state. There is depth on this team and some new faces on the squad. Watch for freshmen Casey Kittridge and Emma Amberg to challenge for top five spots.
“My message this summer has all been about controlling what you can control,” Plotke added. “We cannot control what will happen in this season, what we can control however is how we approach our training. To that end, I could not ask for a better group of girls. They impress me daily. No matter if it was a recovery day, tempo day fartlek day, or long aerobic run day, they brought a positive mindset and strived to become better daily.”
20 Crystal Lake Central
Coach – Brett Willhoit
2019 Finish – 7th, Class 2A Belvidere Sectional
Runners to Watch – Kylie Smith SR (31, 18:06), Annie Ferrero SO (48, 18:28), Meghan Easterday SR, Giselle Lemke SR, Grace Moore SO, Avery Wilson SO, Violet Kidd SO, Kayla Lemke SR, Hope Ferraro FR.
Preview – The Tigers just missed making it to the state meet last fall finishing seventh in the Belvidere Sectional. With six teams now getting out to state from each sectional, it could give Central a chance to make it to Detweiller Park if we get that chance. “There was a reduced emphasis on hard efforts this spring and we mainly focused on volume with the occasional tempo or fartlek,” Coach Brett Willhoit said. “Motivation waned a little once the spring meets were cancelled. There is a nice core group of runners putting in the miles and effort to be successful this fall. My district only allows us to use Remind to communicate with our athletes.”
Five runners are back from their sectional team but will not have their #3 runner due to health issues that started last year. Central does have two runners that qualified as individuals to state last fall. Kylie Smith missed all-state honors by eight seconds. A chance in 2020 could get her into the top 25. Annie Ferrero qualified for state as a freshman and could take that next step up this fall. Annie’s sister Hope Ferraro could challenge for a spot in the top seven according to Willhoit.
“I have been repeating the mantra to Control the controllable things,” added Willhoit. “There are so many things out of our control right now, but we can focus on what we are in control of: our attitudes, efforts, and daily routines.”
21 Carbondale
Coach – Greg Storm
2019 Finish – 20th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Anna Schultz JR (42, 18:19), Madeline Prideaux SR (50, 18:30), Kara Holub SR (122, 19:28), Sadie Torre SR (190, 21:05), Abby Menkhaus JR.
Preview – Carbondale should be just as good as their 2019 team. Four runners are back from the state team that finished 20th. Anna Schultz and Madeline Prideaux are talented enough to finish within the first 30 Class 2A runners. This roster is small. Injuries and health issues could slow down this team.
22 Burlington Central
Coach -Vince Neil
2019 Finish – 9th, Class 2A Belvidere Sectional
Runners to Watch – Brooke Barkocy SR, Michaela Kruse SO, Erin Jossart SR, Avery Anderson SR, Fiona Pedone SR, Jocelyn Victoria SR, Kristiana Brennan SO, Kyla Butler SR, Lena Kyriazis JR.
Preview – The Rockets are going to be a team that will sneak up on some other squads this fall. Six runners are back from the team that finished ninth in the ever tough Belvidere Sectional. Brooke Barkocy, known for being one of the top hurdlers in the state, will again be the top runner for Burlington Central. Erin Jossart will be the nearest runner to push Barkocy. This team traditionally has a strong top five pack. Their split for their scorers is projected to be 55 seconds heading into this season.
23 Maple Park Kaneland
Coach – Doug Ecker
2019 Finish – 6th, Class 2A Belvidere Sectional
Runners to Watch – Olivia Franklin SR, Mackenzie Egert SR, Rose Dallal SO, Ali Gonella SO, Jackie Nettain SO, Caroline Nosek JR, Lindsey Andrae SO, Jessica Phillipp SO, Aubrey Broz SR.
Preview – The Knights will be a team to keep an eye on this fall in the Interstate Eight Conference. Olivia Franklin, Mackenzie Egert, and Rose Dallal all have experience from previous state meets. Kaneland missed making the state meet last year placing 6th at the Belvidere Sectional.
“Our message to the girls has been to be grateful to have this opportunity for a cross country season and to make the most of it even if it will be a very different looking season,” said Kaneland Coach Doug Ecker. “To be responsible to each by consistently making the smart choices that will
hopefully allow them to continue to attend their classes several days a week and to complete the cross country season safe and healthy.”
