2016 was the year that Belvidere North won their first state title. It could happen again for the Blue Streaks who are loaded. Check out this state championship highlight tape from two seasons ago
Head Coach/coaches: Ken Husser/Drew Pivoras, Erin Foster, Molly Scheidegger
Last year's finish: State Runner-Up
Key returners: Madison Diercks (Jr), Gianna Sagona (Jr), Kayla McGuire (Jr), Olivia Zaluckyj (Jr), Sydnie Elder (So)
Projected top 7: Madison Diercks, Gianna Sagona, Sydnie Elder, Kayla McGuire, Olivia Zaluckyj, Alex Reza, Katie Luna
Newcomers: Samantha Slife, Bella Wandtke, Ada Parker, Gloria Oteng-Bediako. The incoming freshman will not have an impact on the top 7 this year, but there is some possibility for future development
Coach's thoughts on the team: We had a solid summer of training, but it was difficult to get a consistent turnout due to numerous (though legitimate) reasons, such as family obligations, multi-sport athletes, and several girls missed due to academic opportunities. Many of the top runners had solid track seasons with Madison running a 4:58 in the mile, Gianna ran the 3200 in 11:01 and Kayla Mcguire a 2:18 in the 800. With that said, we still have some unknowns heading into the season. Madison and Gianna will give us low points and we have several runners poised to step up in the 3-7 spots. As long as we stay healthy, our prospects for the year look pretty good. Our goal is to be one of the top teams in 2A and compete for the state title.
Tony's thoughts: This is the year that we will see the return of the Blue Thunder in full stride. Watch for Madison Diercks to rebound from a 21st place finish a year ago in Peoria. She is certainly one of the premier talents on the track in the state. As Coach Husser stated prior, it is going to take a full team effort, from the first girl to the last one.