From coast to coast, the MileSplit Cross Country Countdown provides state previews of every state in the nation. Perhaps you're curious about Illinois or California, you could even be curious about the tiny state of Rhode Island. Whatever state you're looking for we've got it covered.
AL / AK / AZ / AR / CA / CO / CT / DE / FL / GA / HI / IA / ID / IL / IN / KS / KY / LA / MA / MD / ME / MI / MN / MO / MS / MT / NC / ND / NE / NH / NJ / NM / NV / NY / OH / OK / OR / PA / RI / SC / SD / TN / TX / UT / VA / VT / WA / WI / WV / WY
The Coast to Coast Cross Country Countdown
Alabama (AL)
Alabama MileSplit Homepage (AlabamaRunners.com) / Top 50 Returnees: Boys - Girls
With a successful 2007 season in the books, one that included a sixth place finish in the girls championship division at Nike Team Nationals, Mountain Brook H.S. looks to accomplish even more in 2008. Led by a commanding top trio of Madeline Morgan, Marie Demedicis and Catherine Diethelm, Mountain Brook returns no fewer than seven athletes that could place in the state's top ten.
Last season Mountain Brook bested second place Hoover 35-71 at the state meet, winning by such a large margin despite the fact that #1 runner Morgan was on the sidelines. While Morgan returned and wound up actually winning the NTN individual title, this squad has even higher goals for this season.
Their main competition should come from Bob Jones H.S. The squad returns four of their top five from '07, led by the talented Katie Goldsmith. The returning individual from the state meet is Elsbeth Denton (Vestavia Hills), who place second in '07 and will look to challenge Morgan up top for the win.
While Mountain Brook should dominate the 6A competition in Alabama, Scottsboro looks to dominate in equal fashion in 5A. Last season at state Scottsboro averaged 19:05 over their 5k course, only five seconds slower than Mountain Brook. On top of that Scottsboro returns nine of their top ten state championship athletes, including the state's top two returnees in Hannah Thompson and Caitlin Chitwood. Although they lose defending state champion Emily Thompson to graduation, Scottsboro could be looking for a NXN berth this year as well.
In the 6A boys race, Hoover was a dominant force in 2007, but graduates much of their talent. This perennially strong team does return defending state champion Patrick McGregor and teammate Nick Perkins is the second returnee behind McGregor. However, the squad looses their 3-6 runners.
Hoover's strongest competition in 2008 may come from Auburn H.S. and Mountain Brook H.S. Auburn returns an incredibly strong top five from a squad that finished fourth last year in the 6A state meet. Mountain Brook finished fifth at last year's state meet and returns a group of talented runners as well. Hoover's throne may be taken over this year.
Alaska (AK)
The Alaska cross country season is a bit strange when compared to other states. It's almost as if there are two seperate seasons. While the fall sport kicks off when nearly every other state does, mid-to-late August, their state meet falls on October 4, the same time other teams across the land are just starting to hit their stride. Early winters and limited sun make it hard to run any sport outside.
This always presents a unique situation when it comes to the top Alaskan athletes and teams. While their season ends in early October, the best of the best continue to train and occassionally travel down to the lower-48 to compete before the post-season regional action starts with Nike Cross Nationals and Foot Locker Nationals.
While no Alaskan teams look like challengers at this point in the season for a NXN berth, two athletes have shown the talent it takes to qualify for Foot Locker Nationals. Trevor Dunbar (Sr., Kodiak) and Leah Francis (Jr., Juneau-Douglas) dominated the cross country scene in 2007, and with their chief competition graduating they should win by even more in 2008.
Dunbar won the state meet last year by 27 seconds, coming back during the track season to run 4:15.8 for 1600m and 9:06.41 for 3200m. Along with being the top runner in the state, he looks to lead his team to a state title. Kodiak H.S. returns many of their key athletes from a year before, including top 12 state finishers Dylan Anthony and Sam Salus.
Meanwhile, Francis won the state cross country meet last year by 37 seconds, coming back during the spring to lead the state in the 800, 1600 and 3200. Francis' Juneau-Douglas team loses a lot of talent from their runner-up squad of '07, as does defending state champion Anchorage West. The squad with the most returning talent may in fact by '07 third place West Valley H.S.
Arizona (AZ)
Arizona MileSplit Homepage (AZTrackXC.com)
Last year the Arizona girls were one of the strongest groups of state runners in the nation. With numerous Foot Locker finalists and some very strong teams, Arizona built a reputation of being able to challenge nearly every other state out west for top braging rights. While much of that talent graduated, one school in particular retained nearly their entire championship squad.
Xavier College Prep H.S. returns six of their top seven, including the incredible talents of Foot Locker finalist Jessica Tonn, Kristina Vanderhout and Sarah Penney. Last year this squad did not take part in Nike Team National regionals, but one would hope with so much returning talent and perhaps the best top three west of the Mississippi, Xavier College Prep would look to compete in the regional competition this season.
While Xavier College Prep will enter the season as the top ranked team in Arizona, their 5A DI counterparts Mesa Mountain View return a strong team as well, following the guidance of Cami Jackson. Jackson is the number three returnee in state behind Tonn and Vanderhout and paces a strong top three that will be looking to challenge Xavier.
On the boys side a duo of juniors will look to fill the top spot in the state held by Jim Walmsley last year. Walmsley impressed all season long, good enough to earn a trip to Foot Locker Nationals. This season Brian Shrader (Jr., Sinagua) and Steve Magnuson (Jr., Ironwood) look to accomplish similar results. Shrader had a solid track season with times of 4:15.8 for 1600m and 9:23.47 for 3200m, while Magnuson ran 9:16.21 at the Golden West Invitational at year's end.
Two of the top teams in the state will be competing in seperate divisions. Mesa Mountain View returns four of their top five from last year's 5A DI third place squad. While defending champion Alhambra and runner-up Desert Vista look to replace a lot of graduated talent, Mesa Mountain View looks strong.
The 5A DII Horizon H.S. looks to pull off victory in 2008 despite losing state champion Jim Walmsley and third place finisher Ben Jankunas. This young and talented squad returns five, spots 3-7, and with a year to follow to outstanding seniors, it's now the younger athletes' time to shine.
Arkansas (AR)
Last year Rogers H.S. dominated the boys 7A state championship race to near perfection. The squad scored a mere 16 points, on their way to becoming perhaps the best team ever in Arkansas history. While 16 points is a hard score to top, believe it or not Rogers could be in line to accomplish something similar in 2008 despite losing their top three runners who finished 1-3 in '07.
In Arkansas you're allowed more than the normal seven athletes at state, so with this said, Rogers returns their next six athletes from last year's state competition, including four of the top five overall state returnees. Forest Roth, Cameron Efurd, Henry Wildenburg and Juan Oralla all look to place in the top five, while Markus Pearson (Conway) looks to lead a strong team from Conway H.S.. Conway finished second last year in state behind Rogers, and return their entire top five, which may actually present a challenge to Rogers.
In 6A competition Lake Hamilton H.S., the defending state champions, return their top five, which includes defending state champion Amos Gerber. Meanwhile, the 5A competition may host the best individual in the state, as defending champ Luke Allen (Harrison) won in '07 by 49 seconds and looks to win by even larger margins this time around.
The girls side looks somewhat similar to the boys, as Rogers H.S. returns six of their top seven from their championship squad of 2007, although they do lose state champion Natalia Guerrero. Erika Seteler (Conway), Courtney Efurd (Conway) and Mackenzie Bloom (Bentonville) are the top three returnees. Bloom will guide a strong Bentonville squad, one that returns their entire top six and who's 1-5 runners match up nicely with Rogers. The girls 7A compeitition could be quite the battle.
California (CA)
California MileSplit Homepage (CalRunners.com)
The competition in the DI boys state championship this year will be fierce. Last season the race was filled with talented individuals and teams, but this year could showcase even more. Returning Foot Locker finalist Chris Schwartz (Sr., Foothill) will look to not only win a state championship, but win the Foot Locker National title as well. The incoming senior had an outstanding track season, complete with a sub-9 3200m effort.
The number two returnee on the DI side is Tyler Valdes (Sr., Dana Hills), who leads back his defending champion Dana Hills squad to try and repeat with the same results as '07. The squad looks strong, bringing back three of their top four. However, they will be challenged and one of those main challengers in Buchanan. Following the lead of front runner Jonathan Sanchez, the squad returns their top five and six of their top seven.
Other individuals to watch during the fall are Zack Torres (Crescenta Valley), Jose Madern (Anaheim) and Jose Lezama (Leuzinger).
In DII action, Elias Gedyon (So., Loyola) looks to improve upon his finish at last year's state meet after an outstanding spring that saw the then freshman run less than a second off of Michael Granville's freshman national 800m record. Gedyon's Loyola squad returns three of their top four and have a long history of doing great things at state.
The DIII competition may not be much of a competition, as defending champion Barstow H.S. returns six of seven from '07, all of who are seniors. While the squad loses defending state champion Anthony Solis, they still return Isaac Chavez, who is a Foot Locker finalist type talent. While battles in DI and DII will be fierce and will bring about some great results, Barstow has the talent to be the best team in the state this season.
On the girls side all eyes will be on Jordan Hasay (Sr., Mission Prep) (pictured left) and her final high school cross country season. After winning Foot Locker Nationals as a freshman, that title has eluded her for the past two seasons. With one last chance you can be certain Hasay is going to give it her all, and after a track season that saw the incoming senior make the finals of the Olympic Trials 1500m, set the national 1500m record and earn U.S. top five performances in the 3,000m and 3,200m runs, Hasay should be looking to dominate one last time.
The top team competition comes in DI, which saw Saugus dominate the competition in 2007. While the squad loses their top runner in Katie Dunn, they now follow the guidance of sophomore star Kaylin Mahoney and return their 2-5 runners from the year before. This squad made NTN last year and will look to accomplish much the same in '08.
Saugus' biggest competition comes from Trabuco Hills and Dana Hills, squads that finished third and fourth in DI last season. Trabuco Hills returns five of their top seven, while Dana Hills returns six of seven. Meghan Marvin (Jr., Clovis) is the top returning individual in the division and should be looking to qualify for Foot Locker Nationals once again.
Colorado (CO)
Colorado MileSplit Homepage (ColoradoTrackXC.com)
Perhaps no other state in the country represents the promise of the 2008 cross country season better than Colorado. Last season Colorado qualified nearly half of the Foot Locker Midwest squad, placing four individuals on the team. With three of those individuals coming back, and another two or three with potential to make the squad, Colorado is looking strong heading into this fall.
