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2013 DyeStat Illinois XC Previews - 3A Girls TeamsPublished by
Naperville North to face challenge from Glenbard West, Palatine for title repeat
By Michael Newman
From the First end of September until the state meet in November, the Naperville North girls cross country team was rated #1 in the state. Even though their performance at state was not the best of the year according to Naperville North Coach Dan Iverson, it does not matter when you are bringing back to your school a state championship.
Do not expect the same kind of dominance in 2013. Glenbard West is the one team that everyone is looking at. The Lady Hilltoppers return the nucleus of last year’s third place team including state champion Madeline Perez along with 6th place finisher. Throw in sophomore transfer Lindsay Graham from Glenbard East, who was all state in cross country and track, and that will be a pretty big road block for Naperville North. Part of that fire power up front is the reason why Glenbard West is the preseason #1 in 3A.
Don’t think that the above two schools will be battling it out on their own. Palatine, Geneva, and O’Fallon all have tough teams that will be capable of placing in the top 3. Each week will bring a new adventure and possibly some switching of the ratings. Remember the only rankings that count are the ones on November 9.
Here is a look at the top girls’ teams competing in 3A for the 2013 cross country season in Illinois.
3A Girls Top 25
1 Glen Ellyn Glenbard West Coach – Paul Haas 2012 Finish – 3rd 3A State
Key Runners – Madeline Perez SR (1st, 16:02), Lisa Luczak JR (6th, 16:45), Lindsay Graham SO (20th, 17:01), Grace Rogers SO (59th, 17:44), Christina Sedall SO (78th, 17:55), Megan Ozog JR, Caitlyn Reick SO, Kate Dorsey SO, Maddy Burt SO, Janie Nabholz FR, Emma Gambol JR, Annika Manning SR, Nicole Berneche JR.
Outlook – State meets are not won on paper. They are won during the tough workouts of summer and then races in the fall. Coach Paul Haas and his Glenbard West team understands that. There are so many factors that can weigh into that including injury. Glenbard’s team experienced a rash of injuries and sickness last season. Haas hopes that the woes that they went through last year have been addressed.
“I think we are more seasoned in addressing them. With the exception of Lisa Luczak, the girls remained fairly healthy throughout the track season and that makes them stronger physically and mentally going forward,” stated Haas. “I also think that being unable to run at some point in the season last year made them not only hungrier to return to form, but also smarter in addressing injuries or illness with sufficient respect to take appropriate measures to reduce the likelihood of being sidelined for an inordinate amount of time.”
The Lady Hilltoppers had a good summer of training. Four return from last year’s team that placed third. Add in the transfer of Lindsay Graham, this team is looking at some big goals this season. “Our summer went rather well. The girls put a good number of miles in with an emphasis upon cross-training several days during the week in order to reduce the risk of injury. Although the cumulative total of miles per athlete may be somewhat reduced as a result, the amount of training remained steady,” said Haas.
Glenbard has a first three that may be the best trio in the nation. Perez is Perez. The defending state champion could be a big influence on this squad. Individual accolades aside, I would guess she would want both individual and team. But team would be sweeter. Lisa Luczak had injury problems all of last year and is healthy now. Graham is no to the team and has adapted in nicely according to Haas. The next four positions have athletes that will be trading off the spots. Sophomores Grace Rogers, Christina Sedall, Caitlyn Reick, and Junior Megan Ozog will be the runners that can step in here. If injuries hit again, sophomores Abby Shaver and Kate Dorsey could also step in. Also watch for Emma Gambol. She is all state in track and will be cross country for the first time. We will see how she adapts to three miles.
“The only expectations we have is for each girl to work hard and attempt to improve, individually, as a runner compared to the previous year. If we can do that our chances of achieving our team goal of improving upon our state place last year has a greater potential of being attained,” concluded Haas.
Things that could stop this team are injuries and conceit. This team is well grounded knowing that anything can happen at any meet. It will be tough to beat this team when they are healthy. Perez, Luczak, and Graham could all be in the top 5. The big thing will be the gap between three and four. If their gap there is 30 seconds or less, a state championship may be heading back to Glen Ellyn.
2 Naperville North Coach – Dan Iverson 2012 Finish – 1st 3A
Key Runners – Elly DeTurris JR (14th, 16:57), Maria McDaniel SR (21st, 17:04), Judy Pendergast SO (23rd, 17:09), Kate Shannon SO (47th, 17:35), Jenny Smith JR (69th, 17:50), Alex Moxon SR (203rd, 19:47), Emory Griffin SO, Ella Guppy SO, Lauren Houston SR, Allison Ray SO, Emily Hamilton JR, Jenny Gibson SO, Tori Trezona JR, Abby Sikorcin JR, Claire Hamilton FR, Grace Martinez FR, Grace McCormick FR, Kayla Glowacki FR, Gabby Champion FR.
Outlook – How could it be that the defending state champions that are returning 6 of their top 7 and are rated second? Part of it has to do with Glenbard West right now. This team is scary deep. It could be possible that 3 athletes from the top 7 could be overtaken in the lineup. There are at least 17 runners that are challenging for the top 7. Yes, that is how deep and good that this team is.
“We had a nice summer of training. The girls worked hard and are reasonably healthy,” said Dan Iverson. Three all state runners will lead the team again. Elly DeTurris had a great track season and will be in the mix for 7th or better individually. Maria McDaniel is the leader of this team. She challenged DeTurris for the top spot most of the year. Typically they would be within 10 seconds of each other. Judy Pendergast was the third runner during the state series. She did not run like a freshman during that time. She was diagnosed with an iron deficiency at the beginning of outdoor track and missed the rest of the season. Kate Shannon, Jenny Smith, and Alex Moxon were all part of the top seven last year. All are capable of running in the top 5.
One runner that I would watch is Emory Griffin. She transferred from Central Bucks West HS in Pennsylvania at the beginning of the track season. She ran 5:14 outdoors. Last year in Pennsylvania, she finished 21st in the Pennsylvannia AAA state meet as a freshman. She could be in the top 5. Iverson mentioned that Freshmen Claire Hamilton and Grace Martinez could be in the mix for the top 7. Hamilton has been able to run with the first group. She could be in the top 5. Also watch for Ella Guppy. She played volleyball last fall but went out for track last spring. She ran 5:15 for the mile. Iverson convinced her to come out. The rich got richer. Remember what I said, this team is extremely deep with talent. Any of the runners on the list could be in the mix.
Iverson basically has not changed his schedule. The only thing that he had to adapt was their own invitational is on the same weekend as the Roy Griak Invitational in Minnesota. Iverson is planning to run his top 7 in Minnesota. The rest of the team will run in their own invite. It will be extremely interesting to see how their “JV” team fares. On some teams, this JV would be a varsity squad.
“We expect to be good this year. I’m sure our targets will be similar to what they were last year. We know it won’t be remotely easy, however. We are fully aware of teams like Glenbard West and Palatine as teams very capable of winning a championship as well. I’m not sure if I’ve noticed any changes in our attitude, but we certainly seem to have trained well. It is really our hope that the three of them (DeTurris, McDaniel, & Pendergast) will be joined by a few of their teammates to give us a very tough front group,” concluded Iverson.
The key for the Huskies is having their first three as close to the Glenbard West top three as possible then having two more runners in that first 30. The talent for them to do that is possible. Iverson will have his team ready to defend their championship on November 9.
3 Palatine Coach – Joe Parks 2012 Finish – 5th 3A State
Key Runners – Jessica Lincoln SR (33rd, 17:23), Cassidy McPherson SR (52nd, 17:38), Amy Kieliszewski JR (64th, 17:48), Sabina Yosif SO (130th, 18:26), Madi Berg SR (152nd, 18:42), Liz Cox SR (198th, 19:27), Kara Barton JR, Anna Maria Quiroga JR, Kelly O’Brien JR, Megan Beach JR, Abril Malagon SR, Sam Lechowicz SO, Noemi Portillo SR.
Outlook – While everyone will be watching Naperville North and Glenbard West, Palatine could sneak in. With the talent that Joe Parks has, I would not call it sneak. Six runners return from last year’s fifth place team. The Lady Pirates thought that their team should have been returning to Palatine with a trophy. That has been hovering over this team all year. A tem with a chip on their shoulder is kind of tough to beat.
