2025 Cross Country Previews: 2A Boys Ranked

Here we are with the 2A Boys Ranked Teams article, highlighting the top 25 teams the classification has to offer. This looks to be another exciting year for 2A, with plenty of talent across the board.

1. Dixon

Coaches: Simon Thorpe, Aiden Johnson

Last Year's Finish: 4th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Dean Geiger (Jr.), Averik Wiseman (Jr.), Keegan Shirley (Sr.), Westin Conaster (Sr.), Noah Terviel (Sr.), Brody Hopper (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Ethan Carter (Fr.), Abe Garcia (Fr.), Alonzo Bautista (Fr.), Jaron Greve (Fr.)

Outlook: The Dukes were a formidable team last year, and they bring back the bulk of that roster for this season. They suffered a heartbreaking end to 2024, finishing fourth at the state meet—missing the podium by just one point. That chip on their shoulder will be a major source of motivation this fall. Dixon’s leader will be Dean Geiger, who had a strong track season. His speed has taken a major leap—he anchored Dixon’s all-state 4x800 relay with a 1:57.9 split and set a new mile PR of 4:25. On the grass, he ran 15:03 last season and placed 28th at state. He’ll be chasing a top-20 finish and will spearhead this Dixon squad. Following closely behind will be Averik Wiseman and Keegan Shirley, along with highly touted newcomers Ethan Carter and Abram Garcia. Shirley has made huge strides, dropping his mile from 4:50 to 4:29. Last fall, he ran 15:21 off that 4:50 season, so expect a big improvement. Wiseman focused heavily on the 800 during track, dropping nearly 10 seconds to hit 1:58.0 while also hitting 4:26 in the mile. He clocked 15:31 last year and will aim for the low-15s alongside Shirley. The real X-factors for Dixon are Carter and Garcia—two of the fastest incoming freshmen in the state. Their middle school times already look like varsity marks, each with PRs of 4:29 in the 1600, 2:04 in the 800, and 9:37 in the 3200. Freshman transitions can be unpredictable, but those numbers stack up well against Shirley’s track PRs, meaning they could run right alongside him and Wiseman. Westin Conaster rounds out the lineup, competing for the sixth spot. He made massive drops in track, going from 10:38 and 4:54 to 9:59 and 4:47. Last fall, he ran 15:41, and with continued progression, he could be near 15:20 by season’s end—putting Dixon in prime position. This could be the beginning of one of the greatest dynasties in 2A history, and 2025 is just the start.

2. Morton

Coaches: Joe Zeller

Last Year's Finish: 2nd @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Maxwell Carter (Jr.), Abe Martin (So.), Keyston Beyer (Jr.), Noah Harris (Jr.), Isaiah Hartter (So.), Luke Baker (Sr.), Duke Hendricks (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Owen Riesberg (Fr.), Luke Geyer (Fr.)

Outlook: Per usual, the greatest middle school program in IESA history will beef up this roster considerably. Morton is known for its depth, and even by their standards, this team is exceptionally deep. Led by Maxwell Carter and Abe Martin, the team will be strong up front. Carter ran out of his socks during track, posting a 9:26 2-mile. He didn’t compete in track his freshman year and missed most of his sophomore cross country season due to injury. In an incredible rebound season, he has shown he has what it takes to compete for an all-state spot this fall. Martin also had a comeback season after missing much of cross country last year. That didn’t stop him from dominating the 800 on the track, finishing as the US #7 freshman with a blistering 1:55.0, along with a 4:24 PR in the 1600. He enters the cross country season highly underrated and could even break into the top ten this fall. Keyston Beyer had a huge track season and will slot in at number three. He ran 4:30 in the mile and 1:57 in the 800 for massive PRs and will be ready for big things on the grass. Isaiah Hartter is likely the fourth man for this elite roster. He ran 4:38 in the 1600 as a freshman and clocked 15:28 on the grass last fall. With continued progression, he should lower that 3-mile time this season. The fifth spot is up for grabs, and a freshman may even take it. Owen Reisberg was phenomenal in middle school, posting PRs of 4:36 and 2:03. His speed translates well to cross country—he ran 10:40 at the IESA 4A state meet, finishing fourth, making him one of the top incoming freshmen in the state. He could challenge Beyer and Hartter for positioning but will first need to adjust to the 3-mile distance. This Morton team is incredibly deep, with athletes like Luke Baker and Duke Hendricks ready to step into varsity roles—they could take Reisberg’s spot at five. Others, like Noah Harris, could return from injury and surprise everyone. There is no shortage of depth at Morton, and they will be extremely competitive in 2A this year.

