2A-
Summary: East St. Louis should be nicknamed the Frequent Flyers, given the destinations they have been to and will be at for competitions. The Flyers have produced some good performances, resulting in the top spot for the preseason number-one team. Darius Ivy and Shammond McClain have been early season stars and class leading 4x2 and 4x400m relays.
Sycamore opened their season recently and came out blazing. Individually Dylan Hodges produced three top ten class performances. Aidan Wyzard (NIU football recruit), leads the state in the long jump and produced a sub seven performance in the 60m. The Spartan squad also has competitive relays; it feels as if this team is warming up.
Glenbard South was not on many preseason radars, but the Raiders flashed ability, mainly in field events and on the track with Thomas Jochum.
Chicago Payton is a middle distance powerhouse, this early part of the season has not proven otherwise. They lead the state in the 4x800m, and have the second best time in the 4x400 where one of their key cogs sat on the sideline. Preston Ellis and Tra'Monti Williams offer individual threats in the 800 and 1600m. St. Laurence closes out the top five led by speedsters Monroe Thompson Jr and defending 100m state champion Harley Rizzs. The Vikings haven't fully let the dogs loose, that may be coming soon. Power Weekend, maybe?