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2013 DyeStat Illinois XC Previews - 2A Boys TeamsPublished by
It is up for grabs for the team title in Boys 2A
By Michael Newman
The 2012 state meet came down to a two team battle between Chicago Jones Prep and Belvidere North. That battle started at the beginning of the year when the two schools were in the same two slots. Jones Prep made history by capturing the first state team champion for a Boys Chicago Public League team since Lane Tech achieved that in 1963.
Every once in a while in Illinois you get the same scenario at the beginning of a season that you had the year before. Let me tell you this right now: that won’t happen in the chase for the state team championship in 2A. It will be a wide open tug of war with a close final at Detweiller.
It is nothing against any team but when I determined the rating that no one team dominated the rest. I think we are going to see that as the season progresses. The one team that I think that deserves the rating is Lansing Illiana Christian. They are a deep and balanced team that look like they have the tools to capture a team championship. Only meets and time will tell in this season.
There could be a number of different #1 teams during the season. The one thing to remember is that the only ratings that truly count are the ones that are released on November 9.
Here is a look at some of the top boys teams that will compete in 2A cross country this fall in Illinois.
Boys 2A Top 25 Teams
1 Lansing Illiana Christian Coach – Jim Piaskowy 2012 Finish – 6th 2A State
Key Runners – Tony Wondaal SR (13th, 14:50), Nick Fiene JR (38th, 15:19), Colin DeYoung SO (49th, 15:22), Nick Wondaal SO (50th, 15:23), Kevin Vreogh SR (97th, 15:49), Austin Gibson SR (118th, 15:58), Tommy McGuire JR, Caleb Jonkman JR, Matt Schaff JR, Ben Van Til SR, Oluwadamilare Ogunjimi JR, Luke Boss SO.
Outlook – Six runners return from last year’s sixth place team that have the talent to bring a state championship back to Lansing. There are several questions that should be looked at. This team has never been in this position before. How will they handle it? Their schedule will give them checkpoints to see where they are at. The first is the FTTF Invitational at Detweiller on 9/14. A couple weeks later they will be in Indiana for the Culver Invitational. Then in October, they have the Metro Suburban Conference Meet with a tough Glenbard South.
Still this team has the tools to get them to the top of the mountain. “The team chemistry is the key to this team's future success,” said Jim Piaskowy. “They are confident and ready to begin the journey and will be looking forward to a very tight State Meet.”
For this team to win, it will take 5 runners in the first 50…at least. Their first two runners should be Tony Wondaal and Nick Fiene. You can expect both to be in the discussion for all state, perhaps the top 15. Then it comes down to the next three spots. Kevin Vreogh and Tommy McGuire had great summers and have shown improvement and could be in that mix. You also have to consider Sophomores Colin DeYoung and Nick Wondaal along with Senior Austin Gibson for that spot as well. This team could have a great pack. The split last year at state was 59 second split. The potential for a tighter pack is greater this time around. They will need to have a 45 second split for a state championship with Tony Wondaal in the first ten. Like Coach Piaskowy said, this team is ready for the journey to begin. Time will tell what place trophy Lansing will bring back. They are focusing on gold.
2 Springfield Coach – Dan Devlin 2012 Finish – 7th 2A State
Key Runners – Pat Fitzgibbon SR (32nd, 15:15), Tyler Owens SR (56th, 15:29), Eric Wise JR (81st, 15:41), Heath Warren SO (92nd, 15:46), Amir Rasmussen SR (178th, 16:41), Mike Neposchlan JR, Logan Besalke SO, Evan Northrop SO, Matt Waldinger SO, Julian Litvak SO, J.D. Kropid SO.
Outlook – This is a team that has the talent to challenge for the team championship. Coach Dan Devlin does not really like to show his cards at the beginning of the year and he did not reply to the e-mail that I sent out to coaches. I can, however, go off of past history to give you an idea of what to expect.
This program likes to start out slowly. There will be points early in the season that you will see Devlin not run his top 7. The purpose is to have his team ready by the time the state series starts. It has been successful in the past.
The Senators have five runners returning from last year’s state meet team. They did lose Grant Luebkemann who transferred to Chatham-Glenwood. The top three to watch for are Pat Fitzgibbon, Tyler Owens, and Heath Warren. All three have showed improvement during the summer and will be ready to go for the start of the year. Keep a close eye on Warren. He is only a sophomore and showed great promise during the track season running 1:57 for 800 Meters. That is very impressive for a freshman.
Juniors Eric Wise and Mike Neposchlan should be the next in line. Wise ran in state last year. Neposchlan has experienced a good training summer and will be in the mix. The question will be how the rest of the team develops early in the year. Springfield has a talented roster that could provide depth.
With the firepower that Illiana has up front, the necessity for a tight pack for the Senators is great. They could have three runners between 15-25. A split of 38 seconds could be the key for a championship for this squad.
3 Crystal Lake Central Coach – Bill Eschmann 2012 Finish – 4th 2A State
Key Runners – Ryan Pitner SR (23rd, 15:00), Nick Amato SR (47th, 15:22), Zach Gemmell SR (82nd, 15:42), PJ McKay SR (120th, 16:00), Scott Levengood SR, Michael Penza JR, John Bush JR, Jacob Cannizzo JR, Andrew Jackson SO, Steven Hiller SO, Emillo Acevedo JR, Cole Barkocy FR.
Outlook – Even though three of their first runners including 2A state place finisher Alex Baker, here are the Tigers ready to go after a championship. You can consider that a tribute to the program that Bill Eschmann has built in Crystal Lake. Four return from last year’s team that would like to make that next step up to the podium.
Ryan Pitner was not really noticed during last season because of Alex Baker being up front. Now it is Pitner’s turn to step up to lead CLC. Nick Amato should be next. Last year, he finished in the top 50. The senior has the talent to be in the top thirty or better. Seniors Zach Gemmell and PJ McKay are the other returnees from last year. McKay suffered a stress fracture during the summer but is now back training.
Juniors Michael Penza, John Bush, and Jacob Cannizzo will all battle to get into the top 5. Keep an eye also on Cole Barkocy. This freshman ran in the 4:40’s last year in eighth grade. He has the talent to step onto the big stage.
“As always 2A will be tough with a lot of teams returning guys,” said Eschmann. “We are just going to keep working hard and also work on our leadership and then hope to be able to compete with some of those teams.”