“Most of our top group trained well together, said Parks. “We took a team trip down to the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois with 22 girls and it was great training and good bonding. We have lots of hard workers on this team.” With Tess Wasowicz graduated, Jessica Lincoln will step in to the top spot. According to Parks, this senior is bound and determined to make her senior season her best. Three other seniors are on this veteran squad. Cassidy McPherson finished 52nd a year ago. Her track season was strong. That should correspond to a great cross country campaign. Liz Cox did not have the best state meet last year as she was third fourth runner most of the season. She ran 5:06 in track and along with McPherson was part of Palatine’s 2nd place 4x8 team at state. Madi Berg could also step into the top 5.
Sabrina Yousif ran in the top seven last year as a freshman. She had a great track season ending with an 11:09 3200 at the Palatine Sectional. Do not be surprised if she is in the top three. Kelly O’Brien and Noemi Portillo also had breakout seasons in track. Watch for them to challenge for a top 7 spot.
“Expectations are high as we have 6 of our top 7 back from state, so I am quite optimistic,” stated Parks. “Lots of good senior leadership and experience in Lincoln, Cox, and McPherson and a really deep, hard-working group behind them. We hope to be mixing it up with the best teams in the state by the end of the season.” This team has the talent that could challenge for a championship. Lincoln will be in the top 20. Parks could have his next four runners in the first 40. Palatine will face a tough schedule in the MSL and the Hornet Red Devil, Richard Spring, and Palatine Invitationals in September. They should have a good indication how good this team is after that month.
4 Geneva Coach – Bob Thomson 2012 Finish – 6th 3A State
Key Runners – McKenzie Altmayer SO (36th, 17:27), Brooke Nusser JR (42nd, 17:31), Kathlyn Adelman SR (56th, 17:42), Sydney Geils SR (75th, 17:54), Marin Leone JR (112th, 18:19), Emma McSpadden SO (124th, 18:28), Laura Marschitz SR, Kassidy Donohue SO, Kylie Monahan JR, Katie Anderson SR, Taylor Gooding JR, Courtney Reynolds JR, Jill McDowell JR, Jordan Anderson SO.
Outlook – The Lady Vikings are another squad that has the talent to compete for a trophy. Six of the top 7 return for Bob Thomson. Expectations are high for this school. McKenzie Altmayer and Brooke Nusser traded off the top spot during last season. Both are capable of placing at the top 20 in state. Kathlyn Adelman had a good track season. At state, she was within 11 seconds of this duo. This is something we should see more of during this campaign.
Sydney Geils, Marin Leone, and Emma McSpadden will battle for the final two spots during the year. It’s a good problem to have. Also watch for senior Laura Marschitz to be in that group as well.
Thomson is very modest with the goals that he has for his team. “Having 6 of our 7 returning from last season, I would expect our team to make improvements on last season. At the very least we would like to replicate some of last season’s results which was conference champs of the Upstate Eight River Division and also to return to state.”
Geneva’s 48 split that they had at state last year will not be good enough to get a trophy in November this year. Geneva has the potential to place three in the first 30. Then have two more runners in the next 15. To do that they would have to have a 36 second 1-5 spread.
5 O’Fallon Coach – Neil James 2012 Finish – 9th 3A State Meet
Key Runners – Sydney Neal SR (32nd, 17:22), Samantha Lapp SR (34th, 17:25), Toni Cardenas JR (55th, 17:41), Reagan Lear SR (109th, 18:16), Casey Carter (123rd, 18:26), Angela Buch JR (134th, 18:28), Noelle Glister JR, Andrea George SR, Olivia Taitt SR, Rachel Russel JR, Hannah Nabb SO, Sam Tidwell SO, Sarah Duffy SO, Marta Durk FR.
Outlook – Another team that is loaded with talent. O’Fallon again will be the class of southern Illinois and possibly a top three tem in the state. The Panthers return their top 6 runners all of which that have high ambitions.
“We had a great summer of training as we had more girls involved than in the past. Once again this summer the girls improved upon what they had done the previous summer,” said Neil James. That is all you can ask of a team. It’s the steps you take along the way. O’Fallon is doing it the right way.
James will have a good trio at the front. Sydney Neal, Samantha Lapp, and Tori Cardenas were within 18 seconds of each other most of the season. If their pack starts in the teens at state, that would be very beneficial to their trophy chances. The thing will be able to get the next runners closer to the first three. Reagan Lear was usually 25 seconds behind the first three. That has to get closer. Noelle Glister did not train during the summer last year because she moved in at the start of school. She had a good summer and could be the fourth or fifth runner. Casey Carter and Angela Buch have the state experience from last year and will be a huge plus for this top 7.
“We return 6 of our top 7 and 9 of our top 12 so we want to improve upon last year’s 9th place finish. We have more experience and talent than we have ever had. The team is excited about getting started and seeing what they can do. We have great leadership with Sydney Neal, Samantha Lapp, and Tami Cardenas,” said James. The key for success is to have a 13 second split on 1-3, a 15 second gap, then a 7 second split on 4-5. If they can become consistent in doing that, they could bring back a trophy to Southern Illinois.
6 Naperville Central Coach – Aislinn Hicks 2012 Finish – 16th 3A State
Key Runners – Katie Hoffman JR (37th, 17:27), Ruta Raulickis SR (92nd, 18:02), Rachel Hoffman JR (97th, 18:05), Ellie Marcet SO (115th, 18:23), Isabel Lopez JR (142nd, 18:31), Emily White SR (145th, 18:34), Allie Ciha SR (164th, 18:49), Nicole Hoffman JR, Maggie McClowry SO, Grace Lee SR, Kyra Conroy SO, Meredith Staunch JR, Karen McGowin SR, Holly Becker JR, Gianna Gorzak JR.
Outlook – The Lady RedHawks will have a great pack this year with the return of all seven state runners and 12 out of the first fourteen runners. The team had a great summer of running according to Aislinn Hicks and should be ready to improve on their sixteenth place finish.
Rita Raulickis and Katie Hoffman traded off the spot for most of last season’s meet. Hoffman was the first runner at both the sectionals and state. Rachel’s sisters Rachel and Nicole should compete for a top 7 spot. Nicole was injured most of last year. If she is healthy, she can compete with her sisters.
The top 7 is pretty much interchangeable after K Hoffman and Raulickis. Ellie Marcet, Isabel Lopez, Emily White, and Allie Ciha could all be in the top 5 this year.
Katie Hoffman was up in the top 40 last year which would have been a huge plus if the pack was not 35 seconds behind her. With a team like this, the emphasis has to be running together. If there front runner can get into the top 25 at state and then they have a 25 second split (which is possible), this team could be in the top 5 at Detweiller.
7 Winnetka New Trier Coach – John Burnside 2012 Finish – 4th 3A State
Key Runners – Mimi Smith JR (12th, 16:56), Ooma-Jung Beeman SO (95th, 18:03), Kaitlin Frei SR (119th, 18:22), Kelli Schmidt SO (126th, 18:23), Cameron Coughlin SO, Molly Krueger SR, Marguierete Myles SR, Anna Sanafillipo SR, Gabrielle Kraus JR, Molly Handelmann SR, Katherine Shapiro SR.
Outlook – It will be kind of different for New Trier. Courtney & Jessica Ackerman along with Kathleen Keene have graduated all of whom were part of some great squads. Not only will they be missed on the course, but their leadership will be missed as well. Four runners are back from last year’s fourth place squad.
“Summer training went well as we tried to work with the combination of new talent and older athletes that are at a far higher intensity in everything they do,” said John Burnside.
Mimi Smith has been all-state her first two years and will be looked upon to be the lead runner on this team. She has the talent to be in the top 5 this fall. The change will be in how this team will have to run. There was always three runners that were up towards the front so they could count on the low numbers. This year, it will be Smith providing single digit points, then who?
There will have to be concentration of keeping the second through fifth runners together. They have the talent to do that in Kaitlin Frei, Ooma-Jung Beeman, and Kelli Schmidt supplying three of the four. A fifth could come from either Molly Krueger or Cameron Coughlin. New Trier will also have a good freshman class coming in. They will not be a factor early on but will be ready to contribute by the state series.
