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2013 DyeStat Illinois XC Previews - 1A Girls TeamsPublished by
St. Teresa will go for four in a row, but will have company up front By Michael Newman
St. Teresa Head Coach Todd Vohland was standing behind the starting line at Detweiller Park. He did not have to look to see where his team came in. He was in shock with the performance that St. Teresa put in. They dominated the race from the beginning. When the team scores came in at the mile, St. Teresa had only 21 points. They maintained their position for the rest of the race on their way to the school’s third team state championship in a row. St. Teresa will go for four in a row in 2013 but the road to the top will be tougher. Monticello, Rochester, St. Joseph-Ogden, and Winnebago all have a solid nucleus of runners returning. All of them believe they will be holding the championship trophy o that Saturday morning in November at Detweiller. Here is a look of where we see the 1A Girls’ teams right now. Remember, it is a long journey until we get to the state. What matters most is the only ratings that count come on that Saturday in Peoria
Girls 1A Top 25 Teams 1 Decatur St. Teresa Coach – Todd Vohland 2012 Finish – 1st
Key Runners – Rachel Devereux SR (3rd, 17:46), Bree Tschosik JR (31st, 18:23), Lauren Evelti SO (37th, 18:33), Emily Burgener JR (72nd, 19:13), Audrey Vandercar SR, Ashton Jerger SO, Kelsey Cleary SO, Cailin Jerger SR, Emma Reedy JR, Amber Johnson SO.
Outlook – You can say that St. Teresa is going for four in a row, but Coach Vohland has a different opinion. "As for state titles, not to sound all Nick Sabanesque, but really only our Seniors would be going for 4 in a row and even then only Rachel has been in the top 7 each year.”
Rachel Devereux has been a part of all the teams of this string and will be the leader of this team in 2013. She was the #1 runner for the Bulldogs most of last season. It was at state when Ivy Handley pushed Devereux to second runner as she won the individual title. Losing Handley, Megan Burgener, and Kelsie Wujek, three of last year’s top four runners, to graduation leave Vohland a big hole to fill.
St. Teresa has four returning runners that have state meet experience. Bree Tschosik and Lauren Evelti were the team’s fifth and sixth runners at last year’s state meet finishing in the top 40. Expectations are high that these two runners will be in the top 25 in 2013. Emily Burgener was the fifth runner a couple of times last year and ended up 73rd at the state meet. She could be a surprise for Coach Vohland and the rest of the state. She has the potential to be in the top 30 in November.
One runner that I would keep an eye on is Audrey Vandercar. The senior had a tough 2012 campaign but was only 10 seconds behind Emily Burgener at their conference meet. Her first two years at St. Teresa she was part of two state championship teams running sixth runner on both teams. Her sophomore year she finished 28th at the state meet. She could be one big key in pushing St. Teresa to a fourth consecutive crown.
It will take a lot of work for Vohland’s squad to melt together as a team. He has been able to do that before. “I like our team's attitude and leadership. I really feel we've had some girls put themselves in the mix and I'd say we have 9 girls vying for 7 spots,” added Vohland. “Expectations are that they bond as a group and get fantastic leadership from our seniors. We hope to qualify for state and be in the discussion of teams that could trophy.”
Last year, Tschosik was 37 seconds behind Devereux at the state meet. This team will be in the hunt for a championship if the 2-5 runners on this squad stay within 30 seconds of Devereux and within 20 seconds of each other. If that happens, this team could be tough to beat.
2 Monticello Coach – David Remmert 2012 Finish – 2nd
Key Runners – Hannah Houska SR (20th, 18:07), Emily Foley SR (30th, 18:22), Maggie Utgaard JR (49th, 18:54), Madison Tutich JR (50th, 18:54), Audrey Duncan JR (53rd, 18:55), Katie Douglas SO (170th, 21:03), Kathleen Tracy SO (171st, 21:03), Abbie Steffs SO, Kate Smith SO, Meggie Schroeder FR, Brooke Helmuth FR.
Outlook – It seemed in 2012 that every meet that the Lady Sages ran against St. Teresa last year, the result was always the same. From conference meet all the way to state, Monticello finished second behind St. Teresa. With six runners returning from last year’s squad, Monticello is looking to go one step higher in 2013.
“I'm excited about the upcoming season, but I've learned you can't count on anything,” said Coach David Remmert. Longtime coach Jeff Butler retired leaving Remmert with a great nucleus. “I've been attending the state meet for 30 years now and it's always the teams that are able to stay healthy/injury free that win the day, and there are always surprises team-wise, and individual-wise who show up when it truly matters most. It isn't always the best runner or team that wins but the best prepared. That's my goal.”
Remmert has a veteran team with all top 5 runners returning. The group is led by seniors Hannah Houska and Emily Foley. Houska finished 20th a year ago as the team’s first runner. Expect her to be in the top 10 in 2013. Foley just missed out on all state honors last year but is expected to be in the mix for a top 25 spot. Juniors Maggie Utgaard, Madison Tutich, and Audrey Ducan all finished within a second of each other at last year’s state meet. Expect more packing from this trio this fall. Utgaard was an all-state runner as a freshman (she finished 24th in 2011). This trio could be in the top 35 in November.
One runner to watch for is Freshman Meggie Schroeder. Her brother was three time state champ Steve who is now in the Naval Academy. Coach Remmert thinks that Schroeder could make the top 7. If she does that, who knows how far she will go.
