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2014 DyeStat IL XC Season Team Previews – 1A BoysPublished by
Slowly but surely, defending champ Elmwood-Brimfield finds its way to the front
By Michael Newman
You thought that Elmwood-Brimfield was done for after they finished fourth at their own sectional. The fact was that they were only 12 points behind fourth place. They came back the following week to capture the 1A state championship. It is all by design for this Gregg Meyers coached team. If you remember at the beginning of the year, they were highly ranked in the state. It is a slow process wanting to peak and run their best race of the season when the time is right.
It is hard to deny that Elmwood-Brimfield is the team to beat this season as six of last year’s state team return. It will not be given to them. St. Joseph-Ogden, Rockford Christian, and Tolono Unity are some of the teams that looking for the chance to take away the 1A state championship on that second Saturday in November.
Here is a look of how we see the teams right now. This is not how we think it will look like when we get to Detweiller Park. So many races to run. So many workouts to complete.
Top 25 Teams
1 – Elmwood-Brimfield Coach – Gregg Meyers 2013 Finish – 1st – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Nate Herridge SR (22,15:40), Matt Osmulski JR (27,15:44), Kelly Hoffmann SR (59,16:13), Derek McCoy SO (67,16:16), John Barratt SO (84,16:23), Kelly Barnewolt SO (124,16:54), Tyler Meyers SR, Tyler Srymberski SO, Dayton Rumbold SO, Drew Lueschow SO.
Newcomers – Alex Herman FR, Cooper Hoffmann FR
Outlook – Just when you thought that Elmwood was dead after their sectional performance when they placed fourth, back then came. It was only a six point difference that separated them from Winnebago at the state meet, but it was enough for the state championship. Six runners return from that squad. A repeat could be in order.
Nate Herridge and Matt Osmulski ran close to each other at the end of last season which was one of the reasons of the success of this team. Herridge finished 22nd earning all-state honors a year ago. Expect both Herridge and Osmulski to be in the top 20 this season. Also a success was their 3-5 runner split. At state, it was only 10 seconds. The key for making this team stronger is narrowing the gap between the first two and the pack. Last year, it was a good 29 seconds. It could get lower. Kelly Hoffmann and Derek McCoy should be in the next two spots. John Barratt will be challenged by Freshman Alex Herman and Cooper Hoffmann for the fifth man.
You can expect this team to start out slow. Pay attention to the big picture and you will see where this team is in October: challenging for the state championship. With a strong nucleus led by Herridge and Osmulski, Coach Gregg Meyers will have his team challenging for a trophy in November.
2 – St. Joseph-Ogden Coach – Jason Retz 2013 Finish – 8th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Nick Poff SR (42,16:00), Austin Earp JR (53,16:11), Matthew Knipfer JR (109,16:44), Ross Smetzer JR (132,17:00), Nate Phillips JR (143,17:09), Brennan Guido JR, Justin Phillips SO, Ethan Mizer JR, Matthew Raab SR, Gabe Lyons JR, Jared Hill JR.
Outlook – Even though the Spartans lost four of their top seven during the season due to injuries. Coach Jason Retz still had the depth to finish eighth at state. Five runners are back from last year’s state team.
Brennan Guido should be one of the keys to this year’s team. He was the second runner for the team a year ago until a stress fracture put him out for the rest of the season. He ran 15:57 at Detweiller at Dark showing that he is ready to go. Austin Earp and Nick Poff have continued to improve during the summer. Do not be surprised if all three of these runners finish near the first 30 at the state meet. Juniors Nate Phillips, Matthew Knipfer, and Ross Smetzer all will challenge for a top five spot. SJO’s five runner split at state last year was 44 seconds. That should be enough to where they can challenge for a state championship. That pack needs to start with one or two runners in the top 25. 1A Boys is so deep this year so that has to happen.
The big thing is this team needs to stay healthy. Especially after what happened last season. “Summer training has been going well. Our upper class men have set a great example for our younger athletes and have put in the work,” said Retz. “Our goal is to be in position to hunt for a trophy on November 8th. Last year was tough losing our 1, 2, 3, and 5 runners during the year. Finishing 8th with our #10 man running in the state meet was an eye opener for some of our men. They understood they could compete with anyone. If we can stay healthy, we'll be ready to roll!”
3 – Rockford Christian Coach – Randy Moore 2013 Finish – 13th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Nick Monkemeyer JR (9,15:22), Noah Wells SO (94,16:30), Ethan Volk JR (98,16:32), Alex Wilfong SR (110,16:45), Brian Smith JR (131,17:00), Steven Reierson SR (142,17:09), David Mecklenburg SR (152,17:16), Erik Reck SR, Lukas Marshall JR, Jack Smith JR, Josh Thor SR, Grant Franseen JR, Will Mecklenburg SO, Seth Clark SO.
Newcomers – Josiah Vogel FR
Outlook – Most of last season Rockford Christian was ranked in the top five in 1A Boys. They faded at the end of the season finishing 13th. With 11 out of their top 12 returning, the sky could be the limit for this team. The question is will the same thing happen that occurred in 2013?