Leadership on thing with this team will be a key especially with Baker gone. The one thing to watch is how the seniors improve this season. Traditionally Crystal Lake Central runners have a great improvement from their junior to senior year. Pitner will need to be in the first 15 with Amato flirting with a top 25 spot. If they overall 1-5 split can be around 42 seconds, Central may return to their school with a trophy.
4 Dixon Coach – Evan Thorpe 2012 Finish – 10th 2A State
Key Runners – Simon Thorpe SR (21st, 14:58), Cody Sondgeroth SR (60th, 15:30), Skylar Mitchell SR(61st, 15:31), Austin Trevino SR (135th, 16:07), Evan Grady JR (153rd, 16:19), Kylian Lally SR (189th, 16:52), Trent Brinkmeier SR, Owen VanHorn SO, Alex Bonnewell SR, Brandon Hey SO, Alex Lamendola SR, Blaine Masterton FR, Shane Masterton FR, Chase Fisher FR.
Outlook – This could be the year for the Dukes. Coach Evan Thorpe has an experienced group coming back with 6 runners. Most of them have a chip on their shoulder after last year’s 10th place finish. They were hoping for better. “We were very flat at the end of the year,” said Evan Thorpe. “I changed our focus of summer and did not have any workouts for the first 8 weeks. Just jumped into Tempo runs and fartleks recently.”
The talent is there to challenge for a team championship starting with the leadership of Simon Thorpe. He finished 21st last year. He is coming off of a strong track season Simon should be in the top 10. The senior trio of Cody Sondgeroth, Skylar Mitchell, and Austin Trevino should be next. Potentially they will need to be within 15 seconds of each other. Evan Grady has the talent to be with that pack. There is a drop off after that so staying healthy will be a key.
“I have been looking forward to this season for the last several years. We will definitely have 4 seniors and a junior in our top 5. Along with that we have a good chance of having seniors in spots 6 & 7. Like many teams staying healthy will be our #1 key. We will need to keep the top 5 healthy to have a chance for a trophy at the end of the year,” said Evan Thorpe. I do believe that the Dukes will be in the trophy discussion but will need to significantly improve.
The improvement will have to come having a strong 2-5 pack. Simon Thorpe should be in the top ten in November. I also could see one other runner between 20 to 25th place. The Dukes ran a good sectional race where their split was under 60 seconds. This team needs to have a split of 50 seconds for success. This team will be tested in the first month with meets at Pleasant Valley IA, the two Peoria meets and Lockport. We could have a better idea how good this team will be.
5 Chicago Jones College Prep Coach – Andrew Adelmann 2012 Finish – 1st 2A State
Key Runners – Pete Schaible SR (31st, 15:13), Kyle Maloney JR (39th, 15:19), Mark Protsiv JR, Will Sarchet JR, Kevin Johnson SR, Tony Gonzalez SR, Tony Solis JR, Daryl Cordova JR, Juan Castillo SR, Alex Rivas JR, Nick Moreno SO, Cole Hamilton SO, Nikolas Merten SO, David Salmi JR, Steven Claud FR.
Outlook – After he found out that his team had won the 2A team state championship, Andrew Adelmann was speechless and could not really react to what had happened. It was a journey that he had started four years ago. Now it is year 5 for Adelmann in charge of this cross country program. Only two runners return from that team. Ben Boswell would have been the third runner but he moved to Delaware. Adelmann and his team what was accomplished a year ago and that 2012 was 2012.
“Last year was truly just a dream come true and there is a ton of pride in this program about what we did. It was a remarkable ride all season and there are some incredible memories, but we are all anxious to make new ones,” said Adelmann. “If there is one lasting change that came from all of it, it's the way guys look at their goals and what they can accomplish. They saw a very emotional firsthand account of what is possible if they believe in themselves, their teammates and the process. That's something that doesn't lie.”
Peter Schaible and Kyle Maloney step into the spot light to lead this team. Both runners are capable of becoming all state runners. “Psychologically they are both very similar. They are two of the fieriest competitors I've ever been able to coach. They have a really high intensity which I think we'll definitely need this year,” added Adelmann. “They are both also very motivated and are big students of the sport. They practically studied those top seniors last year soaking up everything they could. They are still always asking how the "best" did things and are chomping at the bit to use it this year.”
You could see that the coach was smiling at track meets last spring seeing how his younger runners were performing. He had a 4x8 relay that had four sophomores involved. There were dramatic improvements in the group. It will be interesting to see how juniors Mark Protsiv, Will Sarchet, Tony Solis, and Daryl Cordova along with seniors Kevin Johnson and Tony Gonzalez improve this year.
Schaible and Maloney most likely will be in the top 15. Then the question will be who will step up. The talent is there to make another state team championship run. “Our guys also truly understand that it is 2013 now and what we did in 2012 doesn't matter anymore,” concluded Adelmann. “We know that there is still a lot of business to be taken care of this year and there are a lot of new faces that have the right stuff to do the job. What matters now is only being ready to run our best when this November is here.”
6 Yorkville Coach – Chris Muth 2012 Finish – 3rd 2A State
Key Runners – Jake Hoffert JR (12th, 14:48), Luke Hoffert JR (15th, 14:51), Nolan Tweedy SR (73rd, 15:36), Trevor Willis SO, Caleb Piszczek SR, Richard Skogsberg SR, Thor Hester SO, Jake Farentello SO, Mason Brandt JR, Cody Hornyack SO, Alex Nauman FR.
Outlook – It’s hard to say if the Foxes are rebuilding or reloading. Only three runners are back from last year’s trophy team. Chris Muth is downplaying his chances after what has happened the last week. “We have been hit hard this last year with kids who could have potentially been on the back end of our varsity team,” he said. “Justin Vacha, who as a junior ran 16:00 at the time trial before state last year as our number 8 runner, decided to join the football team as a senior. Richard Skogsberg who had a great summer as our current number 5 runner, 16:25 at detweiller at dark, went down last week with a stress fracture on top of his foot and will be out 6 to 8 weeks. Rayne D'Allsendro is currently having some district issues that will most likely keep him out for the season and he just ran 16:24 at Detweiller at dark. So to say we have been hit hard in the last week is an understatement.”
Muth does have brothers Jake and Luke Hoffert back. Both improved dramatically in the last year. Both could be in the top 5 this season. The third returnee, Nolan Tweedy, has had a good summer and could be under 15:00 at the state meet. The big problem for this team is finding a fourth and a fifth man. It will come down to sophomores Trevor Willis, Thor Hester, Cody Hornyack, Jake Farentello along with freshman Alex Nauman. This group will need to grow up quick.