24 River Forest Trinity
Coach – Johann Gonzalez
2019 Finish – 22nd, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Delaney Burns SO (60, 18:43), Kate Foley SR (68, 18:49), Sylvia Ritzler SR (149, 19:54), Amanda McGreal SO (177, 20:31), Annabel Halloran SR (180, 20:40), Angela Lopez JR (182, 20:42), Mary Jacobs SR (205, 21:43), Laura Murphy SO, Ella Miller SO, Julia Morelli JR.
Preview – Trinity surprised some by making it to the state meet by finishing fifth at the Fenton Sectional. Only 6 points separated them from Wheaton St. Francis in the sectional standings. The Blazers finished 22 at state the following week. That state experience should pay off in 2020. Their entire top seven from that race are back.
“The main approach this summer was we are going to train as if we are having a season,” said their coach Johann Gonzalez. “Having our track season cut short was a punch to the gut but I thought the team did a great job with sending our seniors off on a high note.”
Delaney Burns and Kate Foley give Trinity a solid dup in the front in races. They were only separated by six seconds at Detweiller Park. What could hurt this team is their five runner split. It was 117 seconds in the state race. When they finished fifth in their conference race, that split was only 99 seconds. Trinity cold make it back to Peoria if that split on their scorers stays under 90 seconds.
25 Mascoutah
Coach – Darren Latham
2019 Finish – 23rd, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Chloe Latour SO (85, 19:05), Isabella Hart SO (146, 19:49), Maggie Benton SR (158, 20:01), Abigail Uptergrove JR (171, 20:23), Jenna Schanz SR (176, 20:29), Anna Belle Kowalski SO, Amelia Martin FR, Jayda Williams JR.
Preview – Mascoutah just advanced to state last year by one point when they finished fifth at the Decatur Sectional. The Indians six of their top seven runners that helped the team finish 23rd at state. “I tell them to keep looking at the positive side of things,” stated their coach Darren Latham. “We need to keep motivating each other to the point that we are all driven to perform the best we can when the opportunity arises.”
Chloe Latour had a great summer of training and is ready for another strong season as the team’s top runner. The next four runners are interchangeable in the pack with Isabella Hart and Maggie Benton leading the way. The split from their second through fifth runners is projected to be near 40 seconds. Keeping that pack within 45 to 50 seconds of Latour could mean big things for this team at the end of the season.
26 Morton
Coach – Joel Zehr
2019 Finish – 19th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Emma Skinner JR (6, 17:39), Adeline Smith JR (130, 19:38), Anna Klopfenstein SR (153, 19:57), Nora Schmidgall SO(193, 21:08), Kate Honegger SR (204, 21:46), Cali Fitzgerald SO (207, 22:14), Ryleigh Pulcher SO, Catherine Collison SO, Leah Sturhahn SO, Addy Kennell JR.
Preview – The Potters made it to state last year finishing 19th in the 2A finals. This team will reload returning six of their top seven runners. Only #2 runner Olivia Knight, who graduated, will not be back. “Throughout this summer and into the upcoming season, we have had a few messages for our team including: Scattered or gathered that they are one team; Consistency is Key; Plan to be flexible,” said Morton Coach Joel Zehr. “However this season develops, we can train to the best of our ability, we can work to become better teammates, and we can give our best effort each day.”
Emma Skinner should be one of the top runners in Class 2A this fall after finishing sixth at the state meet as a sophomore. What will get Morton back to the state meet is their pack behind Skinner. The split on the second through the fifth runners in the 2019 State Meet was 102 seconds. They will get the low numbers from Skinner, but that kind of split will hurt them if we get to the state series. Adeline Smith is the runner to watch to lead that pack.
27 Metamora
Coach – Gene Jones
2019 Finish – 8th, Class 2A Bloomington Sectional
Runners to Watch – Katie Lalumander JR, Lily Sturgell SO, Karissa Hefferman SR, Jordyn Hanson SR, Alayna Rauch SO, Karissa Koval SR, Rachel Fisher JR, Kayla Alderson FR, Shealyn Terry FR, Audrey Hodson FR, Audrey Heil FR.
Preview – Metamora will look to take the next step up this fall after finishing eighth at the Bloomington Sectional. Four runners are back from that top seven led by Katie Lalumandier and Lily Sturgell. This program traditionally runs a split on their top five of near 60 seconds. It is projected to start the season near 65 seconds. Running in a tough conference like the Mid Illini and against good teams such as Dunlap and Morton. “I see a constant battle throughout the season for who can stay healthy,” Metamora Coach Gene Jones said. “The COVID-19 virus is the big unknown. The question will be how much more will it impact all sports in Illinois and the nation.”