“We made some significant changes to our summer preparation phase from last year,” said Coach Randy Moore. “Thus far, I've been pleased with both the volume and intensity I've observed at contact days and from online running logs. The expectation is that these modifications in both our macro and micro training cycles will have us better prepared to peak as a team at the state meet.”
There is a good nucleus to take this team to the top led by Junior Nick Monkemeyer. He finished ninth a year ago as a sophomore. His eyes are for a higher finish in 2014. Monkemeyer will have a good pack behind him led by Noah Wells and Ethan Volk. A plus for their 2-5 pack was that it was only 30 seconds at the state meet. The problem was that it was too far away from Monkemeyer (68 seconds). For this team to be successful, that gap needs to be at the maximum 40 seconds back. The pack has the potential to be closer as well. A runner that could be a factor right away is Freshman Josiah Vogel. He was the IESA state champion in the 800 last year. Moore feels that he will make a difference in September.
This team has the talent to bring back a state championship. The experience that they had a year ago along with a change in the training plan could put this team over the top in November.
4 – Tolono Unity Coach – Dike Stirrett 2013 Finish – 5th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Andrew Warnes JR (24,15:41), Austin Woodward JR (47,16:03), Dawson Dodds JR (56,16:11), Robert Decker JR (78,16:22), Nathan Seiler SO, Alex Morris JR, Noah Williams SO, Caleb Wood SR, Jesse Woltermire JR.
Newcomers – Getch Eisenmenger JR (played soccer in 2013).
Outlook – The Rockets were strong throughout last season finishing second at the tough St. Teresa Sectional and then finishing fifth at the state meet. It does not sound as bad as it was as they finished only 30 points behind state champion Elmwood-Brimfield. Coach Dike Stirrett welcomes back his first four runners from last year’s state team. Expectations are high in Tolono this season. “I feel that we had a good summer. Perhaps a bit inconsistent with camps, vacations, work, etc. getting in the way,” said Stirrett. “But overall it was a worthwhile summer and I think that we are in a decent place coming into the start of the season.”
Andrew Warnes had a successful track season earning all-state honors in the 800 Meter Run as well as finishing 24th a year ago at Detweiller. Austin Woodard finished in the top 50 last year. He does have the potential to finish in the first thirty. Dawson Dodds should be in the top five as the third runner. Newcomer Getch Eisenmenger, Nathan Seiler, and Robbie Decker should push for a top five spot. Their split last year at the state meet on five runners was 49 seconds. The pieces are there to have the same kind of split. It Warnes can place in the top ten, it would put Unity in position to win a trophy.
“I think we will be a very good team before the season is over. Obviously, we have the type of team that can make some noise in late October and November but there are several teams like that,” added Stirrett. “We are just going to take it one meet at a time and hope for success at each meet and try to improve as the season progresses. I am always concerned about injuries and illness and my goal is to have everyone healthy and frisky in late October and then we see how it goes from there. Sometimes we succeed and sometimes we don't. There are several outstanding teams returning in 1A this year and it should be fun. I hope that we can be there and be competitive with them.”
5 – Winnebago Coach – Janet & Joe Erb 2013 Finish – 2nd – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Nathan Ambrose SR (26,15:43), Nathan Smith SR (43,16:01), Christian Devant SR (80, 16:23), Noah Watson JR (145,17:12), Cole Ellis SR, Mitch Huftalin SR, Skyler Ooyen SR, Jack Doyle SO, Sean Dorgan JR, Devon Heslop SO.
Outlook – It was only six points that separated Winnebago from a state championship. Still, they left Peoria last year with a trophy. It was not the one they wanted to bring back with them. Four of the top seven are back for Coach Janet and Joe Erb. Completing the task that they set out to do a year ago is also something that this team will be looking at.
Nathan Ambrose and Nathan Smith were the top two runners a year ago for this team. Ambrose missed all-state honors by one position. Both runners could place in the top 20 this year. Losing their 3 -4 runners from last year to graduation will be a challenge to replace. Christian Devant and Noah Watson could step up. Winnebago also has a strong group of freshman group coming in. “After graduating a lot of depth, we are hoping to develop guys so we can return to state,” said Janet Erb.
This could be a team that struggles early in the season. By the time the state series comes around in mid-October, Winnebago should be in contention to go after a top three team finish.
6 – Monticello Coach – David Remmert 2013 Finish – 3rd – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Matt Norvell SR (19,15:38), Zach Mesplay JR (60,16:14), Justin Furcich SR (75,16:21), Will Montgomery SR (87,16:26), Luxe Alexander JR, Alex Wooley SR, William Uhlarik JR.
Newcomers – Alec Helmuth FR, Eric Tate FR
Outlook – The Sages came close to a state championship a year ago but did leave Detweiller Park with a third place finish. Four runners are back from that team looking to take the next step up the mountain in 2014. It’s hard to gage how their summer went. “As in years past, we always have some that commit to their training and rise to meet the challenges ahead of them, and others who, for a variety of reasons, seem to be half-in and half-out,” said Coach David Remmert.