The pack needs to be within 50 seconds of Smith, then 20 seconds of each other. That will take a lot of work on and off the course to bond that group together. “We will miss Court, Jess and Kathleen Keene every day, not just Saturdays,” Burnside said. “The team is adjusting by taking a little more ownership of everyone’s role. Each athlete will need to carry more weight without leaders like them to push, support and score the way they did. Their legacy of hard work and drive is still very evident in the team.”
8 Downers Grove South Coach – Doug Plunkett 2012 Finish – 15th 3A State
Key Runners – Haley Albers SR (17:48), Abby Kargol JR (70th, 17:51), Meaghan Bosman SR (147th, 18:37), Amanda Thate JR (185th, 19:05), Jillian Boyle SO (19:59), Meredith Robinson SR, Michaela Hackbarth SO, Mary Beine JR, Hannah Anderson SR, Erin Gentille SR, Allison Heitpas JR, Megan Wicklein SO.
Outlook – What probably was in the minds of the Downers Grove South’s team training during the summer were the thoughts of last year’s state meet. Coming into state at Detweiller, the Mustangs had been dominant sweeping their conference, regional, and sectional races. At state, they did not have their best race of the year. They finished 15th. Five return from that team wanting to improve on that finish.
The first four should be tough for Plunkett. Haley Albers had a breakout year on the track running 10:54. She has the confidence and talent to run in the top 25. Close behind her should be Juniors Abby Kargol and Amanda Thate along with Senior Meaghan Bosman. Kargol was within five seconds of Albers at state. The key will be keeping them close together in big meets. A fifth runner will need to step up as well. Either Jillian Boyle, Mary Beine, or Meredith Robinson would be the lead candidates to do so.
The team had a 1-5 split averaging near 40 seconds heading into the state meet. At state, it was 49 seconds. Those 9 seconds are enough to change a 7th place team with a team 10 places back. That is what happened with DGS. The pack has to be tight this year for success. “We need a 5th runner to step up if we are going to be successful against the better teams. Depth will be a big issue for us this season. Our team goals are to win conference, regionals, sectionals, and place top 10 at state,” said Plunkett.
9 Hoffman Estates Coach – Kirk Macnider 2012 Finish – 9th Schaumburg Sectional
Key Runners – Alondra Aguirre JR, Meagan Biddle SO, Solome Haile SR, Elsabet Haile SR, Yazmin Nunez SO, Kaylan Williams JR, Reena Prabhu SO, Natasha Subbarao SR, Monica Zawisza SO.
Outlook – This is a team that was hipping in and out of the top 25 last year. This year, the Lady Hawks should have a good foundation in there. Their sectional finish of ninth last year still does not sit with them well and they have used it this summer. Four return from this team that has drastically improved over the last year.
“Summer training was very exciting. We made some changes to a few things in terms of endurance/training mileage, and I’m very pleased with the results,” said Kirk Macnider. Meagan Biddle could be the surprise of this team. She came out for cross country with five weeks to go in the season and ended up as their fourth runner. In track, she ran 5:02 / 11:15 in track. With a summer of good training, it will be interesting to see how good she will be. Alondra Aguirre should be close or ahead of Biddle. The junior has been All-MSL her first two years. Solome & Elisabet Haile both had good summers and will provide solid leadership on this team. The fifth runner should be Yazmin Nunez who had dramatic improvement during the track.
The one-two punch of Aguirre and Biddle could give this Hawk squad a chance of placing high in major invitationals. If they can keep the split to within 45 seconds, this team could do some damage.
“The team and I were tremendously disappointed to not qualify to State last year. It changed them mentally during the track season; they learned to stop expecting to be great simply because past teams were. The results showed. The 4x800 was high completive all year with many different squads. The top 5 returners have all ran 11:49 and faster in the 3200, which should make us pretty solid. That drive and focus on State XC is very much alive and at the forefront of our goals,” added Macnider. “We always strive to compete to win an MSL championship. This is an extremely talented group that is eager to take the program to the next level; the girls have put the work in. Anytime the work has been put in properly (both mentally AND physically) in the past summers, we have achieved our goals. The only thing we can’t control is what other teams do; we will be better than last year and I expect that improvement to put us where we want to be. We typically have a pretty small varsity training group, and we need everyone, from the newest runner to parents to captains, to step up to achieve our ultimate goals.”
10 Orland Park Sandburg Coach – Jennifer Genslinger 2012 Finish – 13th – 3A State
Key Runners – Carly Krull SR (15th, 16:58), Grace Foley SO (17th, 17:01), Jacquelyn Schirmacher SR (118th, 18:22), Renee Letz JR (133rd, 18:28), Annie Lebert JR (184th, 19:02), Victoria Hatch SR (190th, 19:16), Meghan Mokaite JR, Taila Abusharif SO, Amber Boyce SR, Annie Connolly JR, Megan Brinker SR, Mital Patel SR, Casey Jensen FR.
Outlook – The turmoil is behind then and the Eagles are looking forward to the 2013 season Jennifer Genslinger steps in as the new coach. Six runners return from last year’s team. Anything better than what they placed last year will do for them.
Genslinger has the luxury to have two runners that could place in the top 10. Carly Krull has the talent to place in the top five in November. It would not surprise me to see Grace Foley in the top 10. After that, there is a good three-five pack that needs to get closer to the front two. Jacquelyn Schumacher and Renee Letz were within five seconds of each other during the season. Both of these runners were close to 90 seconds at the worst behind Foley. That gap needs to close. Either Annie Lebert or Victori Hatch could step into the first five.
“This summer’s training was excellent. We were able to meet and get some good mileage in. We are very focused on our team goals - one being making it to state again as a team!! We are really focusing on PR's this year as well,” said Genslinger. This could be a top 5 team. The 1-5 split needs to come down and that will happen when the gap between two and three decreases. The potential is there to do that.
11 Park Ridge Maine South Coach – Jeff Downing 2012 Finish – 10th 3A State
Key Runners – Emily Leonard SR (9th, 16:51), Mirae Mastrolonardo SR (79th, 17:55), Gina Johnson SO (114th, 18:19), Caitlin Eckhart SR (114th, 18:19), Sylvia Kimec SR, Olivia Ryan SO, Emily Stevens SO, Lindsay McDill SR, Kate Nedza SO, Julia Sirvinskas SO.
Outlook – Four runners return from the team that placed a year ago. Three of the top 4 runners will be seniors. The rest of the top seven should be young according to Jeff Dowling. It may take a little bit for this team to grow.
Emily Leonard returns for a chance to earn her fourth all-state in cross country. She could be in the top 7 this year at the worst. Mirae Mastrolonardo and Caitlin Eckhart are the other seniors that should be in the top 5. Look for sophomores Olivia Ryan, Julia Sirvinskas, and Gina Johnson to battle for the top five spot as well.
Last year it was Leonard and then a gap. Expect more of the same this season. I could see the two-five split at 25 seconds. The gap between one and two needs to be under a minute for this team to improve on last year’s finish. “We had a good group of runners over the summer and expect to have another large team this year,” said Downing. “It will be interesting to see who steps up and provides the spark or the depth for our squad this year.”
12 St. Charles North Coach – Shari Hayes 2012 Finish – 17th 3A State
Key Runners – Ashley England SR (40th, 17:29), Nina Olshever SO (67th, 17:48), Kaylee Wessel SR (127th, 18:23), Shelby Artman SO (140th, 18:34), Caitlyn Campbell SO, Audrey Blankenship SR, Natalia Gawlik SR, Alyssa Ishrandt SO, Katie Francissen SO, Allie Chen FR, Madison Kaufman FR.
Outlook – Four of the top five runners return from last year’s state team. The dynamics of the top 5 should be similar to a year ago. “I had my largest group running this summer. I had 42 girls in camp when I usually have about 25. The girls put in a lot of hard work this summer and we look ready to start the season,” said Shari Hayes.
Ashley England again should be the top runner for the North Stars. She was 40th a year ago and looks to improve on that. Nina Olshever was #1 runner a couple of times during the year and will give England good support up front. Kaylee Wessel and Shelby Artman form the next pack. Wessel and Artman were 35-40 seconds behind the front two last year. That gap needs to close up. Caitlyn Campbell, Audrie Blankenship, and freshman Allie Chen should battle for the fifth spot.