Evan Appel (Sr., Dakota Ridge) and Bobby Nicolls (Sr., Regis) are two of those Foot Locker experienced athletes, and once again they will face each other come state time in the boys 5A competition. Along with Appel and Nicolls, Wheat Ridge H.S. athletes Dart Schwarderer and Scott Fauble look to put their stamp on the season and guide their squad in defending their state title. Schwarderer and Fauble finished right behind Nicolls last season, so expect another major push from that duo.
In the team race Wheat Ridge looks to defend their state title from 2007, while squads like Regis H.S. look to upend the squad. Last year Wheat Ridge was unbeatable, however, this season they only return three, albeit their top three. Regis returns four, including Nicolls, and should pose a strong challenge. A half dozen other teams could pull off the victory as well, that is how wide open the 5A title race will be.
The best match-up in the 4A race takes place between last year's second and third place finishers Wes Rickman (Sr., Falcon) and Joseph Manilafasha (Sr., Denver North). The duo finished well behind last year's state champ and Foot Locker all-American Kevin Williams (D'Evelyn). With Williams moving on to the University of Oklahoma, the time is now for Rickman and Manilafasha. The battle these two should wage will be entertaining for certain.
The biggest story in 2007 at the Colorado state meet though wasn't on the boys side, but rather the girls 5A team race. All season long Fort Collins had been the favorite to win the state title, but at the very end Dakota Ridge flexed their muscle and powered home a strong victory over Fort Collins 28-87. This season these two squads should battle once again, as Dakota Ridge returns five of their top seven and Fort Collins returns six of their top seven.
In 4A competition, last year's defending state champion Greeley West heads into the season as the favorite once again. Led by their top two runners, Erica Hinchcliffe and Ashelee Smalley, Greeley West is looking strong. Kaitlin Hanenburg (Jr., Classical Academy) looks to repeat in 3A. Last season she won the state 3A race by nearly a minute, while guiding her team to the state title. This year should see her do much the same.
Connecticut (CT)
Connecticut MileSplit Homepage
The seniors dominated the boys state meet last year in Connecticut. At the state open race, which includes champions from all six divisions, 18 of the top 21 finishers were seniors. With so few returnees in that top tier coming back, the 2008 Connecticut cross country season should have a feel of unpredictability that may cause some exciting results.
Last year's state champion and NTN qualifier, Danbury H.S., lose a good amount of their top seven talent from '07. However, the squad returns three and has a wealth of depth behind them that should fill 4-7. Led by top individual returnee Tucker Schaefer and 9:40 3200m runner Joey Bubniak, Danbury is looking to take home the team title once again.
They'll have challengers though, as Adam Trofa (Jr., Amity) leads an Amity team that returns five from their sixth place squad last year. Shelton should also be strong after placing fifth in '07 and returning their 2-5 runners. Individually, Michael Levere (Sr., Joel Barlow) should challenge for victory as well after a strong spring, which saw him place fourth in the state 1600m run.
On the girls side the biggest question mark is wether defending 1600m and 3200m champion Anna Shields (Sr., Lewis Mills) can repeat the same success she had on the track over the hilly courses of cross country. Last season Shields finished 19th overall in the state open race. If she can stay healthy and find her rythm over the courses of Connecticut this fall, expect to see her leading the way often.
The team race is wide open. Nearly every top squad loses their front runner, meaning the team race will be quite a battle this fall. Defending state champions Glastonbury lose three of their top five, while runner-up Guilford lose their second runner, and possess a strong 1-3, but they need a fifth runner desperately.
The strongest challenge of all may come from last year's fourth place finisher Wilton. The team loses their second runner but return six of seven, led by leader Cara Costich. Individually, Moira Kenny (Jr., Immaculate) and Caroline McDonough (Sr., Darien) are the top two returnees, after placing fourth and fifth last fall.
Delaware (DE)
Last season the Tatnall H.S. girls squad dominated the DII state meet. The squad cruised through the season in Delware, running undefeated and finishing their season with a strong state title win by scoring a mere 20 points. In 2008 the squad looks to do much the same, once again following the lead of defending state champion Juliett Bottorff, while returning six of their top seven.
However, Tatnall may be challenged, especially up top, by '07 runner-up Archmere H.S. The team returns three of their top four, led by last year's individual runner-up Lindsey Olivere. The squad boasts a powerful top four but needs a strong fifth if they hope to knock off Tatnall.
A similar match-up should take place in the girls DI race. Last season Padua beat Charter 32-57, as Padua placed their entire top seven in the top 15 finishing positions, with Meghan Smith winning the overall title. Well, runner-up Kayleigh Skinner returns for Charter, hoping to lead the team that returns six of their top seven to an upset over Padua.
On the boys side, Greg Morrin (Sr., St. Mark's) and Eric Line (Sr, Caesar Rodney) are the top two individual returnees in DI, both looking to win their first cross country title. While Morrin's team won the team title last season, Line's squad looks to be the toughest team to beat, as they return a strong top four.
In the boys DII competition Archmere and Tatnall look to rival one another for the state's top prize in similar fashion to the girls DII race. Archmere is the defending state champion, and while they lose three of their top five, they still boast an incredible top four. The top individual returnee is from the squad as well, Dillon Buckley, and he should vie for the individual crown. Meanwhile, Tatnall returns a top four that matches up very well with Archmere, meaning the state race could really come down to who has the strongest fifth man.
Florida (FL)
Florida MileSplit Homepage (FLRunners.com)
Last season was quite the year in Florida cross country, especially on the girls side. With some strong team competitions and a nice quartet of athletes making Foot Locker Nationals, Florida showed their strength in the south. This season will be much the same, as Foot Locker qualifiers Ashley Brasovan (Sr., Wellington), Brittany Koziara (Sr., Boone) and Kayla Hale (Sr., Holy Trinity) all look to make it back to San Diego once again.
Brasovan and Koziara will face each other at the state meet, similar to what they did last year. Brasovan, who's the defending Foot Locker National champion, is the favorite, but Koziara made a big leap last year and will be looking for a similar jump this season. In the team competition Bartram Trail H.S., the defending state champions, return their top four, but need a fifth runner to step up. Their biggest competition could be '07 runner-up Lourdes, who return their 2-5 runners and had a great track season.
The 3A competition should be equally as entertaining. Defending champion Satellite return their top four and six of seven, but they desperately need a fifth runner. However, the squad will be following in the footsteps of Ashley Shiver again, the defending state champion. The two chase teams last year were Chiles and Leon. Both schools will present strong challenges again this season, with Leon perhaps the strongest of the three teams, as they return six of seven and have the strongest fifth runner on paper.
In the smaller divisions plenty of talent will be showcasing great talent. Kayla Hale (Sr., Holy Trinity) looks to continue her domination of 1A. Last season Hale won the state meet by 1:17, helping her team place second behind champion Community School. This season those two squads look to battle again, with Community returning all seven and Holy Trinity returning six of seven.
On the boys side, Melbourne H.S. looks to repeat in the 4A state meet. The squad returns their top three from last year and are very strong through four. Led by defending state champion Brian Atkinson, Melbourne will enter the season as the pre-state meet favorite. However, the squad will receive a challenge from last year's third place squad Columbus, who return their entire top seven and had a solid track season to build off of towards their fall competition.
Leon H.S. could also make an arguement that they are the top team in the state this season. Led by defending 3A champion Matt Mizereck, the squad returns a very credible top two and four of their top seven from '07. Mizereck is the easy favorite to win the individual title, while sophomore Will Stanford is the number six returnee in the state.
Georgia (GA)
Georgia MileSplit Homepage (GATFXC.com)
Collins Hill H.S. dominated Georgia cross country in 2007. Not only did both the girls and boys team win their respective state championships, but they won them convincingly. While both squads look to repeat this season, the school may see some varying results. The girls team is the odds-on-favorite to win the girls 5A state title once again, while the boys lose their top two finishers and will have to deal with a strong Brookwood squad.
Last season saw Collins Hill impress in so many ways. The squad won the NTN Southeast Regional and performed well at the national meet. With so much experience behind them, Collins Hill will make another run at a NXN berth, as the squad returns their entire top five, including defending state champion Amanda Winslow.
The squads strongest competition will come from '07 third place finisher North Gwinnett, who return their entire top seven, led by sophomore Laura Serres and senior Nicole DiMercurio. What's perhaps most impressive about the North Gwinnett team is the fact that their 2-6 runners were only freshmen last season.
On the boys side, Collins Hill will be challenged this time around by Brookwood, a squad they beat 109-123 last year. Collins Hill lose their top two runners to graduation, leaving Brookwood open to potentially put their top three runners ahead of Collins Hill's first. Brookwood will follow their lead trio of Tyler Anyan, Doug Kalmbach and Michael Sexton, but will be searching for their 4-5 runners to step it up a bit.
Hawaii (HI)
Last year Hawaii state champion Bryce Jenkins led his Leilehua H.S. squad to the state title over Kamehamehia-Kapalama 37-99, dominating the competition. This year Jenkins will look to do the same, as he returns with a 30+ second margin over the next individual returnee and his team returns their top three finishers from '07, all of whom finished in the top 12.
Leilehua's strongest competition should come from Iolani, a squad which finished third in '07. This team returns five of their top seven and build upon a strong track season. Iolani will also be strong in the girls competition, where they placed third last year and return six.
However, the preseason favorite on the girls side will be Seabury Hall, who return their entire top five but have little depth. If any of their top five falter they will be very vunerable. Individually, Kristin Ali Heath (Jr., Mililani) returns as the top athlete, while Haley Abing (Sr., La Pietra) should challenge for the victory as well.
Idaho (ID)
In 2007 Idaho showed a kind of depth that hadn't been seen in the state in a while, where teams had impressive depth and there were some great frontrunners as well. While last year was impressive, this year could be even more impressive as many of the top teams and individuals returns.
On the boys 5A side, defending state champion Eric Fitzpatrick is back to try and guide his team to a state championship. In '07 Boise lost to Twin Falls by the closest of margins, 76-79, and will look to overtake the squad this season. Boise not only returns Fitzpatrick, but also returns their next six, including Greg Montgomery and Max Hardy. Twin Falls will still be strong, returning five of their top seven.
In the 4A competition, defending state champions Preston H.S. return six of their top seven, including their talented duo of Rusty Johnson and Dacoda Elison. The Preston team will also be in contention for a title on the girls side. Frontrunner Kaylee Campbell will guide the squad, one that returns five of their top seven. However, defending 4A girls champions Bishop Kelly returns six of their top seven, including possible state champion Codi Gifford.
In the girls 5A race, '07 champions Boise H.S. return three of their top four, but won't head into the season as the favorites, as that title will be reserved for '07 runner-up Eagle H.S. Eagle returns their entire top seven and will be looking to best Boise and the rest of the field, proving that they are tops in 2008.