Matt Novell is back after having a good track season as well as finishing in the top 20 a year ago at Detweiller. He could be in the top ten individually this year. Zach Mesplay, Justin Furcich, and Will Montgomery are a good pack behind Novell and will challenge for the second spot. Their pack at state last year was 49 seconds. The split will need to be that good or even better for this team to challenge again for a state trophy. Logan Peters and James Kilby were injured all last season and could give a boost to this team. Incoming Freshman Alex Helmuth and Eric Tate should also challenge for a top five spot according to Remmert.
“There are lots of very good teams out there in our sectional AND across the state. Provided that we all remain healthy, I think we are one of them,” said Remmert. “I like what I’m seeing from our veterans.”
7 – Mt. Zion Coach – Bill Harbeck 2013 Finish – 8th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Returnees – Curtis Reed SR (10,15:24), Mohammed Hosseini SR (18,15:38), Tyler Wilhelm SO, Aidan Gerhardt SR, Tyler Wilhelm SO, Jacob Hess JR, Nick Lewis SO, Ian Sidwell JR, Kyler Fox SO, Alex Watkins SR
Outlook – This team ran into a little bad luck when normal third runner Tyler Wilhelm was not able to compete at last year’s sectional meet at St. Teresa. Coach Bill Harbeck welcomes back six of last year’s top seven with eyes on toeing the line at Detweiller Park in November.
Curtis Reed and Mohammed Hosseini both earned all-state honors a year ago and will look to repeat that. Wilhelm will be a key to the success of this team. If he can stay healthy, this team could be a force. With Wilhelm in last year at the sectional meet, this team still would have a 114 second split. The key will be keeping the 3-5 pack close to Reed and Hosseini. Last year, the split between Hosseini and Willhelm averaged 40 seconds. It needs to be ten seconds closer. An overall split of 80 seconds could put this team in the mix of a trophy in November.
8 – Shelbyville Coach – Kevin Kramer 2013 Finish – 4th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Marcus Skinner JR (40, 16:00), Kenton Wilson SR (52,16:10), Tyler Pasley SO (112,16:46), Hunter Plummer SO (139,17:07), Preston Henze JR (157,17:21), Eric Bowers SR, Isaak Spain SO, Josh Bernson SO, Drake Manshap SO, Jordan Sieger SO.
Newcomers – Drew Snider SR, Ryan Skowronski FR
Outlook – Shelbyville is the fifth school from the powerful St. Teresa Sectional. It will be iron sharpening iron as these five strong teams to challenge each other. Shelbyville will challenge for a trophy. Five runners return from last year’s 4th place team.
Marcus Skinner and Kenton Wilson should be the front runners on this team. Tyler Pasley ran close to Wilson most of the season. Expect him to be with the two front runners this year. Incoming freshman Ryan Skowronski finished fifth last year in the IESA State Meet. He also ran 4:43 for the 1600 in the spring. He could be the big surprise for Coach Kevin Kramer. Also watch for Drew Snider. The senior has not run cross country the last two years. He did run 17:23 as a freshman and has been running with Shelbyville’s front group this summer. He could be a difference maker for this team.
The team has the potential to place in the top five again this year. Will they finish in the top three? The talent is there for that to happen. “This team will be a top ten team. How high they finish will be determined in the bottom two spots,” said Kramer. “I feel our top three of Junior Marcus Skinner, Senior Kenton Wilson and Sophomore Tyler Pasley can run with any other team in the state’s top three.”
9 – Tremont Coach – Mike Lynn 2013 Finish – 6th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Wilson Pflederer SR (30,15:50), Colin Sedleck SR (116,16:48), Matt Henry SO (125,16:54), Daniel Smalley SR (155,17:20), Brock Holmes JR (162,17:29), Luke Miller SO, Ezra Israel SR, Seth Stuber SR, Peyton Willett SR.
Outlook – Even though Tremont’s top two runners Connor Ehnle and Caleb Imig have graduated, Tremont could still be a top ten team this season. Coach Mike Lynn five runners back looking to finish in the top five as a team.
Wilson Pflederer was a surprise at the end of the year for the Turks as he finished 30th at state. Now the leader of the team, he could be in the top 15 at Detweiller this November. Their 2-5 pack led by Colin Sedlock is projected to have a 40 second spread between the four. The key will be getting that pack 20 seconds closer to Pflederer. If that happens, this team could finish in the top five.
10 – Pleasant Plains Coach – Derek DeBarr 2013 Finish – 7th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Tyler Johnson JR (33,15:55), David Plunkett JR (104,16:39), Connor Riddle SR (120,16:51), Seth Owens SR, Adam Ely JR (183,18:02), Jacob Higginson JR, Alex Hermes JR, Jordan Verhulst JR.
Outlook – This is a team that could be a surprise this 2014 season. Even though Daniel Plunkett and Mitch Johnson have graduated, this school still has the talent to make it back to Peoria. Tyler Johnson had a dramatic improvement last year ending up with a 33rd place finish. Watch for him to be in the top 25 this year. David Plunkett has the potential to be close to Johnson. There has been a vast improvement this summer from Connor Riddle and Seth Owens. Along with Joseph Higginson and Jordan Verhulst pushing for a top five spot, the Cardinals have the potential to make it out of the Elmwood Sectional.