The 1-5 split was over 60 minutes last year. That needs to come down if St Charles North wants to place higher. “We only lost our 5th, 6th and 7th runner from last season. We have a number of athletes that can easily match the abilities of the graduating seniors from last season,“ said Hayes. "Ashley England and Kaylee Wessel are both health and running with new goals. They should be stronger this season. We expect to be a similar team as we were last season.”
13 Elmhurst York Coach – Annette Schulte 2012 Finish – 14th 3A State
Key Runners – Caitlin Blum SR (110th, 18:06), Hannah Wahlgren JR (132nd, 18:27), Elizabeth Hagstrom SO (161st, 18:47), Dayle Mueller JR (163rd, 18:48), Alison Smith SR, Maddy Fabry JR, Katherine Hagstrom SR, Erica Hackett JR, Alyssa Adam SR, Kenia Sanchez JR, Mikayla Frigo JR, Bridget Berger FR.
Outlook – Of course York will miss Emma Fisher, who has graduated and off to Stanford, and their #2 runner Katherine Schlemmel who graduated as well. This team will be different from what was the last couple of years.
The last few years it has been Fisher and the pack. 2013 will have to be a team that will have to concentrate on the pack. Hannah Wahlgren and Caitlin Blum should be the first two runners most of the season. Elizabeth Hagstrom, Dayle Mueller, and Allison Smith should be the others that should be in the top 5 at the start of the season. If this team can keep a 40 second split and move the pack up as the season progresses, York has the talent to return to state. “We had a great summer. All of the runners had a steady progress,” said Annette Schulte. “We would like to qualify for state as a team, improve tempo pace, and develop a good pack strategy.”
14 Minooka Coach – Kevin Gummerson 2012 Finish – 19th 3A State
Key Runners – Morgan Crouch SO (68th, 17:49), Maura McAsey SR (110th, 18:18), Haley McNamara (113th, 18:19), Kaitlyn Chetney SR (140th, 18:29), Caleigh Beverly SR (154th, 18:43), Haley Renison SR (182nd, 19:00), Gaby Gall JR, Caitlin Kurtz SO, Coleen Coyle JR, Keely Doran SO, Ashley Tutt FR, Mackenzie Callahan FR, Ali Mondrella FR.
Outlook – Minooka is a good bet to make it to state as most likely they will be in the Edwardsville Sectional. This is a team that could be in the top ten (or top five) if this team continues to improve like they did a year ago. “This was an outstanding summer for these girls. They understand that if you want to accomplish your goals in November, then you have to work in June, July, and August,” said Kevin Gummerson. “There is still a ton of work to do; however, they were able to lay the foundation so that we can do the work that is needed to get to Peoria, and then run our best possible race there.”
Six of last year’s seven return with hopes of getting into that top 10. The key to success last year was having a good, tight pack. It was with a 40-45 second average. This year they need to move that pack up. Morgan Crouch, in her second year, should see more of a dramatic improvement. She is capable running in the low 17:10's this season. Maura McAsey, Haley McNamara, Kaitlyn Chetney, and Caleigh Beverly form a tough top 5.
“I have high expectations for this 2013 team. We have a great blend of youthful enthusiasm and a very experienced senior class. These senior girls have been through a lot of big meets together and have had some great races over the years. They are looking to close out their HS careers with our best race in November,” said Gummerson. “They have gradually started to believe that they can be a competitive team on the state level. There is no doubt that they gained some confidence by earning a state medal in the 4 X 8 this past spring. We need to carry that confidence over to the XC course. We are looking forward to a great season.”
15 Lockport Township Coach – Evon Marie Schlotter 2012 Finish – 18th 3A State
Key Runners – Bianca Wiemeyer SR (99th, 18:06), Taylor Stortz JR (18:22), Madeline Rodriguez SR (146th, 18:36), Emmie Hahn JR (157th, 18:45), Aubrey Elwood SR (201st, 19:42), Haley Beaumont JR, Alicia Ary SO, Taylor Latta SR, Isabella Krockey SO, Brooke Kramer SO, Morgan Bollinger FR, Karlee Stortz FR.
Outlook – The top two runners from last year’s state meet have graduated. Junior Taylor Stortz injured her leg in soccer last spring and will not be able to run this fall. Still, this is a team that could improve on last year’s 18th place finish at state.
The big plus for Coach Evon Schlotter is that she will have Haley Beaumont back. The junior was the #1 runner up until after conference. “Haley was experiencing leg pain (possible pre-stress fracture) at the close of last year, so we made a decision to not run her in the remaining meets,” said Schlotter. She should be running with Bianca Wiemeyer at the front. If both stay healthy, they could finish in the top 50 individually.
“This year’s team will try to take last year’s team philosophy to the next step. Last year was the first time in several years that we did not have any returning “all state” runners. As a team, we all agreed that we needed to concentrate on the best way to enable our team to advance to the next level in post season meets,” added Schlotter. “Athletes on the team last year agreed that best method of accomplishing this was to dedicate the season to going back to basics and running in the tightest pack we could and simply moving that pack up as much as possible throughout the season. Our team this year finds themselves in the same situation. We will continue with the same philosophy as last year and see if we can better what we did in the post season last year.” If Wiemeyer and Beaumont are in the top 50 and Lockport can run the 40 second split that they did last year, the Lady porters could end up in the top 10.
16 Barrington Coach – Deb Revolta 2012 Finish – 8th 3A State
Key Runners – Lauren Conroy SO (19th, 17:09), Caroline Reynolds SR (30th, 17:18), Kristen Patino SR (138th, 18:29), Camille Blaisdell SR (169th, 18:52), Lauren Cropsey JR, Jenna Privatskey SR, Ingrid Peterson JR, McCall Miles SR, Joelle Gross JR, Morgan Eisenhauer SO, Addison Coy FR, Rianna DeLaurentis FR, MacKenzie Cline FR.
Outlook – Four runners return from last year’s eighth place team. It helps that the top two return led by Lauren Conroy. She finished 19th last year as a freshman. She should be in the top 10 individually in November. Caroline Reynolds just finished out of the top 25 last year in 30th. She is a good possibility to place higher. There is a gap over a minute after those two. That gap after the first two needs to decrease for this team to be in the top 10. Lauren Cropsy, Kristen Patino, and Camille Blaisdell should challenge for the next three spots.
“Lauren and Caroline will be our leaders up front. They are both very motivated for the 2013 season and they have been working hard all summer,” said Deb Revolta. “As far as expectations we would like to get better as a team from week to week. We would also like to qualify for the State Meet and improve on our 8th Place finish from last year.”
17 Lake Zurich Coach – Ian Silverman 2012 Finish – 7th Schaumburg Sectional
Key Runners – Katie Fabbrini JR, Kristie Houghton SO, Meghan Gelinas SR, Nicole Syverson JR, Laura McNair JR, Christina Eddleman JR, Jenna Roach SR, Julia Kuhn SR, Ruthie Rosenkranz JR, Alexa Ocampo SO, Laura Messerschmidt SR.
Outlook – It was not the best end of a season for Lake Zurich. They were not 100% but still ended up with a seventh place finish. It is working a little better entering this year. “All things considered, pretty good. We had a lot of consistency in getting the runs in, the girls seemed pretty focused, and they were doing a good job of keeping each other on the road between and after our summer camps,” said Ian Silverman. “There is a fairly high level of intensity already, so we are hoping to capitalize on that as best we can.”
This will be a young team with four of the first five most likely to be underclassmen headed up by Katie Fabbrini and Kristie Houghton. The early part of the season will be finding the right runners for the top five. “The number one goal is to get a berth back down state at the end of the season. We were 7th at the Schaumburg sectional last year, and it was a rough time for us. We came in with a lot of injuries and then we had some unexpectedly disheartening results on top of that. Not that we weren't facing what any number of other teams there were, but we are fairly confident that we had the right athletes to make the top five on the right day. But it didn't work out that way,” added Silverman. “So that's our focus. We would also like to reclaim the conference title, and are happy to see a number of strong teams in the North Suburban to help keep us attentive to doing what we need to do. And finally, we expect to have fun; it's a long season when that isn't happening.”