28 Wauconda
Coach – Emily Morzy
2019 Finish – 13th, Class 2A Belvidere Sectional
Runners to Watch – Jessie Pakaski JR (24, 17:57), Sara Meyer JR, Emma Schuett JR, Alana Vodicka JR, Ashleigh Kafka JR, Katherine Karecki JR, Amanda Krachtus JR, Maria Flores SR, Ritka Jawale SR.
Preview – This could be the surprise team in the Class 2A top 30 even though they finished 13th in the Belvidere Sectional. All seven runners are back from that sectional team. Jessie Pakaski surprised some by finishing 24th and earning all-state honors. Moving their split under 130 seconds off Pakaski should be something to keep an eye on.
29 Troy Triad
Coach – Andrew Brendel
2019 Finish – 7th, Class 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Runners to Watch – Alyssa Kowalski SR (106, 19:17), Sydney Hartoin SR, Claire Schaft JR, Mattie Noyes JR, Chloe Gough SO, Blaire Cunningham SO, Kayla Edwards JR, Reaghyn Dean JR, Alison Dempy SR, Kailey Peterson SO, Amanda Bagwell FR.
Preview – Seven teams get out of the four Class 2A Sectionals this fall. This would have helped the Knights when they finished seventh in their sectional a year ago. This team will be hungry to make the trip to Peoria. Four runners are back from that sectional team. Alyssa Kowalski was an individual qualifier last fall and will again lead the team in the front along with Sydney Hartoin. Both had good summers of training according to their coach Andy Brendel.
Triad did lose one of their top five runners to club soccer. It could be the opportunity for a runner to step up. “One of the biggest surprises has been Blaire Cunningham,” Brendel said. “She struggled to finish last season but has bounced back amazingly and is up front with our top ladies.” Harotin closing the gap up front on Kowalski will be something to watch for. The gap was 61 seconds in the sectional race. The top five split in that sectional race was over two minutes. If this team can cut that split in half, the Knights could be among the first five teams in the Decatur Sectional.
30 Belvidere North
Coach – Andrew Pivoras
2019 Finish – 7th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Sydnie Elder SR (41, 18:19), Alexia Pecora SO (101, 19:13), Natalie Horgan SR (155, 20:00), Trina Kazluski SR, Kayley Effler SR, Ella Dixon JR, Gabby Herrera FR, Geisel Casis FR, Lauren Key FR, Alyssa Pryor FR, Addison Morey FR.
Preview – Looks could be deceiving for the Blue Thunder entering this 2020 cross-country season. It is true that they lost three of their top four runners to graduation including all-state runners Gianna Sagona and Madison Diercks. It is true that they return only three runners from last year’s state team that finished seventh. This ranking position is a little low. However, Belvidere North will not be rebuilding this season. They should be reloading.
“Events this season have been very much up in the air,” said their coach Andrew Pivoras. “With all the unknown factors going into the season, we have to rethink where our motivation comes from, and really encourage more intrinsic and personal reasons to commit to running for each-- other than for trophies or for medals.”
Sydnie Elder was the team’s third runner at state. The senior has stepped up to be the team leader during this down time according to Pivoras. Alexia Pecora and Natalie Horgan were the team’s fifth and sixth runners at state and will fight for spots in the top seven this fall. Trina Kazluski missed all her junior season due to an injury. She ran 18:50 to finish 75 at state her sophomore season in 2018. She will be a plus for this team this season. What could give the blue Thunder the biggest boost is a group of five freshmen that will be joining the team. Some of these runners could push for spots in the top five.
Next 25 Schools (In Alphabetical Order)
Antioch
Coach – Christopher Bailey
2019 Finish – 12th, Class 2A Belvidere Sectional
Runners to Watch – Sarah Benes JR (63, 18:47), Katelyn Amodeo SR, Juliana Gonzalez JR, Amber Carson SR, Jasmine Ametovski JR, Alexa Philips JR, Katie Opal JR, Hannah Benes JR.
