The 2023 Richard Spring Invitational held at Detweiller Park is a 'one off' all-classes championship race that is super intense as this highlight reel shows
Every coach has a vision for their team at the season's onset, but no one knows the outcome until the final destination. The thing that makes cross-country so much fun is the journey. So come on and take a ride with us. This is the first of several strolls that you are going to enjoy!
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Head Coach/assistant coaches:
Grant Baganz/Dave Ashton, Steve Stack, Aaron Benson, Jeff Couch, Luke Laboe
Last year's finish: State Championship- 20th place
Key returners:
Patrick Clune (Sr), Manuel Najera (So), Gavin George (Jr),
Vaughn Scherer (Jr), Matthew Wick (Sr),
Richard Zhang (Sr), Zachary Huffstetter (Sr)
Newcomers:
Derek Williamson (So), Lukas Probst (Jr), Toby Silder (Fr), Grayson McKenna (Fr), Nathan Kao (Fr), Leon Kao (Fr)
Outlook: The gravy train that the Red Hawks have been accustomed to over the past several years appears to be on pause for a while. "Despite losing a lot to graduation, our team culture remains strong and was enhanced at our retreat in mid-July," said coach Grant Baganz. "New leadership is stepping up nicely, and we have a strong and motivated freshmen class to complement that." Part of that new leadership will fall on the shoulders of veteran Patrick Clune, whose confidence will be on a high after an outstanding track season.
Coach Baganz will also look to Manny Najera, one of the state's best freshmen a year ago. "This is a new era, and we are ready to turn the page and see what we can accomplish without many expectations," he added. "The development we saw during the outdoor track and field season was excellent, and it will be exciting to see how it translates this fall." Another newcomer to watch out for will be Derek Williamson, a soccer player who clocked 4:33 and 9:57 as a freshman last spring.
Head Coach/coaches: Bill Bloom/Rob Anderson, Eric Kraft
Last year's finish: Hinsdale Central Sectional- 12th place
Top newcomers: Zach Bacci (Sr), Valentino Diaz (Sr), Gavin Quinn (So).
Outlook: On the surface, the finish of the 2023 cross-country season seemed disappointing for the Mustangs, who finished in the lower half of the Hinsdale Central Sectional. That placement has not deterred coach Bill Bloom from forecasting a positive mindset for his program. "Last year, we finished second to Downers Grove South in our conference championship (WSC Gold) and was knocked out at the Hinsdale Central Sectional," he said enthusiastically. "I look forward to another great season and seeing the guys improve. We have had a good summer of work. I hope we can give DGS and Hinsdale South a run at the conference title." A key figure in Morton's title hopes will be Alex Rodriguez. He finished a standout sophomore track season with an appearance in the 3200m finals, clocking a robust 9:15.63. That is the kind of performance the Mustangs can build around this fall.
Head Coach/coaches: Ryan Hollister/Rachel Hollister, Cindy Wagner
Last year's finish: Lake Park Sectional- 18th place
Key returners: Jack Sheets (Sr), Nolan Sheets (Sr), Samuel Beamon (Sr), Cody Dobush (Sr), Marcus Davis (Jr), Marshall Waldau (Jr), Lucas Heitman (Sr), Lucas Bailye (So)
Newcomers: Logan Legge (Fr), Hudson Cuplin (Fr), Chase Bowers (Fr), Gavin Weston (Fr), Gavin Holmer (Fr).
Outlook: This year's version of the Whip-Pur's will be much improved with an experienced roster. "We have had a great summer turnout, and our seniors are a fun group who lead by example," indicated coach Ryan Hollister. "Jack and Nolan Sheets both broke 16:00 last season and have the potential for a lot of success this year."
"With our entire varsity roster returning from last season, there should be a lot of competition for the last five varsity spots. If that competition lifts our pack to running with Jack and Nolan at meets, the sky's the limit. We've joined some more competitive invites this season. Although we probably won't win as many invitationals as last year, the improved competition will help prepare our runners for the postseason."
Head Coach/coach: Miguel Parra Garcia/Zach Crandall
Last year's finish: Palatine Regional- 7th place
Key returners: Will Capito (Jr), Riley Wold (Jr), Grant Preusker (Jr), Spencer Flershem (So), Alex Hernandez (Jr).
Newcomers: Patrick Romanski (Fr), Luke Hilgeman (Fr)
Outlook: A primary goal for the Bison is to improve on last year's end-of-season performance. "We are excited to improve from last year's 8th-place finish in the Mid-Suburban League, and our goal is to make it to sectionals as a team," said coach Miguel Parra Garcia.
It has been nearly ten years since Buffalo Grove has qualified a team for the sectional round. However, a renewed sense of dedication may put them on track when the calendar turns toward late October. Top returner Riley Wold will be in charge of his teammates, who project to have no seniors and two freshmen in the lineup. At the very least, the Bison will add depth to an already deep MSL and a tough out.