18 Hinsdale Central Coach – Mark McCabe 2012 Finish – 11th 3A State
Key Runners – Becca Marcotte SR (83rd, 17:57), Sophie May JR (98th, 18:06), Emma Sullivan SO (101st, 18:07), Sarah Brennan JR (122nd, 18:22), Annie Zaher SO, Susan Spencer JR, Sarah Folliard JR, Camilla Horowitz JR, Molly Leahy JR, Alexa Haff FR.
Outlook – I could see this team in the top ten by the end of September. Four return from last year’s state team led by Becca Marcotte. She had an off state meet last year. Don’t be surprised if she is close to the top 30 in November. Another runner to watch is sophomore Annie Zaher. This will be her first year of cross country. Last year as a freshman she ran 5:07 for 1600. If Marcotte is in the first thirty, I could see a 35 second split. That kind of split could give the Red Devilettes a top 10 finish. “Our goal is to be the very best when it counts the most,” said Mark McCabe. “As long as we focus on the process, the results will take care of themselves.”
19 Mt. Prospect – Prospect Coach – Dave Wurster 2012 Finish – 12th 3A State
Key Runners – Hannah Getschman JR (63rd, 17:47), Maggie Sullivan JR (149th, 18:39), Katrina Leeney SR (156th, 18:44), Rachel Henk SR (162nd, 18:48), Ellen Siefke JR, Sarah Busby SR, Caroline Hempleman JR, Kendall Neumann SO, Gina Burck SR, Abby Jackson SR, Brooke Wilson FR, Molly Leeney FR.
Outlook – It will be a historic year for Prospect. Dave Wurster is retiring after this school year and we would like this cross country season to be a memorable one. He was hoping to have Christina Santiago out on the cross country team instead of tennis. The 4:55 miler decided to play tennis for her senior year. “She will be the best miler in the state playing tennis…I guarantee that,” said Wurster.
Prospect will also be without Brooke Wolfe and Lauren Poplawski, both of who have graduated. He will have four back from last year’s state team led by Hannah Getschman, who was the third runner last year. Maggie Sullivan, Rachel Henk, Katrina Leeney, and Brooke Wilson are expected to be in the top 5. “We would like to have a great pack racing plan, first time in many years we don't have an all-stater returning,” said Wurster. “We would like to maintain our high finishes in conference, regional, sectional, and state. Like top 2 or 3 in all those but state, I think top 10 is a more realistic goal there.”
20 Schaumburg Coach – Jason Beer 2012 Finish – 22nd
Key Runners – Ali Gutt JR (89th, 18:00), Caroline Kurdej JR (91st, 18:01), Debra Sodimu SR (172nd, 18:54), Erin Falsey JR (177th, 18:56), Paige Schackelton SR (192nd, 19:18), Darneisha Spann SR, Celeste Pena JR, Dureti Godana SO, Amanda Alberth JR, Elie O’Connell FR.
Outlook – The Lady Saxons will look to improve on last season’s state meet finish. Five return from that team. Caroline Kurdej should be the top runner for Coach Jason Beer. Her state meet was not the best. She should improve on her 91st place finish. Ali Gutt and Erin Falsey should have a tight 2-3 pack. If Kurdej is in the top 25 and they have a 60 second split, this could be a top 10 team.
“A few of our main team goals are to qualify for state and finish higher than we did last year. The main thing that we are shooting towards though is finishing at our best at the end of the year,” said Beer.
21 Gurnee Warren Coach – Brett Heimstead 2012 Finish – 21st 3A State
Key Runners – Becky Haight JR (111th, 18:19), Greta Doden SR (129th, 18:26), Michelle Klint JR (166th, 18:57), Courtney Krause SR, Tori Nelson SR, Taylor Weiss JR, Sammi Nixon JR, Jennifer Saigh JR.
Outlook – It was a surprise that Warren made it to state last year. It could be another surprise year for this team even though Brett Heimstead lost 5 of his first 8. Watch for the emphasis this year for this team to have a tight pack since there are no apparent front runners.
Becky Haight and Greta Doden look to be the two that will lead this team. The talent on this squad indicates that this team could have a 35 second 1-5 spread. How far up is yet to be determined. “I always look to get the most out of what we have from my entire team. When all of the girls from top to bottom work hard everyone is motivated to give their best every day. Everyone setting PR’s throughout the season is always the biggest goal,” said Heimstead. “We would like to contend for the Conference Title and be in the Top 5 at Sectionals. Honestly, I would love to repeat going to the State Meet – we have a strong squad 1-7 with some outsiders trying to fight their way in, but it will depend on how much we can progress throughout the season. Last year we peaked at the right time and that got us to state. We need to keep our nose to the grind stone and work hard for what we want to achieve.”
22 LaGrange Lyons Township Coach – Stetson Steele 2012 Finish – 20th 3A State
Key Runners – Lexy Rudofski SR (107th, 18:15), Natalie Jaramillo SO (153rd, 18:42), Kate Heinz SR (174th, 18:54), Elaine Smith SR (181st, 18:58), Michaela Nicholson SR, Diana Kafkes SO, Katie Hamor JR, Sam Stuba JR, Emma Heinz JR, Cera Kelly JR.
Outlook – There are no real front runners on this squad but there is enough talent on this squad to make it back to state. Four runners are back from last year’s 20th place team. “We had a very good summer,” said Stetson Steele. “The key girls were there on a consistent basis, and they did very good with their weekly long run and beginning tempo runs. Additionally, the girls have continued to run on their own after the end of running club with 25-30 girls coming consistently. I am excited by the way the girls connected and bonded this summer. They seem like a very cohesive group.”
This team is going to live and die with pack running. That is the only way that they will get back to state. Lexy Rudofski should be the front runner on this squad. Katie Hamor, Natalie Jamor, and Kate Heinz should be close to Rudofski. “I expect us to be competitive on the conference and state levels. We are working on changing the mentality from "we made the state meet" to "we ran our best race as a team at the state meet." If we can buy into the idea of pack-running, I think we can be successful,” added Steele. “I am looking forward to seeing what this group can do over the next few weeks.”
23 Chicago St. Ignatius Coach – Matt Haffner 2012 Finish – 7th 3A Niles West Sectional
Key Runners – Jill Poretta JR, Olivia Meyer JR, Alexus Jakubowski JR, Maggie Connolly JR, Kirstyn Ruiz SR, Caro Zadiek SR, Clare Egan SR, Helen Roach JR, Caroline McGowan JR, Catie Tresaller SO, Madeline Grella SR, Grace Troy SO, Anastasia Bouchelion SO.
Outlook – A team that will be in the hunt for a GCAC title hopefully that will take them to state. A good group of 5 runners return from last year’s sectional qualifying team for Matt Haffner.
This is a young but experienced group. Right now, this team does not have a front runner but a good solid pack. That will take them a long way. Alexus Jakubowski, Jill Poretta, and Olivia Meyer should be the leaders in the front pack. Their split should be minimal up front. The key will be get the four-five closer. “I've always said that it doesn't matter what the coaches' goals are unless the kids have similar goals. It seems that this year's group is really focused on working toward winning conference and making it to State. I haven't always had that in the past with the teams at Ignatius,” said Haffner.
24 Downers Grove North Coach – Tim McDonald 2012 Finish – 8th Marist Sectional
Key Runners – Kaitlyn Bonfield SO, Grace Maletich SO, Meghan Bonfield SR, Zayna Jan SR, Stephanie Urbancik SR, Michaela Nicholson SR, Micah Pfotenhauer SR, Rachel Krusenowski SR, Jeanna Murphy SR, Katherine Portman SR, Maci Schaub SO, Hannah Thomas FR, Emma Moravec FR.
Outlook – Injuries defined this team in 2012. The line-up changed weekly and Coach Tim McDonald kept moving runners in and out of the top 7. That could help this year. The Lady Trojans should be able to build off that with the vision of making it back to Peoria in November.
Six return from that sectional team. Expect two sophomores to be the front runners: Kaitlyn Bonfield and Grace Maletich. The key will be getting other runners close to them. Meghan Bonfield and Zayna Jan should be able to do that. “Last year we were destroyed in the fall by injuries. If we can manage to stay healthy, the chemistry of this group and the experience of the senior class could make them a pretty good team come October and November. Our conference is basically Glenbard West on one planet and then us, Hinsdale C., Lyons T., OPRF, & York fighting for 2nd place. I am really excited about this fall and I think regardless of the outcome in the 1st or 2nd week in November, we will be much improved over last year,” said McDonald.