“Luke and Jake Hoffert have been working really hard this summer, and Nolan Tweedy has been sticking with them in practices the second half of the summer training,” added Muth. “They set some good times at Detweiller at dark in late July that has given them confidence going into the season. The development of the second group is what will make or break our season. There is potential there, but we have to stay focused every day and change their mindsets from fr/so runners to strong varsity athletes. Right now I feel like with our strong top three and the development of our younger runners, we should be around a top 10 team finish with potential to move up.”
7 Glen Ellyn Glenbard South Coach – Doug Gorski 2012 Finish – 5th 2A State
Key Runners – John Wold SR (1st, 14:16), Joe Singleton SR (6th, 14:43), Andrew Kladiva SR (55th, 15:28), Joe Meade SR (161st, 16:26), Jon O’Rourke SO, Richardo Hilliard SR, Colin Meade JR, Andrew Sundberg SO, Ibrahim Jawad JR, Joey Gedwell SO, Dan Self SO, Mike King SO, Joey Wood FR, Christian Hilliard FR.
Outlook – When you have the top two runners returning from last year’s state meet, you can kind of breathe a sigh of relief. If you are Doug Gorski, however, that luxury is quite different. Both John Wold and Joe Singleton have a history of injuries. When both are healthy, it is hard to find a better duo in Class 2A. Wold’s injury problems appear to be over. Singleton was injured most of track season and is just starting to run again. When both get healthy, they will be tough to stop.
“Summer running went well. We had one of the largest turnouts of runners ever, mostly incoming freshmen and returning sophomores,” said Gorski. “I expect some of those sophomore’s to be in the top 7 by November.”
One runner to watch is Andrew Kladiva. He finished 55th a year ago and could bust into the top 30 in 2013. Joe Meade had a good summer along with Sophomores Jon O’Rourke and Andrew Sundberg. You could see all three in the top 6.
“Our goals as a team are to win Conference again and improve on last year’s 5th place finish at the state meet,” concluded Gorski. The key to this team is the gap from the front two and the pack. Last year the gap was 45 seconds on Singleton. If they can have a tight pack and a 39 second split off of a healthy Singleton, then this team can look ahead at a trophy in November.
8 Belvidere North Coach – Troy Yunk 2012 Finish – 2nd 2A State
Key Runners – Eryk Yunk SO (41st, 15:19), Jacob Howe SR (93rd, 15:47), Chase Hill SR (132nd, 16:06), Alan Champion JR, Kyle Graff JR, Zack Lyons JR, Max Vittore SO, Will Palmer SO, Anthony Oldani JR, Joe Menge SR, Dustin Luckow SR.
Outlook – The most impressionable thing that I got out of the e-mail that I received from Belvidere North Coach Troy Yunk was “we are not the Belvidere North of the past 6 years and we will see how our team handles that.”
It is true. This is not the team that won multiple state team championships led by Tyler Yunk. Garrett Lee, and Paxson Menard. The core of that dynasty is gone. There is still talent on this roster that will give Belvidere North a good team. It is going to be a matter of baby steps of improvement for this team.
Eryk Yunk was brought along slowly last year as a freshman. He will be the front man for this team this year and could be running under 15:00 at state. Jacob Howe and Chase Hill, two runners that were sixth and seventh a year ago, will need to step into the 2-3 spots. Then juniors Kyle Graff and Alan Champion will step into the next spots according to Coach Yunk.
“Our team this year had a good summer of training with 8 runners attending the University of Wisconsin Camp of Champions,” added Yunk. “This year’s team will be a hardworking team that is made up of runners who enjoy running, but are not blessed with the talent of the guys that I have seen over the past 7 years. We know who we are and we are setting realistic goals that include qualifying for the State meet in November out of a traditionally tough sectional” We might not see anything special from this team early on, but they will be a tough team by the time they get to the state series.
9 Mahomet-Seymour Coach – Neal Garrison 2012 Finish – 11th 2A State
Key Runners – Forrest Smoes SR (11th, 14:48), Ethan Russell SR (86th, 15:43), Alex Keeble SO (126th, 16:01), James Williams SO (127th, 16:02), Jackson Powell JR (173rd, 16:37), Curt Kuperferschmid SR, Jake Keller SO, Jack Hyde SO, Joey Magyar SO, Gabe Pommier FR.
Outlook – Jonathan Schaap has graduated but there is still a good core remaining from last year’s state team. Forrest Smoes finished 11th last year and could be in the top 5 this fall. The secret on this team could be sophomore Alex Keeble. He was the fifth man at state last year. His improvement has been dramatic. He ran 15:31 last month at Det at Dark. He could challenge Ethan Russell for the second spot. There will be a gap between Smoes and the pack. That gap needs to be near 40 seconds, then the pack needs to be within 20 seconds of each other.
“I would love to see them be in the top 3 in most of our meets. They won many of them last year, but we realistically know that it will be significantly harder to win any invites this season. We hope to win Regional if we aren't placed into one that is too tough,” said Neal Garrison.
10 Rock Island Alleman Coach – Doug Burke 2012 Finish – 4th 1A State
Key Runners – Zach Hird SR (36th, 15:41), Wesley Graham JR (53rd, 15:55), Aaron Golding SO (104th, 16:28), Kienan Otto JR (106th, 16:28), Matthew Mallary SR (122nd, 16:41), Alec Ewers SR, Connor Darrow JR, Austin Johnson JR, Peter Stock SR.
Outlook – Alleman makes a leap up to 2A. They would have been the 1A favorite if they stayed there. They will still be a team to be dealt with in their new classification. Five runners return from last year’s team.
Zach Hird and Wesley Graham both had a good track season which should boost their confidence this fall. With the runners that are projected to be in the top 5, this team could have a split of near 50-55 seconds. With Hird possibly being in the top 25, this could improve Alleman’s chances of placing in the top 5. “We have the mindset that we will compete for a conference championship and an appearance at the state meet,” said Doug Burke.
11 Maple Park Kaneland Coach – Chad Clarey 2012 Finish – 13th 2A State
Key Runners – Kyle Carter SR (48th, 15:22), Nathaniel Kucera SR (103rd, 15:51), Luis Acosta SR (139th, 16:12), Ryan Bower SR (165th, 16:32), Brandon Huber SR, Brandon Park JR, Andrew Lesak JR, Sean Spietzel SO, Dylan Kuipers SR, Phil Cutsinger SR, Brock Robertson SR.