Head coach:
Brian Caldwell/Mike Kirk
Greg Maloney
Sean Senf
Last year: Hinsdale Central Sectional- 10th place
Key Returners: John Clinton (Jr), Conrad Saner (So), T.J. Harvat (Sr), Billy Neumann (Sr), Ethan Traugott (Jr), Charlie Delapaz (Jr), Will Miller (Jr), Aditya Kota (Jr), Martin Joy (Sr).
Outcome: "We are really looking forward to this fall season," leads off coach Brian Caldwell. "We are very optimistic that we'll come together as a very good team. We are confident in our ability as a program to have the boys ready to run their best in October and November as we have in recent years."
According to Caldwell, the Mustangs always produce solid results, and if they hope to elevate into a state berth contender, some things need to be hashed out. "Our biggest challenge right now appears to be the combination of lack of depth and some summer setbacks. We have an incredible depth of guys who are committed and getting dramatically better, but we are relatively thin regarding the guys we believe can help us be a top program in the state. We've already had three of our key athletes miss some time this summer, so our success will be predicated on them getting healthy and ready to put in some consistent training sooner rather than later."
According to the coaching staff, Conrad Saner and John Clinton appear to have shown the most improvement from the end of the track season through the summer training sessions. They will complement top returner Ethan Traugott well, and we will all see how things shake out as the season progresses.
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Kevin Christian/Chris Keller, Michael
Hanley, Tom Smith, Robbie Joe Underwood, Nick Spiro, Ruth Haworth
Last year's finish: Palatine Sectional- 9th place
Key returners: Max Sudrzynski (Sr), Isaac Pepin (Sr), Austin Stevenson (Jr), Michael Moore (Sr), Mehdi Abdagic (Jr), Vincent Robles (Sr)
Newcomers: Gavin Glosson (Fr), Zac Anderson (Fr), Alex Taskov (Fr)
Outlook: 2023 was a solid year for the Golden Eagles, who advanced to the sectional round and placed in the top 10. After a heavy graduation roll, the coaching staff has not conceded to a reloading situation. That's because Max Sudrzynski is back with his best of 15:11. They must build around him to resemble a respectable status. Isaac Pepin ran 16:06 last year, and he should improve mightily after a strong summer training session. However, it's the incoming class that has coach Christian opportunistic. "The freshman group
is steller, led by Gavin Glosson, who is with our top four runners," he noted. "Zac Anderson
and Alex Taskov all have chances of finishing in our top five. We can compete towards the
top of the Fox Valley Conference and hopefully do some damage in the postseason."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Joey Pacione/Alberto Villa Assistant
Last year's finish: St. Charles East Regional- 8th place
Key returners: Nick Sheklarevski (Jr), James Jalowiec (Sr), Nick Zegger (Jr), Lucas Skupien (Sr), Holden Anderson (Sr), Daniel Bernal (Sr), Tommy Jalowiec (So).
Newcomers: Christien Gallant (Fr)
Outlook: According to coach Joey Pacione, the goal is to improve and build upon last year. "This team will continue to raise the standard of Lake Park cross country. The senior
class has worked hard to turn things around from a low point for the program coming out of
COVID." The Lancer's internal competition to find a solid top seven is real, and with the returners possessing nearly a one-minute scoring split, 2024 should be an interesting time in Roselle.
Head Coach: John Kawulia
Last year's finish: Hinsdale Central Sectional- 17th place
Key returners: Aimen Bawadi (Sr), James O'Shea (So), Eric Villalobos (Sr), Santiago Carbajal (So), Anthony Villalobos (So), Shawn Mallo (Jr)
Newcomers: Emilio Avina (Fr)
Outlook: The Bulldogs return their top seven runners and will be on a mission to prove to the naysayers that they are a good team. "We are
looking to continue to build upon this throughout the early season and be ready to go come
sectionals," said coach John Kawulia.
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Scott Friedlander/Bill Anderson
Last year's finish: State Championship- 28th place
Key returners:
Jamie Chandler (Jr), Ben Freedman (Sr), Andrew Calderon (So), Nick Dowell (Sr), Scott Harvey (Jr), Sam Chaban (Jr),
Danny Kriegel (Sr), Hugo Albrecht-Buehler (Jr)
Outlook: The drought of qualifying for the large class state meet ended last year, and now the reality of rebuilding faces the Warriors in the face...We graduated five of our top seven, so we don't expect a lot of hype from outsiders," lamented coach Scott Friedlander. "But this
program's strength is its depth and ability to reload immediately." If reloading is the answer, it will be on the shoulders of Jamie Chandler, who leads with a best time of 15:35.
Whether Friedlander admits it or not, he is looking toward the future: "We place a lot of importance
on frosh/soph and JV races, so our frosh/soph and JV runners already train and act like varsity,
and then they seamlessly step into top seven spots when it's time. You saw it when we were 2A
State Runners-Up in 2021, then graduated all seven runners and still got 11th in 2022. This season
has a similar feel. Outsiders may expect a down year, but we don't."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Tom Patten/Den Patten, Amy Scott
Last year's finish: Granite City Sectional- 10th place
Key returners: Joey Yaros (Sr), AJ Ince (Jr), Drew Patterson (Sr), Caden Nyman (Sr), Nate Witzig (Sr), Colin Heath (Jr). Newcomers: Bryce Kuhlman (Fr), Wyatt Patterson (Fr)
Outlook: Six of seven runners return this fall, and that is good news for coach Tom Patten, whose charges expect to be a team to watch out for in Central Illinois. "Our boys are looking to have an excellent season, especially after breaking a 32-year-old school record
in the 4x800 and missed finals at state by 11 hundredths of a second," he said. The crew enjoyed a solid summer training batch, which should pay off for the post-season.
