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2015 DyeStat IL XC Season Previews – 1A Girls TeamsPublished by
St. Joseph-Ogden primed to repeat but Petersburg PORTA and Urbana University look to make the next step up
By Michael Newman
It was a combination of New Year’s Eve and Christmas Day as the St. Joseph-Ogden Girls team left the finish area. Tears of joy were evident and a sense of disbelief crossed the faces of the runners and the coaches as they started to realize that they had won the 1A Girls State championship.
It is a good memory that they have from last November but that is about it. It’s a new season with new obstacles to navigate. “We lost two wonderful young girls from last year’s team in Abby Fisher and Jessica Kassulkee,” said St. Joseph-Ogden Coach Jason Retz. “Our mind set is the team we have now is not the team that won the championship, we need people to fill those spots AND improve if we want it to happen again. We also know actions are louder than words, there are a lot of great teams out there this fall. We'll do our best to stay fit and healthy so we can give it a shot in November.”
There are a number of schools that are waiting for November and the chance to earn that state championship trophy. Petersburg PORTA would have been on the awards podium last year if not an injury to one of their top five runners pushed them to fourth. They return all from that team. Urbana University returns the nucleus from last year’s second place team but injuries could slow this team down. Traditional Monticello has reloaded and looks for a chance at the top three. Seneca and Liberty are the new kids on the block with hopes of making dreams of their own come true.
Here is a look at the top 25 teams in 1A Girls. Remember, the only rankings that matter are at the beginning of November. A list of some to the schools to also watch follow the top 25 list.
1 St. Joseph-Ogden Coach – Jason Retz 2014 Finish – 1A State Champion
Runners to Watch – Faith Houston SO (12, 18:02), Abby Gawthorp SR (16, 18:15), Hayley Grice SO (43, 18:55), Keely Smith JR (53, 19:05), Emma Melchoir SR (120, 20:14), Hanna Atwood JR, Samantha Mabry SO, Kamry Orcutt SR, Jordyn Shaw JR, Madi Smith SR, Logan Frieches JR (Played Softball in 2014-2015), Cassidy Bagby FR, Sally Manalo FR.
Outlook – The Lady Spartans return five from last season’s state championship team led by Faith Houston and Abby Gawthorp who were all state in last year’s meet. There has been no complacency on this team showing in the first day of summer practice. “Training this summer has gone well. We took 20 kids to EIU distance camp at the end of June, and the kids have been rolling together ever since,” Coach Jason Retz said. “It's been fun watching our young kids step up to fill spots we need. The atmosphere has been great, they have set high expectations for themselves and other on and off the road.”
The key to last year’s team was the tight pack that they exhibited especially in the state series. Haley Grice, Keely Smith, and Emma Melchoir have state meet experience and will challenge for the top five. Madi Smith ran on the team’s all-state 4x8 team at last spring’s state track meet could give the team much needed depth. A big plus could be from sophomore Sam Mabry who was also a part of the team’s 4x8 squad. According to Retz, she started to see some success on the team last season as she was the team’s eight runner. “It should be fun to see what she can do this fall,” added Retz.
Instead of chasing after a state championship, the Spartans will be the hunted in 2015. Retz thinks the team is up for the challenge. “I have the same expectations every year. Be great people, be great students, and be great runners. I let the kids pick the direction in which we train,” stated Retz. “If they want to train like state champions, that's what we'll do. This year’s group wants to defend the title, so we'll try to be ready to do that on November 7th.”
2 Petersburg PORTA Coach – Jim Brauer 2014 Finish – 4th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Maria Brauer SR (4, 17:21), Anna Tamborski SR (6, 17:50), Adrienne Brauer SR (20, 18:18), Katherine Pickerill SR (90, 19:44), Amber Stier SO (151, 20:58), Keely Miller SR (176, 21:46), Madison Kuehl JR (193, 22:40), Natalie Beard JR, Kylie Fields SR, Holly Rippenberg SR, Noel Wiseman FR
Outlook – The Bluejays were close to being on the trophy podium last November but an injury to normal #4 Keely Miller pushed PORTA back to fourth place missing a trophy to three points. All members from last year’s team are back looking to be at the top of the 1A Girls Mountain in November. “We were a stress fracture (Keely Miller) away from a trophy last year and all of our top 5 are back,” Coach Jim Brauer said. “A repeat of last season (with a healthy Keely) would be awesome in my book.”
The engine that runs this team starts with the Brauer sisters. Maria has been coming on strong this past year finishing fourth last fall and then pushing Anna Sophia Keller to the limit at the state meet in the 1600 to finish second. Adrienne Brauer had an off state meet last fall finishing 20th in the state meet. She rebounded last spring to finish third in the 1600 behind her sister at state. Anna Tambroski was DyeStat IL’s Most Improved Runner last fall in 1A when she finished sixth at state. Injuries last spring slowed down her track campaign. She is completely healthy according to her coach. The three running together could give this team three runners in the top eight at the state meet. Those low numbers could make it tough for other teams.
Seniors Katherine Pickerill and Keely Miller give Brauer a strong 4-5 group. Sophomore Amber Stier and Freshman Noel Wiseman could challenge for a top five spot. Their average split on five runners last year was near 150 seconds. That really does not matter especially with the strong trio of the Brauer sisters and Tamborski up front. If this team stays away from the injury bug, it could bring back a state championship trophy to Petersburg in November.
3 Urbana University Coach – Doug Mynatt 2014 Finish – 2nd – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Arielle Summit SO (3, 17:17), Annemarie Michael JR (5, 17:27), Katie Tender SR (65, 19:22), Tori Aber JR (80, 19:37), Ha-il Son JR (80, 19:37), Berit Hudson-Rasmussen SR (108, 20:01), Elizabeth Atkinson SO (143, 20:46), Rima Reber JR, Grace Taylor JR, Athena Feng SR, Renata Herrera JR, Anika Kimme FR, Olivia Taylor FR.
Outlook – This team started out strong early last year winning the 1A Girls championship at last September’s First to the Finish Invitational. A fourth place finish at their sectional meet caused a little concern. They rebounded to finish second at last year’s state meet. Even though all seven runners return from last year’s state team, there are concerns for this squad heading into the 2015 season.