25 Algonquin Jacobs Coach – Kevin Christian 2012 Finish – 7th St. Charles East Sectional
Key Runners – Lauren VanVlierbergen JR (7th, 16:47), Alex Lorenz SO, Courtney Eubanks SO, Kayla Guiliano SR, Tiffany Johnson SR, Molly Barnes JR, Elizabeth Berry SR, Taylor Bona JR, Lauren Melchers SR, Hannah Panku SR, Tegan Trella SO, Kathryn Van Vlierbergen FR.
Outlook – This team should move up in the rankings early in the season. Five runners return from a squad that was rated 9th in the final poll but did not make it out of sectionals.
Even though Coach Kevin Christian lost two key members to graduation, he feels his team is better this year. Lauren VanVierbergen should be one of the elite runners in the state. There will be a gap after her. Alex Lorenz should lead the next pack. Kayla Guiliano had an injury filled junior season. She is healthy and ready to race. A runner to watch is Kathryn VanVierbergen, Lauren’s sister. She has never competed in cross country before, but has the talent to challenge for the second spot.
“I expect the team to be better than they were last season. We are losing two of our top 5 but are gaining Kathryn Van Vlierbergen and a vastly improved Barnes and Eubanks, giving us a better team at the last scoring spots. Alex Lorenz (so.) if coming off a great triathlon season in which she improved on her run and Kayla Giuliano is healthy after an injury plagued junior season and will be better. The team 1-6 should be even better than last year,” said Christian.
The next 10
Naperville Neuqua Valley Coach – Tim McCloskey 2012 Finish – 6th Marist Sectional
Key Runners – Julia Pena SO (84th, 17:57), Claire Costelloe SR (94th, 18:02), Lauren Penkala JR, Maria Pendolfi SR, Anastasia Bernat JR, Alexandra Drechsler SR, Megan Hess SR, Amanda Barkowski SR, Natalie Carter JR, Taylor Sparbanie JR, Alexandra Contreras JR, Kristen Eichammer SR.
Outlook – This might be the year that the girls’ team will make the trip to Peoria with the boys’ squad. Tim McCoskey has 5 runners back with sectional experience. Claire Costelloe and Julia Pena both have state experience and will lead this team. They have the talent to place in the top 50. There should be a pack 35 seconds back with Lauren Penkala leading the group.
“We're looking to take a step this fall,” said McCoskey. “We had a run of about 4 years where we didn't have a freshman break 19:30. We were developing kids, but needed more upfront. As a result, the last 3 years we've gone into sectionals knowing that if we ran well and a few others didn't we could get out. This year I'm hopeful that we can control our own fate.”
Oak Park-River Forest Coach – Tim Tarrant 2012 Finish – 6th Niles West Sectional
Key Runners – Erin Schrobilgen SR (57th, 17:42), Haley Thompson SO (124th, 18:23), Ainsley Tran SO, Hannah Garvin SO, Amy Valentine SR, Jennifer Smith SR, Meredith Blatner SR, Danielle McCormick SR, Hannah Sherman SR, Emma Dempsey SO.
Outlook – Even though this team will be rated fourth or fifth in the rugged West Suburban-Silver Conference, Oak Park-River Forest still could have the runners to make it to Peoria. Erin Schrobilgen finished 57th a year ago. She has the potential to place in the top 25. Sophomore Haley Thompson came on at the end of the year to also qualify. Thompson along with fellow sophomore Ainsley Tran give this team a solid 2-3. There is a 75 second gap between three and four. That needs to decrease if they want to make it to Peoria.
“We have a strong group of new runners this season and as always I emphasize the whole team and not individuals,” said Tom Tarrant. “Our goal this year is to continue to progress as a program by finishing higher in our conference and placing the team or as many individuals down state in November.”
St. Charles East Coach – Mike Backer 2012 Finish – 6th St. Charles East Sectional
Key Runners – Torree Scull JR (31st, 17:20), Corrin Adams SR, Krista Fitzmaurice SR, Jasaline Thompson SR, Anastasia Honea SO, Riley Vicha SO, Rebecca Kelly SO, Monica Thornton SR, Lauren Towne SR, Nadia Kacmar SO, Nicole Klose JR, Jordan Luedke JR.
Outlook – Mike Backer takes over as coach for the Lady Saints. Only three return from last year’s sectional team. The future does look bright. Torree Scull finished 31st last year as a sophomore at state. She has the talent to place in the top 15. Corrin Adams and Krista Fitzmaurice will form the pack behind Scull. Lauren Towne and Jordan Luedke look to be close. That 2-5 pack will need to stay within 45 seconds of each other. Adams needs to be within 30 seconds of Scull.
“Summer training went extremely well for the Lady Saints. Our girls’ demonstrated excellent commitment, determination and focus in their training. They have logged many miles and are ready to race,” said Backer. “Our goals are set very high. We want to compete at the highest levels in conference, regional, sectional and state.”
Hoffman Estates Conant Coach – Ron Theberge 2012 Finish – 13th Schaumburg Sectional
Key Runners – Abby Tripp JR, Zoe Shoro SO, Michelle Marasigan JR, Lauren Caputo JR, Natalia Lakomski SO, Heather Cizek SO, Stephanie Buga SR, Courtney Sherman SR, Sarah Gregory JR, Leanne Frawley SR, Rachel McKenzie SO, Sidney Davis FR.
Outlook – This is a young team that could be a year away from some great things. Ron Theberge has the talent to make next year now. They should have a solid front two with Abby Tripp and Zoe Shorro in front. There will be a gap between these two and the three through five. Michelle Marsigan will lead that group that should be within 10 seconds of each other. If the spread is under 60 seconds of five, this team could do some special things.
“We are still a little young and compete in a rugged division and conference. We would like to improve upon our 7th place finish @ MSL,” said Theberge. “We need to stay healthy, continue to improve and be ready for October and November.”
Wilmette Loyola Academy Coach – ChrisJon Simon 2012 Finish – 10th Niles West Sectional
Key Runners – Sarah Kelly SR, Kathryn House SO, Cecily Martinez SR, Claire Monticello JR, Caroline Zarowski JR, Sammi Evans SR, Jackie McDonell SR, Monica Kaminski JR, Caroline Hague SR, Sarah Langill JR, Anna Clarke JR, Mae Wimbiscus SO, Mary Kate Calle SO.
Outlook – A team that has to challenge St. Ignatius in the GCAC. Sarah Kelly was injured right before sectionals last year is fully healthy. The surprise could be Kathryn House who could push Kelly. This is a good team that could make it to state if they keep their 1-5 split near 52 seconds if Kelly and House are up front during races.
“The team goal is simple. We want to return to the state on November 9th,” said ChrisJon Simon. “Our focus and training is building toward this goal. Our sectional should be loaded.”
Wheaton-Warrenville South Coach – Rob Harvey 2012 Finish – 7th 3A State
Key Runners – Kendall Laveen SO (158th, 18:45), Mary Erdman SO (191st, 19:18), Katie Popejoy JR, Stephanie Gorski SO, Victoria Adamshick JR, Emma Schroer SO, Melinda Franke SR, Julia Bulan SO, Natalia Boettchner JR, Hannah Koropp SR, Holly Eyrich SR.
Outlook – Five runners from last year’s seventh place state team have graduated. Those five were the cornerstone to their team the last three years. In some programs, it would take a couple of years to get back to the top. For Rob Harvey, he has the talent to reload.
This will be a young team…extremely young. I would not surprise me if he brings this team along slowly early on. “As we have always done, our focus will be on October and November. Every practice and meet will help us reach our goals,” Harvey said. “The process is the most important aspect of our program. If we focus the controlling that process and have selfless team-first attitudes, we will be successful this fall.”
Katie Popejoy had an injured packed sophomore season. She is healthy and should be towards the front of the team. Kendall Laveen, Mary Erdman, Stephanie Gorski (all sophomores) have varsity experience and will be on Varsity by the state series. Watch for Victoria Adamshick and Melinda Franke to contribute as well. Harvey will also have some freshman that may contribute in October. This is a young team but talented. I would not be surprised if they climb into the first 15 by the time the state series starts.