“Our expectation is that our Boys team makes it to state,” said Coach Derek DeBarr. “That's going to be very tough to do especially in our sectional; there's a lot of tough teams there and the top 4 all finished in the top 10 at state.”
11 – Paxson-Buckley-Loda Coach – Becky Kasten 2013 Finish – 7th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Returnees – Nick Porter JR, Josh Brocato JR, Kirk Vesely SR, Corbin Riecks JR, Dalton Cowan SR.
Outlook – This could be a surprise team this season. The problem is that they most likely will be in the toughest sectional in the state. Nevertheless, this team has the potential to challenge for a sectional qualifying spot. Five runners return from last year’s seventh place sectional team. Nick Porter missed qualifying for Detweiller a year ago. He came back in track to earn all-state honors in the 1600. He has the potential to be the surprise runner in 1A this season. Coach Becky Kasten has four runners led by John Brocato that could put them at Detweiller in Peoria. If their split can stay 40 seconds behind Porter with a 20 second split between the 2-5, this team could do it.
12 – Rock Falls Coach – Mark Truesdell 2013 Finish – 16th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Seth Williams JR (23,15:41), Brayden Hamblen SO (32,15:54), Cayden Erickson SR (92,16:29), Brodie Henson SR (185,18:04), Jeron Hey SR (190,18:13), Cameron Davis JR (195,18:38), Kobe Conklin SR, Justin Hunter SR, Breu Knox JR, Primo Cosileon SO, Jorge Coileon SR.
Outlook – Six runners return from the team that finished sixteenth place last year at state. This squad should challenge Rockford Christian and Winnebago for the sectional championship. Seth Williams finished 23rd as a sophomore last season. He will be one of the top juniors in 1A this season. A top ten finish is also possible. Brayden Hamblen was close behind his teammate last season. He could finish in the top 15 this year. Both runners ran 9:45 or faster last spring in the 3200. The key for this team is getting their 1-5 split lower. Last year at the state meet, their split was 144 seconds. That split needs to come down to 80 seconds this season for this team to be a trophy contender.
13 – Freeburg Coach – Carl Florczyk 2013 Finish – 17th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Jonathan Kraus JR (89,16:27), Patrick Kramper SR (123,16:54), Alex Mack SO (172,17:46), Even Aud SR, Cole Schwagel SR, Drew Wilkerson SO, Matt Waller SR, Kyle Worley SR, Jacob Jester JR.
Outlook – Freeburg returns three from last year’s state qualifying team. Jonathan Kraus and Alex Mack have the potential to finish in the top 50. Patrick Kramper should lead the pack behind the two. If they can keep their overall split under 85 seconds, this could be a top ten team. “Our team had a great summer and put a lot of miles in,” said Coach Carl Florczyk. “I feel like they are ready for a great season!”
14 – Sterling Newman Coach – Patrick Warkins 2013 Finish – 14th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Bryson Reyes SR (38,15:59), Drew Rosengren SR (54,16:11), Chris Ahlers SO (70,16:18), Brady Osborn SO (175,17:48), Coy Jingerman JR (199,18:57), Quincy Coomes SR, Connor Knack SR, Brandon Burke SR, Andy Burke SR.
Outlook – Five runners return from last year’s team that finished 14th at Detweiller. Newman Catholic will have a strong first three with Bryson Reyes, Drew Rosengren, and Chris Ahlers. The potential is there to have all three runners in the first 40. The key will be getting their 4th and 5th runners closer. Their split on five last year was 109 seconds. This team could be a top 10 team if the split can stay under 70 seconds.
15 – Johnsburg Coach – Chris Setzler 2013 Finish – 15th – 2A Belvidere Sectional
Returnees – Matt Stelmasek JR, Noah Miller SR, Jake Grimes SR, Dominic Miraldi JR, Nash Miller SR, Jack Pocklington SR, Ryan Pagett SR, Dakota Merritt JR, Ryan Muehlfelder SO.
Outlook – Last year, Johnsburg was one of the smallest schools in 2A. With the yearly enrollment adjustment and classification changes, this team moves down to 1A. Six runners are back from last year’s 2A sectional team. They should be the favorite in the Lisle Sectional in November. This is a veteran squad that could be a top ten state team.
The one runner that has showed the biggest improvement in the last year has been Noah Miller. His training times have been comparable to Johnsburg state qualifiers. He along with Matt Stelmasek should challenge for a top 30 finish this season. This team was near 60 seconds at the end of the year with their five runner split. “Two years ago our boys qualified in our first year in single A with a mostly frosh/soph team. Last year our school enrollment decreased but the 1A standard decreased even more so we ended up as one of the smallest 2A schools,” said Coach Chris Setzler. “That kind of took the wind out of my athlete’s sails. We were a better team by far than the year before but the 2A belvedere sectional beat us up. This year we are a junior/senior heavy team and they realize that they have been given an opportunity to compete at 1A. They have a sense of urgency that is very evident. If all stay healthy it will be a good year.”