The tradition at this school for cross country is strong and Remmert looks to continue it. “I’m new as the head coach this year as Coach Butler retired after the season a year ago. Coach Butler left an important legacy for us and I’m committed to carrying on that tradition,” he said. “There were some subtle things I saw at the state meet last year that I will work on throughout the season at trying to improve, but ultimately it comes down to their preparation and whether or not they put the miles in over the summer.” Monticello had a 48 second 1-5 spread at last year’s state meet which was not enough to get St. Teresa. This year could be a different story. Watch for Houska and Foley to be in the top 25. If Monticello can keep a 40 second split on five and have three runners ahead of St. Teresa’s second, this is a team that could end the reign of their conference rival.
3 Rochester Coach – Bill Owens 2012 Finish – 3rd
Key Runners – Taylor Bartolozzi SO (11th, 17:57), Meagan McNicholas SO (13th, 18:00), Krissy Finley SR (28th, 18:21), Amanda Nelson SR (97th, 19:31), Abby Reichen SO, Kathryn Judy SO, Haley Simpkins JR, Megan Western JR, Maddie Campbell FR, Annie Gegen FR.
Outlook – At the beginning of the year for a cross country team and their coach, it is all about the questions that the team may have to be successful and the ifs and buts that will occur during the season. Such is the case for Rochester in 2013.
The Rockets came off of a successful season where they finished second in the state meet. Three runners are gone from that team, but there is a group of 4 strong runners that make Rochester part of the state championship team discussion this fall. The question will be for Coach Bill Owens is who will be the fifth runner?
Rochester is led by two sophomores. Meagan McNicholas was considered to be one of the top runners in 1A most of the season until three and a half before state when she injured her ankle at the Carlinville Invitational. She rebounded to finish 13th as the second runner on the team at state behind Taylor Bartolozzi who finished 11th. When McNicholas got hurt, it was Bartolozzi that stepped up to win the regional and sectional individual crown. This duo is capable of placing in the top 6 in 2013.
The other two runners that Owens will count on are Seniors Krissy Finley and Amanda Nelson. Finley finished 20th as a sophomore in 2011. Last year she finished 28th. Expect her to be in the top 15 this fall. Nelson could be one of the keys. She did not have a great year finishing 97th in 19:31. She ran almost 30 seconds faster the year before. Watch her bounce back in this campaign.
“I think we can be contenders but it may rely on a count on incoming freshman or sophomores to make it happen,” said Coach Owens. “We have a good training plan.” The two freshman that could make a difference are Maddie Campbell and Annie Gegen. Either of them have the potential to place in the top sixty at this year’s state meet.
Rochester has the potential to have three all-state runners and a fourth knocking on the door. The key for Owens will be finding a fifth runner to step up when the money is on the line in November. If that happens, they will be bringing more hardware back to Rochester.
4 St. Joseph-Ogden Coach – Kristin Allen 2012 Finish – 10th
Key Runners – Alyssa Pridemore SR (38th, 18:35), Abby Gawthorp SO (83rd, 19:23), Abby Fisher JR (84th, 19:23), Jessica Kassuelke JR (115th, 19:50), Emma Melchoir SO (116th, 19:51), Sara Melchoir SR (187th, 21:36), Elizabeth Paap JR, Kambry Orcutt SO, Michelle Hill SR, Katie Kurtz JR, Keely Smith FR
Outlook – When a team returns their top 5 and finishes in the top 10 a year before at the state meet, there should always be a scent of optimism in the air. Such is the case for St. Joseph-Ogden. Six of the seven runners return for the Spartans giving them sight of going after the prize on the top of the mountain.
Alyssa Pridemore should again be the top runner for Coach Kristin Allen. In 2012, Pridemore finished 38th in the state meet. You can expect her to be much higher in 2013. The key for this team is decreasing the gap between Pridemore and the rest of the pack. At last year’s state meet, there was a gap of 48 seconds between Pridemore and SJO’s #2 runner Abby Gawthorp. Their 1-5 split averaged close to 80 seconds last year. It needs to come down in the sixties for this team to have success. According to Allen, Abby Fisher had a great summer of training. She could be in the top 40 in 2013. One runner to watch is Freshman Keely Smith. “She made it to all the summer training runs and has a very impressive cumulative mileage for a freshmen,” said Allen. “She also seems to be very focused for someone her age, I believe she will be an important part of our top 7 this year.”
This is a team that has state meet experience and it will help as the season progresses. “This season we have all but one runner returning from our top 5, and some new talent that will be an asset to our success,” added Coach Allen. “With that being said, their our other runners returning from last year that could always surprise themselves and prove to play an important role in our top 7, that is one of the great things about this sport! As a team we hope to have a great season like last year and hopefully improve at each race, all the way to State. My expectations are that each girl realize and reach their own potential and at the end of the season know that they left it all on the course.”
5 Petersburg PORTA Coach – Jim Brauer 2012 Finish – 5th
Key Runners – Maria Brauer SO (21st, 18:07), Adrienne Brauer SO (70th, 19:10), Anna Tamborski (100th, 19:36), Allison Cummings JR (162nd, 20:56), Devan Burris JR (189th, 21:54), Emily Churchill JR, Sophia Atterberry SO, Kylie Fields SO, Keely Miller SO (played golf last year).