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Kevin Harrington/Matt Ruckoldt
Last year's finish: Lake
Park Sectional- 17th place
Newcomers: Matthew Russell (jr)
Outlook: Like many teams, The North Stars have many questions to be answered: 1) Can the team improve on last year's sectional performance? 2) Will the now veteran team step up and improve throughout the season? The answer may lie here per coach Harrington: "The 2024 SCN boys' team is still a work in process. Our summer had high and low points, and we learned a lot. The first half of the competitive season will answer many questions for us."
Head Coach/coaches: Matt Kaplan/Jason Monson, Brandy Swanson, Jimmy Jestus
Last year's finish: Lake Park Sectional- 10th place
Key returners: Tommy Nitz (Sr), Andrew Raistrick (Jr), Nate Sauber (Jr), Brandon Thompson (So), Logan Barreto (Jr), Derek Spaid (Sr)
Outlook: The Red Raiders expect the 2024 experience to be fun and more enjoyable than a season ago. Tommy Nitz enters his senior after all-state performances in cross country and on the track. The nearest returning teammate to him was about 2:00 off pace. If that improves, the focus will be on the 2-5 pack to complete the job. Nathan Sauber (9:52/4:42), Andrew Raistrick (10:05/4:35), and Brandon Thompson (10:16/4:48) are three guys capable of filling the role, according to coach Matt Kaplan. Add in Derek Spaid and Logan Barreto to round out the top five.
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Brian O'Donnell/Matt Aniywo, Anna Pignatiello
Last year's finish: Andrew Regional- 8th place
Key returners: Ryan Castady (Sr), Saaungkh Tarrer (Sr), Bennett Matthys (So), Jacob Roe (Sr), Talib Clemons (So),
Rory Paredes (Jr)
Newcomers: Matthis Tyrone (Fr), Matthew Tyrone (Fr), Henry Maier (Fr), Branko Ivancevic (Fr), Gregory
Mitchell (Fr)
Outlook: "Based on summer training, our top five will be led by four seniors:
Ryan Castady, Saaungkh Tarrer, Matthis Tyrone, and Matthew Tyrone," introduces coach Brian O'Donnell. "A large group of athletes will compete for those final three spots to round out the top seven. We had a nice group
of committed athletes who put in a quality summer of running. Our team has a good balance of
veterans and young runners committed to success." It will be a challenge, but the Vikings have an opportunity to advance past the regional round this year.
Head Coach/coaches: Jack Brady/Travis Travizo
Last year's finish: State Championship- 21st place
Newcomers: Abe Ray (Sr), Hayden Haas (Sr), Henry Walker (Sr), Emmitt Olson (Jr), Quinn Hendricks (Jr), Tommy Bogdan (Jr), Sam Lee (Jr), Clay Dosek (Jr)
Aiden O'Brien (So), Bryson Reum (So)
Outlook: Despite returning the top three guys who competed in the state meet, it's going to be a challenge returning to Peoria in November. Coach Brady knows that his toughest job is to fill out a competitive back of the scoring pack. "The next four spots are up for grabs with ten possible candidates within 20 seconds of each other."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: JB Hanson, Courtney May
Last year's finish: Hoffman Estates Sectional- 13th place
Key returners: Luke Marshall (So), Gordy Libby (Jr), Esau Meza (Jr), Owen Holzhauer (Jr), Edwin Galarza (Sr)
Newcomers: Karanveer Patil (Fr)
Outlook: The proud program that Lake Zurich has built over the years is on its way back, though it will take time to see the dividends. "We will be much improved," says coach JB Hanson. "Training has been consistent for our returners, and Karanveer [Patil] will be a force right away."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Jeff Purdom/Emily Brodko, Kyle Draghi
Last year's finish: Granite City Sectional- 11th place
Outlook: The Wildcats will have veteran leadership in the top few spots and a great group of young runners looking to fill out the rest of the varsity roster. This is an opportunity to build great experience as the season progresses towards Detweiller in November. Coach Purdom likes his team to pack two through the tenth spot on the rosters. The motto should be: 'Experience, Experience, Experience!'
Head Coach/assistant coaches:
James Janota/Mike Kennedy, Jared Righter, Michael Rossi
Last year's finish: State Championship- 9th place
Key returners: Ryan Adamski (Sr), Aaron Hamilton (Sr), Tarun Avantsa (Sr), Jesse Gudauskas (So), Garrett Anderson (Jr), Liam Yack (Sr), Neel Chawla (Sr), Anish Bhagwat (Jr), Max Mayer (Jr).
Newcomers: Sachin Sivakumar (Fr).