16 – Nashville Coach – Jean Orr 2013 Finish – 22nd – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Jordan Love SR (113,16:47), Jackson Pierce JR (122,16:54), Ray Bailey SO (133,17:01), Derek Malawy SR (148,17:14), Ryan Kell JR (196,18:47), Patrick Neill SR (197,18:49), John Schroeder JR (202,19:12), Alex Orr SR, Austin Angelton SO, Langdon Briles SO, Brandon Restoff SO.
Outlook – All seven runners return from last year’s state qualifying team. This squad was a surprise as it moved into the top 25 last year. They should be battling for one of the top southern schools this season. Coach Jean Orr took over just before the season began. “The boys logged quite a few miles as a team this summer, mostly organized by themselves due to the transition in coaches. The favorable summer weather here in the south worked to our advantage,” said Orr. “The core of our varsity team is comprised of mostly juniors and seniors, and they are very determined. I expect them to place higher at state this year.” Jordan Love again looks to be the top runner on this team. Their four runner split was tight last year. The gap between four and five was way too big. The needs to come down for this team to be successful.
17 – Beecher Coach – Adam Depew 2013 Finish – 23rd – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Nathan Swanson JR (64,16:15), Josh Nahmer JR (146,17:13), Garrett Toohey SR (160,17:26), Mitch Darabaris SR (176,17:49), Orland Brown SR (188,18:09), Pat Barton SR (192,18:26).
Outlook – This is a team that could make a repeat appearance from the traditionally weak Lisle Sectional. All six state runners are back led by #1 runner Nathan Swanson. He has the potential to place in the top 35 this year. This team will place in the top 15 and challenge for a sectional championship if their 2-5 split is under 42 seconds with an overall 68 second five runner split.
18 – Sparta Coach – Darren Latham 2013 Finish – 18th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Dylan Huether SR (99,16:33), Trevor Buckner JR (164,17:31), Izayah Miller SR (166,17:33), Drew Byington SO (168,17:36), Jordan Lee SO (169,17:37), Tommy Martinez SR (179,17:56), Austin Carpenter JR, Anthony Filando SO, Tommy Gregory SR, Lance McMurtry SR, Drake Wittenborn SO.
Outlook – Six runners are back from last year’s state team. Dylan Huether should be the front runner for this team. They only had a six second split from their 2-5 runners last year at state. The problem was the pack was too far back. This could be a top 15 team at the state meet, but their pack needs to move up.
19 – Olney East Richland Coach – Louis Gassmann 2013 Finish – 9th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Returnees – Matthew DeVenecia SR, Jonah Wendling SR, Dalyn Branch SR, Nathan DeMeyer SO, Silvan Stallard SR, Michael deMeyer SO, Adam Zuber JR, Martin DeVenecia JR, Nathaniel Troester JR, Ardan Zuber SO.
Newcomers – Addison Craig FR, Tyler Huggins FR, Levi Woolard FR.
Outlook – The nucleus of last year’s sectional qualifying team is back. The question will be if they end in the tough sectional in Decatur or down in Edwardsville? With the movement of some of the schools, anything could happen. “Our top 6 went out west for a week of altitude/mountain training. I think it helped their training, but probably as important it helped them bond as a team. I think that training helps them realize they can push themselves much harder than they thought. Our team isn't real deep. In fact, we will probably only have 10-12 boys on our squad. We have a strong six, but if we lose a couple to injuries or sickness, it will really affect us,” said Coach Louis Gassman. “All we can focus on are those factors we can control. We will train to be the best we can be regardless of where we get assigned. Hopefully that will be good enough for us to place in the top 5 in whatever sectional we are assigned.”
20 – Urbana University Coach – Doug Mynatt 2013 Finish – 11th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Justin Wang JR (115,16:48), Ansel Higgs SR (126,16:55), Marshall Allston-Yeagle JR (150,17:16), Dong-Ha Son JR, Jack Zeiders JR, RJ Money JR, Charles Larenas-Leach SR.
Newcomers – Grant Allen FR.
Outlook – This team will be a top 20 team in 2014. The question will be if they can be one of the top five teams out of the tough Decatur St. Teresa Sectional. Last year, U-High peaked at the right time qualifying for the state and finishing 11th. Three return from that team. Marshall Allston-Yeagle had a good track season and could be the front man for this team. “After finishing 5th at sectionals and 11th at state, I’d like to think we could make it back to state,” said Coach Doug Mynatt. “But with SJO, Unity, Monticello in the mix of area schools, it might be tough for us to repeat that feat.”
21 – Rochester Coach – Bill Owens 2013 Finish – 9th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Michael Gleeson SR (13,15:33), John Freveletti SR (58,16:13), Colin Biesiada SR (102,16:35), Austin Mitchell JR (186,18:04), Preston Njouka SO.
Newcomers – John Santarelli (Played Football in 2013).