Individually, Nicole Nielsen (Sr., Borah) returns after making Foot Locker Nationals last season, while defending state champion Kinsey Gomez (Couer d'Alene) returns as well. This duo, plus Amanda Ward (So., Twin Falls), create a potential top three that all have Foot Locker National level talent.
Illinois (IL)
Illinois MileSplit Homepage (ILRunners.com)
For the first time in quite a while, the team race in the Illinois 3A boys competition is wide open. The past few years have seen York dominate, while last year Neuqua Valley pushed their talents toward winning state and NTN titles. This year both York and Neuqua Valley will be looked upon as potential state championship squads, while Naperville North is also a solid contender.
On paper Naperville North should dominate the competition. With senior front runner, and 9:10 3200m runner, Kyle Gibson leading the way, Naperville North hosts a top five that could all break 9:45 for 3200m. However, North has been in this role before and not finished on top. Little depth behind their top five could hurt this squad in the long run, but for now they have the talent to take them all the way.
York and Neuqua Valley are both strong and have talent from top to bottom. While both squads lose their number one runners to graduation, they return experienced front running talent that should finish top ten at state. Neuqua Valley will follow senior Danny Pawola and junior Aaron Beattie, who have the talent to finish top five, while York follows senior Steve Sulkin.
Between Naperville North's Gibson, Neuqua Valley's Pawola, York's Sulkin, and a handful of other notable athletes, the individual title is as wide open as it's been in years. In the 3200m final at the state meet, Sulkin, Gibson and Pawola placed in that exact order, all finishing between 9:12-13. Each is a strength runner and each has the mental toughness it takes to win in a strong field.
The girls side isn't as wide open. Defending champion Geneva returns their entire top seven. In 2007 the squad upset the field with a top seven that included six freshmen and a sophomore. With so much talent coming back, including the top individual returnee Kelly Whitley, Geneva looks to take home the title once again.
They will receive competition however, with Naperville North, Hinsdale Central and a half dozen other teams in the mix. Naperville north brings back five of seven, but need a front runner to score some low points up top. '06 state champion Hinsdale Central return six of seven, led by Elaine Kuckertz, but need their 4-5 runners to step it up a bit if they hope to win.
Individually, nearly a dozen seperate athletes could win the state title. Experienced veterans Lizzy Hynes (Sr., St. Charles East), Lindsay Flanagan (Sr., Lake Park) and Heather Olson (Sr., Warren) are all leaders and will be in the lead group for much of the race, while young athletes such as Whitley and Stephanie Strasser (Jr., St. Charles North) look to surprise a bit and win their first state title. Strasser was the only athlete to earn all-state status in the 1600m and 3200m at state and could surprise.
Indiana (IN)
Mike Fout was the star of the show last fall in Indiana. Fout broke numerous course records, won the state title with ease and went on to win Foot Locker Nationals. With Fout now moving on to Florida State, a new champion will be crowned in the Hoosier state.
Leading the chase for the individual crown is sophomore James Martin (Fort Wayne Carroll) and senior Drew Shields (Fishers). Martin, who placed second last year at state as a mere freshman, will be playing catch-up throughout the early part of the fall as he missed much of the track season with injury.
Shields on the other hand will hope to ride the wave of momentum he gained throughout the track season. Shields took home titles at 800m and 1600m in the state meet, then ran 4:09.64 for the mile at the Midwest Distance Gala. He proved time and again this spring that he'll be up front fall.
In the team race Carmel H.S. enters the season as the state favorite. With '07 state champion Fishers and runner-up LaPorte losing much of their top seven to graduation, Carmel, who returns six of their top seven, are now the team to watch.
Experienced seniors Logan Rosenberg and Daniel Kinn lead the way for Carmel, the most successful team in Indiana history. With Carmel owning ten state team titles, the last coming in 1996, the time is now for this squad to prove that they can put themselves back on top.
On the girls side new champions may be crownd as well. In 2007 Culver Academies Alex Banfich and Westfield H.S. won state titles. With Banfich moving on to Princeton and Westfield losing two of their top five, the state may see some interesting results in 2008.
Despite Westfield losing two key scorers, including senior leader Maggie Bingham, the squad looks to continue their state championship streak and Nike Team Nationals streak, with senior Kaitlyn Love and Waverly Neer leading the charge. Both Love and Neer have the potential to be top five finishers.
However, Westfield won't be without challengers. Runner-up Lake Central gave Westfield all they could handle numerous times last fall and returns their top four this season. '07 fourth place team Carmel also returns some talent, bringing back their entire top five, running as the strongest pack in the state.
The individual race is even more wide open. Megan Ranegar (Sr., Valparaiso) and Brianna Johnson (So., FW Carroll) are the top two returnees after taking second and fifth at last year's state meet. Both athletes will look for their first state titles. Also in the mix is experienced veteran Valerie Burns (Penn), who's had injury problems, but should be back with something to prove this fall.
Iowa (IA)
Last year Dowling Catholic H.S. and Pleasant Valley H.S. dominated their respective state meet competitions. Dowling Catholic unleashed a crop of young all-stars, easily winning the girls state 4A championship and eventually making Nike Team Nationals. Meanwhile, Pleasant Valley used a stronghold of talent up front, including state champion Devin Allbaugh, besting the rest in the boys 4A competition.
While Pleasant Valley loses much of their talent, Dowling Catholic returns five of their top seven and looks to make another run at a state championship and a Nike Cross Nationals berth. Led by '07 state champion Katie Flood, '07 runner-up Ashlee Decker and sophomore Tanelle Berard, the squad is the hands down favorite heading into the season to win the state meet.
While Dowling Catholic remains strong, Iowa City High School, a team that placed third in '07, returns six of their top seven and could pose a challenge to Dowling Catholic. Individually, Shelby Houlihan (So., Sioux City East) attempts to break up the Flood-Decker combination after finishing third last season at state.
On the boys side the team competition is wide open. Pleasant Valley lost five of seven to graduation, as did runner-up Des Moines Roosevelt. Iowa City West, who placed third in '07, returns three of seven, while fourth place finisher Waukee returns four of seven. With no squad returning a good wealth of talent, a lot of which team ends up number one comes down to who has the best summer and can stay healthy during the season.
Individually, Tyler Rich (Sr., Waukee) and Lewi Manirumua (Sr., Cedar Rapids Washington) are the top two returnees. Last season Rich placed a strong third, while Manirumua placed sixth. This spring Rich placed fourth in the 3200m at the state meet, the best non-senior, and looks to head into the season as the favorite.
A tandem of sophomores in 3A could steal much of the attention this season. Ryan McMahon (So., Algona) and Evan Selson (So., Winterset) not only are two of the top returnees from last fall, but they also made big waves this spring, running nearly identical times at the state meet in the 3200m, as Selson beat McMahon 9:34.75-9:34.96. If these two continue to improve the way they did during their freshman years they may finish as the best harriers in the state come November.
Kansas (KS)
Few teams scored lower than 28 points at their state meet in 2007. 28 points is exactly what Shawnee Mission Northwest scored in the Kansas State Meet last year, proving their incredible dominance over the state yet again on the boys side. This season Shawnee Mission Northwest will be out to prove that they are even better this time around.
With the quartet of sophomores Sterling Spencer and Aaron Thornburg, junior Keaton Jones and senior Daniel Munro leading the way, the squad is set up to do extremely well. Spencer is the top returnee after placing second last year at state, while Jones, Munro and Thornburg all finished in the top 17, making them some of the top returnees in the state.
While SM Northwest will be the favorites, Derby H.S. is another team to watch. Front running seniors Jake Wike and Neil Metler lead the way, coming back as two of the top returnees after placing fourth and fifth in the state last season. Wike had a great spring as well, winning the state 3200m championship and should provide a strong challenge to Spencer for the individual title.
On the girls side Blue Valley Northwest and Manhattan should both prove throughout the season that they're the top two teams in the state. Last year Blue Valley NW beat Manhattan by only two points, 83-85, winning the state title. However, Blue Valley NW loses their number one runner and state champion Laura Roxbury, but returns their next six.
Manhattan on the other hand returns six of seven as well, led by Brooke Grieger and state 3200m champion Marley Crusch. The squad dominates up front, but will need a strong number five if they hope to hold off Blue Valley NW.
Other strong challenges will come from Lisa Imgrund (Jr., Shawnee Mission NW) and Olathe East H.S. Imgrund is the state's top returnee in cross and placed a solid third in the 1600m run at the state track meet. Meanwhile, Olathe East returns their entire top seven from their third place squad of '07. If they can run a strong top five throughout the season, they could challenge Blue Valley NW and Manhattan for the title.
Kentucky (KY)
Kentucky MileSplit Website (KYTrackXC.com)
Last fall Assumption H.S. in Kentucky dominated their competition in the 3A state meet, besting runner-up Sacred Heart 55-105. This season both squads will face off again for the team title, as Assumption brings back their top four and six of the top seven, while Sacred Heart brings back their entire top seven. Runner for runner, these two teams stack up closely.
Individually, Sacred Heart's Emma Brink returns as the defending state champion. The sophomore won the state title last year by 19 seconds and had a spring that capped with a state 3200m title. Brink has proven time and again that she's the best distance runner in the state and 2008 should see much of the same.
Another top female harrier to keep an eye on in Kaitlin Snapp (Fr., Danville). As an eighth grader Snapp won the state 1A cross country individual title and the 1600m and 3200m races at the state track meet. Her success in '07 could mean even more outstanding performances in '08.
In the boys competition, Davies County, a squad that placed fourth in the 3A championships last fall, looks to prove they are the top team this time around. With the top three teams losing many key contributors, Davies County seems to have the early edge by returning their entire top seven. Led by Landon Taylor and Wes Russelburg, the team has strong leaders to score some low points.
Individually, Justin House (So., Apollo) and Jackson Carnes (Jr., St. Xavier) look to battle it out for the individual title. Last season as a freshman House finished fourth overall and returns this season to the cross country courses as the state's top returnee. However, Carnes had one outstanding spring, which saw the incoming junior win the state 3200m title. The battle for the individual title may be the fiercest battle of them all.
Louisiana (LA)
Louisiana MileSplit Website (LouisianaRunning.com)
Coming Soon.
Maine (ME)
Maine MileSplit Website (MaineTrackXC.com)
It's never happened in Maine state history, but 2008 could be the year that Cape Elizabeth earns top individual honors at the state meet on both the boys and girls side. Matt Rand (Sr., Cape Elizabeth) and Marita Stressenger (Sr., Cape Elizabeth) are the top returnees on their respective side of the spectrum. Both had solid track seasons, especially Stressenger, who led her team to a first place finish in the 4x8 and finished second in the 1600m run.