Outlook: The Wildcats will start the season unranked for the first time in forever. That is fine with Coach Jamie Janota. "We're hoping to continue our streak of state qualifications and develop many of the underclassmen talent we have seen thus far this summer." Ryan Adamski and Aaron Hamilton return with PBs under 16:00, and five others have dipped below 16:40. That will be the starting point from which the 'Cats' operate.
Head Coach/Assistant Coaches: Nick Morley/Dan Rhoades, David Berkson
Last year's finish: Hoffman Estates Sectional- 17th Place
Newcomers: Roland Hu (Fr), Bryce Kopinski (Fr), Shane Kopinski (Fr).
Outlook: "We are very excited for the 2024 season," says coach Nick Morley. "We hope to have a successful season, led by senior leaders Cole Branstrom, Will Fontana, Spencer Rudolph, and up-and-coming contributor Ryan Taylor." Four of them have clocked under 17:00, led by Spencer Rudolph's 15:55.
"Our underclassmen look strong with sophomores Jack Lyons (the reigning freshmen conference champion) and Owen Wu, as well as impressive freshmen newcomers such as Roland Hu, Bryce Kopinski, and Shane Kopinski," adds Morley.
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Jeff Durlak/Jeff Harvey
Last year's finish: Hoffman Estates Sectional- 15th place.
Key returners: Niko Dayment (Sr.), Max Haas (Jr.), Nathan Kempf (So.), Eric Ramirez (Jr.), Landon Terryberry (Jr.), Logan Terryberry (Jr.), Jacob Kaufman (Sr.), Russell Holm (So.), Garrett Fries (So.), Jared Lopez (Jr.)
Newcomers: Tyler Wahls (Fr.)
Outlook: Four of the top seven Bulldogs have graduated, allowing emerging runners to join veterans Niko Dayment, Max Haas, and Nathan Kempf in the starting rotation. "There are several returning runners looking to step up and help fill spots," asserts coach Jeff Durlak. "The boys had an excellent summer of training and are ready for the 2024 season."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Mike Brower/Tony Kochev
Last year's finish: Plainfield Central Regional- 7th place
Key returners: Julian Esquivel (Sr.), Casey Koerner (So.), Raejon Williams (Jr.), Elijah
Zamoras (Sr.), Aiden Grembowicz (Sr.)
Newcomers:
Lucas Houlihan (Fr.), Andres Pedroza (Jr.), Evan Newman (Jr.), Logan Hudson (Fr.)
Outlook: "We're coming off a track season where we had a record number of athletes under 11:00 in the
3200m (7), and four are returning for cross country," said coach Mike Brower. "We've seen a shift over the last couple of years of
athletes pursuing the 3200m more with a number of athletes asking to be entered in it. I believe
this positive mental shift has helped athletes in all distance events and helps prepare us with a
more aerobically focused and fit team for cross country."
The Tigers are young and have promise, as Brower alluded to; it is a matter of going out week in and week out, challenging themselves to the best of their abilities. "Our new assistant coach, Tony Kochev (2022 alum), brings to the program strengths of
relationship-building, toughness, discipline, and servant leadership," adds Brower. The key will be how cornerstone runners Julian Esquivel, Andres Pedroza, Casey Koerner, and Lucas Houlihan handle the responsibility this season. If they can do that, the Tigers will be at least sectional-bound.
Head Coach/coach: Bobby Matz / Matt Gonnella
Last year's finish: Granite City Sectional- 16th place
Newcomers: Carson Solomon (Fr), Zach Orbon (Fr), Brody Lynch (Fr), Evan Misura (Fr)
Outlook: Coach Bobby Matz welcomes four of his five starters from a year ago, including the ace Caden Wolfe, who ran 15:32. "I am very excited for the upcoming season, and I think we should be a very competitive team throughout the season and we hope to be a team that people have to worry about come the post-season," he stated
Head Coach: Mike Wolf
Last year's finish: Lake Park Sectional- 15th place
Key returners: Jacob Barraza (Sr.), Nathan Tumminaro (Sr.), Rafeal Forney (Sr.)
Felipe Hernandez (Jr.), Noah Thompson (So.), Andy Duran (So)
Outlook: Dekalb has a few pieces to improve from last year's 15th-place finish at the Lake Park Sectional. Jacob Barraza, who placed 11th at the state meet, is the ultimate low stick. He is also coming off of a tremendous track season that saw him place third in the 1600m and drop a sizzling 4:11. "Our top group has had a consistent summer with some of our younger guys adjusting well to an overall increase in mileage from last year," elaborated Coach Wolf. "Barraza will lead our team, and I am looking for a group of runners who all ran nice personal bests at the end of the track to start our season at a higher level. We are aiming to improve on our Sectional finish from last year."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Jim Westphal/Jim Kupres, Noah Lawrence, John Snee
Last year's finish: State Championship- 22nd place
Key returners: Cooper Revord (Sr), Henry Miller (So), Michael Gamboa (Jr), Quinn Doorhy (Sr), Nikita Kamenev (Sr) Newcomers: Matthew Ferren (Fr), Kasra Mikaili (Fr), Matthew Rogers (Fr), Logan Tarasi (Fr)
Outlook: Despite starting the season unranked, the Red Devils have been and will always be one of the most dangerous teams in the classification. For the first time in many seasons, they will not have a superstar leg to lead the way (Dan Watcke & Aden Bandukwala have finally left the building).