Outlook – Kaneland was consistently between 10-20 through most of the season state wide. The Knights finished 13th at state last year and return 4 runners from that team. Kyle Carter finished in the top 50 last year. He improved during track. Do not be surprised if he is in the top 25 in November. The key will be keeping their pack within 1 minute of each other. If they do that, they could get out of a tough Belvidere Sectional.
“Keeping healthy is a priority for this team, and we’re tinkering with our workouts to try and promote a stronger finish to our campaign,” said Chad Clarey. “We’ve seen the success of high mileage programs, and we’ve found success with that approach. Looking at the strengths of the runners that we have this year, we’ve decided to alter our approach, slightly.”
12 Vernon Hills Coach – Mark Whitney 2012 Finish – 7th Belvidere Sectional
Key Runners – Kyle Whitney SR (52nd, 15:24), Ben Mohrdieck SR (100th, 15:50), Tyler Smith JR, Nick Webber SR, Eric Doerhoefer SR, Bryan Castellanos SO, Caleb Ju SO, Michael Anagnostopoulos SR, Keith Carlson SR, Trevor Moyers SO, Shane Williamson FR.
Outlook – This could be a top 10 team by the time we get to the state series. Vernon Hills returns basically their top 7 looking to improve on last year’s finish. Kyle Whitney and Ben Mohrdieck were rocks for the team last year. The duo ran together most of last year. Both saw improvement in track and coild place in the top 30 this season. This team will operate with two packs. If that split can stay under a minute, they may toe the line as a team at Detweiller.
“We expect to have our best year since the program started. With all our top guys from 2012 returning (including 3 seniors), we should be a contender for the NSC Championship, be a favorite in the Regional, and qualify as a team for the State Final,” said Mark Whitney.
13 Chatham-Glenwood Coach – Mike Garber 2012 Finish – 20th 2A State
Key Runners – Grant Kaiser SR (83rd, 15:42), Landon Skelly SO (140th, 16:12), Gabe Powell JR (147th, 16:14), Jonathan Durr JR (158th, 16:24), Tyler Jones SR (195th, 17:04), Jacob Siefert JR, Lincoln Kinley JR, Zach Lahr SO, Justin Hollinshead JR, Grant Luebkemann JR, Paul Giganti SO, Jack Carnduff FR, Chris Durr FR.
Outlook – 20th place is not an indication how good this team was a year ago. Part of that had to do with Marc Maton having a bad race and finishing in the seventies. Still, there are five runners that are back that would like to improve on last year’s performance. Grant Kaiser should be the front runner for new coach Mike Garber. He could be a top 40 runner. This team is going to have to rely on close pack running for success. If they can keep their first five within 50 seconds of each other, then the Titans should be heading back to Peoria.
14 Wheaton St. Francis Coach – Scott Nelson 2012 Finish – 23rd 2A State
Key Runners – Andrew Hallet SR (79th, 15:40), Nick Vilimek SR (117th, 15:58), Matt Lorish SR (131st, 16:05), Danny Cady JR (174th, 16:38), Mike Deaton SR (181st, 16:44), Nick Kolker SR, Brendan McClure JR, Kevin Donner SO, Dan Reczek SR, Parker Sitley JR, Mark Berkowicz SO, Liam Furland SO, Nick Brouch FR.
Outlook – Five runners return for St. Francis. The talent is there to greatly improve their 23rd place from a year ago. “We believe we can challenge for the SCC title and top 10 in the state with everyone back this season,” said Scott Nelson.
Andrew Hallett and Nick Vilimek should challenge for the front spot. It would be surprising to see them in the top 50 at state. This school traditionally keeps a split under 60 seconds. The runners that are back can do that. If that happens, this team could make it out of their sectional and back to state.
15 Bensenville Fenton Coach – John Kurtz 2012 Finish – 14th 2A State
Key Runners – Danny Wiggin SR (70th, 15:34), Rodrigo Estrada SR (95th, 15:48), Christian Silva SR (138th, 16:12), Leonel Rodriguez JR (177th, 16:40), Axel Nava JR, Mohammed Et Taouil SR, Marcus Falkoner SR, Jonathan Mercado SR, Joseph Rivas JR.
Outlook – The Bison should advance again from the Chicago University Sectional. With front runner Fabiel Uruza graduated, look for Danny Wiggin to step into the first spot and could finish in the first 40. This team will be better than on paper. Watch for this squad to challenge for a top 12 finish.
16 Metamora Coach – Gene Jones 2012 Finish – 18th 2A State
Key Runners – Joel Anglin SR (62nd, 15:32), Travis Scherier SR (109th, 15:52), William Koehrsen SR (164th, 16:30), Patrick Vieck SR (180th, 16:44), John Crotteau SO (187th, 16:48), Jason Lynn SR, John Argo JR, Matt Crotteau SO, Dexter Ballou SR, Keaton McClure JR, Robert Pitts SO, AJ Case JR, Seth Gunther SO, Stephan Murphy SR, Jackson Ward SR, John Mangold JR.
Outlook – This is a deep squad that will look to once again win the Mid Illini Conference and qualify for state. Most importantly they want to improve on their finish from a year ago when they finished 18th. 5 runners return from that squad.
Joel Anglin could be one of the top runners in central Illinois this season. He finished 62nd a year ago but he is capable of placing higher in 2013. Gene Jones has a good nucleus behind Anglin led by Travis Scherier and William Koehrsen, both seniors. One runner that might get into the top 5 is John Mangold. The junior is a transfer from Wabeno HS that ran 4:34 as a sophomore. Jones thinks that he may fit in. Just like any other squad wanting to move up the standings, Metamora will need to reduce their 1-5 split. 50-53 seconds may get them back to Peoria as a team.
17 Palos Heights Shepard Coach – Troy Walker 2012 Finish – 8th 3A Marist Sectional
Key Runners – Josh Maier SR, Mike Evancich SR, Nick Herdinger SR, Khahai Cook SR, Nate Gibson JR, Andrew Miller JR, Zach Sierzega SO, Jose Beltran JR, Kevin Courtney JR, Cole Akimoff SO, Nick Zuiker SR
Outlook – This could be a breakthrough season for Shepard. It started that way last fall when it won the 3A regional and finished 8th. Moving to 2A this year could have been the best thing for Troy Walker and his team. 4 runners return from last year’s team.