Preview – A team that could surprise some in the northern most Class 2A sectional in the state. Five runners are back for the Sequoits from their sectional team that finished 12th. Sarah Benes qualified for state as an individual finishing 63rd. “I'm really impressed with the work that our top runner, Sarah Benes, has put in this summer,” said her coach Chris Bailey. “Her dedication level has really reached a new level after qualifying for the state meet last year as a sophomore.”
A big help will come from Sarah’s twin sister Hannah Benes. She usually plays volleyball during the fall. With that sport moving to 2021, it will allow Hannah to run. She does have a 2:28 best for 800-meters. She will give a boost to the team according to Bailey.
“We don't know what to expect as things change almost daily to what we can and can't do,” Bailey added. “We will adapt and adjust to the changes, but also understand that some things are out of our control. With that said, we also want to enjoy this time we get with each other. The runners and coaches need this, and we are going to take advantage of this opportunity to participate in cross country this fall.”
Arlington Heights St. Viator
Coach – Wayne Edelman
2019 Finish – 8th, Class 2A Fenton Sectional
Runners to Watch – Madeline Redden SO, Mary Grace Hegberg JR, Joy Bergstrom JR, Stella Raftery JR, Celia Cornel JR, Sophie Limberakis SR.
Preview – It should be a rebuilding season for the Lions regardless of which sectional they are placed in. Their #1 runner from last season, Katie Castelli, transferred out of state at the end of fall semester in 2019 to Sioux Falls, SD. Castelli finished 25 at state and will be missed as a leader on this team.
Five runners are back from the sectional team that finished eighth at Fenton. Madeline Redden and Mary Grace Hegberg look to be the top runners for this team heading into their first competition.
Aurora Illinois Math & Science Academy
Coach – Grant Bell
2019 Finish 7th, Class 2A Kaneland Regional
Runners to Watch – Delicia Chen SR, Amber Bautista SR, Michelle Sun SO, Christin Ann Sanchez JR, Abigail Ryder JR, Monika Narian SR, Sage Owen SR, Cayleigh O’Hare JR.
Preview – IMSA just missed out advancing to sectionals in 2019 finishing seventh at the Kaneland Regional. Their top five runners are back led by Delicia Chen and Amber Bautista. Both runners advanced individually to the sectional race. Michelle Sun was Dunlap’s eighth runner at the end of last season. She transferred to IMSA this summer. She should give the top five on this team a big boost.
Bethalto Civic Memorial
Coach – Jake Peal
2019 Finish – 11th, Class 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Runners to Watch – Hannah Meiser SO, Aubree Wallace SO, Alyssa Mann SO, Emily Smith SR, Danielle Fowler SR, Tori Standefer SR, Ashytn Mellinthin JR, Avani Combes FR, Shelby Quick FR.
Preview – A team to watch for in the South Region. Five runners are back from the top seven that finished 11th in the sectional. The first three of those returning runners were freshmen. Hannah Meiser was the team’s top runner last year and should again be in front for the Eagles.
“One message that has been reciprocated this summer has been the cliché of focusing on the things that are within our control and not those things that we cannot,” said their coach Jake Peal. “And more importantly we've had a strong emphasis on finding joy in the everyday grind, remembering that our teammates are a huge part of our "Why" and appreciating the simple things like being able to run with our teammates. It is definitely made our team even more tight knit. That sense of family and community on a cross country team is so special, and I know the girls all missed that this spring.”
Incoming freshmen Avari Combes and Shelby Quick ran in the IESA State Meet last fall and could make an immediate impact on this team’s top five according to Peal.
Canton
Coach – Chancy Whittington
2019 Finish – 12th, Class 2A Bloomington Sectional
Runners to Watch – Eleanor Fournier SR, Erica Daley SO, Hannah Anderson-Davis JR, Jahni Harn JR, Josie Hahn SO, Janey Nguyen SO, Abbie Bouc SO, Madison Reeder SR.
Preview – Canton could take the next step up in the Central Sectional region in 2021. They finished 12th at the Bloomington Sectional and return their entire top seven runners from that race. Eleanor Fournier should again be the top runner for the Lady Giants. She was on an average of more than two minutes ahead of the rest of the team. Canton averaged a split over five minutes on their top five in 2019. They can move into the top 10 in their regional but will need to reduce that split.
Champaign Central
Coach – Guthrie Hood
2019 Finish – 10th, Class 2A Bloomington Sectional
Runners to Watch – Kara Mathias SO, Maaike Niekerk JR, Kyla Canales SO, Ali Williams SO, Allison Hobson SO, Kira Canales SR, Lily Weaver JR, Claire Smith JR, Elizabeth Asmussen SR, Grace Croegaert SR.