This year's group will be more packed-oriented. On paper, the returning scoring group appears to be around 40 seconds on Michael Gamboa's 15:36. Coach Jim Westphal believes dedication and commitment to the team will work itself out for another successful campaign. "This group has excellent team chemistry and
works extremely hard together for the common good of the team," he indicated. "Our goal is to improve
week to week and race at our best in the latter stages of the season."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Greg Nordahl/Dave Fermanich, Tom d'Amborosio
Last year's finish: Lake Park Sectional- 8th place
Key returners: Owynn Garrelts (Sr), Owen Tremblay (Sr), Colin Frye (So), Lucas Runtz (So), Alex Czerwionka (So), Gabriel Szfranko (So), Jake Eckhart (Sr), Gino Arcuri (Sr), Anthony Murphy (Jr)
Outlook.
Owynn Garrelts is one of the top returners in the state, and he returns looking to complete several personal missions like earning all-state status and helping lead his team back to the state meet. "He has been our most committed runner this summer and for the last few years," said coach Greg Nordahl. "His work level this summer is on par with some of the top runners that Maine South has
produced, and he should again be an all-state contender. His endurance is impressive, and
we are working on turnover and finishing kick to make him a top athlete in the state."
The Red Hawks already produced a sub-15:00 performer in Garrelts and should have another one in Owen Tremblay. As has been the Maine South way throughout the years, they tend to get better at season's end, relying on a solid pack to finish the job. Adds Nordahl: "Our pack [should be] around
15:30. This will make us a competitive team with the goal of being a top ten team."
Head Coach: Stu Mendelsohn/Matt Condron, Nick Korhumel, Fred Witt
Last year's finish: Hoffman Estates Sectional- 12th place
Key returners: Thomas Chudy (So), Mike Chudy (Sr), James O'Keefe (Sr), Jack Steffe (So), Filip Vojvodic (So), Peter Rappa
Newcomers: Taylor Rihm (Fr), Colin O'Connell (Fr)
Outlook: The Wildcats appear to be underrated at the moment, but they can be a team to watch out for later in the season. "We are grateful to have an exciting amount of young talent on the team," states coach Stu Mendelsohn. "The majority of our varsity roster is made up of underclassmen. Our team is closer than it has ever been. Their focus has been unwavering. As coaches, it has been a fun summer watching them commit to a high fitness level and set goals of ending up in Peoria come November."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Jim Milner/ Asst: Derrick Padovich
Last year's finish: State Championship- 27th place
Key returners: Nicholas Goduto (Sr), Eddie Bozett (Sr), Phoenix Scott (Jr), Jack Wolstenholm (So), Mason Van Denend (So)
Newcomer: Anthony Garcia (Fr)
Outlook: Despite heavy losses due to graduation, the Owls will be young and talented per head coach Jim Milner. "This is a young team with state meet experience. They'll look to
develop throughout the season and work on cutting down that 1-5 split." Nico Goduto and Eddie Bozett will help cut down that scoring split. Keep an eye on freshman Anthony Garcia. He was one of the state's top middle-school runners as an eighth-grader and won the Detweiller at Dark middle-school race.
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Jarrin Williams/Anthony Pena
Last year's finish: Plainfield Central Regional- 9th place
Newcomers: Nolan Jared (Fr), Steven Hernandez (Fr)
Outlook: Despite having a returning state qualifier, Gabe Mahn, coach Jarrin Williams has concerns about team commitment. "I'm not convinced some of our returners put in enough work this summer, so the first part of the season will be getting them into shape and figuring out who will be our top seven by the postseason," he cautioned. "If we can get them going and get some of the newcomers where they need to be, we might make some noise in the conference and regional meets."
Head Coach/assistant coaches:
Kari Turcan/Gavin Dillehay
Last year's finish:
Lake Park Sectional- 9th place
Key returners:
Cole Tupper (Sr), Logan Iott (Sr), Gael Bibiano (Sr), Noah Callahan (Sr), Ricardo Loeza (Sr), Aldrin Boongaling (Jr), Brody Mills (Sr)
Outlook: A key highlight of last season for the Storm was finishing second in the Upstate Eight Conference Championship. The confidence from there transferred into a solid conclusion to the season at the Lake Park Sectional. On paper, this could be a very dangerous team and ranked in the near future. "This is probably the best team South Elgin has had in its short 20-year history," said Coach Kari Turcan with delight.
Led by standout Cole Tupper, the starting seven have run under 16:00. The team has depth, with 9-10 runners competing for the vaulted top seven. "We saw many up their summer work by participating in additional running camps or clubs," adds Turcan. "Everyone is starting the season healthy and strong. We are interested in competing against new schools in our conference, which will make our UEC Meet a little more like a typical invitational in terms of the number of teams competing. We are always awaiting regional assignments as we tend to bounce yearly. We are hopeful for multiple individual state qualifiers this year."