Behind both Rand and Stressenger are Greely's James LePage and Mt. Blue's Silver Hunt. LePage leads a dominant Greely squad that won the state title in 2007. LePage leads back three of the squad's top four, but need a solid fifth runner to emerge. Meanwhile, Hunt comes back as the number two returnee from 2007, and should provide a strong challenge to Stressenger.
Cape Elizabeth has a shot to win the girls team title as well. With Stressenger scoring a low points up top, the squad is looking very strong as they return five of their top seven. Many of the other top teams lose top runners, thus leaving the field wide open and certainly exciting as the season nears.
Maryland (MD)
Maryland MileSplit Website (MDRunners.com)
The biggest addition to the national cross country landscape this fall will be the addition of Maryland's Solomon Haile (Sr., Sherwood). Haile, the Ethiopian immigrant, didn't run cross country last fall, but showed his talents all track season, winning the Nike Indoor National and Nike Outdoor National 5k races. Haile will compete in the 4A competition and should dominate all season from start to finish.
His closest challenger should be Andrew Palmer (Jr., Walt Whitman), who is the top returnee after a strong sophomore year, which saw him win the state title in cross country. Also in the mix to earn the state's top cross country honors is Graham Bazell (Sr., Atholton). Bazell will compete 3A and should be marked as the favorite after his incredible spring. Bazell won the state title in the 3200m run, then came back during the post-season to run 9:04.55 for two-miles at the Midwest Distance Gala.
The top boys teams should be no surprise. In 4A, 2007 runner-up Northwest returns their entire top seven, including top five favorite Chris Miller. The 3A competition should be more intense, as defending state champion Bethesda returns five of seven, as does runner-up Wilde Lake. Last season Bethesda beat Wilde Lake 89-90 at state, which could set up a great rematch this time around. Bel Air will also play a strong role after placing fourth last season. Led by Brandon Raposko, the squad looks to upset the two favorites.
The top match-up on the girls side could be the individual battle between Eleanor Roosevelt's Teshika Rivers and Northwest's Britt Eckerstrom. Rivers earned the state title last fall with a furious kick to the finish, beating Eckerstrom by less than a second. With similar results in the 4A state 3200m this spring, which saw Rivers just beat Eckerstrom, these two will face each other again, both hoping to go out on top with a title.
In the team competition C. Milton Wright, last year's 4A state champions, return five of seven, while perennial powerhouse Eleanor Roosevelt returns four of seven. These two programs should remain strong through 2008.
In 3A, defending state champions Howard H.S. hopes to show that they're the best team in the state regardless of class. With five of seven returning, including some great depth, this squad is looking strong and should be ready to go come September. The most impressive aspect of this team is their top three, all of whom finished in the top ten last fall, led by Elyse Borisko.
Massachusetts (MA)
Massachusetts MileSplit Website
Emily Jones (Sr., Bromfield) took her talents to another level this spring, running strong against the nation's best in the two mile at Nike Outdoor Nationals. While Jones didn't win the race, she showed that she will be a force to reckon with over hill-n-dale this fall, eyeing a Foot Locker National championship.
Following closesly behind Jones is Jenna Davidner (Jr., Oliver Ames), who ran on the heels of Jones and graduated senior Keely Maguire last fall. Davidner has the chance to qualify for Foot Locker Nationals as well this fall. Both Jones and Davidner will compete in DII and should put on quite a show.
In DI competition, Lincoln-Sudbury returns a wealth of talent from their 2007 championship squad. This powerhouse team has been a dominant force for a while now and should repeat again in '08. However, Newton South H.S. had a fantastic spring and could propel themselves into the top spot, especially if trackster Bridget Dahlberg decides to join the squad. Dahlberg plays on the school's soccer team during the fall, but has obviously shown she could be one of the best in the country if she ever chose to run cross country. In the mean time, Kelsey Karys will guide Newton South.
Last season Brookline H.S. was the dominant boys team in the state. The squad dominated all-comes and showed that they were one of the best in the country. This season the squad has a lot more to prove, returning only two of their top six, but does return '07 #2 runner David Wilson. Wilson will be the top returnee as the season kicks off later this month, but he will have challengers.
Two of his main rivals are Philip Galebach (Sr., Medford) and Ethan Penney (Sr., Haverhill), both runners that finished in the top eight last season. With only five of the top 20 finishers in DI returning this season, a few newcomers could sneak into the top ten as well.
Another two teams that will challenge for the team titles are Newton South and Nashoba. Newton South placed fourth last year and return their entire top seven, not to mention that each returnee is a senior. You can bet that this team wants to go out on top. Nashoba placed third last fall, but returns four of seven, including the best 1-2 in the state of Brendon Aylaian and Coby Horowitz.
Michigan (MI)
Last year saw some incredible depth in the boys teams in Michigan. In 2008 the story will be much different, as younger squads now have a chance to rise to the top, as many of the top runners from '07 graduated. In DI, only two of the top 22 athletes return from last year's state meet, led by Ben Miller (De La Salle) and Michael Murray (Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice). Both Miller and Murray had solid track seasons and will look to challenge each other all fall.
In the team race, defending champion Pinckney returns five of seven, as does runner-up Saline. These two teams have been consistent powerhouse squads in DI for years and this year the two squads could finish 1-2 yet again. Unlike most years, depth seems to be a real issue for most squads. Many teams return a solid 1-2 combination up front, but after that the talent drops.
A similar situation has arisen on the boys DII side of things. Perennial powerhouse Dexter loses three of six from their state runner-up squad, but bring back senior Jason Bishop, who looks to be the next great Dexter runner. The favorite in the team race seems to be '07 third place squad Linden H.S., who return six of their top seven and follow the lead of top three favorite Brad Ferrara.
On the girls side, Shannon Osika (So., Waterford Mott) looks to repeat as state champion in the DI championship. Osika followed up her successful freshman cross country season with a victory in the 3200m run and second in the 1600m run at state. However, she was not without challengers. Fellow sophomore Gabrielle Anzalone (Grand Blanc) should contend with Osika, especially after losing by less than a second in the state meet 3200m.
Many teams lose their top runners in DI this year, but both Grand Haven and Rochester Adams returns five of seven, including their top athletes. Grand Haven placed second last year behind the talents of Becca Addison. Addison took to the track this spring, ranking as one of the top 800/1600 runners in the country. Meanwhile, Rochester Adams has Cally Macumber, who will be looking for a potential top five finish.
In DII competition, defending champion Gaylord loses individual state champion Sload Secord, but return five of seven, which put them right in the mix for another team title. Runner-up Grand Rapids Forest Hills Eastern and third-place Grand Rapids Christian both return six of their top seven and should vie for a title with Gaylord. Individually, Foot Locker finalist Meggan Freeland (Sr., Parma Western) enters the season as the favorite, while Maddi Reeves (Sr., East Lansing) should challenge for the title as well.
Minnesota (MN)
Last fall Laura Hughes (Jr., Mankato) and Burnsville dominated the AA state championship race. Hughes proved that she was the best in Minnesota, besting the field rather easily, while Burnsville cruised to a 16 point win. This year Hughes returns as the favorite, but Burnsville will have their hands full.
The defending state champions returns five of their top seven, but need a strong fifth runner to rise up and close out their scoring. The team lacks an obvious front runner, instead using a strong 1-5 split. Last year that split was a mere 7.6 seconds at state, but losing one of their top five drops that split quite significantly.
Running on the heels of Burnsville will be '07 third place team Minnetonka and fourth place squad Prior Lake. Minnetonka follows the lead of Emily Meese, as the team returns six of seven, while Prior Lake returns their entire top seven, led by the front running sister act of Meghan Heuer and Sarah Heuer.
Another team to watch is Eden Prairie. The squad placed second last season, and returns their top top three. Their top runner is senior Cassy Opitz, who returns as one of the favorites to unseat Hughes up top and completed a strong track season by winning the 3200m state title. Meanwhile, Emma Bates (Jr., Elk River) looks to make a strong challenge to win the individual state title after placing third last season.
The boys side is a bit more wide open when it comes to top individuals and teams. Many of the top runners in the state graduated, leaving a new class of runners to make names for themselves. Up top Mahad Hassan (Sr., Willmar) is the top returnee from last fall and showed speed this spring by placing well throughout the season in the 1600m and 3200m events.
Hassan will be followed closely by Robel Kebede (Sr., Minneapolis South) and Drew Paradis (Sr., Alexandria), who are the next two returnees. Both athletes have strength and speed, the combination it seems to take to be tops in Minnesota each season.
The team race is certainly up in the air. Defending champion Wayzata looks to repeat, as the squad returns five of their top seven. Most of the other top teams from 2007 graduate a fair share of their top runners, including most teams' top scorer. This should create exceptional excitement as the season progresses.
Mississippi (MS)
Mississippi MileSplit Website (MSTrackXC.com)
Pre-Season CC Team and Individual Rankings
Tupelo H.S. is the dominating force in Mississippi. This cannot be debated, disputed or debunked. While the schools boys and girls teams have dominated over the past few years, this year is lining up to be the most dominant yet.
On the boys side Max Holman and Gordon Lee lead the state's strongest trio up top, as this team returns a handful of very young runners to compliment their front runners. On the girls side, Tupelo returns a stack of talent, as the squad could earn a perfect score at the 4A state race. Front running sophomores Katherine Steinman and Catherine Holman lead the charge.
Other top contenders on the boys side are Pearl H.S. and JZ George H.S., the top ranked pre-season squads in 4A and 2A. Pearl is led by Morris Kersh, who looks to win the individual crown in his division, leading a handful of talented sophomores behind him. JZ George meanwhile will use a strong top four of talent to run through their respective field.
Perhaps the best race of the entire year will take place in the girls 3A state race. Multi-time Foot Locker finalist Cory McGee (Jr., Christian Pass) takes on the next best female runner in the state in Katlyn Will (Sr., Corinth), as these two could wage quite a battle. Each year these two athletes seem to great stronger and stronger and this year could see both athletes make the trip to San Diego and Foot Locker Nationals come December.
Missouri (MO)
Missouri MileSplit Website (MoRunners.com)
Pre-Season CC Team and Individual Rankings
The biggest surprise early on this season in Missouri is the addition of Foot Locker all-American Emily Sisson (Jr., Parkway Central). For the past two seasons Sisson has made quite a name for herself nationally, placing third at Foot Locker Nationals as a freshman and competing very well in most other national competitions. With her father changing jobs, Sisson moves eastward to Missouri.
Sisson's move should help Parkway Central's other star runner Diane Robinson. The junior has been one of Missouri's best for some time and having a training partner of such caliber could help her take that next step in her running.