3. Mahomet-Seymour

Coaches: Andrew Walmer

Last Year's Finish: 6th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Augustus Gaudio (Sr.), Henry McMurry (Sr.), Tate Bode (Jr.), Adam Smigielski (So.), Tayten Gergen (So.)

Outlook: The best 1-2 punch in the state (that isn’t blood-related), supported by a fierce sophomore class, will catapult Mahomet Seymour to trophy contention. Augustus Gaudio and Henry McMurry are two of the top returning runners in 2A this year. They tied for the final all-state spot last year, but only one medal was awarded to Gaudio. Gaudio, the team’s returning all-stater, had a strong track season, running 1:55.0 in the open 800. He was a key contributor to Mahomet’s second-place 4x800 relay, consistently splitting 1:54s. His range remains intact, with a supporting mile PR of 4:22. He will be in top-ten conversations all year and serve as a strong number one for this team. McMurry narrowly missed all-state last year and will carry a chip on his shoulder this season. He finished sixth in a tactical 2A 1600 and closed out the track season with a 4:20 mile PR and a 1:57 800. Both he and Gaudio are elite 3-milers with PRs of 14:55, and both should improve significantly on that mark. With such a strong low stick, all Mahomet needs is a solid supporting cast to sail to a trophy. Tate Bode will fill the third spot. He emerged during cross country last season with a 15:51 debut and served as Mahomet’s number four at the state meet. Bode posted strong track marks, running 4:34 in the mile and 9:51 in the 2-mile. In the hands of a program like Mahomet, he could easily run in the 15:10s at Detweiller and will play a pivotal role in the team’s trophy run. The fourth and fifth spots will likely go to Adam Smigielski and Tayten Gergen. Smigielski leads Mahomet’s talented sophomore group. He ran 16:04 as a freshman and was the number five at state. With track PRs of 4:37 and 9:56, he has a strong aerobic base and will be a tier ahead of his fellow sophomores, though not quite at Bode’s level. Gergen follows at five, coming off a productive track season with huge PRs of 4:44 and 10:34. He ran 16:35 last year as a freshman and is a strong contributor to the team. Mahomet has a solid chance at a trophy this year, but even if they fall short, they are set up for the future. The strength of this sophomore class will fuel several more trophy runs. Athletes like Carter Alderks, Henry Welch, and Liam Burwell will become pillars of the program and likely bring home hardware in the years to come. In short, if Mahomet doesn’t win a trophy this year (and that’s a big if), the program’s future is still incredibly bright.

4.  Bethalto (Civic Memorial)

Coaches: Jacob Peal / Malynn Hannaford

Last Year's Finish: 18th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Max Weber (Sr.), Landon Kearby (Sr.), Tulio Zampieri (Sr.), Glenn Collins (Jr.), Logan Kearby (Jr.), Jacob Cranford (Sr.), Joshua Cranford (Sr.)