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25. St. Charles East
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Chris Bosworth/Matt Gill, Chris Stewart
Last year's finish: State Championship- 14th place
Newcomers: Rich Meszaros (Fr), Dom Strada (Fr), Connor Stall (Fr)
Outlook: "One of the goals this season is to be at our best as a team once the championship portion of the season begins," begins coach Chris Bosworth. "Also, the team believes they are a state qualifying team, which would be the team's 10th year in a row qualifying as a team. We want every athlete to value smart, but hard work, being consistent in training, and working together as a team. If they can do that, then every athlete on the team can see success during the season."
Bosworth presented his thoughts and plan; now, it will be up to the charges to get the job done. Though fans may see multiple lineups through the season, they can depend on Greyson Ellensohn and Michael Wilson. After that, it will be a quick fast development by the Saints coaching staff. "I anticipate running kids down on the lower level (Fr/So) for the majority of the season, then, if need be, bringing up the athletes deserving of racing during the championship weeks," said Bosworth.
24. Minooka
Head Coach/coaches: Kevin Gummerson/Jessica Hopkins, Ashley Tutt, Matt Clark, Leslie Hencinski
Last year's finish: Granite City Sectional- 12th place
Key returners: Nico Cimino (Jr), Jase Cook (Jr), Alex Null (Jr), Nate Schalk (Jr), Sam Cernetich (Sr), Carter Wikoff (Sr)
Newcomer: Ryan Resar (Fr)
Outlook: We are excited to see what this team can accomplish," said an excited coach, Kevin Gummerson. "Not
qualifying as a team last year has been a motivating factor in the minds of these athletes all
summer, and they are determined to take their performances up another level." Leading the charge is Nico Cimino, who ran 15:10 last year. The returning scoring split on five guys is 1:20 in terms of aggregate average. That is a number that will need to improve if Gummerson and the Indians envision returning back to the state championship.
23. Chicago (Lane)
Head Coach/coaches: Kris Roof/Tony Jones, Adrian Barrientos
Last year's finish: State Championship- 11th place
Key returners: Tristan Wong (Jr), Cole Magac (So), Gary Angelo (Jr), Quinn Anderson (So), Andy Lawrence (Jr), Mathew Melo (Jr), Hugo Ayala (Jr), Peter Georgopoulos (Jr), Jake Kozlowski (Jr)
Outlook: Last year was one of the best seasons for the Champions (new nickname) in years, and despite a huge graduation that included all-stater Will Kozlowski, the thought process around campus is 'I think we can be as just successful as last year.'
State championship hold over Tristan Wong is the top returner on time with a personal best of 15:45. He had an "outstanding summer of training," according to coach Tony Jones. And there is more in the bank than one might think. Cole Magac and Gary Angelo were great apprentices as underclassmen under authoritarian but loving senior leadership during the track season. "Without the pressure to contribute NOW during the track season, Cole and Gary were allowed to develop properly," said Jones. "Both young men crafted out 9:50 and 9:56 times at sectionals. They got even better during a strong summer session, along with Quinn Anderson and Hugo Ayala, who seem like quadruplets. We may not be at the level as 2023, but we will be solid."
22. Wheaton North
Head Coach/coaches: Nate Roe/Sean Frintner, David Christensen.
Head Coach/coaches: Nate Roe/Sean Frintner, David Christensen.
Last year's finish: State Championship- 25th place
Key returners: Aidan Murphy (Sr), Luke Haworth (Sr), Quinn Murphy (Sr), Jack Sanders (Jr), Daniel Xochitecatl (Jr), Seth Pacer (Jr), Gabe Leemans (Sr), Matthew Joyce (Jr).
Newcomers: Nathan Carroll (Fr), Levi Turner (Fr)
Outlook: The Falcons are an experienced upperclassmen team, and some think the sky is the limit. That is true with all-stater Aidan Murphy leading the charge. Then there is Luke Haworth and Quinn Murphy, who ran under 15:30. "We do return quite a few varsity guys from last year's 25th place team," said coach Nate Roe. "The season didn't end the way we wanted due to injuries and illness just before the State Finals."
"This group has had a solid summer and is ready to get going.
Aidan Murphy and Luke Haworth will drive us from up front, and we're hoping the next few guys will close the gap. Jack Sanders has had a great summer and will look to put that into practice during the season.
We may be a bit rough at the start, but we hope to be clicking by October. Our conference will be the toughest it's ever been, so we'll need to be at our best in mid-October onwards. Overall, it's a fun group to coach, and I hope they enjoy the fruits of their labor. We're looking to find joy in the journey."
21. Batavia
Head Coach/coaches: Bronco Meeks/AJ Freeman
Last year's finish: State Championship- 26th place
Key returners: Francesco Benelli (Sr), David Bednarek (Sr), Edward Polaski (So), Diego Gomez (Sr), Luke Gianfrancesco (Jr), Ryan Widmer (Jr), Cody Rummel (Jr), Will Polaski (So)
Newcomers: Jeremy Shillair (Fr), Colin Cleghorn (Fr)
Outlook: "We have a nice mix of returning veterans and guys new to varsity," said Bronco Meeks. "We return three of our top five from last year's state qualifying team in Benelli, Bednarek, and Eddie Polaski." Francesco is coming off a very strong track season, where we saw his 3200m drop from 9:45 to 9:13.