Shepard will need to find a fifth runner. He may need to find a second runner as well. According to Walker, Mike Evancich could not train as much over the summer because of a knee injury. Josh Maier had a great summer will be the first man. Those two together, when healthy could make this team tough. This squad needs to stay healthy this season. The depth is not as strong as Walker would like it to be. If they can get everyone healthy and find someone as the fifth man, Shepard could make a trip to Peoria. “We typically run well in the post season so if we can get and stay healthy I am confident we will be in the discussion of getting down to Peoria as a team,” Coach Walker said.
18 Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin Coach – Josh Bluhm 2012 Finish – 7th Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Key Runners – Ethan Bluhm JR, Sam Rogers JR, Jon Bluhm SR, Justin Zanger JR, Elek Wellman SR, Matt O’Shea SR, Nate Fierstos SO, Mitch Kerr SR, Aaron Fyalka SR, Devin McReynolds SO, Tommy Negro JR, Tucker Schmidt SO.
Outlook – Josh Bluhm takes over as Coach of the Cross Country program at Sacred Heart-Griffin after Ed Gaffigan retired after more than ten years at the post. Gaffigan did not leave Bluhm empty handed. 13 out of the top 14 runners return for the new coach. Last year, the team had to rely on running freshman and sophomores up on the varsity level. It can explain why the team was a little inconsistent last fall. That won’t happen this year.
Putting the frosh soph runners up on varsity last year will pay off this year. Ethan & Jon Bluhm along with Sam Rogers should be the top 3 runners. The key for this team traditionally is keeping a tight pack. Last year at sectionals, it was 21 seconds. If the first three runners can move up compared to last year, this school could advance. “What we are looking for is more consistency on race day. The summer workouts have suggested that will happen,” said Coach Bluhm. “Ultimately, we’ll need the pretty good runners to develop into great racers. If you were to ask each of the kids, I think they would tell you that anything short of a team qualification for the IHSA State Meet would be a disappointment.”
19 Geneseo Coach – Don Fredericks 2012 Finish – 8th Peoria Notre Dame Sectional
Key Runners – David Chenoweth JR, Nick Fox SO, Mitchell Lamb SR, Chase Blakely SR, Tony Gatter SR, Charley Elden SO, Nolan Fassett JR, Gabe Johnson SO, Bryce Gramling SR, Hunter Grau SO.
Outlook – This could be a squad that sneaks up on people during the season. Even though the Maple Leafs lost their top 2 runners to graduation, Geneseo will be powered by a strong group of juniors that may push them to Detweiller.
David Chenoweth and Nick Fox ended up the season as their 3-4 runners. They should challenge for the top spot along with Senior Mitchell Lamb. What Coach Don Fredericks will need is one of the three to be the guy that challenges the teams other good runners. Their projected split is near 45 seconds. If it starts more towards the front, this team could be tough. “The boys put in strong summer of base mileage and are hopeful of a run at Detweiller in November. Look for the Leafs to be at their best come championship meet season. The goal is to make a deep run into the post season,” said Fredericks. “Not a lot of teams will be looking for the Leafs so we hope fly below the radar and sneak up on teams and catch them by surprise.”
20 Lisle Benet Academy Coach – Kevin Reinecker 2012 Finish – 15th 3A St. Charles East Sectional
Key Runners – Phillip Parisi JR, Matt Kowalczyk SO, Brady McLaughlin JR, John Steppelman SR, Zack Kowalczyk SO, Sean Harnik JR, Justin DeSlaurer SR, Nick Malone SR, Kelly Crombie SO, Jimmy Watson FR,
Outlook – The Redwings move down to cross country as well. At this point, they could be moved in to the Wheaton Academy Sectional which looks like will be one of the toughest sectionals in 2A this year. It really does not matter to Coach Kevin Reinecker’s team. Three runners return from last year’s 3A sectional team. There are 5-8 more runners that are capable of breaking into the top 7. That is a good problem to have.
With their top 3 runners gone, Phillip Parisi or Brady McLaughlin may step to the top spot. Kelly Crombie and Sean Harnik both had good summers according to Reinecker and could be next in line. Freshman Jimmy Watson may break into the top 5 as well. “2A or 3A we are just excited to race. We walk into every summer and every season hoping to stay healthy and strong enough to make a bid to the IHSA state meet and this year is no different,” Reinecker said. “So the goal is to put seven guys on the line and make it past regionals and sectionals. I know we have talent and I know we have a very strong work ethic. We just have to put all the pieces of the puzzle together over the next two months and I think we could have a good post-season. But for now, it is early and I don't like to speculate with the boys. I tell them, worry about your runs, your workouts, and your game plan. Think about conference and the post season when its time. Stay in the moment of training but understand the larger picture. I think if we can do that, then anything is possible.”
21 Grayslake Central Coach – Jimmy Centella 2012 Finish – 6th Belvidere Sectional
Key Runners – Kevin Orozco SR, Ben Shwaiko SR, Steven Anderson SR, Maxwell Brunk JR, Aiden Aaiberg SO, Alexander Bugno SO, Zachary Craig Mars SO, Aaron Johnson JR, Gavin Achtenmeier JR, Suneed Ahmed JR, Jack Battaglia SO.
Outlook – This team that just missed qualifying for state last year by finishing sixth at sectionals could have been rated in the top 12 at the beginning of this season. However, with Tommy Zygmunt and Kirk Dickson deciding not to run this fall has made the task of getting to state a little more difficult for Jimmy Centella and his team.
Kevin Orozco should be the front runner on this team. Max Brunk could challenge him for the spot. The junior had a great summer that could see him with Orozco. Suneed Ahmed, a former soccer player, has transitioned well to running, could be in the top 5.The first month of the season should answer many questions for the Grayslake Central Coach. “We will need other runners to step up and contribute to the top 7. If the group can learn to work together in races and keep the pack tight, then I think we have an outside chance at returning to Detweiller for the second time in school history,” Centella said. “In order to do this however, we must focus on the not so glamorous things that are part of cross country: the grinding daily runs, the workouts, the hills, the core work, the stretching, and the strength training. If we can take pride in doing these things each day, then we can put our team in a position to run our best in November.”
22 Normal University Coach – Les Hampton 2012 Finish – 8th 2A State
Key Runners – JD Lafayette SR (45, 15:21), Lucas Houska SR (145th, 16:14), Eli Hill JR (191st, 16:59), Andrew Porter SR, Andrew Walch JR, Jordan HO SO, Alexander Su SR, Cameron Herbert SO, Tyler Gillam SR, Alex Morris SO, Alexander Bruno JR.