Outlook – This could be an interesting year for the Blue jays. Coach Jim Brauer lost MacKenzie Griffith, their lead runner most of the year to graduation and also lost Taylor Ivey, their fifth runner at last year’s state meet. Ivey goes to Greenview HS which was part of the Coop with PORTA. Greenview decided not to do it this year.
The coach still has his daughters leading the way. Maria finished 21st in her first state meet last fall and will be counted on to place higher in this campaign. Her sister Adrienne, who finished 70th in 2012, had a breakout season in track where she was all-state in the 2A 1600. With her improvement, the two sisters could be together in the top 25 in November.
A runner to watch is Keely Miller. This is her first year of cross country. She ran track last spring and ran 2:31 for the 800. The question will be how she adapts to the cross country course. Coach Brauer believes she could be in the top 4 on the team. Sophomore Anna Tamborski and Junior Allison Cummings could be pushing for a top 5 spot.
This could be a good team. How good could depend on how high up the Brauer sisters finish in each race. PORTA will be in the same sectional in Rochester. You will probably gauge their improvement every time they run against their area rival. “I always hope to improve on the previous year, but having lost our #1 (All-stater Mackenzie Griffin) and our #5, that's expecting a lot,” added Coach Brauer, “but who knows in class 1A.”
6 Winnebago Coach – Janet Erb 2012 Finish – 8th
Key Runners – Rachel France SR (22nd, 18:09), Cheyenne Moore SR (54th, 18:57), Emily Walden JR (151, 20:32), Gracie Caltagerone JR (157th, 20:50), Cassie Gray JR (168th, 21:02), Andrea Whitehouse SO, Kelsey Shellhorn SO, Axandra Smalley SR.
Outlook – Winnebago moved into the top 10 after the first week of last season. They stayed there for the rest of the year finishing eighth at the state meet. 5 runners return for Coach Janet Erb. The expectations for finishing higher are great.
Cheyenne Moore was the first runner most of the season for the Indians. She did not have her best race of the year at state finishing 54th. Her teammate Rachel France stepped up at sectionals and state to lead the team. She finished 22nd at state and earned all-state honors. It would not surprise me to see both on the podium in November.
Their 1-5 split most of last season was anywhere from 90-95 seconds. At state it was at 143 seconds. For this team to have success, expect the split to be in the 95-100 second range with Moore and France together. 5th runner a year ago Emily Walden will lead the next pack. They need to stay near a minute within the first two for this team to have a chance at a trophy at Detweiller.
7 Downs Tri Valley Coach – Todd Schneider 2012 Finish – 6th
Key Runners – Jess Clarke SR (16th, 18:01), Kate Saulcy JR (81st, 19:21), Heather Halverson SR (95th, 19:30), Annie Crumbaugh JR (133rd, 20:03), Danielle Segerstrom SR, Emily Myszka SO, Hailee Halverson SO.
Outlook – This team surprised some at last year’s state meet finishing sixth. Jess Clarke leads four out of the top 5 runners back for a chance to try to duplicate their 2012 success.
Clarke is going to be the leader of the team. She finished 16th last year. I expect her to finish in the top 10 in 2013. Athena Kulb, last year’s second runner, has graduated. Look for either Heather Halverson or Kate Saulcy to step in that role. Both could finish in the top 50. The big question for Coach Todd Schneider is who will step up as the fifth runner. The way it looks at this point either a couple of freshmen or sophomores will step up. The split on Clarke at state was over 2 minutes. Their 2-5 split was close to 90 seconds. It does not look like the gap will decrease from Clarke and the pack. Therefore, 2-5 split needs to be under 60 seconds if this team wants to improve on last year’s finish.
8 Rock Falls Coach – Mark Truesdell 2012 Finish – 4th
Key Runners – Katie Anderson SR (32nd, 18:23), Sandra Gomez SR (58th, 18:58), Makaley Velazquez SO (69th, 19:09), Bailie Smith JR, Michaela Spreier JR, Taylor Ashley JR, Azy Cid JR, Ellie McKee JR, McKenzie Schueler SO, Emma Miller SR, Baylie Janssen SR.
Outlook – Even though Coach Mark Truesdell only returns three from last year’s fourth place team, the talent that is coming back could equal last year’s performance…or better.
The three runners that return were the #1 runner at some point during the season. Katie Anderson finished 32nd last year at state to lead this team. It would not surprise me if she is in the top 25 at Detweiller. Sandra Gomez and Makaley Velazquez are the other two returnees. It is realistic to see the in the top 40. Keep an eye on Bailie Smith and Michaela Spreier, both juniors that are running their first year of cross country after playing volleyball last year. Truesdell expects them to make significant contributions.
Rock Falls has a solid first three but their question will be who will step into the 4-5 spots. Even though this team on paper does not look strong, it could be a squad when it comes to the state series. If the three state runners last year stay close together and place within the first 35, then a trophy could be a possibility.
9 Henry-Senachwine Coach – Clark Owsley 2012 Finish – 15th
Key Runners – Jillian Monier JR (34th, 18:32), Ronna Pettis SO (87th, 19:26), Melanie Yanke JR (118th, 19:53), Erin McKee SR (155th, 20:46), Jacquelyn Abella SO, Brittnei Oser JR, Emma Cluskey JR.
Outlook – This team only has seven runners out this fall. So healthiness will be a big key for Coach Clark Owsley’s team. Four runners return from last year’s 15th place team. It is a team that has potential to be in the top 10 throughout the season.