Also, look out for Benelli; he should lead the way for the Broncos, according to Meeks. "We feel we should have a very strong pack behind him. Our guys have done an excellent job of working together and encouraging one another throughout the summer. We will see success during the season if we can carry this into races.
This team has the tools to be one of the best we have had. It will not happen overnight, though. We will need to be patient and not get caught up in comparisons. Each team has its own journey. If we stay focused on our journey, we will succeed."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Kyle Nugent/Kurt Frazier
Last year's finish: Lake Park Sectional- 9th place
Key returners: Graham Faris (Sr), Liam Grady (Sr), Matthew King (Sr), Ryan Fader (Sr), Cayden Camp (Sr), Brandon Carpenter (Sr)
Newcomers: Josh Plahetka (Fr)
Outlook: After missing out on the sweepstakes of competing in the state championship last year, the Hilltoppers will be hell-bent on getting back to Peoria. "This team is very senior-heavy and brings lots of experience," says coach Kyle Nugent. "There is also a lot of talent on this team, and it could be a great season if the guys buy in and stay healthy!"
19. Yorkville
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Chris Muth/Kerry Stillmunkes, Lauren Virezen, Tori Gatlin, Matt Gatlin
Last year's finish: State Championship- 16th place
Key returners: Owen Horeni (Jr), Brody Greyer (Sr), Ryan Rotramel (Sr), Lukas Summers (Sr), Adam Klemm (Sr)
Outlook: "From a summer training standpoint, it looks like Owen Horeni and Brody Greyer will be our top two runners to start the season," said coach Chris Muth. "They both should be able to set the tone racing-wise for this team week in and week out, but how successful we are will come down to closing that gap between 2-7 on a consistent basis."
The team mix is senior-heavy, as Muth alluded to, but there is potential for underclassmen to make a difference. "I believe we will get better as the season progresses, and our goal, as it is every year, is to make the state meet and to continue to build off of the previous year's successes," adds Muth. "We currently aren't a top 15 team in the state pre-season-wise based on our spring track results, but by the time rankings matter, after the state meet, I believe with a little health, we can accomplish our team goals."
18. Naperville North
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Tim Brown/Dave Racey, Dan Hemmens
Last year's finish: Hinsdale Central Sectional- 9th place
Key returners:
Ammar Bhanpuri (Sr), Jackson Truty (Jr), Aidan Malana (Jr), Simon Reckamp (Jr ), Lukas Keane (Jr ), Brian Hatlestad (Jr)
Newcomers: JT Schmidt (Sr)---first year for cross country but has run track
Outlook: "As a whole, the success of last year's core sophomores has had a positive effect on their
summer training," said coach Tim Brown. "They have matured physically and mentally and are ready to run at
the varsity level."
Leading the charge is Ammar Bhanpuri, who placed 37th at a time of 14:57 in the state meet. "Ammar seems to be running well, given his injury last November (which
prevented him from running NXR 2023)." "Our goal this season is to qualify for state as a team.
It's been since 2019 since we ran as a team in Peoria, so this is all the guys talk about and focus
on. And they are ready!"
Head Coach: Michael Glosson
Last year's finish: State Championship- 8th place
Key returners: Aidan Korb (Jr), Nathan Marotta (Jr), Mateus Salomao (Jr), Brandon Rugg (Jr), Gabriel Gronski (So), Jon Choi (Sr), Tim Laskiewicz (Jr)
Outlook: The Huskies were rocked hard by graduation as their top five scorers are gone. However, the cupboard was not bare as one of the best underclassmen units in the state is back. Four of the five yearlings broke 16:00, and their projected scoring split is 25 seconds. This season will be about learning to run and compete on a high level together in the mighty MSL. 2026 may be the year that Hersey thinks about a state trophy.
16. Palatine
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Joe Parks/Mike Nigliaccio, Alec Bollman
Last year's finish: Hoffman Estates Sectional -- 8th place
Key returners: Alexander Krieg (Jr), Carter Hayes (Sr), James O'Sullivan (Jr), Chris Quick (Jr), Keaton Fletcher (Sr),
Ethan Trujillo (Sr), Kevin Lopez (Sr), Kyle O'Keefe (Sr), Keith Solberg (Sr), Anton Crane (So)
Outlook: The Pirates squad suffered another case of bad luck, missing qualifying for the state by a scant 24 seconds. The sting of not advancing to Peoria has motivated this experienced group. "We are a small but motivated group," said coach Joe Parks. We have a mix of experience up front and some "no-names" that will have to meld together as the season progresses to be the team we hope to be.