Outlook – It could be a tough season for the Boys XC team at Rochester. Only six runners are out for the team. It did not help that Noah Edwards, who finished 60th a year ago and projected to be their third man, chose to play soccer this fall. “This is the smallest team we’ve ever had,” said Coach Bill Owens. “Right now we only have six boys. A lot of freshman hopefuls chose soccer.” Michael Gleason will be the front runner for this team and could flirt with a top five finish. John Freveletti has the talent to place also in the top 25. After that, it will be a wait and see proposition. One injury could hurt this team this season.
22 – El Paso-Gridley Coach – Michael Melick 2013 Finish – 12th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Andy Laydon SO (114,16:48), Hunter Cobbley JR (118,16:51), Adam Ludy SO (140,17:08), Ryan Fillians JR, Shelby Heffron JR, Quinn Killian JR, Nathaniel Schug JR, Brandon Stine JR.
Outlook – This team could still be a factor on the state scene even after losing their top two runners. This still could be a team that makes it back to Peoria. Three underclassmen, Andy Laydon, Hunter Cobbley, and Adam Ludy, could be a stronger top three than a year ago according to Coach Michael Melick. The question will be getting a strong 4-5 behind these three runners. “If we make it back to State after graduating our 1-2 we will call that a success,” said Mellick. “If we crack the top ten at Detweiller it will success plus. Beyond that, we will log our miles and continue to improve at a steady rate and take our wins as they come.”
23 – Bloomington Central Catholic Coach – Bill Rhodes 2013 Finish – 10th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Returnees – Daniel Dionesotes SR, Adam Schlenker SO, Bobby Schopp JR, Nate Hessley SO, Nick Bleichner SR, Will Trauner JR.
Outlook – Just like El Paso Gridley, BCC could be a state team. Their first three runners led by Daniel Dionesotes have the potential to be in the top 50 this season. It will be finding two more runners that can be a minute behind them that will make this team good. “My top three boys are looking very good,” said Bill Rhodes. “They all have low 16 potential after running in the low 17's in 2013. Finding two more boys to help them out is going to be a challenge.”
24 – Westmont Coach – Steve Wolf 2013 Finish – 21st – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Nick Dea SR (63,16:15), Anthony Alessi SR (76,16:21), Mitch Perrolta SR (161,17:08), Tony Cardero SR (194,18:30), Jacom Nader SO.
Newcomers – Jasper Requiron FR.
Outlook – Westmont could make a repeat trip to Detweiller Park. They will have to have a healthy season since the numbers are low. Nick Dea and Anthony Alessi will be their top two runners and could finish in the first 40. Freshman Jasper Requiron could give this team help in their top five. “We don’t have a lot of depth but we do have experience,” said Coach Steve Wolf.
25 – Elmhurst Timothy Christian Coach – Dick Zylstra 2013 Finish – 6th – 1A Lisle Sectional
Returnees – Michael Larkin JR, Noah Paulckes JR, Matt Fox SO, Aiden Sheruheim SO, Andy Mittlestadt SO, Tommy Troxel SO, Chris Gregorio SR, Caleb Clark SR, Riley Chapman SR, Elijah Ternow SO.
Outlook – The Trojans just missed making it to Detweiller Park a year ago finishing sixth at the Lisle Sectional. All of their top seven looking to make that trip south. Michael Larkin and Noah Paulckes look to be the lead runners for this team. The split at last year’s sectional was close to two minutes. It needs to come down to seventy seconds for this team to take one of the qualifying spots.
Other teams to watch (In Alphabetical order)
Aledo Mercer County Coach – Mick Louck 2013 Finish – 9th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Returnees – Austin Jackson SR (51,16:08), Ethan Adolphson SO, Ethan Morrow SO, Chris Sabel JR, Nick Hawk SO, Grant Biddle SR.
Outlook – Four runners are back from the team that finished in the top ten at the Elmwood Sectional. Austin Jackson finished 51st at state last year. He has the ability to make it back to Peoria as an individual. Their split on five could be close to four minutes. The split from 2-5 could be close to 150 seconds. Both numbers need to decrease for a better sectional finish.
Champaign St. Thomas More Coach – David Behm 2013 Finish – 6th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Returnees – George Pennacchi SR, David Horn JR, Alex Summers JR, Connor Aubry JR, Josh Stricklin JR, Connor Gross JR, Brandon Bohac SR.
Newcomers – Lucas Simpson FR
Outlook – This is a rebuilding year for St. Thomas More. They lost Nick Hess, Sam Powers, and Brendan Remmington to graduation. They were the foundation to the team’s state championship two years ago. The athletes there now could be good this year. A check back before the state series could show us that. Gerore Pennacchi and David Horn most likely will be the leaders on this team. Freshman Lucas Simpson could be one of the top five. There are no front runners, like Hess, on this team. Pack running will need to be relied on. “Our Boys team is in a rebuilding year. Coaching class A at a small school that has 5 fall sports to choose from can be challenging,” said Coach David Behm. “We have a lot of work to do but if we go out and train smart and do our very best, we could be pretty good.”
Eureka Coach – Dave Tapp 2013 Finish – 8th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Returnees – Travis Dietrich JR, Nicholas Erickson SR, Tommy Standish SO, Malik Peterson JR, Jaron Maddox JR, Lane Young JR, Grant Knapp JR.