Jillian Monier finished 34th last year and could be in the top 25 at Detweiller. The one surprise could be last year’s sixth runner Erin McKee. She ran 20 seconds faster at Detweiller in July than she did at the state meet. After a good year in track where she was running PR’s in the 800, she could be a big surprise for this squad. She could challenge Melanie Yanke for a top three spot. Also keep an eye on Ronna Pettis. She could be one of the top 40 runners in the state by the time the state series starts.
“With lack of numbers, we have very little room for injury this year. Last year 2 of our top 7 suffered injuries at different points in the season, but our depth helped mask that,” said Owsley. “This year if the training goes well and we have no injuries, I suspect we'll be competitive at the Sectional Meet and improve our team performance at Detweiller.” 10 Tolono Unity Coach – Gary Wieneke 2012 Finish – 20th
Key Runners – Taylor Renfroe SO (76th, 19:15), Laura Seiler SR (108th, 19:44), Rhoda Brucker JR (142nd, 20:19), Sisay Eisenmenger JR (152nd, 20:32), Sonya Walsten SR (154th, 20:37), Kenzia Dodds JR (159th, 20:51), Cynthia Marstahler JR (208th, 24:36), Jaque Bliss SR, Kaitlyn Stumberg SR.
Outlook – All top 7 runners return for Coach Gary Wieneke. Tolono Unity with this squad finished 20th a year ago. Expectations are running high for this east-central Illinois school.
Taylor Renfroe was the first runner for this team all last year culminating with a 76th place finish. With a year of experience, I could see her placing in the top 35 in 2013. Laura Seiler was close to Renfroe most of the year. At state, she finished 33 seconds back of Renfroe. She should be closer this fall.
Their 1-5 split moved down to the 75-80 second range by the time they hit the state series. At state, their split was 82 seconds. The team has the experience to have the split shrink more in the 2013 season. If Seiler stays close to Renfroe and the 3-5 pack moves their split to 60 seconds behind, this team could be in the top 10 or even better by the end of the year.
11 Byron Coach – Mike McHale 2012 Finish – 7th
Key runners – Kelsey Hildreth SR (47th, 18:43), Brianna Williams SO (85th, 19:25), Aya Bridgeland JR (111th, 19:45), Kaitlyn Buck JR, Martha Hodapp SO, Kaila Stoker SO, Cassie Sievers SR, Summer Field SR, Madi Franklin SO.
Outlook – Three of the first four return from last year’s seventh place team. The key will be finding two runners to step up into the vacant scoring spots. Kelsey Hildreth will enter her final campaign leading this team and also a good possibility of breaking into the top 25. Teammates Brianna Williams and Aya Bridgeland also return. The key will be keeping the gap between Hildreth and the next two runners within 35 seconds.
Kaitlyn Buck was the sixth runner at the Big Northern Conference Meet and will be looked at to step in. Sophomores Martha Hodapp and Kaila Stoker could also step into those spots. The teams best split of the year was 54 seconds at the Oregon Sectional. For this team to have success, expect a 1-5 split from 65-70 seconds this fall.
12 Eureka Coach – David Tapp 2012 Finish – 8th Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional
Key runners – Mercer Mack SO, Ashlyn Lockart SO, Meaghan Beatenhead JR, Quincy McSweeney JR, Steffani Wiegand JR, Kinsey Herrmann SR, Jessica Metcalfe SR, Whitney Remmert JR
Outlook – The highest non-state qualifying school to make the ratings in 2013. Eureka returns 6 runners from last year’s sectional qualifying team that has hopes of taking the next step to Peoria.
Coach David Tapp’s team is young. The top five are either sophomores or juniors. Mercer Mack finished 15th at the Elmwood Sectional and was the eight individual. She has a good shot of making down state this year one way or the other. Their split most of last year was close to 100 seconds. At the sectional meet, they had a 119 second 1-5 split. That bad experience last year could work as a positive in 2013.
“The girls’ team looks strong this year. I have some gifted runners who, if they tap into their true potential, will be very successful this year,” said Tapp. “I have a few girls who played volleyball last year, but have chosen to run XC this year and they will be great additions to the team. I also have a few incoming freshman ladies who will be assets to the team already.”
13 Monmouth-Roseville Coach – Sam Marlow 2012 Finish – 13th
Key runners – Destiny Smith SO (66th, 19:05), Maddie Dulien JR (104th, 19:41), Dyesha Taylor SO (105th, 19:43), Griselda Gandarilla JR (153rd, 20:36), Kalee Pringle SO (192nd, 22:07), Shannah Anderson SO, Erica Harrell JR, Tara Sturgeon JR.
Outlook – In the final DyeStat ratings last year before the sectional meet, M-R was rated 23rd in the state with no foreseeable chance to make it to Peoria. They proved many wrong by placing 5th at the sectional then finishing 13th at the state meet. 5 runners return from that squad for Coach Sam Marlow.
Destiny Smith came on strong at the end of the year to be the second runner for her squad at state. Smith has the potential to place in the top 35 at Detweiller in November. The team made keeping a tight pack a priority. At state, their split was a minimal 46 seconds. This team may start with a big split, but if they can stay consistently near 60 seconds, then they could make another November trip to Detweiller.
14 Woodstock Marian Coach – Jon Lakemacher 2012 Finish – 7th Oregon Sectional
Key runners – Jessica Biggins SR, Caroline Hellman SR, Marisa Monbrod JR, Olivia Dineen JR, Emma Baumert JR, Brie Baumert SR, Bridgett Keane SR, Candace Scurto SR, Abigail Jones FR, Kennedy Giles FR.
