3A Boys
1. Naperville (Neuqua Valley) Perhaps a surprise team to some at the top. James Ammenhauser holds down the jump, within the top three in the long and triple jump. Austin Belle has flashed his speed, leading 3A in the 60m and posing as a threat in the 200m. The Wildcats will remain relevant if the supporting cast such as Jake Lansdowne (60H) and Nick Pennington (PV) continues to improve.
2. Homewood-Flossmoor John Gore has flashed some early speed, look for him to improve. The Vikings 4x200m unit is strong, Olusoga Adeyiga is emerging as a sprint threat in the 60 and 200m. Help is on the way.
3. Elmhurst (York) The state leaders in the 4x200m have surprised some. The roster has some speed, Ryan Pittman (60H) and Joe Valeski (200m) are two examples. The Dukes are strong in the short hurdles.
4. Oak Park-River Forest The 3A pole vault leader Joshua Meister is here with more field event help from Kaden Garland (SP) and Mason Phillips (LJ). The 4x200m unit has the ability to drop some fire.
5. Minooka It's Cael Hiser, one of the state's top returners. He is currently a threat in the 60 and 200m. Andrew Undesser in the pole vault contributes along with the Indians 4x200m.
7. Chicago (Kenwood) Sidney Morris has great range from 60-400m, and Julius Washington has great hops (high jump). The Broncos 4x200 and 4x400m are formidable units that can emerge as early as next week.
8. Schaumburg An early season surprise here. Esad Sengun is second best in the 3A pole vault, Alex Valencia is an emerging 400m guy.
9. Edwardsville Some young pieces on the roster with state meet experience. Kellen Brnfre (Long Jump) is the top guy now, but look for the Tigers to emerge this final month of indoor.
10. Champaign (Centennial) Daniel Lacy has range from 60 to 400m, and big tests coming up.