The big concern is from their two top runners Arielle Summit and Annemarie Michael who finished in the top five last November. Both runners suffered injuries during last year’s track season that has slowed down their summer training. “Returning everyone that ran in last year’s state runner-up effort, the expectations are just as high once again, but there are some big questions that will need to be answered before that can be realized,” said U-High Coach Doug Mynatt. “Even though those teammates behind them (Katie Tender, Tori Aber, Ha-Il Son, Elizabeth Atkinson, Berit Hudson-Rasmussen) will no doubt show improvement, we will need Arielle and Annemarie confident and strong if we want to be on the podium again in November.”
This team can challenge for a state championship this fall but need Summit and Michael 100% healthy. We possibly might not see this team at its full potential until the beginning of October. If all pistons are firing at 100% for this squad, they will challenge for the state championship. If not, this team could have problems advancing out of a tough St. Teresa Sectional.
4 Seneca Coach – Kim Sedlock 2014 Finish – 9th – 1A
Runners to Watch – Eva Bruno JR (27, 18:30), Carina Collet JR (47, 18:57), Sara Virgo JR (60, 19:20), Sarah Cameron JR (91, 19:45), Eve Odum SO (155, 21:02), Emily Misener JR (168, 21:21), Karlie Punke SR (175, 21:44), Lexi Bogren SR, Holly Ward JR, Avri Bland JR, Paige Hacker JR (both Bland and Hacker played Volleyball in 2014).
Outlook - The Irish could be one of the surprise teams in 1A this fall. They return all seven from last year’s team that surprised some by finishing in the top ten at state. That success could push this team to bigger and better things this season.
“Our training went great. We had a great turnout all summer and we were able to accomplish our goals. The girls really pushed themselves. I think we will be starting the season in much better shape than last season,” Coach Kim Sedlock said. “All of my top 7 have worked hard this summer. Eva Bruno has done a great job increasing her mileage and incorporating some hill workouts. Sarah Cameron and Lexi Bogren are two that have shown some improvement this summer and have focused on building their base. They both ended last season with injuries, so we hope the summer workouts will prevent that from happening again. Emily Misener was a rookie last season, but has taken what she learned and really applied it to her conditioning this summer.”
Bruno just missed all-state honors last fall finishing 27th. If she runs to her potential this fall, she could finish in the first twelve at state. The key for this team is cutting down their five runner split. At last year’s state meet, the split off of Bruno on the first four was 75 seconds. The split from four to five was another 67 seconds. If this team’s split can stay under 120 seconds, Seneca can be in the hunt for a state trophy. “We are hoping to see our top 7 run under 20 minutes this season,” added Sedlock. “We would like to be a contender for a top spot in all the post season races and improve from last season.”
5 Monticello Coach – David Remmert 2014 Finish – 7th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Hannah Offenback SO (61, 19:21), Taylor Holenthal SR (72, 19:29), Morgan Elmore SO (100, 19:53(, Emma Helferich SO, Madison Mesplay SO, Sophie Remmert SR, Kate Smith SR, Amy Love SO, Alyssa McPike FR, Maggie Schlabach FR, Abby Elston FR, Natalie Wilkin FR.
Outlook – Three runners are back from last year’s team that finished seventh at the state meet. Alex Danos, a freshman last year for the team, moved to Ohio last December. Her presence in the top five will be missed this fall. The talent is there for this team to push for a top three finish at the state meet.
“We had a strong group of freshman girls last year that eventually made a very big impact on our varsity team a year ago. We are hoping that they continue to improve,” said Monticello coach David Remmert. “I saw very big improvements from Madison Mesplay and Morgan Elmore during the track season and hope they’ll be able to continue that trend in XC.” The pack should be strong up front led by Hannah Offenback and Taylor Holenthal. They could be in the top 40 in November. Freshman Alyssa McPike could be an immediate contributor for this team.
Their five runner split last year at state was 35 seconds. I could see the same type of split for this team. The possibility of a top five finish is also in play especially if they can stay close together on the course. “My dad taught me to always have low expectations so that you’re never disappointed,” Remmert added. “Truthfully, I’m very hopeful and very excited about this team because I can see a lot of potential.”
6 Liberty Coach – Jared Schmidt 2014 Finish – 8th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Runners to Watch – Katelyn Obert JR, Katie Cook SR, Megan Berry JR, Becky Lucas SR, Blair Genenbacher JR, Christen Balzer SO, Jacki Graham SR (injured in 2014), Katelyn Robbins FR, Kaela Wellman FR, Grace Tenhouse FR, Courtney Riley FR.
Outlook – Even though this team finished eight at last year’s sectional meet, the future looks bright for Liberty heading into this season. Six runners are back from last year’s sectional team. It could be the freshman that enter this program this season along with the return of Jacki Graham from injury that could give this team the biggest boost. Graham was one of their top two runners her freshman and sophomore years. She missed last fall but rebounded during the track season.
“I think it has gone really well for the most part. I'm sure we are not the only ones that have had some hiccups here and there but it's been really good as a whole. Probably the best on the Girls side that I've ever had over the last 4 years. Could it have been better? It can always be better, but I'm really happy with where we are right now heading into the start of practice. We should progress nicely from here and we have kids healthy that haven't been in the past at this time of year. Things are good for us,” said Liberty coach Jared Schmidt. “Several girls made some great improvements during the track season that I am hoping will transfer over well to this fall. The incoming freshman we have will make our team even stronger than it already was. This is the first season I've coached that we will have more than 8 girls on our team, so having numbers is a luxury we are not use to having. We will this year.” The biggest help could come from Katelyn Robbins who has been the IESA 1A individual champion the past two years. It is hard to say what a freshman will do considering she has not competed in a high school race, but her potential shows that she could be among the top in 1A this fall.
Katelyn Obert and Graham will give Liberty a strong first three runners. Katie Cook and Kaela Wellman, who was all state in 8th grade last year, will make their top five strong. The key will be what kind of split this team will have. We could get an indication when Liberty runs at the Brooks Memphis Twilight Classic in Tennessee on September 5th. “My expectations are high for this group. Specific expectations would be a team qualification to state and placing as high as we possibly can. We only lost 1 person from our team last year and gained 4 very capable freshman to add to our squad,” Schmidt added. “The Jr/Sr groups on our team have made up the top 5 since they were freshman so we have the experience we need. No one in this group has qualified for the state meet yet in high school and that is something we hope to change. If my seniors don't run at Detweiller this November I will feel like I've let them down. We've had some bad luck the last couple of years towards the end of the season with different things. Hopefully we change that this year. With Rochester being moved to 2A along with some of the other schools around the state it opens up the Elmwood sectional a bit, but it will still be tough to get out of.”