Outlook – This team was not thought of as a sectional team a year ago yet they made it out of regionals. Six runners are back from last year’s qualifying team. Alan Zimmerman decided not to come out for the team this year. He would have been the lead runner. Watch for Travis Dietrich or Nicholas Erickson to step in. There are no real front runners on this squad. Their 1-5 split last year was 33 seconds. If they can keep the same split time together with moving the pack towards the front, this team could surprise a little more and better their last year’s sectional performance.
Fairbury Prairie Central Coach – Scott McGuire 2013 Finish – 8th – 1A Lisle Sectional
Returnees – Avery Walter SR, Kyler Knapp JR, Jacob Kikallen SR, Nathan Samms JR, Connor Kupterschmid SO, Nicholas Connors SO, Willie Niesrudd SO.
Newcomers – Paul Garcia (competed in Wrestling in 2013).
Outlook – Three runners are back from last year’s team that finished 8th in their sectional meet. Avery Walter had a good summer and could challenge for a top spot in the Lisle Sectional as well as finishing in the top 35 at state. Coach Scott McGuire will need to rebuild for this team to move up in the sectional rankings. Paul Garcia is out for the sport for the first time and has adapted well to running. He could give this team a boost.
Galva Mid-County Coach – Valerie Furrow 2013 Finish – 11th – 1A Oregon Sectional
Returnees – Ethan Stanley SR, Bryant VanDeWostine SR, Mike Bersell JR, Isaac Williamson SO, Tyler Johnson SO, Kyle Campagna SO, Trenton Niemeyer SO.
Outlook – This could be a surprise team in the Oregon Sectional. Six of the top seven are back from last year’s 11th place team. Ethan Stanley had a good summer of training and should be the first man on this team. The key this year will be the consistency of their split. On the average at the end of last year, it was close to three minutes. That needs to be cut in half for this team to challenge for a top spot. “My seniors, which make up about half the team, want to end their career on a high note,” said Coach Valerie Furrow. “Some are hoping to run at the collegiate level. They are a great group and I have no doubt that they are going to work hard to accomplish their goals.”
Kewanee-Annawan Wethersfield Coach – Creston Fenn 2013 Finish – 9th – 1A Oregon Sectional
Returnees – Michael Cook SR (3,15:04), Alex Landwehr JR, Keith Davis JR, Noah Dir JR, Josh Harrell JR.
Newcomers – Jalen Davis SR (Competed in Basketball -2013), Noah Kulisek SO, Owan Landwehr FR, Jacob Wolf FR
Outlook – It helps that you have a runner like Michael Cook up front. It guarantees you will have a single digit number in every meet. Cook will be going after a state championship this year. His team could be challenging for a state qualifying berth. The split will need to come down for their 2-5 runners. Alex Landewehr could be the second runner. There is a group of newcomers on this team that should give this squad a boost. Jalen Davis had a god summer of running and could be in the top five. Noah Kulisek could be the big surprise on this team. “There are a lot of unknowns for our team this year with all the new runners,” said Coach Creston Fenn. “It could be our best team in school history if a couple of those freshman or newcomers step it up.”
Liberty Coach – Jared Schmidt 2013 Finish – 6th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Returnees – Brady Cook JR, Lucas Booker SO, Levi Obert JR, Reed Tate SO, Logan Waid SO.
Outlook – Three runners are back from last year’s team that was one place short of making it to Peoria. The push was there this summer to make that final step. “I think we had a very solid summer of training,” said Coach Jared Schmidt. “The majority of those who I expect to be in our top 5 did a good chunk of work over the summer and I think they will see the benefits once the season starts. As a whole I think we got done what I expected over the summer months. It will be interesting to see how that translates when the season starts.” Brady Cook should be the top runner on this team. Levi Obert and Lucas Booker should be close behind. This team will need a 1-5 split between 60-70 seconds for it to make a step to Peoria. “I'm not necessarily expecting us be a huge dominant force the first few weekends out, but I feel that we can definitely hold our own. By the end of the season I believe this group could definitely be turning some heads and if all goes well I believe we could be as good of a squad as we were last season, if not better and push for a qualifying spot,” said Schmidt. “Placing high expectations on them would be unfair, but I definitely believe we can be a very good team by the end of the year. I'm excited to see how this group progresses over the course of the season.”
Lombard Montini Catholic Coach – Joe Mordente 2013 Finish – 13th – 1A Lisle Sectional
Returnees – Tyler Pacana SR, Matt Fisch SR, Cameron Casey SR, Eddie Laviste SR, Dominick Maron SO, John Golomb SR.
Newcomers – Justin Stauder SO (Played Football in 2013), Matthew Baka FR
Outlook – This team could be sneaky good this year with the chance of qualifying for state. “Many of the boys have finally started to adjust to the new training and look to have break out seasons,” said Coach Joe Mordente. “Montini has never had a boys cross country team qualify for the state meet. That is the primary goal for this year’s squad.” They did lose Emmett Billings, last year’s #2 runner, who transferred to Glenbard West. The team still has the talent led by Tyler Pacana who could be a runner in the top 50 state wide this year. Even with the loss of Billings, Matthew Baka could find himself in the first seven. Six runners are back from their sectional squad. This is a team that could find themselves in Peoria in November.