Outlook - Three runners return from last year’s 8th place team. Lester Hampton does have some quality to build from this fall. JD Lafayette had a great track season lowering his 800 & 1600 ties down to 1:55/4:18. Hopefully that confidence will transfer over to cross country. Eli Hill had a great summer at the U of Wisconsin camp and could break through as a strong second runner. Lucas Houska could be challenged by Alexander Bruno for the third spot. Bruno played soccer last fall, but in track ran on their 4x8 team that was all-state.
“We’ve been able to keep everyone healthy and feel like we’re in a good place to start the season,” said Hampton. “As the season progresses we hope to develop into one of the better teams in 2A.” They may start out slow, but this school will be tough by the time the state series starts.
23 Mt. Vernon Coach – Clint Turner 2012 Finish – 10th Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Key Runners – David Modert SR (34th, 15:16), Jordan Wilemon SR, Ethan Badger JR, Daniel Flood JR, Brykell Patton SR, Jordan Hubbard JR, Tyler Williams SO.
Outlook – The Rams had a rollercoaster year with too many peaks and valleys. Going into the sectional meet, they were rated 22nd statewide. They finished 10th with only David Modert qualifying for state. Five runners return from that team.
Modert has the potential to place in the top 20 after finishing 34th a year ago. This is a veteran squad that should learn from what happened a year ago. Watch for their split. Mt Vernon needs to have an 85 second split off of Modert for a trip to Peoria. “Our top five all had a good track season and we hope it transfers to this XC season,” said Clint Turner.
24 Midlothian Bremen Coach – Bill Griffin 2012 Finish – 9th Wheaton Academy Sectional
Key Runners – Jacob Widstrom SR, Erick Meza JR, Craig Krygowski JR, Cayden Coyler SR, Abraham Ramirez JR, Gavriel McClarkin SR, Peter Herrera SR, Matt Sessions SR, Edward Gross JR, Jacob Florias-Arias JR.
Outlook – Coach Bill Griffin returns his entire top 7 from last year’s sectional team. The Braves most likely will be feeding into the Wheaton Academy Sectional where seven schools are rated in the top 25. This team does have the talent to make it to Detweiller in November.
Jacob Widstrom qualified for state last year but missed the track season due to a leg injury. He is back to training and should be 100% by mid-season. Erick Meza should be pushing Widstrom for the top spot. Bremen had an 83 second 5 man split at sectionals. That needs to come down. “They had a great summer. The top group ran close to 600 miles from June to mid-August. We return 11 of our top 12 from last year, including all of the top 10,” said Griffin. “Our expectations are to win Conference, challenge for a Regional title, qualify for the state meet as a team, and place in the top 15.”
25 Richmond-Burton Coach – Keith Forth 2012 Finish – 5th 1A State
Key Runners – James Kaht SR (19th, 15:24), Ben Gardner SR (79th, 16:15), Ryan Garrett SR (88th, 16:21), Greg Artler SR (168th, 17:10), Aiden Filko SO, Bobby Koren SR, Brandon Krause SR, Austin Maldonado SO, Chris Williams FR.
Outlook – Richmond-Burton moves back up to 2A returning four from last year’s 5th place state team. James Kaht is the guy to watch from this team. He is starting to come into his own. Last May, he was second in the 1600 at state. He could be in the top 25 this fall. Ben Gardner and Ryan Garrett gives Coach Keith Forth a solid 2-3. Work needs to be done to get a 4-5 that will be close to these two. Forth stated that Freshman Chris Williams could be one of those runners.
“Even though we have moved back up to 2A our goals remain the same,” said Forth. “The boys will be shooting for their third Big Northern Championship in a row and fifth in the past six years. They will also be aiming to win the regional and make it through the always tough Belvidere Sectional to state.”
Other teams to watch (in alphabetical order)
Aurora Central Catholic Coach – Troy Kerber 2012 Finish – 24th 2A State
Key Runners – Javier Montelongo SR (134th, 16:07), Matt Knapp SR (175th, 16:40), Patrick Lefevre SR 200th, 17:17), Daniel Aquino JR (210th, 17:44), Gilberto Cervantes SR, Gabriel Goebel JR, John Eastwood JR, Richard Echivierria JR, James Cerza SR, Trevor Bennett JR, David Gagnon SR, Tyler Garcia JR.
Outlook – ACC made it out of their sectionals last year and would like to make it back. The road may be tougher in 2013 after losing their #1 Matt Meyers to graduation and being in a tough Wheaton Academy Sectional. Javier Montelongo looks to be the top man for the Chargers. The talent and depth are there to get back to Peoria. “The ACC Boys would like to get back to Peoria and vastly improve from last season’s mediocre performance! Last season, the kids needed to reach that milestone of racing at the 2A state level, but are now determined to show that they belong down there and then some,” Coach Troy Kerber said. “The team dynamic will be different without graduated front man Matt Meyers, however strength could be in numbers and the Chargers have that and then some! We will need to be a pack attack type of team, but hey would love to see someone break out and lead us up front.”
Bloomington Coach – John Szabo 2012 Finish – 6th Peoria Notre Dame Sectional
Key Runners – Sam Doud SR (72nd, 15:36), Mike Hebert SR, Charles Smith SR, Jared Collier JR, Jonah Boughnour SO, Brendan Rosa SR, Austin Carroll JR, Andrew Pacyga SO, Ryan O’Daniel SO, Jack Doud FR.
Outlook – The Blue Raiders just missed making it to state last year. They could in 2013. Sam Doud leads 5 runners back from last year’s sectional team. The senior had a dramatic improvement in track at state and will be among the ten best at state. What this team will need is a solid 2-5 pack behind Doud. They could have that with Seniors Mike Hebert and Charles Smith leading the way. “After watching Sam at state cross country and then seeing him run a 16 second PR at the state track meet last spring, I think he will have a great year and we could have a decent team if the pack can keep working together to get close to Sam,” John Szabo said.
Burlington Central Coach – Vince Neil 2012 Finish – 8th Belvidere Sectional
Key Runners – Clay Musial JR, Josh Schwarting SR, Kyle Neubauer JR, Thomas Osko SR, Wes Metcalfe SO, Andrew Barrveta JR, Matt Bikun SR, Eric Johnson SO, Zach Lorenz SO, Ryan Houlihan SR, Nick Harvey SO.
Outlook – This is a team to watch to climb into the top 25 as the season progresses. Six runners return from last year’s team led by Clay Musial and Josh Schwarting. Both runners could make it individually to state, but would like to have their teammates with them. They have a good split from 1-4. Work will be done to get a fifth runner close to the first four for this team to qualify for state. “We plan to work hard and compete well,” said Vince Neil. “We plan to use that success from a year ago and continue to improve and push for a state advancement in both the team and individual areas.”