The top girls teams this year seems to be Jefferson City and Lee's Summit in Division 4, while West Plains looks to continue their dominance over Division 3. West Plains H.S. follows the lead of Darcy Mitchell, who will look to win the division state race.
The boys side should see similar results when it comes to West Plains. Yet again, this squad is the top boys team in the state, returning a slew of athletes that build a squad that is tough to beat from top to bottom. West Plains will follow the senior leadership of pre-season state individual favorite Phillip Palomino.
Montana (MT)
Last fall Bozeman H.S. girls squad nearly qualified for Nike Team Nationals. The team placed third behind the front running ablities of AA state champion Heidi Turner and a strong pack right behind. With '07 in their memories, Bozeman looks to repeat as AA championships this year and try once again to earn a trip to Portland to take part in Nike Cross Nationals. The squad returns five of their top seven, while Turner continued her up top domination of the state with a win in the 3200m run.
However, Turner could be challenged this year. During the spring Alexa Aragon (Jr., Billings Senior) won the state 800m and 1600m events, while placing second behind Turner in the 3200m run. While Aragon placed well behind Turner last year at state, she is showing the ability to make a leap to Turner's level.
Meanwhile, the AA boys race seems to be wide open. Last year's state champion Missoula Hellgate graduated most of their top seven, however they return number two returnee Jay Barlow. The second and third place squads from '07 lost four of their top seven as well, as perennial powerhouse squads of Flathead and Bozeman look to reload.
Individually, Jordan Schlender (Sr., Bozeman) is the top returnee after placing seventh in 2007. Perhaps the most exciting individual to watch this fall is sophomore Ethan Shrader (Butte), who competed extremely well in the 1600m and 3200m events during state track.
In A boys, defending state champion Browning returns three of their top runners, while runner-up Hamilton returns five, led by Jake Jessop. The top individual to watch is Drew Coco (Sr., Whitefish), who could be the best male distance runner in the state, especially after finishing second in the 1600m run and second in the 3200m run.
Nebraska (NE)
At the beginning of every school year things seem uncertain until the first gun goes off and the top athletes and teams finish their first race. Perhaps the biggest question mark heading into the Nebraska cross country season is, how well will the top girls react to not having Emily Sisson around?
The Millard North starlet moved to Missouri, leaving a hole open for someone to take as the state's top distance runner. For her first two seasons Sisson dominated the state, winning time and again and earning her spot among the nation's elite. This season seems to be the time for Sisson's old teammate at Omaha Marian, Kelli Budd, the take grasp of the state.
Budd's been runner-up too many times to count, and with her senior year now upon her, you can bet that she'll want to go out on top. Budd leads a strong Omaha Marian squad as well, one that won the state title in 2007 and returns their top three runners. However, their lack of depth will leave them with '07 runner-up Millard North and third placer Millard West nipping at their heals. Both squads return five of their top seven and seem to have better depth than Marian.
In the B division, Lincoln Pius X looks to prove that they are the top girls team in the state regardless of division. Last year the squad dominated their state meet, while this year the squad returns their entire top five, including pre-state favorite Katherine Lunge. However, she'll be challenged by Sidney H.S. sophomore Kaitlyn Wills.
On the boys side things will look a bit different compared to last year. With many of the top teams losing their top runners to graduation, a new class of runners now takes over. Leading the way is Norfolk H.S., who placed fourth last year in the A division and return their entire top seven. The team has a potent top four, led by senior twins Joseph Metcalf and Jonathan Metcalf.
While the Metcalf brothers look to each finish in the top five, the top two favorites individually are David Prater (Sr., Kearney) and Mitch Hunt (Sr., Fremont). Prater placed fifth at last year's state cross country meet and is the top returnee this season. However, Hunt may actually be the pre-season individual favorite after a monster track season, which saw the senior win the 3200m run and place second in the 1600m run.
Another team that may earn top state honors is Ogalla H.S. Last year the squad placed third in the boys B division race, but return most of their top seven, including front runners Luke Schmidt and sophomore Seth Tophoj. This squad may challenge for overall state bragging rights come late-October.
Nevada (NV)
Last year Galena H.S. dominated the Nevada State Cross Country Championships. Led by state champion Bryan Tibaduiza and a quintet of seniors, the squad simply destroyed the rest of the state, showing they were not only the best in the state, but also one of the best squads in the nation. This year Galena will not be the state favorite. While Tibaduiza returns to defend his state title, it seems a new state team champion will be crowned.
Leading the list of potential state champs is Carson H.S. , the squad that placed second in 2007 and returns their top three runners and five of their top seven. While on paper Carson is equal to that of '07 third place squad Reno, who returns their entire top seven, Carson shows better depth in their 4-5 positions. Carson also follows junior Richard Shroy, who will be looking to challenge Tibaduiza come state.
Perhaps the best state race out west last fall came in the Nevada girls championship. Carson won the race, but just barely, as the squad scored 63 points, while Reno scored 67 to earn runner-up honors and South Tahoe scored 69 points for third. The best story line leading into the season is that each squad returns five of their top seven and the top three returning individuals are the leaders of the respective squads.
Last year's state champion Kelsey Smith is South Tahoe's leader, while Yvonne Hollett, the number two returnee is Carson's. Reno's Demerey Kirsch is the number three returnee. Smith should dominate after winning the state meet last year by nearly a minute, but Carson seems to have the advantage with a bit more depth in their 4-5 runners.
One of the most overlooked teams on the girls side could be Coronado H.S. Last year the school placed fourth overall, and while the three teams that beat them return considerable talent, Coronado returns their entire top seven. While they won't enter the season as the favorite, keep an eye on this squad come season's end.
New Hampshire (NH)
New Hampshire MileSplit Website
The dominating forces of Con-Val H.S. and Hanover H.S. will be much less this year after the squad's were hit by graduation to some of their top runners. In 2007 Con-Val showed time and again that they were the best boys squad in the state, while Hanover proved that they were the top girls team in the state and one of the best in the country, finishing fourth at Nike Team Nationals.
This season both squads will have a little tougher of a time, as Con-Val returns four of their top seven and Hanover returns six of their top seven. However, Con-Val graduated state champion Alex McGrath and Hanover graduated their own state champion Georgia Griffin. The loss of their top runners may hurt them, especially Hanover, who'll have to compete with '07 runner-up Oyster Bay, a team that returns their entire top seven.
Meanwhile, Hanover H.S., who finished second to Con-Val last fall, returns their top five and six of seven. The squad doesn't have a proven front runner that can earn a top five finish, rather they run in a pack and produced a 44 second split last fall at state. Behind the lead of Marc Whittington, the Hanover boys look to do what the Hanover girls accomplished last fall.
Individually, Con-Val looks to have the most potent top two in the state in the I division, as Ethan McBrien and Dylan Fisher return as two of the top returnees. Hanover will be led by '07 runner-up Heidi Caldwell, but will be challenged by St. Thomas Aquinas' Kaitlyn D'Orazio and Rachel Schneider. D'Orazio was third last fall and won the state 800m dash this spring, while Schneider placed second to Griffin in the state 1600m run.
The L division should be equally as competitive this year, especially with some young talent returning. On the boys side Cory Sinotte (Sr., Manchester Central) and Francis Hernandez (Jr., Bishop Guertin) face off. Sinotte won the boys championship last fall, but Hernandez had a big spring, including a state championship in the 3200m run. Nashua South and Pinkerton look strong on the boys side, while Keene is looking strong on the girls.
New Jersey (NJ)
New Jersey MileSplit Website (NJRunners.com)
Last year New Jersey showed their incredible strength in the distances by qualifying numerous athletes to Foot Locker Nationals and throwing down some great times during track as well. Despite a few graduating frontrunners, New Jersey could be even better in 2008.
Leading the way on the boy's side is a trio of individuals, all of whom have a shot of qualifying for Foot Locker Nationals and run top times during the track season in their best events. The trio of note combines the talent of Doug Smith (Sr., Gill-St. Bernard's), Brett Johnson (Sr., Ocean City) and Robby Andrews (Sr., Manalapan). Smith has had a tough go of things over the past few falls, not being able to close out his season on a high note due to injury or illness.
Meanwhile, Johnson and Andrews had outstanding track seasons. Both athletes ranked in the U.S. top ten at different times in the mile and both return to the cross country course with some newfound national level confidence that could pay off in November.
Teamwise, boys squads Don Bosco and Haddonfield return much talent from their first and third place squads of '07. Don Bosco is a consistent force up top and returns four of their top seven, led by Robert Molke. Haddonfield is a very young squad, returning five of their top six from '07 and following the lead of juniors Jon Vitez and Colin Baker.
On the girls side of things, up top should be equally as exciting. The female trio of talent combines Melanie Thompson (Sr., Voorhees), Jillian Smith (Sr., Southern Regional) and Chelsea Ley (Jr., Kingsway). All three should be in the mix to qualify for Foot Locker Nationals, although Thompson may go the route of helping her team qualify for Nike Cross Nationals, as the defending champion Voorhees program return three of their top four and look to challenge for the NJ title once again.
'07 NJ Meet of Champion third place squad Ridge H.S. returns six of their top seven behind Dana Guglielino, while fourth place Immaculate Heart returns similar numbers, including front runner Sarah Pagano. Voorhees dominated the state meet last year, but should be challenged a bit more in 2008.
New Mexico
Los Alamos H.S. and Albuquerque Academy surprised the nation a bit last fall by placing second and third respectively at Nike Team Nationals. All season long these two squads battled each other week in and week out it seemed in New Mexico, staying under the radar due to much of their racing taking place at altitude.
Weekly battles seemed to ready these squads for nationals and as the 2008 season approaches, both these squads are looking strong and should make another rush at a top three finish at Nike Cross Nationals. Both Los Alamos and Albuquerque Academy lose their top runners in Allen Pittman and Ben Johnson, but they return a lot of talent, that reaches down to the lower levels as well in their program.
Academy will follow the lead of junior Pat Zacharias and senior Taylor Murray, while relying on a strong pack to really bolster their top five scores. Los Alamos on the other hand will follow Gareth Gilna and Kyle Pittman, while they seem to need a few younger runners to step up and fill rolls lost to graduation.
Last season also saw the dominance of Eldorado H.S. on the girls side. Despite the squad losing front runner and state champion Rachel Velarde to graduation, the team returns their next five, including potential state champion Allison Bedonie.
As well as Eldorado, Albuquerque Academy also should make a strong showing this season, returning their core of their top five. Clare Milne is the front runner of this squad and the team should give Eldorado a strong challenge come seasons end.