Things will begin with Alex Krieg (4:18/9:07) and Carter Hayes (1:53/4:15/9:19), whose resumes are as good as many duos in the state. Add in up-and-comers James
O'Sullivan (4:29/9:44), Christopher Quick (4:38/10:04), and Keaton Fletcher
(4:36/10:18). It will be hard for any bad luck to stop Palatine from advancing to state this season. Parks adds: "These five have put
themselves in position to lead us as the season kicks off, but are followed by a crew motivated
to claim a top seven spot, in Ethan Trujillo, Kyle O'Keefe, Kevin Lopez, and
Keith Solberg. Anton Crane has the ability and work ethic to be in the mix by the
end.
Head Coach/coach: John O'Malley/Charlie Tarjan, Jeff Jonaitis, Tom Novak, Judy McAuliffe, Ann Marie McGuire, Marc O'Neal
Last year's finish: State Championship- 18th place
Key returners: Luke Atzman (Sr), Mateo Ramiro-Garcia (Jr), Brayden Gaffud (So), Jackson Canellis (Jr), Matthew Miller (Jr), Myles Jacquez (Jr), Jack Easterhouse (Sr), Gunner Hinger (So), Gavin Smalarz (Jr), Jake Crotty (Jr), Hunter Covolo (Jr)
Outlook: }After graduating from a class of two senior runners, we'll be much more stable than the last two years," said Coach John O'Malley. "We've been working on developing our internal regulation to show up as the versions of ourselves that we want to be. That piece will be critical to our success. We hope to take a competitive step forward from where we were a year ago, but we have a long way to go. I love this group of guys and am betting on them."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Chris Baldwin (HC)/ Abel Reyes, Tim Hasso, Stephen Traphagen, Vic Guarino, Garrett Davis
Last year's finish: State Championship- 6th place
Key returners: Liam O'Connor (Sr), Andrew Harmon (Sr), James Nacke (Sr), Eric Young (Sr), Jack deBeers (Sr), Brady Creel (Jr), David Schiff (Jr), Bennett King (Jr), Julian St. Pierre (Jr), Finn Cascarino (Jr), Connor Harmon (So), Ryan Solberg (So), Nick Houghton (So), Jeremy Meier (So)
Outlook: Another nice mix of veterans will fill out the Huskies roster as they hope to return to the Promised Land and make some noise. "We have a great group of seniors whose leadership has been on display this summer," said Coach Baldwin. "We will have some new Varsity runners who have worked hard this summer and are excited to race, and I look forward to seeing how our team grows each race this fall."
Head Coach/assistant coaches: Jay Renaud/Bryan Quesea, Dave Frintner
Last year's finish: State Championship- 23rd place
Key returners: Landon Samp (So, Quinn Davis (Jr), Finley Moss (Sr), Luke Robinson (Jr), Brody Cushing (Jr), Colin Ryan (Jr), Ben Wilkin (Sr), Boris Dimitrov (Sr)
Newcomers: Bobby Wintermute (Fr), Pierce Baker (Fr), Nate Favia (Fr), Ethan Yonan (Fr)
Outlook: Coach Jay Renaud believes his team is going to be special. "We far exceeded expectations this spring and, because of that, have a lot of confidence going into this fall," he said with a smile. "We return five guys at 4:33 or faster for 1600m and five guys at 9:50 or faster for 3200m. Our pack and depth will be our strength." This unit could be a top-five unit if someone develops beyond what the coaching staff projects this fall. "We will be up there with the best teams in
the state and intend on having Prospect's best cross country season ever."
12. LaGrange (Lyons)
Head Coach: Mike Danner
Last year's finish: State Championship- 4th place
Key returners: Benjamin Wuggazer (Sr), Tate Pavelka (Sr), John O'Halloran (Sr), Charles Ciesla (Sr), Patrick Collins (Jr), Aaron Obert (Sr)
Outlook: If there is a word for 'year-after-year quality' in high school cross country, the Lions of Lyons Township would be in the dictionary. Coach Mike Danner's teams have placed in the top five over a half-dozen times since 2010, including garnering one trophy. Despite Nick Strayer and Cillian Henning graduating, this team will be just as good--the next set of young men are ready to step up. Ben Wuggazer leads a pack of four teammates at 35 seconds. The fifth runner will be a work in progress.
Head Coach/assistant coaches: John Taylor/Roy White, Chuck Hoff
Last year's finish: State Championship- 19th place
Key returners:
Bryce Counihan (Jr), Kyle Friedl (Sr), Jack Galminas (Sr), Braden Hoff (Sr), Cian Scanlon (So), Gavin Hoff (So), Ronin Borgeson, Andrew Nilson (So)
Newcomers: Russell Welch (Fr), Ryan Zartler (Fr), Colin White (Fr)
Outlook: The Knights surprised everyone but themselves last year after finishing in the top 20 at the state meet. Guess what? They return a 15:28 scoring average and a team 1:08 scoring split. This means they will be even better if all things are equal. "We believe our Knights will surprise many this season," alludes coach John Taylor. "Building on a successful track season, the boys have diligently logged miles all summer. Our team goals include winning Conference and Regionals, as well as not only qualifying for the prestigious State Meet again but also breaking into the Top Ten at State. The Knights will focus on implementing effective pack-running strategies."