Carbondale Coach – Greg Storm 2012 Finish – 22nd 2A State
Key Runners – Micah Cherry SO (144th, 16:14), Joyner Deamer JR (146th, 16:14), Cam McElheny SR (197th, 17:11), Davell Love SR (207th, 17:36), Austin Baker SO, Levi Coffer SR, Tarek Elkaffas SO, Brian Bell SR, Gus Beck SR, Fred Beck SO, Kyle Bathgate JR.
Outlook – Four runners are back from last year’s state team. They have qualified for state two years in a row. Micah Cherry and Joyner Deamer look to be the front guys for the Terriers. This team may start out slow, but could be a top 25 by the time the state series start. Watch for Sophomores Fred Beck, Austin Baker, and Tarek Elkaffas to step into the top 5. “Our expectations do not change each year. We want to win a conference title and qualify our team to state,” said Greg Storm. “We have been fortunate to make it to the state meet the past 2 years, and hopefully we can keep that streak going.”
Charleston Coach – Derrick Landrus 2012 Finish – 19th 2A State
Key Runners – Taylor Garrett SR (90th, 15:46), Zach Sanders SR (162nd, 16:27), Val Walker JR (192nd, 16:59), Colton Bell SO (194th, 17:02), Jacob Fairbanks JR, Ross Osterday SO, Kendal Oliver JR, Joe McKirahan SO, Jonah Moore JR, Jesse Brown-Wilson SO.
Outlook – The road could be tougher for Charleston to make it back to Peoria in 2013. 3200 Meter State Champ Riley McInerney will be running at Eastern Illinois. They also lost his brother Colin who will be playing football this fall. There is still quality in the roster led by Senior Taylor Garrett. He could make it to state individually. The earlier part of the season this team will look for a solid first 5. A tight 2-5 pack with Zach Sanders in front may be the key. But that pack needs to be tight if they want to make it back to Detweiller in November.
Dunlap Coach – Chris Friedman 2012 Finish – 7th Peoria Notre Dame Sectional
Key Runners – John Eberle SR, Anthony Holshouser SR, Phillip Copeland JR, Thomas Skeels JR, Ben Meyer SR, Mark Anderson JR, Matt Eberle JR, Andrew Tamsouic SO, Logan Kirby JR, Alex McMahon SO, Vince Florendo SO, James Newton JR, Matt Monge SO, Carson Potts FR.
Outlook – It could be a transition year early on for Dunlap losing their top 2 runners Zach Plank and Everett Lepp to graduation and gaining new coach Chris Friedman. They could still be a tough team by the time they get to the state series. John Eberle, Anthony Holshouser, and Phillip Copeland could step into the front role. Packing will be the key for success for this squad. “Summer training has gone really well. It is easily the most miles they have run, and I am already seeing the improvements,” said Friedman. “We are two time defending conference champions, and even though Metamora might be the conference favorite, I believe we can win the conference and then make the state meet.”
Johnsburg Coach – Chris Setzler 2012 Finish – 18th 1A State
Key Runners – Matt Stelmasek SO (77th, 16:14), Jake Grimes JR (118th, 16:39), Noah Miller JR (126th, 16:42), Jack Pocklington JR (149th, 17:01), Dakota Merritt SO (192nd, 17:58), Dominic Miraldi SO (202nd, 18:28), Scott Sompel SR, Ryan Pagett JR, Joey Flack SR.
Outlook – Johnsburg moves up to 2A despite the fact the school’s enrollment decreased by 22 students. They are the fifth smallest 2A school in cross country in 2012. Coach Chris Setzler moved six of his top 7 up to varsity at the time of regionals. The team responded by placing 18th at state. This is a squad that could make it back. Matt Stelmasek will be in the front. They could have a 1-4 split of 40 seconds, but work will need to be done to get the fifth runner closer to that pack. “Even though we have moved to the 2A level I feel that we can qualify for the state meet,” said Setzler. “Our sectional will be challenging, how challenging depends on where the state sends everyone. So our focus will be on preparing for a very difficult sectional & looking to grab one of the last two state qualifying positions. Even though he will be a sophomore I plan to run Matt Stelmasek up at the varsity level with 6 juniors. The rest of the frosh/soph runners I will bring along slowly like I did last year & work them into the varsity lineup come conference and the state series if their times crack the top 7.”
Lake Forest Coach – Nathan Sweet 2012 Finish – 18th 3A Schaumburg Sectional
Key Runners – Liam Gayler SR, Sean Jones SR, Mark Myers SO, Matthew Mekaelian JR, Zach Streightiff JR, Matthew Buddell SR, Patrick Eckland SR, Grant Levin SO, Samuel Grum JR, Jack Corrigan SO, Alex Guest SO, Ryan Martin SO.
Outlook – Lake Forest moves down to 2A and could benefit from this move. They will all-state runner Billy Bund, but return everyone else from last year’s sectional team. Liam Gayler, Sean Jones, and Mark Myers should have a tight 1-3 pack. Their split needs to be near 50 seconds on five this year for this team to advance out of a rough Belvidere Sectional.
Lemont Coach – Tim Plotke 2012 Finish – 7th Wheaton Academy Sectional
Key Runners – Lucas Heatherington SR, Evan Ganzer JR, Andrew Kramer SR, Connor Brandt JR, Chris Konicki SO, Charles Zuirbulis JR, Simon Batistich JR, Drake White JR, Jaron Fay SO, Tyler Schoell JR, Owen Doherty JR, Matt Gagen SR.
Outlook – Lemont looks to make it to state returning four from last year’s sectional team. Lucas Heatherington is the fastest returner from that team. Evan Ganzler and Matt Gagen should push Lucas and could give this team a solid three. This team could have four close together which could make them dangerous by the time of the start of the state series.
Mascoutah Coach – Pat Cook 2012 Finish – 14th Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Key Runners – Murphy Affolder SR (25th, 15:04), Matt Thompson SR, John Breckel SO, Josh Elmore JR, Justin Rogers SO, Daniel Pearson SO, Noah Affolder FR, Ethan Price FR.
Outlook – This team took a big hit when 1600 Meter Champ Chris Martin moved to New Jersey. He was 14th last year at state and would have been among the elite in the state. Coach Pat Cook still has a good nucleus led by two time all-state runner Murphy Affolder. He finished 25th a year ago because of injuries. He should be in the top 5 this fall. Mascoutah should be boosted by two freshman. Noah Affolder ran 4:42 for 1600 last year in 8th grade while Ethan Price ran 5:03. Both should jump into the top 5.