New York (NY)
New York MileSplit Website (ArmoryTrack.com)
Dominant. If there was one word to describe the New York success at Nike Team Nationals the past three years, dominant would be the word. Last year the state placed 1, 3, 5 at NTN, with Fayetteville-Manlius winning the team title, while Saratoga Springs and Burnt-Hills placed in the top five.
This fall Fayetteville-Manlius and Burnt-Hills should be two of the top squads, if not the top two, heading into NXN. F-M returns the majority of their top runners, including an amazing top five that is talented and battle tested. With one sophomore, three juniors and one senior in their projected top five, the term "dynasty" is something that could start circulating if the team wins yet another national championship. Following top runner Courtney Chapman and close #2 Hannah Luber, F-M is the odds-on-favorite to win NXN.
However, F-M will receive a challenge from in-state rival Burnt-Hills. While Burnt-Hills' 4-5 runners aren't as proven as Fayetteville-Manlius', their top three are as good as any in the country. Front runners Sam Roecker, Molly Pezzulo and Meaghan Gregory provide a powerful trio, all three being top 20 type athletes in the northeast.
Following a half-step behind is perennial powerhouse Saratoga Springs. The squad loses top runner Hannah Davidson, but returns a wealth of very young talent, including Cassie Goutos and Sydney King. Queensbury is another team to watch. Their trio of sophomores up front, led by Danielle Winslow, Brittany Winslow and Carly Wynn, could help guide the squad to a NXN berth.
Many of the top individuals are the leaders of great teams. Roecker, Chapman and Goutos are three of the best in the state over hill-n-dale, but the top runner heading into the season is Emily Lipari (Jr., Roslyn). The talented incoming junior finished sixth last fall at Foot Locker Nationals, while earning runner-up status in the NON mile this spring and 8th in the NON two-mile. Fellow Foot Locker finalist Shelby Greany (Sr., Suffern) rides into her senior cross season with one last chance to earn a top ten finish at Foot Locker Nationals. With a great track season behind her, including some big steeplechase victories, Greany is looking like a good bet to make another trip to San Diego.
While the girls side seems to steal the show, especially over the past few years, a few top boys teams will be making noise as well. Nike Team National qualifier Shenedehowa returns a strong top four from '07, with three of the four running 9:32 or faster on the track for 3200m. The fourth runner, Jamie Glover, showed a strong consistency last fall that should help him stay with teammates Dan Harris, Brian Trainor and Mike Danaher.
Fayetteville-Manlius should also put up some low point totals. The squad, while incredibly young, with a potential top seven with no seniors, follows the lead of 9:19/4:13 runner Alex Hartz. Hartz is one of the top individuals in the state and F-M has a history full of great cross country results.
Individually, Joe Whelan (Sr., Hamburg) and Demetri Goutos (Sr., Saratoga Springs) join Hartz as potential Foot Locker or NXN individual finalists. Whelan will start the season a bit overlooked despite running 9:15 for 3200m and 9:25 for the steeplechase this spring. He failed to finish his season last year due to breaking his foot. Goutos also encountered injuries, with a groin problem this spring, but returns as one of the top Foot Locker NE returnees and ran a solid indoor season.
North Carolina (NC)
North Carolina MileSplit Website (NCRunners.com)
The 2007 seemed to be the year of the male runners, as athletes like Ryan Hill stole the show and showed that North Carolina can produce top tier talent. This fall North Carolina hopes to keep that strength showing, but this time it could come on the girls side.
From top to bottom, teams across all divisions will be fighting it out to see who the best team in the state is. Last year Cardinal Gibbons showed that despite being in 2A, they could run with anyone. The squad loses their top runner, but return their next four and five of seven. With such talent returning the squad will be in the mix to win yet again.
Their strongest competition could come out of 3A, where TC Roberson looks to earn yet another state title. The '07 state champs return five of their top seven as well, including a defind trio of Laura Hoer, Marie Mauher, and Zoe Dubin leading the way. However, Meyers Park in 4A might have something to say, as the '07 runner-up squad returns five of seven, led by front running senior Allison Hoffman.
Individually, Adrianne Soo (Sr., Durham Academy) looks to prove she's tops in North Carolina once again. Despite facing independent schools all fall once again, she'll have a chance to earn a trip to Foot Locker Nationals come November and prove that she's the best in N.C. Kimberly Spano (Sr., North Mecklenburg) is the defending state champion in 4A and could make a run as the top runner in North Carolina as well.
On the boys side, Taylor Gilland (Sr., Chapel Hill) and Nick Graw (Jr., Enloe) resume their rivalry that made the boys 4A competition so exciting last fall. Time and again these two faced off, providing some close finishes. With both returning this fall, both Gilland and Graw should be the top ranked boys in the state.
Graw has another task at hand as well, as his '07 runner-up team looks to improve one spot more this season. With their top four returning, Enloe H.S. looks very strong and should make a push at defending state champion Broughton H.S. The state champs will have something to say though, returning five of their seven state runners, including their top four. The battle for a team trophy this year should be intense and could create quite a stir come late October, early November.
North Dakota (ND)
North Dakota MileSplit Website
The rising star of the spring in girls track and field was Laura Roesler (Jr., Fargo South). Roesler came on strong at the end of the season, winning four state titles in the North Dakota State T&F Championships, then lowering her 800m dash time significantly and earning a spot in the Olympic Trials, where she qualified for the semi-finals.
This fall Roesler looks to take one more step in her running, this time eyeing another state cross country title, but also helping her young and talented Fargo South H.S. squad to a state championship. While it will be a challenge, the squad does return #2 runner Tarin Lachowitzer to score even more low points with Roesler.
However, the squad will have to overcome the dominance of Bismarck. Last fall Bismarck barely outdid Fargo South, winning the state championship by a 57-60 margin. With seven of seven returning and working on closing their 23 second 1-5 split from last fall, the Bismarck team looks to defend their championship. Led by Sarah Feeney and Brooklyn Beehler, the team is looking stronger than ever and should even be eyeing a berth to Nike Cross Nationals.
While the Bismarck H.S. girls team should dominate on their side, the Bismarck boys will be looking for similar results. Led by defending state champion, senior Joash Osoro, the squad returns five of their top seven, including Osoro's front running teammate Devin Huizenga. Willston, the squad that placed third last fall, returns five of their top seven as well and should give Bismarck a challenge. The team follows the lead of top five hopefuls Taylor Thompson and Mark Anderson.
Ohio (OH)
Ohio MileSplit Website (OHRunners.com)
Last fall Ohio showed that they were the best state individually on the girls side in the Midwest. With four Foot Locker National qualifiers, including two that finished in the top ten, Ohio stole the show. While front running all-Americans Claire Durkin and Emily Infeld have now moved on to college, the state is looking for fresh talent to fill their shoes.
The best competition on the girls side is the DI race between Brecksville-Broadview Heights and the rest of the teams. Last fall Brecksville-Broadview Heights dominated state competition, while this year they should be strong, as they return six of seven, including Aly Dosen and Molly Jacobson. However, the team should find a challenge from Hoover H.S. and Cincinnati Colerain awaiting them, as both squads return deep talent.
The top replacements for Durkin and Infeld should come from the lower divisions, as Stephanie Morgan (Sr., Barnesville) and Chelsea Oswald (Sr., Cuyahoga Falls) look to dominate and earn trips back to Foot Locker Nationals, where both competed last season. Morgan dominated the mile this past spring, earning numerous accolades in the event, while showing she hasn't lost a step and could vie for a top five finish at Foot Locker. Meanwhile, Oswald carried her momentum from San Diego through the spring and lowered her PR's significantly.
Perhaps the best head-to-head match up of the season comes between senior Donny Roys (Medina) and sophomore phenom Zach Wills (Mason). Last fall Roys led his Medina H.S. team to a state championship, while taking home gold as the individual champion as well. Meanwhile, Wills earned a top five finish at state as a freshman, only to back that up with a 3200m state title this spring. With Wills improvement and Roys veteran experience, the battle between these two at state could be one for the ages.
In the team competition, defending state champion Medina will look to repeat, but Centerville will provide a strong challenge. Medina returns four of their top seven, led by a mix of senior and sophomore talent. Centerville, a team that placed second in '07, return four of their top seven as well, but have a little more depth due to the 100+ athletes they have on their squad to develop. Shawn Roberts leads the way for the squad, looking to finish in the top three come state time, giving his squad a very low point up top.
Oklahoma (OK)
Coming Monday.
Oregon (OR)
Oregon MileSplit Website (ORRunners.com)
Last year was a great year in Oregon cross country. With some strong teams, and a few Foot Locker worthy individuals, the talented the state showed was some of the best in the country. With a few seniors moving on from the 07-08 school year, the time is now for new talent to emerge.
However, two of the best individuals return to continue to make their mark. 4A athletes Elliot Jantzer (Sr., Phoenix) and Taylor Wallace (Sr., Henley) both look to make runs at qualifying for nationals, while repeating as state champions. Wallace indeed qualified for Foot Locker Nationals last fall, while Jantzer seems to have taken the right step in moving towards becoming a Foot Locker West qualifier.
In the team race, Central Catholic looks to dominate once again in the 6A boys competition. The squad has dominated for the past few years and with four of their seven returning from last year's state squad, this team is in great position to lead again. Senior Samot Turina and junior Musa Ahmed lead the squad. 800m star Elijah Greer (Sr., Lake Oswego) looks to take his talents from the track and make a run at a state title in cross this fall.
Elsewhere, 5A third placer in '07 Ashland brings back six of seven. While the team loses front runner Matt Miner, they still have Wilder Schaaf to follow. Ashland has the depth to possibly make a challenge as the top team in the state. Jordan Ringe (Sr., Hermiston), who placed third individually in '07, is the top returnee.
On the girls side of things, both 6A first and second place teams return five of their top seven and look to win the state title in 2008. Defending state champions Jesuit H.S. return four of their top five, led by senior Noelle VanRysselber. Runner-up St. Mary's Academy meanwhile return four of five as well, led by the trifecta of Lucy Whipps, Alexandra Jones and Alexa Kearns.
In 5A competition, Crater H.S. looks to repeat the success they showed last season, which saw the squad score a mere 16 points in the state championship competition. While the team loses two of their top five and lack the same depth as last year, they still should have a great showing and have a potential state champion in Kayleigh Tyerman.
Pennsylvania (PA)
Pennsylvania MileSplit Website (PennTrackXC.com)
The race to prove who the top team in Pennsylvania this fall will be interesting to follow. Leading the way on the girls side is defending AAA champion Emmaus. With their entire top five returning from last year's squad, this team not only has the firepower to qualify for Nike Cross Nationals, but a top ten finish as well. Following the lead of Lindsey Graybill, Melissa Meade and the trio of Faust sisters in Amanda, Christina and Brianna, Emmaus is looking strong.