7 Tolono Unity Coach – Kara Leaman 2014 Finish – 10th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Taylor Renfroe SR (25, 18:27), Nicole Bagwell JR (46, 18:56), Savannah Day SO (92, 19:45), Natalie King SO (144, 20:48), Morgan Amdor JR (147, 20:51), Lauren Urie JR, Taylor Millsap SO, Evyenia Pyle SO, Mikayla Wetherell JR, Brieane Renfroe SO (did not run xc in 2014), Jordan Harmon FR, Audrey Hancock FR, Mackenzie Brunk FR, Miranda Fairbanks FR.
Outlook – Kara Leaman steps in as head coach replacing the legendary Gary Wieneke. Leaman should be in good shape for this 2015 campaign as five runners return from last year’s 10th place state team. The addition of a strong group of incoming freshmen gives this team a good chance of improving on last year’s state finish.
“Our training this summer was excellent,” said Leaman. “They met consistently all summer. They have been determined and willing to do the work it takes to start the season off with a solid base.” Unity is led by a strong front two in Taylor Renfroe and Nicole Bagwell. Renfroe earned all-state honors with her 25th place finish. Both Renfroe and Bagwell could finish in the top 25 this year. Savannah Day has used her success last track season in the 4x8 to fuel her intensity in her summer training according to her coach. Day could be a surprise in the first 50 this season. Brieane Renfroe did not run last fall but had a successful track season. She could be a surprise for this team. Freshmen Jordan Harmon and Audrey Hancock could also step into the top five this season.
The struggle for Unity this year will be making it out of the rough and tough St. Teresa Sectional. This team has the potential to do that. “I expect that we will be competitive in the State Series,” added Leaman. They will be competitive. They could also find their way into the top five in November.
8 Winnebago Coach – Janet & Joe Erb 2014 Finish – 15th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Hannah Insko JR (68, 19:25), Tiana Bielskis SO (116, 20:10), Samantha Heavlin SO (124, 20:18), Kelsey Shellhorn SR (139, 20:39), Cameryn Baldwin JR (170, 20:56), Paige Schurr JR, Nev Rumery SO, Calli Moraska SO, Anna Thies SR, Haily Gormon FR, Lauren Peterson FR.
Outlook – Five runners are back from last year’s team that finished 15th at the state meet. The potential for this team to challenge Seneca for the sectional championship and finish among the top ten at Detweiller Park is good. Hannah Insko should lead this team this fall. The junior has the talent to finish in the top 25 at state. The key for the team once again this season will being able to keep their first five close together. Last year’s split at the state meet was only 61 seconds. The addition of freshman Haily Gormon could make the thought of a tighter pack a reality.
“Our training this summer was about the same as it usually is,” said Winnebago Coach Janet Erb. “We hope we can make it back to state this year. We hope that we can be better than last year.” The Indians have the potential to challenge to be among the state’s best in 2015.
9 Freeburg Coach – Carl Floryczk 2014 Finish – 8th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Kayla Whitworth SO (45, 18:56), Ashley Gilmore JR (52, 19:04), Kristen Collier JR (111, 20:03), Grace Grimshaw SO, Haley Alt JR, Emily Merz SR, Megan Busch SR, Hannah Marquardt SO, Hannah Lehmann SR, Grace Wolf SR, Katherine Marler FR, Brandy Stambaugh FR, Paige Lee FR
Outlook – Even though four runners graduated from last year’s team that finished eighth in the state meet, Freeburg does return three of their top four runners giving Coach Carl Floryczk a good core to build from. “Our summer training was terrific,” said Floryczk. “As a team, the girls trained hard and improved upon their fitness levels.”
The Lady Midgets started out last year as the 14th ranked team. They burst into the top ten when they finished fifth at the First to the Finish Invitational. They stayed in the top ten for the rest of the season. Kayla Whitworth and Ashley Gilmore give Freeburg a solid duo upfront capable of giving their team single digit numbers in major invitationals. It would not surprise me if they are near the top 25 at state this November. Kristen Collier will be the anchor to the team’s pack. She was a minute behind the front two last year and will need to narrow that gap. The goal will be to find runners to complete the top 7. Floryczk has a strong freshman class entering led by Katherine Marler, Brandy Stambaugh, and Paige Lee that could give this team an immediate boost. Sophomore Grace Grimshaw is a runner that could also be in the top five.
This team could start out slow but will be tough by the time they get to the beginning of October. Floryczk dropped the FTTF meet from their schedule instead running in the Forest Park Classic in St. Louis on that date. They did add the Peoria Invitational on October 3 as their test run on the state course. Freeburg should advance to state. They are the strongest 1A Girls team in the southern most sectional. “Last year, we finished 8th place,” added Floryczk. “We would love to get ourselves into the top 10 once again. We lost some seniors, but we have some girls that are hungry to step up. We have great leaders and hard workers.”
10 Litchfield Coach – Jeremy Palmer 2014 Finish – 9th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Runners to Watch – Alexandra Quarton SR, Alexis Throne JR, Brianna Travis JR, Elli Holan JR, Brittany Uehling SR, Robin Randle SR, Madi Throne FR.
Outlook – The Panthers return six runners from last year’s state series team that finished ninth at the St. Teresa Sectional. Just like last season, it could be a challenge for this team to punch a ticket to run in the state meet. The nucleus that is back could make that a possibility. Alexandra Quarton and Alexis Throne were the top two runners for the team a year ago. If this team does not make it to state, these two runners could qualify individually. Alexis’ freshman sister Madi could step into the top five to make an impact on this team according to Coach Jeremy Palmer.
The killer for this team last year was their 1-5 split. At the sectional meet, the split on the first four was 66 seconds. Then it was another 80 second gap between four and five. With the addition of Madi Thorne, the split could come down to under 85 seconds giving this team the potential to challenge for a state bid. “The team members from last year have been having a good summer of training. We are looking to improve in races no matter who the competition is,” Palmer said. “I think we can improve from years past. All we can do is go out there and do our best.”
11 Clifton Central Coach – David Ladehoff 2014 Finish – 17th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Andrea Pace JR (42, 18:53), Katie Kleinert SO (51, 19:02), Lauren Ladehoff JR (127, 20:20), Hanna Gray SR (164, 21:16), Eilish Alexander SR (188, 22:20), Gabby Smith JR, Zoe Forquer SR.