Oak Park Fenwick Coach – Mickey Collins 2012 Finish – 8th Niles West Sectional
Key Runners – Olivia Ryan JR (5th, 16:43), Brianna Daley SR (49th, 17:36), Janeen Latz SR, Anna Schierl SR, Ciara Hopkinson SO, Lauren Wartner SO, Quinn Reilly SO, Rachel Clark SR, Brianna McCormick SO.
Outlook – Olivia Ryan will be one of the top runners in 3A again this year. Her teammate Brianna Daley should be in the top 30 this fall. I expect both to again qualify for state as individuals. For this team to qualify, the gap between Daley and the pack needs to be worked on. There is more than a 90 second split in that gap. That needs to come down if this team wants to improve on their sectional performance.
Aurora Metea Valley Coach – Eric Anerino 2012 Finish – 13th St. Charles Sectional
Key Runners – Kendall Cast SR (38th, 17:28), Taylor Majher SR, Analise Carmona SR, Amy Hennessy SR, Emily Blair JR, Rachel Harris SR, Robin Hosmer SR, Kyla Ohst SO, Shelly Cox SO, Alexis Roxas JR, Leana Goldman FR.
Outlook – This is a very senior oriented team that should improve on their sectional performance. Kendall Cast can potentially be in the top 25. Taylor Majher qualified in the 1600 last spring. We could see improvement from her this fall. Ignore the 1-5 split. The 2-5 runners should have a tight pack within 10 seconds of each other. This team improves their ratings if the gap between Cast and the rest drops to 70 seconds.
Oswego East Coach – Lisa Cook 2012 Finish – 10th Marist Sectional
Key Runners – Michelle Borycki SR, Rose Amodca JR, Mollie Korasch SR, Abby Cain SO, Mary McDowell SR, Hannah Baur JR, Colleen Hill SR, Izenet Renteria SR, Laura Shambaugh JR, Alexis Henz FR, Mirabelle Skipworth FR.
Outlook – This is a team that could surprise in their conference and possibly in the state. Their first two runners from last year have graduated, but a strong nucleus is back. Michelle Boricki, Rose Amodca, and Mollie Korasch should be in the front of a strong group. Closeness will be the key for this team. “Last year, we took 10th in the Marist Sectional,” said Lisa Cook. “Our top 2 runners from 2012 have graduated, but I have seen vast improvements in summer training and mental toughness in the team this year. If the girls believe they can surpass the achievements of the teams in the past, I predict a jump in the sectional standings. Our strength will be in our pack, as we do not have a number 1 far ahead of the rest. After just a few days of practice, I am very excited and hopeful for what this season may bring.”
Batavia Coach – Chad Hillman 2012 Finish – 9th St. Charles East Sectional
Key Runners – Dakota Roman SO (58th, 17:44), Jenny Muehlbauer JR, Alicia Grant JR, Lia Kruse SR, Anita Wolff SR, Natalie Mueller JR, Jessica Roach SR, Trisha Spillme SO, Amanda Rempert JR.
Outlook – This team took a step back when Lexi Slome decided not to run this year. She ran close to state qualifier Dakota Roman last year. Roman should be a top 30 runner this year. The loss of Slome will delay this team a little this year. They will be a tough team by state series time. Alicia Grant and Jenny Muelbauer will be in front of a good pack that needs to get closer to Roman during the races. I would not count this team out. They should improve on their sectional performance. “Our freshman class looks to have depth; however, it's too early to tell what type of impact they can have on our varsity team. We have expectations of taking another step towards getting to the state meet as a team. We've improved on that each of the past 3 years so we're looking to take that next step,” said Chad Hillman.
Other Teams to Watch (in alphabetical order)
Cary-Grove Coach – Mark Anderson 2012 Finish – 8th Schaumburg Sectional
Key Runners – Talia Duzey JR (25th, 17:10), Sara Riley SO, Gretchen Price JR, Molly MacDuff SO, Caitlyn Adams JR, Tash Geiger-Powell SR, Iris Melcher JR, Adrianna Wydell SO, Brigid Higgins JR, Sarah Caesar FR, Sofie Immens FR
Outlook – There are four runners back from last year’s sectional team. The inexperience factor will effect this team early in the year. Maybe not for Talia Duzey. She was all-state last year. She should be in the top 20 in 2013. The success of this team will be determined on the progress of the sophomores and freshmen that will need to step into the top 7. “We are young,” said Mark Anderson. “This team does not have a ton of seniors. It is hard to get a read right now on how good this group can be. We hope to be competitive in all of our meets and in the conference, hopefully improving on our standings from 2012.”
Crystal Lake South Coach – Ken Greenfield 2012 Finish – 15th Schaumburg Sectional
Key Runners – Malgorazata Waz SR, Andie Kobrick JR, Bianca Jimenez JR, Kiley Britten JR, Dakota Bliler SO, Katie Davis JR, Julia Meyer SO, Chloe Henderson SO, Bailey Greene SO, Paige Pfeifer JR.
Outlook – Five return from last year’s sectional team led by Malgorazata Waz and Andie Kobrick. They finished in the top half of the Fox Valley Conference last year. There should be improvement there and in sectionals as well. “I would like to see us improve on our 5th place conference meet finish from last year, but mostly I want to see the large number of newcomers grow in their ability to train hard and compete. I'm really not sure how good we could be,” said Ken Greenfield.
Edwardsville Coach – George Patrylak 2012 Finish – 6th Normal Sectional
Key Runners – Allie Sweatt SR (73rd, 17:53), Rachel Schoenecker SO, Danielle Bohannon SO, Colleen Corkery SO, Katie Edmonds SO, Lizzy Lynn JR, Lydia Keasey SO, Hanna Bazai SR, Shannon O’Brien SO, Bailey McGuire FR, Savannah Brennan FR, Caitlyn Scheibal FR, Julianna Determan FR, Victoria Vegher FR.
Outlook – This is an extremely young team perhaps a year away from some pretty good things. The Lady Tigers should qualify out of their own sectional this year. Allie Sweatt will be a top 40 runner state wide this year. The one runner that could push her is Freshman Bailey McGuire, who could also be in the top 40. Rachel Schoenecker will lead the pack after that. “This will be our deepest and best girls’ team since the departure of Coach Cunningham. Our senior ladies, led by Allie Sweatt and Erika Fulbright, have done an excellent job of mentoring a young team. Our freshman and sophomore group has put in a lot of quality miles and are anxious for the season to begin. We will have a lot of interchangeable parts early as we look for seven runners to separate and establish themselves from the rest of the pack,” said George Patrylak.
Fox Lake Grant Coach – Jeff Durlak 2012 Finish – 19th Schaumburg Sectional
Key Runners – Lindsey Lewis SR, Madison Romig SO, Katernia Dogue JR, Jenna Peorini JR, Kaleigh Bauer JR, Jillian Souza JR, Adrianna Costilla SO, Brooke Drabek FR, Lauren Troemel FR.
Outlook – Five are back from a team that should improve on their sectional finish of a year ago. Lindsay Lewis and Madison Romig should be the top two runners for this squad. “With a mixture of experience and youth, I expect us to be more competitive within our division and conference in 2013 and ultimately improve upon our sectional performance,” said Jeff Durlak.
Frankfort Lincoln-Way East Coach – Wendy Hegarty 2012 Finish – 24th 3A State
Key Runners – Kristy Dertz JR (180th, 18:58), Anna Conboy SR (197th, 19:26), Kendall Nepote SR (200th, 19:39), Angie Bravo SR (206th, 19:50), Alyssa Vogt SO, Erin Couwenhoven SO, Abby Couwenhoven JR, Kyndall Wallace SO, Claire Juracks SO.
Outlook – Four runners return for Coach Wendy Hegarty from last year’s 24th place team at state. Kristy Dertz is their lead returnee. Watch for Alyssa Vogt who was all-state in the 800 at Charleston and could make a difference on this 2013 team. They will have a 50 second split on their first five that needs to move closer to the front if they want to advance back to Peoria.
Lisle Benet Academy Coach – Scott Brooks 2012 Finish – 8th St. Charles East Sectional
Key Runners – Eli Chalkey JR, Clare McCabe SO, Rachel Mann SR, Emma Sliwinski SR, Anna Brown SO, Emma Hlavin JR, Julia Walchessen SO, Meghan Lagemann SO, Meghan O’Connor JR, Francie Gradel JR.