Outlook: Civic Memorial returns its entire roster from last season and will be looking to make a run at a state trophy this fall. Max Weber leads the Eagles up front. He was on fire this track season, running 9:20 and 4:22, and will be aiming for a top-ten finish. He’ll be a huge asset to this CM team. Landon Kearby has struggled with injuries, but a healthy cross country season appears to be ahead. He ran 15:36 at the state meet last year but missed nearly all of track season due to injuries. While his current form is unknown, with no recent injury reports from Coach Peal, he should be ready to contribute. Tulio Zampieri and Glenn Collins are what make this team such an underrated squad. Both are mid-distance specialists with 1:57 800 PRs. Neither has been known for cross country prowess, but this season could mark a new chapter in their aerobic development. Both ran 1600 PRs in the low 4:30s—well beyond their usual times—putting them on the verge of a breakout 3-mile season. With a state trophy in play, they’ll be highly motivated to support the team with new personal bests. The fifth spot will likely go to Logan Kearby, who posted an impressive 4:37 PR in the 1600 this year, nearly mirroring his older brother Landon’s track times. Considering Landon ran 15:36 in the 3-mile the year after a 4:38 in the 1600, Logan could be aiming even higher. If Logan solidifies the fifth spot at 15:36, Civic Memorial could be a serious threat this fall. Watch out for the Eagles.

5. Niles (Northridge Prep)

Coaches: Julian Murphy

Last Year's Finish: 1st @ IHSA 1A State

Key Returners: Peter Kipp (Sr.), John Masaka (Jr.), Blake Quinley (Jr.), Ryan Holler (Sr.), Josh Allen (Jr.)

Outlook: Northridge Prep returns four of five runners from last year’s state title team, and they are poised to be just as strong this season. Unfortunately, they were moved to 2A, which will make securing a trophy more challenging. That said, this is still an extremely deep team with championship experience, and they close out our top five nicely. Peter Kipp is coming off a legendary track season and is expected to lead the squad as the number one runner. He posted PRs of 9:32 and 4:25 this spring and will be a major name in all-state conversations this season. John Masaka didn’t have quite the spring Kipp did, but his strength from last fall is undeniable. He ran 15:07 at the state meet, breaking 16 minutes for the first time and placing 13th. Masaka’s track marks of 4:41 and 9:51 don’t fully reflect his potential on the cross country course, so he’s one to watch this season. Blake Quinley had a huge sophomore year in the 3-mile, with a PR of 15:43. He ran 4:43 in the 1600 as a freshman but was unable to match that this spring. He did, however, break his 800 PR with a solid 2:06. If he regains his prior fitness, he will be a strong number three for this team. Ryan Holler focuses on mid-distance during track, posting a 2:03 PR in the 800, which shows he has speed. He ran 15:46 last fall, demonstrating that he can translate that speed into a quality 3-mile. Even if he simply matches that time, Northridge will remain a top contender. Josh Allen had the best track season of the remaining runners, with PRs of 4:42 and 10:02. He ran 15:46 last fall and should improve on that this season. Moving up a class doesn’t mean Northridge will stop winning—this team is still extremely strong and capable of competing for a spot in the top 5.

6. Marion

Coaches: Scott Gill

Last Year's Finish: 14th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Raphael Greer (Jr.), Gabriel Greer (Jr.), Joseph Mings (Sr.), Wyatt Kremer (So.)

Key Newcomers: Seve Bruce (Fr.)

Outlook: Marion consistently finds itself in top-five conversations, and it's because of a certain pair of identical twins in state title contention. Raphael Greer and Gabriel Greer form the best 1-2 punch in the entire state, and they will lead this team to even greater heights. They ran 9:10 and 9:12, respectively, and are two of the top returning cross country runners in Illinois. Few athletes are likely to challenge them this year, making them dominant low-sticks for Marion. Following the twins, freshman Seve Bruce will step into a varsity role for the first time. Bruce was a monster in the SIJHSAA, running 4:40 and 2:10 without losing a race all season. He is the state champion in both events and finished as the runner-up in SIJHSAA cross country. He will be one of the fastest incoming freshmen in Illinois this year and a valuable asset for Marion. The main area Marion needs to address before the season starts is the fourth and fifth spots. Currently, Joseph Mings and Wyatt Kremer will fill those roles, but they need to move closer to Bruce if the team hopes to make a serious run. Mings showed improvement during the track season, posting a 10:25 in the 3200 and a sub-5 1600. Kremer was steadier, running 4:49 and 10:31. The duo will need to work together and climb as a unit to support the team as effectively as possible. This is still a young team—Kremer is only a sophomore, and the twins have another year as well. Even if Marion stumbles this season, this squad has the potential to be absolutely dominant in the years to come.