Outlook – The Comets were not on anyone’s radar at the beginning of the 2014 season. They did come on strong at the end of the year finishing fourth at the Lisle Sectional to qualify for state then finishing 17th the following week at Detweiller Park. Five are back from last year’s state team with eyes on finishing better at the end of the year.
Andrea Pace and Katie Kleinert were surprises last year at state with Pace finishing 42nd and Kleinert 51st. Both runners have the talent to place in the top 30 with possibilities of landing in the top 25. The split on five at last year’s state meet was 207 seconds. That needs to be cut considerably if this team has thoughts of finishing within the top ten at state.
12 Effingham St. Anthony Coach – Ed Zeller 2014 Finish – 8th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Runners to Watch – Anna Sophia Keller JR (1, 16:27), Carson Fonner SO, Mary Claire Wegman JR, Elizabeth Falconburg SR, Rachel Wortman JR, Avery Elder SO, Maddie Tegeler SO.
Outlook – This team continues to get better and better. It does not hurt when you have the 1A Girls top runner in the state leading you. Anna Sophia Keller will provide her team low numbers again this year. The key will be getting the 2-5 split closer together. All seven runners are back from last year’s sectional team. Ignore the five runner split especially with Keller way ahead. Their split on 2 to 5 in last year’s state series was over 2 minutes. If projected #2 runner Carson Fonner thirty seconds closer to Keller with the overall 2-5 split at 100 seconds, this team could be running alongside Keller at the state meet.
13 Carthage Illini West Coach – Ryan Bliss 2014 Finish – 11th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Runners to Watch – Mariah Brodie SR (35, 18:48), Carly Garnett SR, Morgan Groth JR, Katie Rhodes SO, Darien Six JR
Outlook – This could be a surprise team in their sectional especially with Rochester moving up to 2A. The key will be staying healthy especially with the low numbers that the Girls team has. Illini West does have the talent to make it to the state meet. Mariah Brodie qualified to the state meet last year as an individual finishing 38th at Detweiller. Carly Garnett ran in front of Brodie all season but had a bad sectional race failing to make it to state. Garnett did finish fifth at state in the 3200 last spring and 8th in the 1600. She should be one of the top runners this fall in the state. Morgan Groth is still suffering from injuries that slowed her track season last spring. She makes this team tough when she is healthy.
14 Westmont Coach – Steve Wolf 2014 Finish – 22nd – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Peyton Nash SO (114, 20:06), Emilia Maslany SO (140, 20:40), Lily Arndt SO (143, 20:46), Lisa Niemiec SO (148, 20:43), Brittany Eirmann SR (154, 21:00), Hannah Abbatacola SO (171, 21:36), Halle Nash SO, Michelle Gorman SR, Michelle Laumi JR, Ashley Eirmann SO.
Outlook – The Sentinels were an extremely young team last year with five freshmen on the starting line at last November’s state meet. That experience should pay huge benefits in this upcoming season. Six runners are back from last year’s state team. They will challenge Clifton Central for the sectional crown. The talent is there to finish better than their 22nd place state finish.
The key for the young team last year was keeping their five runner pack close together. They were successful last fall having a 47 second split at state. What needs to happen this fall is to move that pack towards the front. Peyton Nash was one of the top runners on the team last year. She finished 114th at state. She could be near the top 60 this season at Detweiller. Emilia Maslany, Lily Arndt, and Lisa Niemiec are the nucleus of the pack that ran close together all last year. That needs to continue in 2015.
15 Mt. Zion Coach – Bill Harbeck 2014 Finish – 7th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Runners to Watch – Anna Bailey JR, Bridgett Bailey SO, Genna Warmick SO, Ruby Brown JR, Olivia Gingerich JR, Alli Sidwell JR, Brooke Shelton JR.
Outlook – Here is another team that will find themselves in the St. Teresa Sectional. Even though they should be ranked all season, they could find the goings tough to make it to state. The talent is there to get into the top five. There are five runners back from last year’s sectional team that placed seventh. Anna Bailey ran behind her sister Megan most of last season. She should step into the leader role in 2015. Her sister Bridgett and Genna Warnick lead the pack. The potential split for this team edges close to 180 seconds. That split needs to come down for this team to challenge for a state qualifying spot.
16 Palos Heights Chicago Christian Coach – Jake Christensen 2014 Finish – 18th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Allie Boss SO (97, 19:48), Jill Van Dyk JR (119, 20:14), Cassidy VandeKamp JR (126, 20:20), Sarah Cloud SR (166, 21:20), Becca Falb JR (172, 21:36), Lexi van Ryn JR, April van Ryn (ran track in 2015), Haley Kits JR, Elizabeth Czajkowski SO, Leah Kuipers SO, Julie O’Sullivan FR, Emily Damstra FR.
Outlook – This is a team that I would keep an eye on when we get to the state series in late October. Five runners return from last year’s state team. It could be the additions coming in that could boost this squad into the top ten. Sisters Lexi and April van Ryn ran track last spring. This will be their first year in cross country. “Summer training has vastly improved in the past couple years,”” said Coach Jake Christensen. “The veterans have put in consistent training and even the newcomers are building up some base before the season begins, so it is quite possible that we will get a push from any of these new runners.”
Chicago Christian has a strong front three in Allie Boss, Jill Van Dyk, and Cassidy VandeKamp. Any of these three runners have the ability to be the top runner for this team. The split on five last year was close to 90 seconds. If the split comes down with the pack getting closer to the first fifty at state, we could see some big things happen from this squad. “This team could be quite good, or they could compete at about the same level as last year. We graduated a few good senior leaders, but I have high hopes that the talent and passion I’ve seen throughout the summer could produce a better season than last year,” Christensen stated. “Obviously we would like to recapture the Conference, Regional, and Sectional crowns as well as improve upon our 18th place State finish, but how far up we can finish remains to be seen.”
17 Annawan-Kewanee Wethersfield Coach – Creston Fenn 2014 Finish – 3rd – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Kirstie Ramsey JR (11, 18:02), Olivia Draminski SR (63, 19:21), Diana Satkauskas JR (167, 21:10), Kaleigh Nimrick SO (169, 21:31), Sarah Gomez SR, Megan Curran JR, Jocelyn VanAntwerp SR, Morgan Van Hyfte SR, Jayde Van Hyfte JR, Rachael Cook FR, Rachel Gomez FR, Whitney Johnson FR
Outlook – Even though this team is ranked 17th to start the season, newcomers that enter the program can replace the three runners graduated making this squad a dangerous one when we enter October. Four runners are back from last year’s trophy team. “This was one of our best summers ever. We had an average of 15-18 people show up a day. We had lots of new comers, so it was exciting to see so many faces at 7am in the morning,” said Coach Creston Fenn. “Upper classman really stepped up their game this year by running more miles faster. The commitment to be great was definitely felt during all of our morning runs.”