Preview – This season could be promising for the Maroons. All of their top seven are back from the 10th place sectional team. Six of those seven runners are underclassmen. Kara Mathias again should be the team’s top runner. The split on their top five at Bloomington was 78 seconds. The experience from last season could cut down to under 60 seconds. “Collectively this is probably the most fit team I've had through the summer. I took over the program in 2016, but doubt we had a group this fit since we qualified for State as a team in the mid-90’s,” said their coach Guthrie Hood.
This team will also have a strong group of freshmen joining the team this fall. It will make the team deep in talent as well as competitive in practice. Iron sharpening iron will fit with this team. “This has been the most consistent, motivated, and hard working group of newcomers I've had,” Hood added. “We are returning all of our top seven from last year and they are all competitive and most had very productive summers so getting into the top seven is going to be a challenge for sure. However, I think this year is shaping up to be our deepest team in some time and finally having an environment where the runners are going to have to compete for a varsity spot is going to be exciting.”
Charleston
Coach – Chris Hawk
2019 Finish – 8th, Class 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Runners to Watch – Grace Spoonhour SR (118, 19:27), Megan Garrett SR, Ila Richter SO, Lilly Long JR, Casey Fisher JR, Sophie Kattenbraker JR, Isabella Kieffer SR, Jordyn Kieffer SO
Preview – Six of the top seven runners are back for Charleston after finishing eighth in their sectional race. Grace Spoonhour made it to state qualifying individually and again should be the team’s top runners. Megan Garrett has gone through injuries and illnesses the past two years. “It isn’t a big surprise to me, but I am happy to see Senior Megan Garrett running as well as she is this summer,” said her coach Chris Hawk. “She is an amazing talent and a State caliber runner but has been hampered the last two years with illness and injury. She is determined to rebound this year and get back to where she knows she can be.” That could be back to the state meet with Spoonhour and perhaps her teammates.
“We have been expecting big things would happen this year, including a return trip to the State meet after a long absence (we just missed out last year),” added Hawk. “Unfortunately, there may not even be a State meet this year due to current conditions, but we have no control over that. So, we have been pushing to just enjoy what we do get to have this year and to make the most out of it. The plan is to put ourselves in the best position that we can and just see where it takes us.”
Chicago Northside Prep
Coach – Charles Milbert
2019 Finish – 11th, Class 2A Fenton Sectional
Runners to Watch – Ella Ton-That JR (27, 18:00), Allison Feeney JR, Medina Karic SR, Nora Hill JR, Tessa Myatt SO, Cecilia Brasseur SO, Emily Breen SO.
Preview – Despite the fact that they did not know if they were competing in the Fenton Sectional meet until the night before, Northside Prep still stepped up finishing 11th the following day. Four runners are back from their top seven hoping for a chance to get into the sectional top seven. Ella Ton-That did qualify individually for the state meet missing all-state by two spots. She will be the top runner again for the Mustangs. The spread could be big on their top five, perhaps over three minutes. Watch too see the improvement of their second through fifth runners as the season progresses.
Columbia
Coach – Laura Homan
2019 Finish – 13th, Class 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Runners to Watch – Madison Missey SO, Izzy Barker JR, Brooklyn Oestreich SO, Ainsley Jacobus SR, Alycie Caya SR.
Previews – This team has small numbers so staying healthy will be something to watch for from the Eagles. Their entire top five is back that finished 13th at the Decatur MacArthur Sectional. Madison Missey is the team’s top runner. She could have possibilities of qualifying individually for state. We will have to wait and see. The team top five split is projected to be at 130 seconds. If that split drops overall by 30 seconds, this team could be among the top 10 squads in their sectional.
Darien Hinsdale South
Coach – Gail Huster
2019 Finish – 25th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Abby Peterson SO (49, 18:29), Elena Garcia SO 136, 19:39), Victoria Cius JR (191, 21:05), Ava Berg SO (194, 21:08), Olivia Rogers JR (197, 21:22), Kate Haffner JR (209, 23:02), Caroline Munkhdelger SR, Olivia Dire SR.