Outlook – Four runners are back for Scott Brooks from this sectional team. The big question for this team will be who will step up towards the front. Eli Chalkey and Clare McCabe look to be the leaders on this team as of now. “Clearly, the biggest improvements this year were made by our sophomores (freshmen last year). They are a class that could be very solid by the time they graduate,” said Brooks. “We have a pretty tight pack right now, but no standouts which will hurt us down the road if nobody steps up to drag our pack with them. We are going to need 5 or 6 kids improve pretty significantly together as a group to make noise at the end of the season.”
New Lenox Lincoln-Way Central Coach – Matt Bowden 2012 Finish – 25th 3A State
Key Runners – Elizabeth Venezio JR (155th, 18:43), Mallory Johnson SR (173rd, 18:54), Taylor Martinez SR (194th, 19:24), JJ Robinson SR (195th, 19:25), Keygan Balaja SO (196th, 19:26), Heidi Killinger JR (204th, 19:48), Lauren Cernak JR, Lisa Meister SR, Bridget Sullivan SR, AAmanda Baker JR, Alexis Aguirre SO, Madison Smith FR, Jenna Diers FR, Sarah Heimberg FR.
Outlook – The nucleus of their top 7 is back from a squad that qualified for state. Liz Venezio will lead a solid pack with Mallory Johnson, Taylor Martinez, and JJ Robinson close behind. Their pack last year was 43 seconds at state. It just needs to move up closer to the front. “I think we can have an excellent year, and hopefully escape the basement of the state meet (where we've been since 2010). The girls have the drive and the talent to do great things, so I really think we can make a solid showing against the big girls at Detweiler in November,” said Matt Bowden.
Normal Community Coach – Tom Patten 2012 Finish – 7th Normal Sectional
Key Runners – Hannah Penn JR, Rachel Johnson SR, Daniele Beckstead SO, Kristina Furler JR, Alyse Lanier JR, Destiny Fawley SO, Alexis Lanier JR, Cassie Miller JR, Erin Wilholm SR.
Outlook – This team has a chance to qualify for Peoria out of the Edwardsville Sectional with five runners back from 2012. Hannah Penn and Rachel Johnson will battle for the #1 spot on the team. The team is projected to have a 90 second split. That needs to come down a little if they want to toe the line at Detweiller.
Oswego Coach – Eric Simon 2012 Finish – 9th Marist Sectional
Key Runners – Teagan Terando SR, Dana Janusz JR, Emma Beck JR, Kayla Perez JR, Abby Etheridge SR, Emma Paravola SO, Maddy Kammerer SO, Alyson Simon JR, Gianna Lopez JR, Anna Radecki JR, Kyley Vicek JR, Erin Davey SR, Abby Fioresi FR, Alex Weyrich FR, Kacie Moran FR.
Outlook – Oswego will lose two front runners in Kelsey Hjorth and Ashley Golembeski. This will still be a good team. Five return from the top 7 for Eric Simon. Teagan Terando had a good summer of training and could step into the top spot. Even with the losses that Oswego experienced, this team may be better than last year according to Simon. “We had our best summer of training in the 7 years I have been at Oswego. As a unit we had a good track season and that seemed to carry over into the summer,” he said. “Our goal every year is to win a conference championship. We have been top 10 at sectionals the past couple years and keep pushing to be the first Oswego girls team to make state since 1987. Our youngsters had a terrific summer, so I am hoping we can surprise some teams this year.”
Palatine Fremd Coach – Joe Marcin 2012 Finish – 6th Schaumburg Sectional
Key Runners – Olivia Youman SR, Ayako Higuchi JR, Lauren Ciardiello JR, Christine Cano SR, Mikaela Boldt SR, Isabel Moroney SO, Michelle Baum SR, Angela Wu SR, Nora Finegan FR, Anita Grudzien FR.
Outlook – A solid group of four led by Kelly Breen have graduated leaving many questions for new coach Joe Marcin. This will be a season of watching a new top 7 grow in Palatine. Olivia Youman, who was the third runner at sectionals last year, should be the front runner for Fremd. “Our summer training has gone well,” said Marcin “The athletes are healthy and progressing nicely. All we want to do is stay healthy and see all athletes improve and find success.”
Pekin Coach – Erika Gilmore 2012 Finish – 9th Normal Sectional
Key Runners – Payton Leichtenberg JR, Presley Sours JR, Danielle Walker SO, Jayza Riley JR, Madison Stoller SO, Kaitlyn Gardner SO, Mikayla Morales JR, Jessica Erps JR, Ali Lenson JR, Kaylee Barnes JR.
Outlook – A team that could make it to Detweiller in November. All seven return from last year’s sectional team. They should have a 45 second 1-5 split, but it needs to move up towards the front. Payton Leichtenberg should be the top runner for this team. “We have a very dynamic and strong team forming thus far. Every coach wants to see a "team" make it to the State Competition and we believe we have a good shot of making that happen this year. Our girls need to continue to work hard & work together strategically to be a competitive force in our sectional. There has to be a shared "end goal" that they are willing to strive for as a whole rather than as individuals,” said Erika Gilmore.
Plainfield North Coach – Tammy Gummerson 2012 Finish – 13th Marist Sectional
Key Runners – Rachel Lau SO, Catherine Crosson SR, Comet Blecha SR, Ashley Castillo SR, Maggie Kennedy SR, Miranda Bakker SO, Alexis Sandoval JR.
Outlook – This will be a continuation of the 2012 season where there was improvement. It has showed so far this year when Rachel Lau ran under 18 minutes at Det at Dark. She should be a runner that will qualify for state. This squad could be a year away from contending for a state position. All are back from 2012’s top 7. “We are hoping to improve our conference place from last year. We are also hoping to advance to the sectional again. We would also like to see Lau at state and see what she can do,” said Tammy Gummerson.
Roselle Lake Park Coach – Steven Tyler 2012 Finish – 2nd 3A State
Key Runners – Nicole Alfano SR (71st, 17:52), Maria Zepeda JR (93rd, 18:02), Hannah Morrison FR, Danielle Falk SR, Jo Marino SO, Lily Nickisch SO, Kaela Beugnet SO, Bea Tinga SO, Allison Strachan JR.
Outlook – Lake Park lost the nucleus of their team including all everything Kaylee Flanagan to graduation. They also lost Coach Lauren May who accepted a position at another school district. They will also be joining the DuPage Valley Conference beginning this fall. Two are back from last year’s state team that new coach Steven Tyler will work from. Nicole Alfano has the potential to be in the top 30 this year. Maria Zepeda should be in the top 50. Freshman Hannah Morrison may push these two. “This will be an exciting team to watch grow in their racing abilities. Several of these athletes have been behind the core group of seniors that graduated last year, so being one of the leaders is very new for these girls,” said Tyler. “Nicole Alfano had a terrific summer and really is looking to have an outstanding senior year.”
West Chicago Coach – Bob Maxson 2012 Finish – 11th St. Charles East Sectional
Key Runners – Lindsay Sayner SR, Mae Elizabeth Gimre JR, Diana Beltran SR, Ana Flores JR, Michelle Franch JR, Gena Rodriguez SR, Catherine Serio SR, Emma McCarthy SO, Shelly Penat SO, Sarrahay Terrazas SR.
Outlook – The Wildcats transition from the DuPage Valley Conference to the Upstate Eight in 2013. Six return from last year’s top 7. Lindsay Sayner just missed qualifying for state last year. She should be in position to do so this fall. Time will tell on their 2-5 pack. They improved at the end of last year. Expect the same for this season.
Wheaton North Coach – Ron Piro 2012 Finish – 12th St. Charles East Sectional
Key Runners – Kate Shirkany SR, Lindsay Johnson SR, Jill Humecke SO, Alison Farnsworth SR, Sarah Santizo SR, Mikayla Hartel SR, Mary Rosenwinkel SR, Ann Denz SR, Bea Nottke SO, Bridget Berry SO.
Outlook – The Falcons return five from last year’s top 7. They will look to improve on their sectional with hopes of finishing in the top half of the sectional. Kate Shirkany was their first runner at the end of the year and should repeat that role. Lindsay Johnson and Jill Humecke will be close behind. Their 1-5 split is projected to be 55 seconds. It needs to be near 45 seconds and the pack closer to the front for good things to happen this season.
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