What to watch for: The indoor track and field season is slowly getting into motion and once again the Proviso West HS den will be a major force in terms of disseminating the action. This all-boys invite will feature some of the top teams and individuals from around the state.
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Brett Gardner vs. Tyler Cushing 3200m battle could be the matchup of the meet-
Two of the top distance runners over the past several years get an early jump on fast times and the repositioning of the leaderboards. Brett Gardner's 2019 cross country season was cut short at the Normal Community Sectional just as he was in his season prime. It was an injury that was the culprit and the rehab that followed kept the Lincoln-Way East star focused. In his first meet of the season, he clocked a state-leading 1600m in 4:19.36. Tyler Cushing, on the other hand, went on to have a tremendous state xc series which led him to the 3A runner-up spot. In the Bolingbrook standout's lone effort thus far was a 800m in 2:02.90.
Both runners will meet on neutral ground which happens to be their best events- the 3200m. In two previous notable battles, the record is 1-1. This one will be another major one.
Isaiah Tyler could be a major force if healthy-
One of the most active track and field athletes in the state had been battling a tough cold during this ardent "flu season." Proviso East standout Isaiah Tyler has been on a rampage in the early going with top tier efforts in the short dashes, high jump, and long jump. The team playing Tyler has also run on the 4x4 relay when called upon. He is slated to compete in the 55, 200, high jump, and long jump. The latter has Tyler seeded at 16'1." This is an obvious ploy to give Tyler the necessary rest for the track and high jump. Look for the matchup against footballer/speedster AJ Henning of Lincoln-Way East in the 55m to turn heads.
Other housekeeping items to watch for-
Zach Frye (Sr., Lake Park) is the top returning pole vaulter in the state is ready to dial-up for his first major competition of the season. The state best is already at a robust 16-4 by Andrew Saloga (Sr., Marmion Academy).
Antonio Passarelli (Sr., Lake Park) transferred from Huntley to Lake Park despite playing for the former team in football this past season. Passarelli will be seen and heard on Saturday. His best effort may possibly be the 200.
Steven Harris (Sr., Cahokia) may as well be the lone wolf for a young Comanches crew. One of the state's top hurdlers will contest the 55HH and 55m back to back.
Brailyn Johnson (Sr., St. Laurence) comes in with the third best time in the 60m at 6.97. This will undoubtedly be his best matchup for the season.