Morris Coach – Joe Blumberg 2012 Finish – 13th Peoria Notre Dame Sectional
Key Runners – Jacob Wantland JR, Austin Patterson JR, Eric Robinson SR, Nick Marino SR, Austin Fatlan SR, Tristan DeGrush JR, Sam Allen SR, Evan Bjelland JR, Vicente Gelligos JR, Chet Lear SR.
Outlook – Morris basically returns everyone from last year’s sectional qualifying team. Jacob Wantland should be the lead runner for this squad. Last year, the junior injured his leg right before the state series. He is back at 100% and has the possibility of qualifying individually. Fellow junior Austin Patterson should be close to Wantland. Their pack was tight at sectionals last year. With Wantland back leading, you should see improvement on their sectional performance from this team.
Normal Community West Coach – Steve Destri 2012 Finish – 11th Peoria Notre Dame Sectional
Key Runners – Matt DeGroot SO, Alex Hillegass SO, Reid Henry SR, Robert Murphy JR, John Kreckman SR, Jack Rosa SR, Adison Traurig JR, Brock Wagehoft JR, Glenn Kinley FR.
Outlook – This is a young team that should see improvement as the season progresses into the state series. Matt DeGroot and Alex Hillegass became the fastest freshman in the school’s history last fall. They will look to take another step forward in 2013. Five runners return from last year’s sectional squad. Look for them to improve on last year’s sectional finish.
Peoria Notre Dame Coach – Mike Sullivan 2012 Finish – 16th 2A State
Key Runners – Chris Fortin SR (65th, 15:33), Ryan Frow SR (107th, 15:51), JP Stedwill SO, Sam Cassidy JR, Alex McKenzie SR, Nick Conner SR, Josh Lees SR, Noah Lees SO, Jacob Sanders SR.
Outlook – It could be a tough road for the Irish to make it back to the state meet but there is talent on this team to make that possible. Chris Fortin and Ryan Frow return and could be in the top 40 this year at state. There should be a gap between them and the rest of the pack led by Sophomore JP Stedwill. Their 3-5 should be close together (within 10 seconds of each other) and will make this team dangerous by the time regionals start.
Riverside-Brookfield Coach – Larry Forberg 2012 Finish – 6th Wheaton Academy Sectional
Key Runners – Kevin Faje SR (129th, 16:03), Dan Curtin SR, Spencer Purcell SR, Jeremy Vasquez JR, Matt Sagan JR, Kyle Georgopoulos SR, Eugene Makovetskiy JR, Ryan Janney SO, Dominic Carabez SO, Andrew MeMesurlier SO.
Outlook – The Bulldogs just missed the top 25 but will move up. This is a team to watch during the year. They should have a tight pack led by Kevin Faje, who qualified for state last year, and Dan Curtin, who was one of their top runners last year that had his season cut short with an injury. With those two up front, this team should have a 35 second split on five. Could make it to state out of a rough Wheaton Academy Sectional. “If my top three have the season I expect, this will be the strongest team I have coached since taking over the program,” said Larry Forberg.
Sycamore Coach – Michael Lambdin 2012 Finish – 9th Belvidere Sectional
Key Runners – Mark Stice SR (54th, 15:26), Adam Millburg JR, Kendryk Rand SR, Jordan Peterson SR, Jason Ruetten JR, Nick Aase SR, Jonah Minnahan JR, Michael Lerohl JR, Sam Zurbuch SO, Brian Johnston SO.
Outlook – A good chance for this team to improve on their sectional performance. Five return from last year’s team. Mark Stice qualified last year as an individual and should be in the top 15 this season. Jordan Peterson had a good summer and could challenge Adam Millburg for the #2 spot. We should see how good this team is by the beginning of October.
Troy Triad Coach – Andy Brendel 2012 Finish – 9th Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Key Runners – Collin Hayes SR, Ryan Krause JR, Ben Richter SR, Allen Lawson SR, Daniel Cunningham SR, John Wade SO, JR Walls SO, Collin Brannen SO, Curtis Lynn SO, Joey Ramsey SO.
Outlook – Four return from last year’s sectional qualifying team. The top three should be close with a pack consisting of Collin Hayes, Ryan Krause, and Ben Richter. If they can keep their 5 man split near 60 seconds, Triad could improve their sectional performance and possibly make it to Peoria. “Every year our goal is to win the conference and get as many boys to the state meet as possible. Hopefully we can accomplish both,” said Andy Brendel.
Waterloo Coach – Larry Huffman 2012 Finish – 8th Decatur MacArthur Sectional
Key Runners – Cole Rodenberg JR, Lance Mueller JR, Adam Henson SO, Dustin Schreiber SR, Weston Liefer SR, Will Zeisset JR, Joe Kirleisd SR, Jake Schwartz FR, Joe Daab FR
Outlook – Cole Rodenberg should be the top runner for a team that was close to making it to Peoria a year ago. Six runners return from that team. Lance Mueller and Adam Henson will form the next pack. Freshman Jake Schwartz, who ran 4:50 in 8th grade, could be in that pack as well. It is not a deep team but the talent is there to make it to Peoria. “It’s nice having 6 runners that have already broken the 5 minute mile barrier,” said Larry Huffman. “If we stay healthy, I think our goal of running in Peoria in November is definitely possible.”
Woodstock Coach – Matt McCulley 2012 Finish – 15th Belvidere Sectional
Key Runners – Liam DeWine SR, Luke Beattie SO, Zach Bellavia SR, Andy Layoff SR, Dan Shook SO, Donovan Chambers SO, Spencer Stumpff SO, Michael Zanio JR.
Outlook – This could be a surprise team in both the Fox Valley Conference and also statewide. Coach Matt McCulley return’s 5 from last year’s team. “I was impressed again by our leaders of the team. They did a good job of instilling our values and what we call the "Woodstock Way" into the new runners,” said McCulley. Liam DeWine and Luke Beattie are a solid 1-2 for Woodstock. Zach Bellavia had a good summer and should challenge those two. Beattie could be one of the top 15 runners in sectionals. If Woodstock could get a 45 second split on 5, this team will improve on last year’s sectional finish. “We want to continue to develop our young athletes while giving this year’s seniors an opportunity to compete. We expect to be running in November this year,” added McCulley.
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