Outlook – Another school that did not make it to state, but that is their goal in 2013. Six of their top 7 return from last year’s sectional team.
“With the senior leadership and the talented incoming underclassmen we have if we can stay healthy we have the depth, commitment and ability to hopefully breakthrough to state at the most challenging sectional-Oregon,” said Marian Coach Jon Lakemacher.
Jessica Biggins was the top runner for her team last year and should be in 2013. She finished 17th at the Oregon Sectional and missed qualifying for state by 10 seconds. There will again be a gap between Biggins and the 2-5 runners. If their gap from Biggins is 35 seconds and keep a split of 30 seconds from 2-5, this team could make it to Detweiller.
15 Kankakee McNamara Coach – Ken Klipp 2012 Finish – 17th
Key runners – Cassidy Devenouges SO (74th, 19:14), Elizabeth Stam JR (144th, 20:21), Samantha Gonski SO (146th, 20:24), Layla Funk SR (161st, 20:54), Rachel Peterson SO (184th, 21:34), Hannah Lambert SO, Hannah Mitchell JR, Kelly Rudin SR.
Outlook – This team should be one of the top squads in the Lisle Sectional. They were a team that surprised some last year after they placed a close second to 2A Illiana Christian at the Iliana Invitational. This is a young squad with six of their top 8 runners returning that are underclassmen.
Cassidy Devenoughes should lead this team again and be a runner that will be in the top 50 at the state meet. Their split most of last year was close to 70 seconds. With the talent coming back, that could happen again. “Our girls’ team should be good again. We lost our #2 and #5, but return 7 of our top 9. Hoping to compete for Sectional title again, especially since Richmond-Burton and Johnsburg moved up to 2A,” said Coach Ken Klipp.
16 Elmwood-Brimfield Coach – Hayley Davis 2012 Finish – 11th
Key runners – Kendra Gorham JR (89th, 19:27), Mariah Dunneway SR (112th, 19:46), Hannelore Book JR (132nd, 20:01), Gab Nelson SR (167th, 21:02), Becky Delaney JR, Sam Rosencrans SO, Sophie Nelson SO, Lauren Stufflebeam SO.
Outlook – Four runners return from last year’s state qualifying team. To make it back to Peoria, Coach Haley Davis will need to see who will step up to replace top 2 runners Katelyn Fricke and Olivia Althiser who graduated.
The logical choice should be Kendra Gorham, who was 1st or 2nd runner at some point last season. This team will be successful if they can keep their split under 60 seconds with Gorham in the first 50 at the state meet. Improvement in last year’s result will happen if this occurs.
17 Urbana University Coach – Doug Mynatt 2012 Finish – 6th Effingham St Anthony Sectional
Key runners – Katie Tender SO, Berit Hudson-Rasmussen SO, Maya Ditta JR, Carmen Gewirth JR, Lea Slauch SR, Jill Walch SR, Athena Feng SO, Kate Ferreira SO, Alana Rosenbaum SR, Chloe Yang SO, Alice Trellakis JR, Mary Feser JR, Annmarie Michael FR.
Outlook – This is a team that should take the next step to Peoria in 2013. Six of the top 7 runners return for Coach Doug Mynatt led by Sophomores Berit Hudson-Rasmussen and Katie Tender. The big addition could be Freshman Annmarie Michael. Last year in eighth grade, Michael was second in the IESA state meet in the fall, then was second in the 1600 and won the 800 in track. She could potentially could be in the top 15 at state.
“Climbing to 6th in the team standings at sectionals last year, the goal is a return to state this season. We will have a young team, with freshmen and sophomores leading the way, but I think they could be a top 10 team by the end of the season,” said Mynatt.
18 Carterville Coach – Heather Webb 2012 Finish – 16th
Key Runners – Kami Hankins SO (63rd, 19:04), Aurora Breeden JR (75th, 19:15), Ashlee Childers SO (135th, 20:11), Maddi Meyer SO (179th, 21:22), Ashtyn Hunt SR (191st, 22:02), Anna Spoerre SR (196th, 22:17), Miranda Meyer SR, Kelli Hicks SR, Maggie Yewell SR, Scarlet DeRouse JR, Megan Adams FR.
Outlook – With Breese Mater Dei moving up to 2A, Carterville will be the team to beat in the Edwardsville Metro-East Lutheran Sectional area. The Lions finished 16th a year ago and would like to go higher in 2013. 6 runners return from that state team. They will also have two newcomers that could battle for a spot.
Kami Hankins and Aurora Breeden placed in the top 75 last year. I could see them in the top 40 in November. Freshman Megan Adams has been great summer of training. Coach Heather Webb expects her to challenge for the top spot. Scarett DeRouse will also be in the mix for a top 5 spot. In her first year of training, Webb thinks this junior could make an impact.
“The team has made a goal to crack the top 10 this year. They have been working hard and going above and beyond expectations. We were really young last year, and will be young again this year. However, last year these girls had minimal summer training. They have really taken it seriously this summer,” said Webb.
19 Champaign St. Thomas More Coach – David Behm 2012 Finish – 19th
Key runners – Reagan Kelly SR (94th, 19:29), Julia Welle SO (131st, 20:00), Gabby Wiszalek SR (160th, 20:52), Sophie Collard JR (178th, 21: 17), Morgan Carmien SO (185th, 21:34), Caroline Dodds SR (193, 22:10), Nicole Nussel JR, Courtney Buyer SR, Natalie Hittmeier JR, Quinn Balliger JR.