The team may find challengers however on the AA side of things. Defending AA champs, Central Cambia, return six of seven. While the team loses front runner and Foot Locker all-American Carly Seymour, the strength coming back is enough to keep them in contention. '07 third-place squad Lewisburg should find itself vying for a top spot and potential NXN berth as well, returning five, led by Kiah Hardcastle and Sophia Ziemian.
On the boys side, North Penn looks to further their success' of the past few years, this season returning five of seven from '07, including one of the pre-season individuals in Brad Miles. Along with North Penn, Upper Dublin looks to follow the guidance of senior front runner Mike Palmisano, who along with Miles has a shot to win individual gold. Returning four of their top seven from last year, Upper Dublin is looking strong in 2008. Penncrest and Pennridge will vie for a trophy as well.
Last fall was an exciting time for Pennsylvania. Top individuals dotted the national rankings, which saw a handful of individuals compete at Foot Locker Nationals. While much of the top talent in the state graudated, a few notable athletes will have their chance to shine this fall.
Leading the list of individuals this time around are Jimmy Tarsnane (Jr., Pekiomen Valley) and T.J. Hobart (Sr., Baldwin). Along with Miles and Palmisano, both Tarsnane and Hobart have shown the talent it takes to win a state title in cross country. Both athletes showed exceptional skill during track, including Tarsnane's 9:15 3200m performance and Hobart's 4:12 1600m best. The individual race in the AAA boys championships could be quite the battle.
On the girls side a trio of athletes seem to be favorites in the AAA girls race. Top returnee Jess Cygan (So., Liberty) was runner-up in this race last fall and while her spring was rather quiet, she's one to be watched once the racing gets started later this month. Jordan Jenkins (Sr., New Oxford) and Natalie Bower (Sr., Greater Latrobe) are two favorites as well. Jenkins, who trained with Foot Locker all-American Neely Spence, ran 10:45 this past spring, while Bower ran 4:55 for 1600m. Similar to the boys race, this is going to be a fun one to observe.
Rhode Island (RI)
Rhode Island MileSplit Website
The smallest state in the nation certainly won't be without talent this fall. As usual, the boys and girls squads of Barrington H.S. will be looking to repeat the success they showed in 2007. The Class B school returns four of their top five on the boys side, while the girls return their top four. The school also hosted the two individual state champions in Sid Griffin and Abigail Jones. With both Griffin and Jones back, Barrington looks to bring home a load of hardware this fall.
A few individuals to note are Tim O'Loughlin (Sr., Westerly) and Nick Ross (Jr., East Greenwich). O'Loughlin had a huge spring, along with track teammate Andrew Springer. However, during the fall O'Loughlin is without Springer and could contend with Griffin for the Class B title. Meanwhile, Ross showed significant improvement all spring and finished with a 9:15 3200m time on the track...not bad for a sophomore. Such improvement should propel the junior to pre-state favorite status going into the Class C race.
An equal amount of talent comes in the Class A race as well. LaSalle Academy domianted their competition last fall, but should be challenged this year. LaSalle returns four of their top five on the boys side, led by Conor Mercurio. 2007 third place team Chariho-Richmond returns their top four, while Class A champion David Hurley returns to action as well.
Jean Christensen leads the LaSalle girls squad. The senior guide a quartet of returnees back, as the team is coming off a great spring of track results. The team should find challengers from North Kingston and Coventry as well, with both squads finishing top four last year and returning four state experienced athletes. With only 25 points seperating the top four teams at state last fall, this year should provide even more theatrics.
South Carolina (SC)
South Carolina MileSplit Website (SCRunners.com)
The power of J.L. Mann was evident last fall, as the boys squad took home the 3A state title, while the girls tied in a dramatic finish with Daniel, only to take second, as both squads scored 77 points, with Daniel winning on the sixth person rule. As both J.L. Mann squads return much talent in 2008, the hope is that both sides bring home team titles this fall.
The boys side return five of seven, and despite losing their top two, will follow the front running leadership of Daniel Myles and Parks Edwards. Perhaps the most interesting battle in 3A is for the individual title. Morgan Bateman (Jr., Wade Hampton) is the top returnee, but Aaron Ramirez (Jr., Woodmont) had a monster spring, which saw the rising junior place third in the 320m and fourth in the 1600m.
The J.L. Mann girls will have their hands full again with Daniel H.S. Daniel returns six of seven from their state championships squad, while J.L. Mann returns their top three and four of seven. Both squads need to show consistency in their 4-5 before more can be made of this rivalry. Last fall also saw a tight individual battle between Sinead Haughey (So., Daniel) and Kate Borowicz (Sr., J.L. Mann). Haughey won the individual title, but Borowicz had a huge spring, with state track victories in the 1600m and 3200m run event.
In 4A competition Wando H.S. looks to bring home state titles in boys and girls competition. Wando won the boys race last year and returns five of seven, however, runner-up Durman returns their entire top seven, including Brandon Easler. Wando's boys will be led by track 1600m champ Eric Powers.
The Wando girls on the other hand return five of seven after placing third last fall. With defending state champions Mauldin and runner-up Spartansburg returning five of seven as well, this race is wide open. Mauldin shows a slight disadvantage by losing their top two, while Spartansburg loses their top runner as well.
The most dominant athlete in the state heading into the season will be shooting for 4A gold as well. Last year Mark Blackmon (Fr., Fort Mill) won the boys state meet as a mere eighth grader. Running a 4:32.43 mile as a seventh grader, Blackmon enters his freshman season as the top freshman in the country. Despite not having much of a track spring, Blackmon will have all eyes glancing his way this fall, seeing just how much this young talent can improve.
South Dakota (SD)
South Dakota MileSplit Website
Yankton H.S. and Sioux Falls Roosevelt H.S. are the fiercest of rivals. Every year these two teams battle for supremacy in South Dakota. Sometimes Yankton takes the prize, as happened last year in two close battles at the state meet, while other years Sioux Falls Roosevelt finishes on top.
With the season just around the corner, it appears as though both the boys and girls squads of each team will battle it out once again. The best battle should come on the girls side, which sees Yankton returning four of six, including frontrunners Mariah Hofer and Megan Hilson. Sioux Falls Roosevelt battles back with their top three runners returning, including potential state champion Bailey Breems, as well as two other state finishers.
The team title will be fierce, but the individual battle up top will be equally as exciting. Breems, Hofer and Hilson all have what it takes to win state. Hilson followed up an exciting fall with a state championship in the 3200m run. However, they'll all be chasing Madeline Takahashi (So., Sturgis) early on, as the defending state champion will most certainly not give up her title without a fight.
One other female athlete to keep a close eye on is Class A defending champion Kelsey Barrett (Fr., Britton-Hecla). Last fall, as an eighth grader, Barrett dominated the state meet, winning her class and showing she could potentially be the best harrier in the state.
On the boys side, 2007 saw Yankton narrowly edge Sioux Falls Roosevelt 87-91. This year could come a little easier as the deep squad returns their 2-7 runners. Led by Travis Brenner and Mitch Yaggie, both of whom had huge track seasons, Yankton is looking strong.
Sioux Falls Roosevelt also returns some talent, although they seem to lack a consistent fifth runner heading into the season. The team returns five from last fall's state team, although they do lose both their second and third scorers. If this team can round up a fifth runner to compete with Yankton's, another close finish could be at hand.
Tennessee (TN)
Tennessee MileSplit Website (TennesseeRunner.com)
Last fall Kathy Kroeger (Sr., Independence) wasn't sure how she'd do during the cross country season. After taking off her sophomore track season to recover from some health concerns, Kroeger gained confidence throughout the season and wound up placing top three at Foot Locker Nationals, where she finished in first the year before as a sophomore. With a healthy track season behind her, Kroeger now looks to go out on top and stamp her name in the record books once last time.
Starting later this month, Kroeger will prove once again that she is the top distance star in Tennessee, however, she won't be the only Tennessee athlete turning heads. Perhaps the most overlooked athlete in the south heading into the season is Bill Matthews (Sr., Baylor). Matthews domianted the DII-AA state meet in track, winning the 800m, 1600m and 3200m dash titles. While he'll enter the season as the pre-season individual favorite, his Baylor squad will also look to make a run at being not only the best in the state, but one of the best in the region.
Baylor returns a talented quartet of individuals, including five of seven from their championship squad of '07. Along with Matthews, Brandon Lord, Mike Meadows and Skyler Townsend create a powerful group very few teams should be able to beat anywhere in the nation.
In the largest group of competition, the AAA division, powerhouse Oak Ridge, the defending state champions, are going to have to rebuild. The squad loses five, but always show depth that no other Tennessee squad can seemingly match. Runner-up Houston H.S. seem to be the top choice to upseed Oak Ridge, returning four from last year, including Lucas Cotter, a top five potential athlete.
Individually, Matt Sonnenfeldt (Sr., Knoxville West) looks to earn his first state cross country title, as he finished in the runner-up position last tall. Sonnenfeldt is one of the top returning harriers in the south and will look to not only win a state championship, but qualify for Foot Locker Nationals. Clint McKelvey (Jr., Maryville) should look to challenge Sonnenfeldt after a big spring on the track.
While Kroeger steals much of the attention on the girls side, sophomore Kacey Nobert (St. Agnes) should grab some headlines as well. Nobert finished 12th overall at Foot Locker South last fall, just missing a trip to San Diego. While she'll receive little competition this season, she does have a team goal to focus on, as St. Agnes returns a potent top four, that could help them be known as the best team in the state this fall.
AAA teams Oak Ridge and Science Hill might have something to say about that however. Oak Ridge, the defending state champions, return their scoring five from state. With a minute split to work with, while following state top three favorite Melanie Kulesz, this squad should make quite the impact. '07 runner-up Science Hill returns their top six and could challenge for the team title. The squad will be led by Allie Scalf (Sr., Science Hill), who ran great times of 11:07 and 5:08 this spring.
Texas (TX)
Texas MileSplit Website (TXRunning.com)
Coming Wednesday.
Utah (UT)
Last fall Timpview teammates Jonathan Nelson and Nathan Fletcher dominated state competition and helped guide their teammates to the top spot in the state in the Utah 4A championship. This fall, Nelson and Fletcher should be looking to guide their team to another state championship and perhaps a bit more if this squad decides to participate in Nike Cross National regional qualifying.
The Timpview H.S. squad returns four of their top five, but need a strong fifth runner to rise up. The team's strongest challenge could come from 3A favorite Ogden. Last fall Ogden cruised through their competition, and with all seven athletes from '07 back and in good form, this squad could impress. The team doesn't necessarily have a front runner, rather they use a strong sub-60 second split to dominate. Their top trio of Franco Montes, Jacob Barton and Manuel Luna all broke 17 minutes in the state meet last fall and should look to improve greatly this season.