Previews – The big question will be whether the Hornets can make a repeat trip to Peoria as a team for the state meet. It does come down to which sectional they are assigned to. The team has the state meet experience returning six that ran at Detweiller Park in 2019. Abby Peterson finished in the top 50 in last year’s state race. It will not surprise me if she finishes among the top 25 runners in 2020. Elena Garcia was within 70 seconds of Peterson at the end of the year. Closing that gap helps this team. The second through five runner split needs to go under 60 seconds for this team to have a chance to make it back to state.
Geneseo
Coach – Kelly Timmerman
2019 Finish – 9th, Class 2A Bloomington Sectional
Runners to Watch – Lacey Laxton JR (87, 19:06), Avery Magerkurth SR, Megan Soria SR, Jessalyn Belvel SO, Joselyn Reisner SO, Joci Hasson SR, Anna Snyder JR.
Preview – Four runners return that ran in last year’s sectional race. The Maple Leafs finished 9th at the Bloomington Sectional. Lacey Laxton qualified individually for state and will again be the team’s top runner. Avery Magerkurth should be the team’s second runner leading the pack behind Laxton.
Glen Ellyn Glenbard South
Coach – Mark Tacchi
2019 Finish – 9th, Class 2A Fenton Sectional
Runners to Watch – Kylie DeNardo JR (131, 19:38), Ellie Stewart SR, Kelly Anderson SR, Alyssa Kain JR, Maggie Riley SO, Abby Knight SR, Alex Gonzalez SR, Naomi Friedman JR, Madelyn Welser SO, Lauren Price.
Preview – Could it be a rebuilding year for the Raiders? “Other than last year’s seniors graduating, our biggest loss is from those runners who will not compete due to concerns about Covid-19,” said coach Mark Tacchi. Glenbard South finished ninth in last year’s sectional.
Kylie DeNardo finished 131 at state and again will be one of the leaders on this team. Abby Knight missed most of last year due to injury. She could push DeNardo for the top spot. Freshman Lauren Price could make it into the top five according to Tacchi. “Our seniors did an incredible job with getting everyone who came to camp in great shape,” said Tacchi. “We took their fitness level further once camp started. I was particularly impressed with the fitness level of senior Ellie Stewart.”
Grayslake Central
Coach – Jimmy Centella
2019 Finish – 8th, Class 2A Belvidere Sectional
Runners to Watch – Bryn Soto JR, Grace Kokkin JR, Caroline Kokkin JR, Katie Armstrong SO, Madelynn Struck SR, Megan Morrissey SR, Jenna Dooley SR, Annisah Groark SR.
Preview – Six of their top seven runners are back from the team that finished eighth at the Belvidere Sectional. The Rams again will rely on tight pack running led by Bryn Soto along with Grace and Caroline Kokkin. The three runners were only separated by 22 seconds in that sectional race. The key is moving those three towards the front.
The top five split is projected to be over two minutes. Keeping the top five within 85 seconds of each other could mean big things for Grayslake Central at the end of the year.
LaGrange Park Nazareth Academy
Coach – Joe Wejman
2019 Finish – 24th, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Colette Kinsella SO (13, 17:48), Maddie Bent JR (201, 21:35), Mia Baumel SO (206, 21:509), Sadie Sifuentes JR, Fiona Roach SR, Jane McNamara FR, Sam Rozmus FR.
Preview – It could be a rebuilding year for the Roadrunners after making it back to the state meet. Nazareth Academy finished 24 in Peoria. They lost four of their top five runners that ran in that race. Coach Joe Wejman does have their top runner Colette Kinsella returning. Kinsella finished 13 at state last year. She could be among the Class 2A elite this fall. Freshmen Jane McNamara and Sam Rozmus could find their way into the team’s top five. “I do have to say that this has been our best summer in terms of mileage amongst our top runners,” Wejman said. We've had 8 girls meet or exceed or summer expectations and others who were close but scaled back due to involvement in soccer.”
Mundelein Carmel
Coach – Jim Halford
2019 Finish – 7th, Class 2A Fenton Sectional
Runners to Watch – Isabel Ashley SR (161, 20:09), Brigid Hull SR, Nora Christensen SO, Carly Sasman SR, Hannah Arends SR, Maddie Ives JR, Madison MacHala SO, Kylie Jensen SR, Mollie Gibbons FR.
