2022 preseason preview: Top returning girls sprinters

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100m-
2021 Best: Sydney Robinson (Chicago (Whitney Young)) 11.83
3A state champion: Mariam Azeez (Frankfort (Lincoln-Way East)) 12.09
2A state champion: Lauren Doerr (Morton) 11.88
1A state champion: Alyssa Williams (Tuscola) 12.10
Top returners: Robinson, Azeez, Williams, Rachel Robinson (Sr., Chicago Whitney Young), Ana-Liese Torian (Jr., Homewood-Flossmoor), Alex Johnson (Jr., Huntley), Asia Thomas (Jr., Chicago Kenwood), Renee Raglin (Sr., Alton), Lindsey Miller (Sr., Chicago Simeon), Sydney Weaver (Sr., Chicago Kenwood), Symone Frison (So., Chicago Lindblom), Daria Tersina (Sr., Prospect), Alaina Lester (So., Belleville Althoff), Maria Lambert (Sr., Aurora Christian), Lamonyca Bryant (So., Chicago Westinghouse), Anna Barr (Jr., Normal University)
Big thoughts: Azeez made a major statement at the 3A state meet by storming ahead of Sydney Robinson and the rest of the field to win the 100-meter state title. However, it was Robinson whose AAU Regional time of 11.83 was the best performance in 2021. This event will be the first leg of an interesting battle that will go several rounds between Robinson, Azeez, and others.

Ana-Liese Torian may jump ahead with a continued breakout, especially depending on her role in Homewood Flossmoor's trophy pursuit. Watch out for Long Jump state champion Alex Johnson, who may be the highest ceiling athlete in this event. Also, keep an eye on Asia Thomas. As a star sophomore, her 2021 season was injury-shortened, and Kenwood was absent from notable sprint finishes at state. Do not be misled, as Thomas and teammate Sydney Weaver could produce some dominating performances in competition with the Whitney Young sprint crew.

Finally, how fast can Alyssa Williams go? She is in a prime position to run under 12.00 for the first time this year. She needs to be in the conversation for best sprinter this year.