It was a thrilling end to the season on the strength of Proviso West edging out the fierce competition
4x400m-
2018 State Champion: Hillside Proviso West (Gregory Williamson, Kevon Williams, Derrick Crosby, Katrell Askins)
3:19.76
Key Teams: Hillside (Proviso West), Neuqua Valley, Homewood-Flossmoor, Fox Lake (Grant), Lincoln-Way East, Crete-Monee, Springfield, Maywood (Proviso East), Chicago Heights (Bloom Township), Evanston, Glenbard West, Danville
Breakdown: The cast of the best teams that concluded 2018 was certainly different than what the experts had predicted in their pre-season previews. For one Proviso West was not even on the radar. The Panthers have always been stocked full of talent but either team mischief, dropped batons, or spring football commitments were ultimately the roadblocks. A new philosophy instituted by head coach Johnny Jenkins would change things. A late-season fine tuning to the lineup appeared to be the remedy. Then Sophomore Katrell Askins big heart in closing out races proved to be pivotal for the Panthers who won their first title since 2000.
Neuqua Valley ran a season-best 3:20.85 last year in the state prelim, but the Wildcats were able to once again place well (3rd) in the final and secure the team trophy. This year with three legs back including hurdles star senior Donovan Turner, it will be hard to bet against them.
How will Proviso West rival Proviso East look? The Pirates had run 3:21 back in April and were poised to make a serious run at the state title until a false start at sectionals ended their season. This team will be very determined in 2019.
Top 2018 teams-
| RANK | TIME | TEAM | MEET DATEPLACE |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3:19.54 | ||
| 2 | 3:19.61 | ||
| 3 | 3:19.67 | ||
| 4 | 3:19.82 | ||
| 5 | 3:20.04 |