Preview – It is a good guess that the Corsairs are placed in the North area sectional from the Chicago sectional in 2020. Carmel finished seventh last year at Fenton and return five runners from that sectional team. Isabel Ashley was one of three Carmel runners that qualified for the state meet individually. She finished 161st in Peoria. Brigid Hull looks to be the runner that could lead the pack behind Ashley. Mollie Gibbons joins the team as a freshman. Coach Jim Halford believes she could be in the team’s top seven by season’s end.
Olney Richland County
Coach – Amy Julian
2019 Finish – 9th, Class 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Runners to Watch – Hope Laughlin SR, Emily Nuttall SO, Bree Holdren SO, Bentley Farris JR, Maddy Whittler SO, Meah Stevens JR.
Preview – Amy Julian steps in as the new coach for the Tigers. It could be an interesting season for her team. They did lose their top runner and defending Class 2A State Champion Tatum David who moved to Florida for this season.
“When in person training began in June I was impressed with the fitness of my team,” Julian said. “They trained during March, April, and May on their own. I have a core group of veterans who are very dedicated. Senior Hope Laughlin (2019 All-LIC, All-South), Junior Bentley Farris, and Sophomores Emily Nuttall (2019 All South) and Bree Holdren (2019 All-South) are the ones to watch.”
Riverside-Brookfield
Coach – Blair Jensen
2019 Finish – 21st, Class 2A State
Runners to Watch – Bryce Pacourek SO (67, 18:49), Carmen Guerrero JR (159, 20:04), Joaliz Rodriguez SO (162, 20:11), Mia Wagner SO (186, 20:54), Samantha Perez SR, Molly Raymond JR, Ava Connerty SO, Gwen Dudzik SO.
Preview – The Bulldogs return four of their top five runners that finished 21st in last year’s state meet. There is a good chance that this team makes a return to Peoria. Bryce Pacourek could be in the top 50 and leading this team. Carmen Guerrero should be the runner leading their pack along with Joaliz Rodriguez. Keeping their pack (second through fifth runners) within 45 seconds of each other and within 60 seconds of Pacourek gets this team to state.
Rochester
Coach – Bill Owens
2019 Finish – 12th, Class 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Runners to Watch – Colleen Zeibert SO (51, 18:32), Trinity Hicks SO, Olivia Guy JR, Tess Allen JR, Addi Schmedeke SO, Zoey Wilbur SR, Lauren Carley SR, Callie Morgan SR.
Preview – The top four runners are back for Coach Bill Owens as they start the 2020 season. The Rockets finished 12 at the Decatur MacArthur Sectional. Colleen Zeibert had a banner freshman season which culminated with a 51 place state finish. She could be in the hunt for a top 25 finish at Detweiller Park if we get to that point. Rochester should have a solid pack behind Zeibert led by Trinity Hicks. Staying within two minutes of Zeibert with a pack split under 90 seconds could be something to watch for this team.
Rockford Boylan Catholic
Coach – Linda Schmitt
2019 Finish – 14th, Class 2A Belvidere Sectional
Runners to Watch – Rachel Hilby SR, Natalia Ayala SO, Ella Maier SO, Izzy Anderson JR, Christyna LaMantra SR, Brietla Coen JR, Cecelia Hatfield JR, Sarah Krein SO.
Preview – The Titans return four from their team that finished 14 at the Belvidere Sectional. Rachel Hilby was the team’s top runner at the end of last year. That should not change once the season starts. Boylan could be among the top 10 teams in their sectional if they keep their top five split under 60 seconds.
Springfield
Coach – Dan Devlin
2019 Finish – 6th, Class 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Runners to Watch – Madeline Kim SO, Lucy Souva SR, Melia Muschinska SO, Elly Lightfoot SO, Aurora Barnes SR, Payton Heise SO, Chloe Dabrowski SO.
Preview – It should be a rebuilding year for the Senators after missing a state trip by one point at the Decatur MacArthur Sectional. Springfield finished sixth. Only two runners from their top seven are back led by Madeline Kim. Lucy Souva was the team’s fifth runner last season. Springfield should have a good freshman class coming in which will help.
Sterling
Coach – Hannah Carbaugh
2019 Finish – 10th, Class 2A Belvidere Sectional
Runners to Watch – Lillian Peavy JR, Kylie Nicklaus SO, Ellie Mahar SO, Sarah Navarro JR, Mika Martinez SR, Isabelle Smith JR, Megan Gingrich SO, Rhylee Wade FR.