7. Mt. Vernon

Coaches: Trace Turner, Travis Hayes

Last Year's Finish: 19th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Rowan Wilford (Sr.), Trace Elliot (Sr.), Jayden Jones (Jr.), Joel Hayes (Sr.), Carson Workman (Sr.), Liam Brandon (So.), Eli Johnston (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: William Green (Fr.)

Outlook: This team is the definition of pack running—Mt. Vernon is going to be extremely strong this year. They have five to six runners who will be within 15 seconds of each other, something no other team in 2A can match. Rowan Wilford will lead the team up front. He ran the 4x800 for most of the season, finishing with a split PR of 1:58.0. His 1600 and 3200 saw significant improvement, with PRs of 4:33 and 10:02. This boost in aerobic range signals a major jump on the cross country course; his already solid 3-mile time of 15:30 will likely be shattered. Trace Elliot follows closely behind. He was also a key contributor to the 4x800, posting a 1:59.0 split. His 1600 dropped to 4:38, and his 3-mile PR of 15:37 shows that he can translate speed from the 800 to the 3-mile with ease. Jayden Jones mirrors Elliot’s progression, running 1:58 and 4:37 in the spring. He ran 16:03 last fall and will be aiming to stay close to Elliot this season. Joel Hayes and Carson Workman had similar track campaigns, both posting 4:43 in the 1600. Hayes ran 10:10 in the 3200, with Workman just ahead at 10:09. Hayes clocked 15:50 last fall, which suggests both he and Workman should improve on those marks this season. Eli Johnston has battled injuries over the past few years, but after contributing to an all-state 4x800 and staying healthy through the summer, he should be able to compete with the top group. He ran 2:02 and 4:37 on the track, putting him right alongside Elliot and Jones. He will be an interesting runner to watch this season. Liam Brandon had a successful freshman campaign and will be a valuable pusher in the seventh spot. He ran 4:43 in the 1600 and 16:17 in the 3-mile, providing a strong bookend to this elite pack and representing the future of the Mt. Vernon program. Realistically, this team doesn’t have a top-40 individual in the state. Yet their ability to contend for a trophy in a classification where low-stick scoring is crucial is remarkable. You can’t help but root for the Rams this fall.

8. Deerfield

Coaches: Scott Friedlander / Bill Anderson, Jess Brown

Last Year's Finish: 15th @ 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

Key Returners: Jamie Chandler (Sr.), Andrew Calderon (Jr.), Sam Chaban (Sr.), Hugo Albrecht-Buehler (Sr.), Noelan Tossing (Sr.), Ethan Reich (Jr.), Jasper Fine (Jr.), Scott Harvey (Sr.) 