Melrose Park Walther Lutheran Coach – Paul Goffrom 2013 Finish – 10th – 1A Lisle Sectional
Returnees – Eric Neubeiser JR (106,16:42), Jack Simzyk SO, Mitch Krockenberg JR, Jose Rebodledo SO, Jaylin Williams SO, Jacob Friederich SR, James Childs JR, Benji Xu SR, Steven Edwards SR.
Outlook – Watch for this team to get in the state rankings by the end of September. The talent is there for this to happen. Six runners are back from a squad that placed 10th at their sectional. They are looking to make it out of Lisle this year. Eric Neubeiser qualified as an individual last year. He has the potential to place in the top 60 at state this season. They have a good 2-5 pack with their split possibly being around 35 seconds. The key will be cutting the gap between the pack and Neubeiser to close to 60 seconds. Good things will happen if that occurs. “This was probably the most successful summer running program we’ve had in my three summers as coach,” Coach Paul Goffron said. “We are gradually building a running culture here with the understanding that as a Walther distance runner you put in your miles over the summer.”
Monmouth-Roseville Coach – Sam Marlow 2013 Finish – 7th – 1A Elmwood Sectional
Returnees - Nathan Ault SR, Trevor Hatch JR, Jesus Corrales JR, Jose Miranda SO, Alex Sheetz SR, Alfredo Montoya SR, Zack Akins JR.
Outlook – This team was close last year when they finished seventh at the Elmwood Sectional. Three are back from that squad looking for improvement in 2014. Nathan Ault was their #1 runner at the end of the year and will be looked upon to be in that spot again. Trevor Hatch and Jesus Corrales should be in the next two spots. The key will be finding a 4-5 runner to complement the first three. That will be the challenge for this team this season.
Robinson Coach – Tony Cork 2013 Finish – 11th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Returnees – Noah Tennison JR, Henry Treadway JR, Joey Wright SO, Landon Tracy SO, JB Chapman SR, Gordon Pinkston SO, Riley Guyer SO, Jace Logan SO.
Outlook – This is a team that in any other sectional would be making plans for Peoria in November. Being that this team most likely will be back at St. Teresa makes the chances of making it to state a little harder. The talent is there with six runners back from last year’s 11th place sectional squad. Noah Tennison just missed qualifying a year ago. He could be a top 25 runner at state this season. With Tennison up front and a pack that could give this team a split of between 100-105 seconds, it could surprise some people. “If we stay healthy, we have a shot at making it to state. Our sectional looks to be extremely strong as usual,” said Coach Tony Cork.
Stanford Olympia Coach – Mike Neisler 2013 Finish – 15th – 1A State Meet
Returnees – Connor Stine SR (85,16:25), Dallas Spencer JR (147,17:14), Liam O’Rourke JR (177,17:51), Cody Cheesman JR, Lane Witmiller SO, Kyle Rader SO, Nakolai Van Wye JR, Daniel Melick SO, Dawson Swindle SO.
Outlook – This is a team that will be good by the time the state series rolls around. Three runners are back from last year’s 15th place state team. Connor Stine was their first runner at their conference meet, but was the second man behind graduated Ryan Van Dyke most of last season. He should step into the lead spot. Cody Cheesman and Kyle Rader had good summers and could give this team a boost. “Our boys would like to make their 4th trip in a row to Detweiller this November,” said Coach Mike Neisler. “We may not be too impressive early, but as the season rolls on I expect us to pick up some steam. We will need to stay healthy as depth will not be a strong point.”
Teutopolis Coach – Connie Deters 2013 Finish – 12th – 1A St. Teresa Sectional
Returnees – Lucas Probst SR, Scott Isley JR, Riley Drees SR, Michael Bradley SR, Zach Mette SR, Eddie Waldhoff SR, Ben Sundkamp JR, Brent Ruholl SO, Alan Waldhoff SO, Garrett Hartka SO.
Outlook – Teutopolis will look to improve on last year’s sectional finish. Five of the top seven are back. Lucas Probst and Riley Dees should dual for the top spot. Their split on their top five averaged near 40 seconds last season. That will need to happen again as this team has showed improvement over the summer. A team that could finish in the top 10 at St. Teresa.
Woodstock Marian Coach – Amy Beattie 2013 Finish – 12th – 1A Oregon Sectional
Returnees – Michael Lyons SR, Justin Santopadre JR, Ryan DiPetero JR, Adam Konopka SO, Andrew Payton JR, Sam Gulbrandsen SR.
Outlook – Amy Beattie steps in as the new coach for this program. Six runners are back from last year’s sectional team. Michael Lyons had a great summer and could be a surprise runner on the individual scene. This squad should have a strong pack behind Lyons. “We always look to improve on last season. With Michael Lyons coming off a wonderful summer, he should inspire the boys to pick up the pace,” said Beattie. “The boys have always done well running in packs. This year, we aim to move those packs up in the standings. They are a competitive bunch and they will want to try to stay with Michael.” More news |
