TOP RETURNING PERFORMERS
It's time to look at a tough technical event and provide an honest outlook for the 2023 indoor track and field season. There is an opportunity for many jumpers to step to the forefront and make a name for themselves. We will look at projections for the undercover season and if possible tie it in for the end of the track and field calendar year.
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Kaiden Miller (Sr., Grayslake Central)- the top overall performer regardless of class returns full steam ahead after taking fourth at the Illinois Top Times. Miller comes in with an indoor best of 44-2.75. In order to move up into a championship stakeholder spot, he must start eclipsing the 45-foot barrier on a regular basis.
Mason Kooi (Sr., Springfield Lutheran)- The defending 1A state champion did not compete during last year's indoor season. The reason is not known. However, he is off and runner so far this winter with a solid 43-1.75. The potential to jump into the 45-46 foot range could be thwarted by the fact that Kooi is a three-event star. In order words, his time will be split.
Nicholas DeLoach (Sr., Cahokia)- The three-sport athlete who has signed to play football for the University of Missouri has unfinished business when it comes to securing multiple crowns in the jumps. This appears to be his strongest event, he has the state's best-returning performance. He competes for a Comanche program that has produced several state champions in this event including all-time great Ja'Mari Ward.
Malik Allen (Sr., Edwardsville)- Polished off a good indoor season a year ago at the Illinois Top times that yielded all-state results in May. Allen is the top returner in 3A this season.
James Ammenhauser (Sr., Naperville Neuqua Valley)- The younger brother of the legendary Riley Ammenhauser now starring at the University of Michigan. James only jumped 42 feet and change indoors but cleared 45 plus outside.
Vince Davero (Jr., Downers Grove North)- A better triple jumper than a long jumper who ultimately earned all-state status. Davero could get his outdoor PB 45-3 during the indoor season.
Honorable Mention: Khalil Thorps-Watt (Jr., Collinsville), Ameen Koya-Oyefuwa (Jr., Chicago Northside Prep), Lorenzo Johnson-Cutler (Sr., Cahokia), Joshua Franklin (Sr., Crete-Monee), Deandre Neely (Sr., Grayslake North), Chauney Jackson (Jr., Rockford Jefferson), Kaiden Miller (Sr., Grayslake Central), Jaheim Vincent (Jr., Elgin Larkin), Jalen Falcon (Jr., Lockport)