Outlook: This is a Deerfield team made up of veterans—they’re experienced and ready to win. The Warriors have no shortage of front-runners, led by Jamie Chandler and Andrew Calderon. Chandler has been a steady number one for Deerfield over the last few years, and this season will be the capstone to a great career. He ran 9:29 and 4:22 this track season, boasting one of the fastest returning resumes in 2A. He has struggled with injuries and illness, so we haven’t yet seen his full potential on the grass. There’s an outside chance he could crack the top ten this fall, and either way, he will be of huge value to this Deerfield squad. Calderon comes off a quietly impressive track season, running 9:34 and 4:20 in the 3200 and 1600. He is a strong contender for all-state honors this cross country season. If Deerfield can land both of these athletes in the top 25, they will be a very dangerous team to watch. Beyond Chandler and Calderon, there is a deep group competing for the three, four, and five spots. Hugo Albrecht-Buehler and Sam Chaban are perhaps the front-runners for these positions. AB struggled with illness last fall, running 16:23 in the 3-mile, but had a much more productive track season with a 10:02 PR in the 3200 and 4:47 in the 1600. Chaban demonstrated his speed on the track, posting 2:00 and 4:36 in the 800 and 1600, while also running a solid 10:06 for the 3200. His newfound speed complements his aerobic base well, and he will battle with AB throughout the season. Noelan Tossing had a solid track season despite battling a foot injury, running 4:42 in the 1600. Ethan Reich also had a strong season, posting a 4:46 PR in the 1600 and returning with a 16:03 3-mile from last fall. Jasper Fine showed significant improvement on the track, running PRs of 4:47 and 10:24. He was in the low 18 minutes last fall and could be poised for a breakout season. Scott Harvey is the fastest returning 3-miler on the squad. While he wasn’t able to match his track PRs, his 16:00 from last fall puts him ahead of much of the roster. This Deerfield team is deep, and that depth will serve them well throughout the season. With a combination of experience and talent, there’s a lot of potential for success. Deerfield has a strong history in 2A, and this squad could be on track for another trophy season. All they need to do is put their marks on the board, and we’ll see just how good they really are.

9. Normal (University)

Coaches: Lester Hampton

Last Year's Finish: 11th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Sean Kaeb (Sr.), Andrew Aldeman (So.), JW Black (So.), Keaton North (So.), Jacob Bauchmoyer (Jr.), Aeden Richards (Jr.), Lucas Layman (So.)

Outlook: The sophomore class at Normal University is the engine of this team, and they are poised to be a top-ten squad this fall. Sean Kaeb returns as their number one for the second year in a row, and his state meet experience will be invaluable. He matched his 3200 PR this spring with a season-best 9:35 and made significant gains in the 1600, setting a new PR of 4:26. He will be competing for an all-state medal this fall. Andrew Aldeman is coming off an impressive freshman season on the track and is likely to take the number two spot for NU. He ran a scorching 4:24 at the Normal Innercity Invite and is one of the top milers in the class of 2028. His 3-mile time is also strong, clocking 15:37. He could be in all-state discussions alongside Kaeb this year, and no one would be surprised. JW Black and Keaton North both shined on the track and are expected to fill the three and four spots. Black posted PRs of 4:41 and 9:50 in the 1600 and 3200, marking major improvements in both events. North was slightly less strong in the 1600 but matched a 9:50 in the 3200. Last fall, North ran 15:59 and Black ran 16:00, and both are likely to shave significant time off those marks this season. The fifth spot is still largely up for grabs, but Jacob Bauchmoyer looks like the favorite. He ran 15:45 last fall and has continued improving on the track. If he can match or improve on that time, Normal will be in good shape. Lucas Layman is also a potential contender for that position. Layman spent much of track season on the 4x800, so exact marks are unclear, but he ran on several teams that were under 8:20, which would average to roughly 2:04 per leg. That suggests his middle school 2:11 mark is outdated and that he has made solid improvements during the spring. He ran 16:18 last fall and will likely take significant time off that mark. This is a young team with bright prospects for the future. Normal University is building something great that will be exciting to watch for years to come.

10. Morris

Coaches: Joe Blumberg / Nick Murphy, Jen Sheegog, Madi Mayberry

Last Year's Finish: 16th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Cuyler Swanson (Jr.), Everett Swanson (Jr.), Nikita Hovius (Sr.), Brodie Peterson (Sr.), Jonathan Zarbock (Sr.)