Vermont (VT)
Sometimes it's hard to judge what exactly will take place in a state during cross country. It's such an up and down sport, relying on so many individuals to stay healthy, make improvements and best other teams' runners. Vermont shows a bit of that unpredictability this fall, as the season approaches.
Last fall Champlain Valley Union showed their strength in the girls DI action, besting a strong field of competition to take home the state team title. With the team returning five of their top seven, including a potent top three, this team hopes to repeat. However, state power St. Johnsbury, a squad that placed third in 2007, returns their entire top five and their 1-3 runners form the best trio in the state. The battle should be quite fierce for the title.
Individually, defending state champion Sarah Lange (Sr., Brattleboro) and runner-up Hannah Rowe (Jr., St. Johnsbury) return to do battle, both showing improvement throughout the spring. The best individual battle takes place in the boys DI race. The fourth, fifth and sixth place finishers return, as Tony Sulva (Sr., Champlain Valley Union), Landon Elliot-Knaggs (Brattleboro Union) and Adron Pitmon (Mt. Mansfield Union) all look to run away from the rest of the competition. Only three second seperated these three last fall.
Sulva's Champlain Valley Union squad returns their top three from last year's third place effort. Elliot-Knaggs' Brattleboro Union team, which placed fifth in '07, return six of seven and look strong heading into the season. The top team as the season arrives is Essex, who returns an incredibly strong top three from last year's runner-up squad.
The top boys team in the state could come from DII. Harwood H.S. won the state championship last fall in convincing fashion, and with six of seven state athletes returning, this team should look to dominate once again. Led by second returnee Eamon Welter, this team has five of the pre-season top 12, setting up a potential score of under 25 points at state.
Virginia (VA)
Virginia MileSplit Website (MileStat.com)
Coming Wednesday.
Washington (WA)
Washington MileSplit Website (WARunners.com)
Senior talent dominated the landscape last fall in Washington state. The state was loaded with talent, which made the team and individual competitions all the more competitive. With so many teams taking a hit due to graduation, this year is seemingly wide open, especially on the boys side.
In 4A competition, perennial powerhouse teams Mead, Central Valley and Gig Harbor lose much of their top seven, although each team does return back some talent. Both Mead and Gig Harbor enter the season as a bit more favored when compared to other squads, both returning four of seven, but losing front runners in Foot Locker Finalist Miles Unterreiner (Gig Harbor) and Kelly Lynch (Mead).
The individual battle will be quite a sight, as Kevin Rosaaen (Sr., Wilson) and Shane Moskowitz (Jr., Central Kitsap) enter the season as the two favorites. Rosaaen finished third in 2007 and had a quality spring. Moskowitz finished ninth last fall and had a spring equal to Rosaaen's. These two should battle assuming they can both stay healthy, with the slight edge going to Rosaaen.
The top boys team in the state is 3A defending state champion North Central. Last fall this squad qualified for Nike Team Nationals and placed sixth overall. With five of the team's seven returning in 2008, including front running seniors Andrew Kimpel, Leon Dean and Jeff Howard, North Central has the talent to finish in the top five at NXN this year. The success of this team relies on how junior Alex Avila and sophomore Andrew Wordell develop throughout the summer, as both athletes have experience from 2007, but are still young.
In girls 4A action, defending state champion Andrea Nelson (Jr., Shade Park) looks to continue her dominance. Last fall Nelson dominated the field over the final mile to win the state title. With another state title this spring, this one being earned in the 3200m, Nelson looks stronger than ever.
Nelson will be challenged though, as Redmond H.S. teammates, junior Devin McMahon and senior Sarah Lord, follow up their impressive spring as two of the top returnees in cross. McMahon finished with a 10:43 3200m personal best this spring, while Lord gave chase to Nelson in the state 3200m all the way to the line and earned state finishes of 10:40 and 4:59 (1600) as well.
In the team competition, defending state champion Gig Harbor loses most of their talent to graduation, although they do return senior frontrunner Alyssa Andrews. The top team in the state heading into the season however is Eastlake. Last fall the squad finished second overall. This time around the team returns their entire varsity line-up and run with a strong 60 second split from 1-5. While the team lacks a frontrunner, their pack tactics could simply out do the rest of the state.
Two of the best teams in the state could come from 3A competition. Defending state champion Lakeside (Seattle) loses their top runner, but returns six of seven. Meanwhile, runner-up Newport (Bellevue) return five of the seven girls that participated in state last fall. Both teams lack a fifth runner, which could leave Seattle Prep open for the win, as the '07 fourth place team returns their top six.
West Virginia (WV)
West Virginia MileSplit Website (WVRunners.com)
Last fall saw a lot of young and talented runners take to the West Virginia state meet. This fall much of that talent is ready to take another step forward, as numerous returnees across the board look to improve upon their '07 finishes.
Perhaps the best battle of the whole season could come down to who wins the girls AAA individual title. Last fall saw an epic battle between Letitia Propst (So., Elkins) and Allison Pettit (Sr., Morgantown) take place, which concluded with Propst besting Pettit by a lean at the line, as both athletes finished in 18:49. With both athletes back, and a surginig Courtney Yaeger (Sr., Wheeling Park) stepping up after winning the 1600m and 3200m events at state track this spring, the battle for the title should be quite intense.
On the team side, Cambell Midland returns six of their seven state runners from their fourth place squad last year. With their top three all returning, this squad looks to mix it up with defending state champions University and runner-up Morgantown. Both squads lose key runners, with University losing three of their top four and Morgantown losing their 2-3 runners.
Similarily on the boys side, Cambell Midland looks to take home the team title in AAA. This team lost to Wheeling Park last fall, but should be considered the favorites all season long as they return six of their top seven, despite losing their top runner to graduation. Wheeling Park will look to repeat however, as the team returns five key contributors. However, the team does lose individual state champion Ryan Beabout.
Individually, Zach Tennant (Sr., North Marion) is the top returnee and pre-season favorite. Not only did Tennant place second behind Beabout last fall, but he also won the 1600m run over a strong field this spring at state in track. Another summer of base work and Tennant is looking like a sure bet to win state come late-fall.
Wisconsin (WI)
Graduating talent leaves the DI boys race in Wisconsin a little further open than it's been in years past. Perhaps the strongest squad in the state is Stevens Point, a school with a deep history of producing talent. Last fall the squad lost to Madison LaFollette, but with LaFollette only returning two of their top seven, Stevens Point is looking strong. With six state experienced athletes returning in '08, including top junior John Pliska, this team is looking strong.
Deep individual talent reside in DII. From top to bottom this field is loaded. Brandon Little (Sr., Ashland) didn't have quite the spring as some other runners, but he proved last fall by taking third that cross country is certainly his strength. He'll be challenged by Kevin McCollow (Jr., Sherwood), who ran 9:28 at state in the 3200m run, which earned his second overall, and returns as the defending state champion. Michael Stumpf (Sr., Xavier) also finished his track season on a high note, with top five finishes in the 1600m and 3200m. It will be interesting to see if Stumpf runs cross country this fall.
In the DII team challenge, '07 runner-up Sherwood returns three of their top four behind defending champion McCollow. If this squad can find a fourth and fifth runner they will be the favorites heading into the state meet once again. Port Washington, the defending state champions, should also challenge, as they follow the lead of Evan Ross and Mark Allen.
On the girls side the DI team battle should be quite interesting. Last fall Arrowhead, Whitefish Bay and Bay Port all finished within 11 points of one another, finishing 1-3 in the team scores. With each squad returning significant talent, the battle looks to be between these three squads once again.
Defending state champion Arrowhead lose their second and third best runners to graduation, however they still return five of seven, including team leader Gabby Levac. With a fragile opening in the middle of their line-up, this team needs a strong number five to compete for the title. Runner-up Whitefish Bay and third placer Bay Port each return six of seven. Bay Port loses their top runner, but have a strong split of 37 seconds between 1-5, while Whitefish Bay returns their top six, including the potent trio of Annie Talajkowksi, Megan Palmer and Kenzie Vicker. All three young women should compete for a top ten finish.
In the individual battle, Maggie Bollig (Sr., Middleton) is the top returnee in DI, while the top talent in the state up top may reside in the DII race. Top DII returnee Morgan Sickels (Jr., Catholic Memorial) and Kayla Wagner (Jr., Baldwin-Memorial) should challenge each other to great times. Sickels finished third last year in a stacked field, while Wagner finished seventh. Wagner may have the edge after a strong spring, which saw the junior standout run state champion Ashley Beutler to the line in the 3200m run at state, as Wagner finished in 10:38.44. Meanwhile, Sickels leads her Catholic Memorial team as a potential DII team favorite, as the squad returns all seven of their runners from last year's fourth place squad.
Wyoming (WY)
In 2007 Cheyenne Central won the boys and girls 4A state cross country team titles. While the girls look like the odd-on-favorite to win yet again, the boys will have a rougher go of it. The boys squad returns four of seven, losing both their first and third runner, both of whom were top ten finishers last fall.
Their strongest challenge in 2008 should come from Rock Springs. This squad placed second in the state last year, finishing less than 15 points behind Cheyenne Central. With six of seven returning, including four of their top five, this team is looking strong. Behind the frontrunning talents of Garrett Zans and Todd Hueckstaedt, both shooting for top three finishes, Rock Springs will need a solid fifth to wrap-up a state trophy.
Other challenges come from Star Valley and perennial power Campbell County. Star Valley finished fourth last fall and return six of their top seven. However, the team loses their number one runner, which is always hard to replace. Campbell County meanwhile placed third in '07 and will have to replace three scorers. The team does return defending state champion Dominick Robinson, who also had a great spring in winning the 800, 1600 and 3200m events.
On the girls side, Cheyenne Central dominated the state meet last year, besting runner-up Campbell County 60-86. Despite losing their number two runner, the team returns six of seven and follow the guidance of defending state champion, junior Jessica Lemaster.
Campbell County returns their entire top seven, looking to upset the defending state champs. This team tends to run as a pack and needs their top three to have a strong performance at state if they hope to knock off Cheynne Central.
Individually, Nicole Peterson (Jr., Rock Springs) looks to challenge Jessica Lemaster for the girls 4A individual title. Peterson placed second this past spring in the 1600m and 3200m at the state meet, trailing only Alyssa Miller (Jr., Cheyenne Central), who doesn't run cross country. In 3A, sisters Brooke Rice (So., Jackson Hole) and Ellie Rice (Sr., Jackson Hole) look to continue the 1-2 sweep they accomplished in 2007.
-----