Outlook – The Sabers again will battle for a state berth in the tough Decatur St. Teresa Sectional. Six runners return for Coach David Behm who will look to make the trip again to Peoria. Regan Kelly and Julia Welle will look to be the top runners for this team. The key for this team is to keep their 1-5 split to within 90 seconds.
20 Kewanee Wethersfield Coach – Creston Fenn 2012 Finish – 8th Oregon Sectional
Key runners – Maddie Jackson SR, Kaitlyn Cline JR, Dana Baele JR, Kylie Cline JR, Lanae Arnold SR, Celina Vanhyfle SR, Olivia Draminski SO, Kirstie Ramsey FR
Outlook – 5 runners return from last year’s sectional qualifying team. A goal of making out of the tough Oregon Sectional will be tough, but manageable for this team. Maddie Jackson was the number 1 runner most of last year. She will be challenged by two newcomers for the top spot. Olivia Draminski did not run cross country last year but qualified for state in the 800. Kirstie Ramsey was all state last year in track as an eighth grader. She has made the transition to the fall running arena. She could be tough for Coach Creston Kenn.
“At cross country camp the girls write down their team goals. Repeating as conference champs and making it to state top their list. It would be fun to see the first team in school history to make it to state. It will be very difficult with such a hard sectional at Oregon, but the girls are committed in doing everything possible to make their state goal a reality,” said Fenn.
21 Murphysboro Coach – Cody Ellersmeyer 2012 Finish – 6th Edwardsville Metro-East Lutheran Sectional
Key runners – Taija Nelson SO, Bria Ciganovich SR, Ashton Crismon SO, Molly Groninger JR, Sarah Sauerhage SO, Rachel Jacobs SR, Shalynn Woolsey SO, and Brandy DeDecker SR (transfer from Carbondale).
Outlook – Even though they lost last year’s #1 runner Tiana Robinson who transferred to Roxana, Murphysboro will be in the hunt to qualify for state for the first time in school history. Coach Cody Ellersmeyer received a boost when Brandy DeDecker transferred from Carbondale. As a sophomore, she was the Southern Illinois runner of the year when she ran 18:47 at the state meet. She could be the runner that could push Murphysboro to the top. The 1-5 split was near 80 seconds most of last year. It may stay the same, but with DeDecker pushing for a top 50 spot could get this team finishing higher than this pre-season rating.
22 Rockford Christian Coach – Randy Moore 2012 Finish – 11th Oregon Sectional
Key Runners – Brianna Jepson SR, Lindsay Roegner SR, Maddy Gill SR, Taryn Thomas SR, Jordan Bates SR, Elise Combs SO, Annie Harris SO, Emily Opperman SR, Kate Smith SO
Outlook – A team that finished in the second half of the Oregon Sectional last year, Rockford Christian could be pushing to get out of Oregon and on to Peoria.
Four runners return led by seniors Brianna Jepson, Lindsay Roegner, and Maddy Gill. According to Coach Randy Moore, Kate Smith’s training over the summer in position to push for a top and make an impact to the top 5. This team does not have a real front runner and will have to rely on a tight pack for success.
Moore’s goal was simple in the team getting in the top 10. They could take it a step further in 2013.
23 Bloomington Central Catholic Coach – Bill Rhodes 2012 Finish – 9th Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional
Key runners – Faith Weiland JR (14th, 18:00), Colleen Prior SO, Haley Paul SO, Sarah Allen JR, Meghan Allen JR, Addison Ely SO, Maddie Duncan JR.
Outlook – Last year this team could always count on low points from the duo of Alex Van Hoof and Faith Weiland. With Van Hoof graduated, Weiland will again be up at the front with a strong pack behind her.
Coach Bill Rhodes top 8 runners most likely will be led by underclassmen led by Weiland. The junior has been all-state in her first two years in high school and could be in the top 10 in 2013. The team will live and die with a pack led by Sophomores Colleen Prior and Haley Paul. The gap between the front two and the pack last year was close to 150 seconds. That gap needs to decrease this year if this team wants to improve on their sectional performance.
24 Aurora Central Catholic Coach – Troy Kerber 2012 Finish – 9th Wheaton Academy Sectional (2A)
Key Runners – Karina Liz SO (51, 18:24-2A), Ceci Crown JR, Emily Ziegler JR, Katie Marter SR, Grace Rusdin JR, Claudia Aguilera JR, Fatima Delgadillo JR, Stephanie Hall SO.
Outlook – “The Lady Chargers feel as if they were given a gift dropping down to 1A , after placing 9th in the Wheaton Academy 2A Sectional!” That was Coach Troy Kerber’s response after he found out that his girls team was moved to 1A. In the higher class, this team would have been in the mix for a possible state qualifying berth. In 1A, they will be one of the favorites in the Lisle Sectional.
It all starts with Sophomore Karina Liz. She finished 2nd in the 800 in track last May. What opened eyes was that she ran 2:12 at the AAU JO’s at the beginning of August…while training for cross country according to Kerber. She ran 18:24 last year at state, she could run faster this November. Ceci Crown and Stephanie Hall look to be the next two runners for Kerber. There will be a gap after Liz, but a strong pack from 2-5. “Look for Irene Crown to have a breakout season as well! The rest of the squad will present a formidable chase pack,” added Kerber. If they stay healthy and injury free, they could do something this season!”