Outlook: Morris has been steadily improving, and now they have the chance to finally put it into action. They have an elite group of runners hungry for a top-five finish, and it will be interesting to see how they come together this fall. The team boasts some of the best low-stick scoring in the entire classification, led by Cuyler Swanson and Everrett Swanson. Cuyler is an animal, running 9:26 in the heat of the state meet to take fourth in 2A. He is the second-fastest returning 3-miler in 2A this fall and will be a contender for an individual state title. Realistically, he’s a lock for a single-digit finish and will be a priceless asset to this roster. Everrett is coming off a fantastic cross country season and will be aiming for a spot on the podium. He ran 15:14 at state last year to take 38th and is one of the top returning runners from that race. He posted solid PRs across the board, including 9:46 in the 3200 and 4:31 in the 1600. He’s ready to drop more time on the grass and will be a huge asset to the Redskins. Nikita Hovius looks poised for an electric senior year and will step in as the team’s number three runner. Hovius made significant gains in his shorter races, posting PRs of 2:03 in the 800 and 4:34 in the 1600. His 3200 PR still sits at 9:53, but his improved foot speed will put him into new conversations this fall. Brodie Peterson will serve as the team’s four runner. He has made substantial progress since last season, consistently running in the low two minutes in the 800. His 3-mile PR of 15:59 demonstrates his ability to translate that speed to the cross country course. He will be another key contributor for Morris this fall. The biggest area for improvement if Morris wants to climb the rankings is pushing their fifth runner up to the number four spot. Jonathan Zarbock is currently the front-runner for that position. He ran track for the first time this spring, earning a 4:55 1600 PR. His 3-mile time of 16:48 will need significant improvement this fall, especially if Morris has top-five aspirations. He could be the deciding factor in how far this team goes, and it will be fascinating to see his progress. Morris is finally putting the pieces together, and this team is poised to be nothing short of great this cross country season.

11. Vernon Hills

Coaches: Steven Szabo / Suzanne Curry, Bryson Taylor

Last Year's Finish: 11th @ 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

Key Returners: Bryant Lester (Jr.), Will Gagamov (Jr.), Konstantin Koychev (Sr.), Trevor Todd (Sr.), Aarav Sheth (Sr.), Jacob Sultan (Sr.)

Outlook: Vernon Hills has been returned to their rightful classification and they will look to prove that they're still a strong program. They have spent the last two years in 3A, and they’ve been overlooked as the incredible program that they are. They have a superstar upfront, with Bryant Lester hungry for a spot in the top ten. He ran out of his socks during the track season, with huge PRs from indoors. He ran 9:25 in the 3200 at a random quad meet, and ran 4:23 at Batavia Distance Madness. He is super fit coming into this cross country season and he’ll be a huge lowstick scorer for Vernon Hills. After Lester, you’ll see Will Gagamov and Konstantin Koychev. Gagamov was hurt during the outdoor season, but indoors he ran 10:10 in the 3200 and 4:48. He’ll look to improve upon his 16:00 3 mile; it will be a big season all around for him. Koychev is the second fastest returning 3 miler, with a huge PR of 15:34. His track times don’t quite match his 3 mile PR, but even if he matches that mark, VH will be in a great spot. Trevor Todd will pick up the fourth spot. He plays baseball during the spring, but he still is able to run 15:47 on the grass. We don’t know what kind of shape he’s in, but Coach Szabo states that he’s a core member of the top 5 and he’s been putting in the work at summer workouts. Aarav Sheth or Jacob Sultan will take the final scoring position. Sheth was focused on mid distance, so his track times don’t accurately show how good he could be. He ran 16:00 last fall and will be looking to drop that below the 15:50 mark. Sultan ran 10:18 in the 3200 during the spring and he could challenge Sheth for that last spot. He’s come a long way from where he started out his freshman year; his senior year will be a nice closer to a productive career. The Cougars are highly underrated coming into the year; they could potentially go as high as the top 5. However, the cross country times need to show themselves for that to happen. It’ll be fun watching this team progress as the season drags on—they will definitely surprise you this fall.

12. Aurora Central Catholic

Coaches: Troy Kerber / Larry Lillwitz, Leah Bohr

Last Year's Finish: 6th @ IHSA 1A State

Key Returners: Ben Bohr (Jr.), Jack Swiatek (Sr.), John Rienbold (So.), AJ Viveros (Sr.), Bryan Lopez (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Tyler Bracke (Fr.)