Preview – The Golden Warriors could be the surprise team in the Class 2A North Sectional. Sterling finished 10 in their sectional race. They return five of their top seven. “It’s a blessing that we get the opportunity to be together,” Coach Hannah Carbaugh said. “I want them to reach their potential as it pertains to running, but I also want them to have support and guidance in all facets of their life. I want them to be able use what they learn through running elsewhere in their life. Cross country really teaches you that you can handle much more than you thought you could.”
Lilian Peavy and Kylie Nicklaus should again be the top runners for this team. The early season meets will give Carbaugh a chance to see who will step into the 3-4-5 roles. “I can’t say that I am surprised by her, but Sarah Navarro (junior) has put in so many miles this summer,” Carbaugh said. I cannot count how many times people would tell me they saw her out running in town. It is a good feeling to hear that about your team. She stayed disciplined throughout all of spring and summer. I am happy to see our team is not far off from this time last year.”
Sycamore
Coach – Adam Bezinovich
2019 Finish – 11th, Class 2A Belvidere Sectional
Runners to Watch – Lily Baker JR, Ali Flatter SR, Kylie Van Schnase JR, Emma Doyle JR, Reagan Wesley SR, Chey Judd JR, Kylie Kness SO, Loryn Hail JR, Laura Aviles JR, Ryleigh Rutledge SO, Hayley King FR, Sophie Klacik FR, Olivia Kirby FR, Carly Carpenter FR, Stella Riedl FR, Grack Parks SO.
Preview – Six runners are back from the sectional team that finished 11th last year at Belvidere. What could make this team interesting is the number of freshman that are coming in that Coach Adam Bezinovich believes can contend for a spot in the top seven. “Overall our team seems to be in much better shape than we usually are at this time,” Bezinovich said. We also have a larger team this season (about 10 more girls).”
Lily Baker was ahead of her teammates by an average of 60 seconds last year and again should be the team’s top runner. The pack behind Baker could have a split under 50 seconds. Seven teams getting out of sectional meets puts Sycamore in contention to contend. “We should be excited that we are getting a season, and we should look forward to improving each week individually and as a team,” Bezinovich said. “We have a strong team this year, and if we can learn to run as a pack and shrink our split from 1-5 to under a minute we should be competitive.”
Urbana
Coach – Forrest Farokhi
2019 Finish – 6th, Class 2A Bloomington Sectional
Runners to Watch – Celia Barbieri JR (45, 18:22), Phoebe Gerstenecker SR, Ashley Gilbert SR, Madeline Janczewski SR, Maya Stori SO, Sofie Scottane SR, Cecily Dallas JR.
Preview – Urbana just missed qualifying for state by nine points while finishing sixth at the Bloomington Sectional. Three runners qualified individually. Two all-state runners Olivia Rosenstein and Chiann Scott have graduated. Celia Barbieri is back after finishing 45th at state. She will be the lead runner for a team that will need to sort out who will be in the top five.
Washington
Coach – Troy Walcott
2019 Finish – 7th, Class 2A Bloomington Sectional
Runners to Watch – Jadyn Jacobs SR, Sophia Nordhelm SO, Grace Liening JR, Rachel Caruthers SO, Emily Baker JR, Heidi Hudson SO, Karli Milestone SR, Sophia Rakestraw SO.
Preview – Washington could find themselves in the top 30 sometime in September. Four runners are back from the sectional team that finished seventh. The one big addition will be Jadyn Jacobs who missed all of last season due to injury. “Our team has had some great workouts this summer, with a core group that has come ready to put in some good base mileage,” said Troy Walcott. “Jadyn Jacobs looks strong and ready to compete and her ACL injury from 2019 seems to be a distant memory. She was the leader of most workouts this summer.”
Sophia Nordhelm could be with Jacobs this fall. She was the team’s #4 runner last fall. “Every team workout is something that we get to do, not have to do,” Walcott said about the new normal. “We will need to be accepting that we don't know what the future of our season will look like.”
Waterloo
Coach – Larry Huffman
2019 Finish – 10th, Class 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Runners to Watch – Molly Grohmann SO, Lauren Lunk SR, Emma Rick SR, Megan Vogt SR, Joely Goulding JR.
Preview – The Bulldogs will contend with Troy Triad and Highland for the Mississippi Valley Conference title. Waterloo finished 10th in their Decatur MacArthur Sectional race and return four for the beginning of this season. Expect Molly Grohmann and Lauren Lunk to be the team’s top runners.
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