25 Rockford Lutheran Coach – Trey Fisk 2012 Finish – 12th
Key Runners – Emma Fenelon JR (64th, 19:05), Michaela Heit JR (101st, 19:36), Claire Mesa SR (102nd, 19:36), Paige Bradley JR (156th, 20:48), Michaela Richardson JR (182nd, 21:29), Abby Berke JR, Lizzie Long JR, Liz Nie SR, Kaitlyn Stradtmann JR, Fallon Cassidy JR, Hannah Prabhakor SO.
Outlook – This team will rise through the ratings as the season progresses. Coach Trey Fisk has fiver runners returning from last year’s state qualifying team. Emma Fenelon and Michaela Heit should be close to each other towards the front. The key for Lutheran is to have a tight 3-5 pack. Last year, the success of their team relied on a tight pack. They will need the same in 2013 to improve on their 2012 finish.
Other teams to watch (in alphabetical order)
Carlinville Coach – Mike Viano 2012 Finish – 8th – Effingham St. Anthony Sectional
Key Runners – Colleen Madden SO (52nd, 18:55), Lea Viano SR (57th, 18:58), Jacey Roper SO, Morgan Landon JR, Kamryn Bremer FR.
Outlook – This is a team that I would keep an eye on. The numbers are low with only 5-7 runners on the team so staying healthy will be a high priority this fall. Both Colleen Madden and Lea Viano both qualified for state last year. Both could finish in the top 25. Lea would be the one to watch as she had a breakout track season finishing third in the 3200. If they stay healthy, it could be a team that challenges for a trip to Peoria. “I am very excited with the group of girls I have, they have work very hard this summer and look real strong going into the season. We have a very solid schedule for a small school,” said Coach Mike Viano.
Chicago Latin Coach – Dan Daly 2012 Finish – 18th
Key Runners – Victoria Bianco SR (9th, 17:53), Abigail Nadler (18th, 18:04), Jessica Kubert SO (200th, 22:41), Francis Kelleher JR (203rd, 22:58), Shaina Kaplan SR (205th, 23:30), Viry Ayala SO, Elizabeth Carlson JR, Danielle Gray SR.
Outlook – It is a given that Bianco and Nadler will be among the top runners in the state. The question will be if they will be there as team runners or individuals. Latin School lost their 3-4 runners to graduation. Coach Dan Daly indicated that there may be a freshman that could step in. The projected gap between the front two and the pack is close to three minutes. That needs to come down if Latin wants to return to race at Detweiller in November.
Des Plaines Willows Academy Coach – Emily Hinderer 2012 Finish – 8th Lisle Sectional
Key Runners – Julie Snitzer SO (126th, 19:58), Stephanie Sommers SO, Brigid Walsh SR, Maeve Dunaway SO, Maura Walsh SO, Sophie Petros JR, Ana Castandea JR.
Outlook – The small private school just northwest of Chicago climbed on the sectional stage last fall by finishing 8th at the Lisle Sectional. They could be higher this year as they return five from last year’s sectional team. Julie Snitzer qualified last fall to state as an individual and looks to do so again. I know she would like to have her teammates running with her. The 1-5 split was big last year. It needs to decrease for that to happen.
Edwardsville Metro-East Lutheran Coach – Dave Redden 2012 Finish – 23rd
Key Runners – Karley Schley SO (125th, 19:57), Gretchen Engelbrecht JR (150th, 20:29), Lauren Moehle SR (194th, 22:11), Amanda Schock JR (199th, 22:40), Annie Redden JR (206th, 23:55), Danielle Anderson SR, Qiarra Blue SO, Olivia Daube SR, Joria Hardaway SO, Kelsee Stegall SR, Shalyn Edwards FR.
Outlook – Top runner Jessica Jump has graduated but Coach Dave Redden still has 5 runners returning from last year’s state team. Redden thinks that Freshman Shalyn Edwards could be the top runner on this team. Sophomore Karly Schley has improved and could be a runner that could make it into the top 50. MEL made it to state last year. They have a good chance to repeat that in 2013.
Freeburg Coach – Carl Florczyk 2012 Finish – 21st
Key Runners – Taryne Knuckles JR (96th, 19:31), Emily Marler JR (140th, 20:18), Emma Farley SR (166th, 21:02), Lauren Mank JR (175th, 21:08), Megan Busch SO, Emily Killibrew SR, Lindsay Mank JR, Lauren Thoma SO, Natalie Huskey SO, Emily Hartmann JR, Alison Hoffmann JR, Kristen Collier FR, Ashley Gilmore FR, Haley Alt FR, Taylor Ganz SO
Outlook – Even though Coach Carl Florczyk lost three to graduation, Freeburg may improve on their state finish of last year. Emma Farley and Emily Marler look to be the top runners for this tea, Lindsey Mank missed last season due to a stress fracture. She ran well in track and could have a big impact on this squad. This will be a team that will rely on a tight pack. With the talent on this team, it is possible. “I really think we could have a great pack of runners though. This will be our strength. I feel like we could have 7 runners under 20:00 on a 3.0 mile course similar to Detweiller at some point in the season. I feel like some of those runners could push to be under 19:00 or right around the 19:00 mark. If we can do that, I think we can compete against the top teams in the state,” said Florczyk.
