Jason Thormo came on late last year as a wonderful surprise
400m-
2018 State Champion: Jason Thormo (Fox Lake [Grant]) 48.18
Key Athletes: Jason Thormo (Sr., Fox Lake [Grant]), Marcellus Moore (Jr., Plainfield North), Quemarii Williams (Sr., Danville), Luke Skokna (Sr., Hinsdale Central), Drew Crooks (Sr., Bloomington), Brian Ferguson (Jr., Chicago [Marist]), Tyler Gonzalez (Sr., Vernon Hills), Sammy Assil (Sr., Crete-Monee), Joshua Bruce (Sr., Oswego East), Brendan Turner (Jr., Bolingbrook)
Breakdown: This is probably the most interesting event this year. The star power is not amazing with only one returner running sub 48 seconds. Jason Thormo, the defending state champion, is that guy to beat as he looks to lower his time and defend his title. With a light indoor schedule for Thormo means that he is working on fine-tuning his technique and short speed talent. Last summer during the USATF circuit, he indicated that going under 47 seconds was a primary goal. It seems that will be the all or nothing goal.
New to the scene will be Marcellus Moore. As a novelty last season, Moore clocked 48.43 which signaled to the fans that a hint of attempting a "triple crown" is possible. At the very least Moore will put some respect back into one of the great events of track and field.
Quemarii Williams, the Vikings star mid-distance runner was unable to PR in the open 400m last season which led him to opt not to run cross-country and instead join football practices to work on his speed. The decision has seemed to pay of him as he has already dropped 49.60 in pre-season competition indoors. Williams may be a sneaky competitor this year, especially if he doesn't run the 4x800m relay during the state series.
Luke Skokna really had a great day at the state meet last May taking 7th place in the 400m. The state meet was a huge breakout meet for the football star as he only had to focus on running the 400m and nothing else. This is a kid that could also turn some heads and throw his name in the mix by winning big meets.