Kirstie Ramsey was one of the top runners in 1A last fall. She did not have the best of state races finishing 11th. Ramsey can be expected to be among the front runners in November and the leader of this team. Olivia Draminski was the third runner for the team last year and should step up into the second position. Jocelyn VanAntwerp could be the surprise for this squad this fall. “Joycelyn VanAntwerp basically lost her entire season because of a stress fracture. She would have for sure been part of our top 7,” added Fenn. “This summer she has worked hard to do the little things, like lower leg strengthening, to prevent another stress fracture. She has always been one tough runner, but now she is healthy and has been running with Olivia and Kirstie basically all summer. She will be exciting to watch.”
Rachel Cook (her brother Michael was multi all-state for the school) had a breakout summer and could push her way into the front five. The split was a concern for this team last year. Even with Ramsey towards the front this year, the possibility of having a split under 90 seconds could put this team in contention for another trophy. “After finishing 4th in 2014 and 3rd last year, the team is still setting their goals high,” Fenn said. “Early in the summer during our cross country camp, the girls made team goals. It is so very hard to win a state trophy especially being one of the smallest schools in the state. With that said, another state trophy would be our ultimate goal. However, finishing in the top 8 again for the third year in a row would be pretty amazing.”
18 Champaign St. Thomas More Coach – David Behm 2014 Finish – 10th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Runners to Watch – Marguerite Hendrickson SO, Morgan Cinnamon SO, Julia Welle SR, Maris Wszalek SO, Morgan Cameron SR, Cathie Seebauer SR, Gina Maggio SR, Claire Pollard SO
Outlook – This team would have been ranked in the top 10. They lost their #1 runner at the end of Laura Krasa last year as she transferred to Judah Christian. This team is young and could make some noise in the tough St. Teresa Sectional. Maruerite Hendrickson was their top runner most of last year until the state series when Krasa came back from injury. The team could have a 90 second split behind Hendrickson led by Morgan Cinnamon and Julia Welle. A bonus will be the addition of transfer student-athlete Claire Pollard who will be eligible in October. She will give this team a boost. “I am hoping our Girls team will be competitive,” said Coach David Behm. “We are in a tough area to get out of sectionals but I would like to be in the hunt.”
19 Auburn Coach – Rob Arenz 2014 Finish – 9th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Runners to Watch – April Goetz JR, Hannah Leverenz SO, Sara Kate Hemberger SO, Natalie Meyer SO, Madeline Perace SR.
Outlook – Auburn was another team that hovered in the top ten of the Elmwood Sectional rankings in 2014. They start the season in the top 25 state wide this season with a goal of making it to the state meet. Five runners are back from last year’s sectional team. April Goetz was the front runner for the team last season. Don’t expect that to change this fall. The split hovered over two minutes most of last season. That needs to come down if Auburn wants to punch a ticket to Detweiller Park this November.
20 Carlinville Coach – Charles Helton 2014 Finish – 12th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Runners to Watch – Colleen Madden SR (22, 18:23), Jacey Roper SR (54, 19:10), Mackenzie Harris SO, Ryleigh Gibbel SO, Charlene Helton SR, Leonie Gross SR, Kamryn Bremer JR, Maddie Williams SO, Molly Lewis FR, Justice Brock FR
Outlook – Carlinville has the talent to run at the state meet. The problem is that they most likely will be situated in the tough St. Teresa Sectional where five of the top ten schools in 1A are located. The top five runners are back from last year’s 12th place sectional team led by individual state qualifiers Colleen Madden and Jacey Roper. Madden was all-state last year and could do it again in 2015. Roper has a good chance to be close to her teammate.
The summer was good for the team giving a chance for some to make a step into the top five. “Sophomore Maddie Williams would have contended for a state medal last season, but didn’t compete in the later part of the season due to health concerns. Jacey Roper, a senior will return after placing 54th at the state meet with more miles under her belt and a desire for a state medal,” said Coach Charles Helton. Freshman Molly Lewis could also step into the top five making the team’s goal of qualifying out of the St. Teresa Sectional possible.
21 Breese Mater Dei Coach – Dave Kohnen 2014 Finish – 9th – 2A Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Runners to Watch – Sophia Lager JR, Abby Haag SR, Grace Fuehne SO, Malina Isaak SO, Sophie Kuhl JR, Amy Krebs SR, Kinsey Stockmann SO.
Outlook – The Knights make the step back down to 1A for the 2015 Cross Country season. Six runners are back from last year’s 2A sectional team. Mater Dei should be one of the top teams in the Metro-East Lutheran Sectional chasing the sectional championship. Chances of making it to the state meet from this sectional for this group is better than good. Sophia Lager will again be the top runner for this team. She should be among the top five runners in her sectional. She has the talent to be all-state in November. Senior Abby Haig will lead the pack behind Lager. The split on five last year in their sectional race was close to 60 seconds. If they can duplicate that again this year, Mater Dei could be among the top ten teams in 1A when the results are announced at Detweiller Park.
22 Herrin Coach – Dusty Mallow 2014 Finish – 20th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Kara Martin SR (28, 18:34), Maura Farrell SR (37, 18:49), Courtney Garrison JR (160, 21:10), Skye Ross SO (184, 22:03), Jamera Hubbard JR (187, 22:19), Lexis Wieland SR (189, 22:22), Daykota Burnett JR, Lezlie Garrison JR, Jalah Atkins JR, Aleah Williams SO, Kylee Cotton SO, Coral Viernow JR, Kaelyn Hall FR.
Outlook – Nightmares appeared in some of Coach Dusty Mallow’s dreams when the classification announcements came out in mid-June showing that Herrin would move up into 2A for the 2015 cross country season. That did change however. “We were granted a variance that put our enrollment at 706,” stated Mallow. “That puts us back in 1A.”
There is talent on this squad that could make Herrin among the top 15 at year’s end. Kara Martin just missed all-state honors last November. Her improvement during the track season could make her one of the top runners in 1A. Maura Ferrell was 15 seconds behind Martin at state last year. She could find her way into the top 25 this year. Freshman Kaelyn Hall has run with Martin and Ferrell this summer. If she can maintain that in races this fall, their front three could be tough. “It's exiting going into a season with that kind of fire power,” added Mallow.