Liberty Coach – Jared Schmidt 2012 Finish – 7th Elmwood-Brimfield Sectional
Key Runners – Jacki Graham SO, Katie Cook SO, Olivia Hanzel JR, Cheyanne Austen SR, Brooke Wiewel JR, Katelyn Obert FR.
Outlook – Coach Jared Schmidt loses two of his top 5 to graduation. However, it could be a strong freshman class that could push this team to Peoria. Leading that class is Katelyn Obert who was third in the IESA state meet last year. Sophomore Jacki Graham is the top returnee. “I really think we could have a great pack of runners though. This will be our strength,” said Schmidt. “I feel like we could have 7 runners under 20:00 on a 3.0 mile course similar to Detweiller at some point in the season. I feel like some of those runners could push to be under 19:00 or right around the 19:00 mark. If we can do that, I think we can compete against the top teams in the state.”
Litchfield Coach – Jeremy Palmer 2012 Finish – 15th Effingham St. Anthony Sectional
Key Runners – Shelby Mullins SR, Brittany Oehling SO, Alexandria Quarton SO, Emily Frerichs SR, Robin Randle SO, Hannah Nail JR, Andrea Fischer SR, Jordan Powell SR, Cecelia Bloome SR, Jenna Henske JR, Brianna Travis FR, Alexis Throne FR.
Outlook – A team that could surprise this year in the tough Decatur St. Teresa Sectional. All seven runners return from last year’s sectional qualifying team. Shelby Mullins and Brittany Oehling look to be the lead runners for this team. Freshmen Brianna Travis and Alexis Throne could step into the top 5 and close the 1-5 split to 90 seconds. That would be the split they would need to make it to Peoria.
Minonk Fieldcrest Coach – Carol Bauer 2012 Finish – 12th Oregon Sectional
Key Runners – Maria Baldwin SR (24th, 18:10), Annette Baldwin SO, Emily Hindrichsen SR, Kayla Messamore JR, Erin Pongracz SO, Nicole Stromberg JR, Zoey Baker R, Jayla Gensler JR, Clare Weirs FR.
Outlook – Maria Baldwin will again be the front runner for this team but it will be the 2-5 behind her that will need to close the distance. Maria’s sister Annette should lead that pack. Only three return from last year’s sectional qualifying team.
Mt. Zion Coach – Bill Harbeck 2012 Finish – 7th Effingham St. Anthony
Key Runners – McKayla Harder JR (inj in 2012), Megan Bailey JR, Brianna Reif SO, Nasrin Hosseini SR, Hannah Jordan SR, Rebecca Kovacs SO.
Outlook – With the return of McKayla Harder, Mt. Zion could be a top 10 team by the time the state series starts. This is a team, because of the low numbers on the roster, needs to stay healthy to have that chance. As a freshman, Harder was one of the elite runners in the state finishing in the top 5. The improvement of Megan Bailey gives this team a solid 1-2 punch. Their pack will need to be within 70 seconds of Bailey this fall and stay within 15 seconds of each other to qualify for Peoria.
Roxanna Coach – Shawn Dillard 2012 Finish – 22nd
Key runners – Kryston Scifres SO (127th, 19:58), Jessica Baggett JR (147th, 20:28), Sara Stogsdill (172nd, 21:05), Peyton Young SO (183rd, 21:30), Ali Henseiler SR (195th, 22:15), Savanah Stogsdill JR (197th, 22:19), Peyton Bauden SO, Tabi DeShotel SR, Katrina Oldendorph JR, Kali Sido SR, Marissa Thomas JR, Tiana Robinson SR.
Outlook – Roxanna will look to qualify for their third straight state appearance. Coach Shawn Dillard returns six from last year’s team. Tiana Robinson, who was the #1 runner for Murphysboro last year, transferred to Roxanna and could challenge for the top spot. This team could be in the top 15 at state if they can keep their split between 70- 80 seconds for their first five.
Seneca Coach – Kim Sedlock 2012 Finish – 13th Oregon Sectional
Key Runners – Caroline Collet SR, Savannah Baldauf SR, Shailee Bauer JR, Lexi Bogren SO, Eva Saens SO, Jacey Lamboley SR, Terah Coughlin SR, Anna Clubb JR.
Outlook – The future looked bright heading into the summer with Seneca’s top 7 returning from last year’s sectional team. The problem was a club soccer program was started taking 4-5 runners from the team. This team could be good. Time will tell during this season. “We are hoping to be repeat conference champions, advance to Sectionals, and send as many girls to state,” said Coach Kim Sedlock.
Westmont Coach – Steve Wolf 2012 Finish – 11th Lisle Sectional
Key Runners – Maggie Arndt SR (42nd, 18:46), Imogene Asa SO, Victoria Thomas JR, Sabrina Scott SR, Annie Carlson SO, Katie Muncie FR, Michelle Launi FR.
Outlook – 2012 was not a typical year for the Lady Sentinels. 2nd place two years ago, Westmont failed to qualify for state finishing 11th at their sectional. It could be business as usual for Steve Wolf’s team. Maggie Arndt finished 42nd at last year’s state meet and cold push for all-state honors this fall. Annie Carlson, Katie Muncie, and Michelle Launi are new to the team and could help this team get back to Peoria. There will be a gap between Arndt and the pack. The key will be keeping a tight pack on the 2-5. “Our goal is to get the whole girls team to state this year,” said Wolf. “We are a much improved team over last year.”
hi b!
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