The emergence of Hall and what she could be capable of will be interesting to watch in Herrin’s first couple of meets. If she can stay with Herrin’s big two, this team could shoot up the rankings. “My expectations for this year’s team are very high,” stated Mallow. “We will have three very strong runners at the top, and six or seven strong runners to round out the team. It's nice when you have trouble figuring out your number seven when the team is as deep as this one.”
23 Chillicothe Illinois Valley Central Coach – Dennis Fraikes 2014 Finish – 6th – 1A Oregon Sectional
Runners to Watch – Katherine Schneider JR, Molly Prewitt JR, Kelsey Bowen SO, Haille Taylor SO, Libby Allison JR, Claire Weber JR, Emily Terpstra SR, Chloe Gagnon SR, Grace Markley JR, Maddy Batek, Skylar Obryant, Paige Mack (Batek, Obryant, and Mack all played Volleyball in 2014).
Outlook – IVC just missed making it to the state meet last year finishing sixth in their sectional. Expectations are high this year that the Ghosts make the short trip down Route 29 to Detweiller Park as a team. Six runners are back from last year’s team. The addition of Maddy Batek, Skylar Obryant, and Paige Mack, who all played volleyball last year, should give Coach Dennis Fraikes depth for his top seven.
Katherine Schneider ran 19:27 at the end of July at Detweiller which was a personal best. She has the possibility of finishing in the top 25 this November. This team needs to lower its five runner split to under 100 seconds. If they can do that with Schneider being towards the front, IVC could do some special things in the state series. “Our summer was awesome. The kids worked hard and got stronger with the mileage increasing for most of the team,” added Fraikes. “The girls just missed going to state and are very focused on getting the job done this year.”
24 Deer Creek-Mackinaw Coach – Sam Ingram 2014 Finish – 15th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Runners to Watch – Mysteree Bottorff SR, Mikayla Moore SO, Taylor Mohr SR, Morgan Smith JR, Emily Embry SO, Victoria Myers JR, Marley Knowels SO, Allyson Taylor SO.
Outlook – This could be one of the surprise teams in 1A Girls as this season progresses. This team could be sneaky good by the time we get to October. Five runners are back from last season’s 15th place sectional team. Seniors Taylor Mohr and Mysteree Bottorff traded off the top spot towards the end of last year. Both should be in the 19 minute range at the end of the season. The split on five at last year’s sectional was over 90 seconds. That split needs to come down if this team wants to advance to the state meet.
25 Sullivan Coach – Jaclyn Lindberg 2014 Finish – 13th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Runners to Watch – Laine Cameron SO, Carlin Nuzzo SR, Ashlynd Risley JR, Alyssa Marshall SR, Cadisen Nuzzo SR, Abby Craviotta SO, Allie O’Neill SO, Bailee Pratt JR, Danielle Tingey SR, Jadon Nuzzo FR, Josie Orris FR
Outlook – Sullivan will be a team that could move up in the rankings as the year goes on. Being in the St. Teresa Sectional will make the road a little tougher to get to Detweiller Park. Six runners are back from last year’s top seven. The key to the team will be having a tight pack. Most of the end of the season their split was near 50 seconds. That kind of split needs to stay close to that time this season. Laine Cameron was the lead runner most of the year. Carlin Nuzzo was with Cameron in the sectional race. If the two can stay close together this season, it just makes this team even tougher. “All of our student-athletes made a strong commitment to our team this summer. I believe when it comes to deciding we will have some very close calls on who will make it into our top 7. I could see it changing often throughout the season,” said Coach Jaclyn Lindberg. “We might have a slightly smaller group than in years past but I'm looking forward to working with them. They have a great sense of camaraderie with one another and they are extremely hard workers.”
Other Schools to Watch (In Alphabetical Order)
Amboy Coach – Bob Halberg 2014 Finish – 14th – 1A Oregon Sectional
Runners to Watch – Megan Grady JR (63, 19:21), Jennifer Popovich SR, Erin Hosto JR, Brenna Rieker JR, Ally Gascoigne SO, Kaitlin Boers SR, Maddie Foster JR.
Outlook – State qualifier Megan Grady leads five other runners back from last year’s sectional team that finished 14th at Oregon. Their split on their 2-5 runners was over four minutes last year. That gap needs to narrow to half of it in order for this team to be among the top eight in their sectional.
Bloomington Central Catholic Coach – Bill Rhodes 2014 Finish – 12th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Runners to Watch – Noelle Ghrer SO, Hailey Paul SR, Abby Bevilacqua JR, Lizzie Morris SO, Grace Herr JR, Lauren Feeney SR, Alyssa Ely SO, Sarah Ebner JR.
Outlook – Only three runners are back from last year’s 12th place sectional team. The depth behind the three returnees could allow BCC to step into the top ten at Elmwood. Noelle Ghrer, who was their third runner last year, should be #1 for this team in 2015. If they could keep their 1-5 split under 100 seconds, this team could improve on last year’s sectional finish.
Carterville Coach – Heather Webb 2014 Finish – 24th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Megan Adams JR (88, 19:42), Shelby Olson SO (153, 21:00), Ashlee Childers SR (180, 21:49), Josie Hoch SR (23:16), Madison Meyer SR, Reese Herrin FR
Outlook – The Lions have developed a tradition of making it to Detweiller Park for the state meet. Carterville should be one of the top squads in their sectional with another chance to make it back to state. Megan Adams was the top runner for the team last year. Coach Heather Webb feels that freshman Reese Herrin could be the top runner for this 2015 team. Four runners are back from last year’s state team. Shelby Olson showed improvement during the summer. Josie Hoch was injured most of last year. Her health could make this team into a strong state qualifier. “I hope that the girl’s team can return to state for the 5th consecutive year,” added Webb. “We are a small team but mighty.”
Des Plaines Willows Academy Coach – Emily Hinderer 2014 Finish – 23rd – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Maeve Dunaway SR (34, 18:48), Anne O’Regan SO (137, 20:37), Stephanie Sommers SR (178, 21:48), Teresa Kenny SR (179, 21:49), Maura Walsh SR (195, 23:01), Colette McCormick SO (205, 25:41), Anna Prince SO, Jackie Klatt SO, Maddie McEvoy SO, Tyler Colgan SR.
Outlook – This team was a surprise finishing 5th at the Lisle Sectional qualifying for state. They would like to make a repeat trip to Peoria this November. Maeve Dunaway had a great state race in 2014 finishing 34th. She has the talent to finish in the top 20 this year. Experience should be no problem with six runners back from that state team. The split on five at state was near 3 minutes. If that can come down with the 2-5 split to near 55-60 seconds, this team could improve on last year’s state performance.
Elgin Harvest Christian Academy Coach – Steven Bland 2014 Finish – 19th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Nygia Pollard SO (49, 19:00), Rachel Higbee SO (134, 20:31), Rayna Steiner SO (157, 21:07), Anita Wheaton JR, Cassidy Richter SO, Hannah Nelson SR, Kaelie Sjodin JR (transfer from Dundee-Crown), Sarah Vislisel FR.
Outlook – A team to watch when we get closer to the state series. HCA has returns three back from last year’s state team. The talent is on this squad to improve on that. Nygia Pollard and Rachel Higbee should be the top two runners on this team. Hannah Nelson, who qualified for state in the 1600 as a freshman, has been injured the last two years. She has the talent to run with the top two on this team. Cassidy Richter has showed great improvement this summer. She will be a plus for this team this fall. “We will be vying for their fourth consecutive conference title and third Elgin City Champs crown. Regional and Sectionals,” said Coach Steven Bland. “Chicago Christian will be the team to beat, but, I think this team could be stronger, overall than last year’s team. If we make to state, I would think we could move into the top 15.”
Elmhurst Timothy Christian Coach – Dick Zylstra 2014 Finish – 7th – 1A Lisle Sectional
Runners to Watch – Hannah Bosman SR (77, 19:32), Ellie Wiener SR, Nicole Terpstra SR, Allison Zeilstra JR, Megan Middel SR, Catherine Carter SO, Madi Garcia SO.
Outlook – Timothy Christian would like to improve on their seventh place sectional finish from last year with the possibility of making it to Peoria. State qualifier Hannah Bosman leads six back from that team that would like to make that trip possible. The split on their 2-5 pack needs to be under 60 seconds and within 75 seconds for this team to show that improvement.
Elmwood-Brimfield Coach – Hayley Davis 2014 Finish – 16th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Emily McCauley SO (67, 19:24), Cassie Karn JR (130, 20:23), Allie Meyers JR (192, 22:36), Nicole Collins SR, Natalie Meyer SO, Sara Rosencrans SR.
Outlook – Three runners are back from last year’s state qualifying team. Hopes to make it back to Peoria could be dim if they cannot find someone to step up into the fifth spot. The split on five this year is projected to be close to 240 seconds. Emily McCauley had a good freshman year finishing in the top 70. She has the talent to finish within the first 40 this fall. Cassie Karn and Allie Meyers also have state meet experience and should be the nucleus on this year’s team.
Eureka Coach – Brett Charlton 2014 Finish – 6th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Runners to Watch – Natalie Bardwell SO, McKenzie Walz JR, Meghan Waller JR, Ashlyn Lockart SR.
Outlook – The Hornets just missed out on a state trip finishing sixth last fall. Brett Charlton steps in as the new coach. Four are back from that team. Eureka will miss lead runner Quincey McSweeney who graduated. This team will be young led by sophomore Natalie Bardwell.
Fairbury Prairie Central Coach – Scott McGuire 2014 Finish – 6th – 1A Lisle Sectional
Runners to Watch – Caitlyn Ifft SR, Megan Ifft SO, Janessa Knapp SO, Emma Fogarty JR, Abbie Bazzell SR, Daphne Matson SR. Summer Huber FR.
Outlook – Just missing making it to state last fall placing 6th at Lisle, they would like to take the next step in 2015. “The girls are hoping to be the first ever PC squad to make it to state,” said Coach Scott McGuire. “They placed 6th in sectionals last year, but want to prove themselves this year.” Caitlyn Ifft struggled last fall with knee problems but looks to be healthy heading into this year. She ran 19:24 at Det at Dark in July. There are six back from last year’s sectional team. A five runner split under 100 seconds could make a state trip possible.
Henry-Senachwine Coach – Clark Owsley 2014 Finish – 11th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Ronna Pettis SR (69, 19:25), Hanna Hart SO (128, 20:21), Jackie Abella SR (162, 21:13), Jenna Rock SR (185, 22:24), Payton Knisley JR, Jennifer O’Brien JR, Kaylee Rust SO, Jamie Rediger SO, Kate Cluskey FR, Calli Clare FR, Kaya Kelly FR.
Outlook – Four are back from last year’ state meet but they will miss front runners Jillian Monier and Melanie Yanke who graduated. Ronna Pettis will step into the #1 spot with the potential of finishing in the first 30 at state. Jenna Rock could be a key for this team. “Jenna Rock is the epitome of dedication,” said Coach Clark Owsley. “If she stays healthy all season, I look to her to be a difference maker when we need a boost.” The key will be having a tight pack on Pettis this year. If they can do that, this team could make a repeat trip to Peoria. “Our depth is questionable right now and we really can't afford any mid-to-late season injuries, like we've overcome in the past with talented runners. If we're within striking distance of the top five teams at our Sectional with healthy runners, we'll be ready to compete,” added Owsley.
Heyworth Coach – Jeff Trask 2014 Finish – 14th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Runners to Watch – Stephanie Brown SO, Riley Ryburn SO, Julia Bobell JR, Lydia Martens SR, Mackenzie Day SO.
Outlook – Heyworth is a young team with only one freshman among their top five. Stephanie Brown showed great progress during last season. She should continue that this fall with the possibility of qualifying for the state meet. The split on their top five is projected to be 210 seconds this fall. That needs to come down if this team wants to finish in the first ten in this sectional.
Macomb Coach – Randy Ames 2014 Finish – 7th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Runners to Watch – Emma Wohlstadter SO, Isabel Wohlstadter SR, Lydia Fetene SR, Courtney Neavear SR, Aki Fujiwara SR
Outlook – Four runners are back from last year’s 7th place sectional team. Macomb’s top two runners have graduated. It will be up to sisters Isabel and Emma Wohlstadler to battle for the top spot. This team will need to rely on a tight pack (under 90 seconds) to improve on last year’s sectional finish.
Minonk Fieldcrest Coach – Carol Bauer 2014 Finish – 10th – 1A Oregon Sectional
Runners to Watch – Claire Weers JR, Tiffany Landino SO, Annette Baldwin SR, Erin Pongracz SR, Jorie Pongracz SO, Hailey Peiffer SO, Kaylee Aldana JR, Kamryn Mance SO, Jena Thacker SR.
Outlook – All seven runners are back from last year’s sectional team that finished 10th at Oregon. Claire Weers returns as the front runner on this team. Tiffany Landino, Annette Baldwin, and Erin Pongracz stayed within 25 seconds of each other towards the end of last season. That kind of pack will be needed again. Their five runner split needs to stay under 110 seconds in order for Fieldcrest to qualify for a spot on the starting line in Peoria this November.
Monmouth-Roseville Coach – Sam Marlow 2014 Finish – 13th – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Dyesha Taylor SR (83, 19:39), Jordan Copeland SO (117, 20:10), Skyler Merry JR (161, 21:10), Kara Fisher SO (194, 23:00), Ezey Bahena SR, Dulce Andrade SO, Ruth Sindni JR, Diana Rivera SO, Latta Winebright SO.
Outlook – With their top two runners graduate, it could be tough for Monmouth-Roseville to make it back to the state meet this fall. They do have four runners that return from last year’s state team led by Dyesha Taylor. The key for this team is running with a tight pack behind Taylor.
Ottawa Marquette Coach – Dan Cheatham 2014 Finish – 11th – 1A Oregon Sectional
Runners to Watch – Paige Aurit SR (33, 18:45), McKenzie Mattes SR, Alyssa Vasely SO, Cheyenne MacBean JR, Susie Johnson JR, Katelyn Johnson SR.
Outlook – The team has experience with six runners back from last year’s sectional team. Paige Aurit qualified for state individually finishing 33rd at Peoria. She has the talent to make it into the top 25. Their five runner split of 210 seconds hurt their chances last fall. That needs to diminish in order for Marquette to improve on last year’s sectional finish.
Peotone Coach – Eric Peppmuller 2014 Finish – 11th – 1A Lisle Sectional
Runners to Watch – Teddi Stevens JR, Hunter Jackson SR, Sophie Stack SO, Halie Paw JR, Alexis Kmety JR, Lexie Perakis SR, Kali Sroka JR.
Outlook – Six runners are back from last year’s sectional team. The key to last year’s team was having a five runner split between 95-100 seconds. Peotone will need to do that again this year moving their pack closer to the front. Teddi Stevens again should be the front runner on this team.
Red Bud Coach – Bob Ashley 2014 Finish – 21st – 1A State Meet
Runners to Watch – Keri Burmester SR (7, 17:52), Brooke Supancic JR (174, 21:44), Daniele London JR (181, 21:51), Gloria Neuhaus SR (201, 23:49), Emma Neumeyer JR (202, 23:50), Stephanie Wiechert JR.
Outlook – Led by the best 1A Girls runner in Southern Illinois in Keri Burmester, Red Bud made a trip to the state meet. They would like to make the same journey in 2015. Five runners return from that state team but the loss of all-state runner Deanna Deterding could hurt the chances for this team to make it back to state. Forget the five runner split especially with Burmeister up front. The five runner split last year at state was close to six minutes. The 3-5 split was over two minutes. They will need that kind of split on 2-5 and to be closer to Burmeister to make a return trip to Peoria happen.
Shelbyville Coach – Kevin Kramer 2014 Finish – 6th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Runners to Watch – Chloe Spain SO (67, 19:13), Morgan Powers SR, Lauren Bowers SO, Maggy Yockey JR, Blair Johnston SR, Jenny Karvaker SR.
Outlook – The Lady Rams just missed qualifying for state last year finishing sixth in their sectional. Six are back from that team led by state qualifier Chloe Spain. The sophomore could have a chance to finish among the first 25 at state. Shelbyville could have a five runner split of under 2 minutes. A split of 90 seconds off of Spain could get this team to Peoria.
Springfield Lutheran Coach – Ashley Thomasma 2014 Finish – Did not have a full team at Regionals
Runners to Watch – Maddy Eck SO, Jackie Eck JR, Brigid Tournoux FR, Bernadette Tournoux FR, Liz Conner SR
Outlook – If they stay healthy, this will be a surprise team in 1A. They have to stay healthy. As of now, there are only five runners on this team. Their front four could be potent. Jackie Eck missed qualifying for the state meet by two places behind qualifier Mariah Brodie who finished in the top 40 at state. Her sister Maddy was six seconds back at sectionals. Add sisters Brigid and Bernadette Tournoux who finished 2-3 in the 1A IESA state meet. They should be able to run with the Eck sisters. Liz Conner has never run cross country but did in track her sophomore year. An asthma problem will be something to watch. If she stays healthy, this team could be tough. If more student-athletes come out, who knows? “Honestly, I’m just excited to have a team! We are such a small school and I always have to compete with Soccer and Volleyball during the fall,” said Coach Ashley Thomasma. “I think the Eck (Maddy and Jackie) and Tournoux (Brigid and Bernadetted) sisters will be unstoppable this season. These girls have the drive and desire to succeed. I’m hoping Liz will be a strong 5th runner for our team in order for us to bring home some hardware at meets and make a name for ourselves.”
Sterling Newman Coach – Patrick Larkins 2014 Finish – 13th – 1A Oregon Sectional
Runners to Watch – Teagan McKenna JR (79, 19:33), Kelsey Simpson JR, Natalie Amezola SO, Kate Bonnell SO, Lauren Henson SO, Jillienne Roe SO, Elizabeth Oswalt SO.
Outlook – This is a young team with five sophomores among the top seven. It showed its potential by placing 13th at their sectional. We could see improvement from Newman this fall with six runners back from the sectional team. Teagan McKenna qualified individually for state. She has the potential to place in the first 40. Their split was over three minutes off of McKenna last year. That gap needs to close for this team to improve on their sectional performance. “I anticipate another strong season with a good shot at making it to Sectionals again, but any further will be a wait and see how they progress this season,” said Coach Patrick Larkins. “Most of the core group had a very strong track season, but that was in the sprints. Hopefully we can transfer that into cross country.”
Williamsville Coach – Tyler Casson 2014 Finish – 16th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Runners to Watch – Morgan Rottinghaus JR, Grace Gudwian SO, Adnie Gantt SR, Ashton Henrikson SO, Tori Fry SO, Cara Buckley SO.
Outlook – A team that could move into the top ten in their sectional. Six runners are back from a team that finished 16th last year at Elmwood. Five of the six runners returning are underclassmen led by junior Morgan Rottinghaus. Their five runner split at sectionals was 46 seconds. Improvement will be seen if the pack stays that close moving closer to the front. |