Outlook: Even though they move up from 1A, Aurora Central Catholic still has a shot at the top ten in 2A. They have a quality pack of three, with Ben Bohr, Jack Swiatek, and John Rienbold all leading this group. Bohr is a returning all-stater in 1A and has a 1600 PR of 4:23. Swiatek was just behind Bohr last fall, but has a 1600 PR of 4:24 that was faster than Bohr’s season best. Both of them will be in all-state contention. Rienbold was lights out as a freshman, running 4:23 and 2:00; he will be looking to hang with Bohr and Swiatek this season. After these three, AJ Viveros will step into the fourth spot. Viveros ran a big PR of 4:42 during the track season and he already ran 15:56 in cross country. He’s a well-rounded runner and will be a valuable scorer for the Chargers.

Now, their usual number 5, Cal Rienbold, suffered a knee injury that puts him out for the season. With this door now open, Bryan Lopez will step in and carry the weight of the 5. Lopez had a breakout track season, dropping over 30 seconds in his 1600 to take a 4:49. His 3-mile time is currently 17:48, and he will need to improve on that significantly if he wants ACC to go anywhere. However, he’s trending in the right direction, as his track times show he can be a contributing member to this team. Can ACC put it all together and get back into the top ten this fall?

13. Peoria (Notre Dame)

Coaches: Dan Gray / Elyse Dell, Jacki Mateas

Last Year's Finish: 5th @ IHSA 1A State

Key Returners: Maxwell Kirby (Jr.), Dax Duffy (Sr.), Luke Fady (So.), Freddie Coury (Jr.), John Baker (Jr.), Joshua Stedwill (Jr.)

Outlook: Another team that has to move up from 1A, Peoria Notre Dame will still be a force to be reckoned with in a bigger classification. Led by all-star Maxwell Kirby at the 1 spot, they have a big lowstick scorer that will challenge for single digits this fall. Kirby is one of the top returning 3-milers in 2A this fall, with a soul-crushing time of 14:47. He was fourth at the 1A state championships with that mark, and he’ll be on the hunt for a spot in the top ten. Dax Duffy is the lone senior in this varsity group; he’s ready for big things after his amazing track season. He ran 1:59 and 4:27 for two huge PRs, and he’ll be hungry for a 3-mile PR as well. Luke Fady is coming off an amazing freshman campaign; he ran 4:40 and 2:05 during the track season. He was 15:42 at the state meet last fall—expect him to be under that mark this time around. Freddie Coury was able to clock some good track times, and he’ll slide in at the fourth spot. He ran 4:47 and 10:07 for two nice PRs; his 3-mile of 16:01 won’t know what’s hit him when it gets destroyed this fall. Closing out their top 5 is John Baker. Baker was injured last season, so he didn’t get to show what he’s truly capable of. However, with a healthy track season and a 4:45 1600 PR under his belt, he’s ready to go. He’s going to be right up there with Coury, which will make this team all the more dangerous.

14. Aurora (Marmion Academy)

Coaches: Andrew Lifka / Kelly Bennett, Ryan Lifka, Christian Surtz

Last Year's Finish: 7th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Michael Whitacre (Sr.), Joseph Dorando (Sr.), Jonah Sartain (Sr.), Lucas Galiendo (Sr.), Sam Rowe (Sr.)

Outlook: Marmion has the bases loaded with five seniors in scoring positions; now is the time for them to make their move. They have a strong presence up front with Michael Whitacre and Joseph Dorando leading the way. Whitacre is coming off of an all-state season in track where he took 7th in the 2A 1600. His PR of 4:24 contends with many of the other all-state hopefuls, and he will be gunning for another medal this fall. Dorando ran 9:36 at the sectional meet to make the trip down to state in the 3200. On the day, he didn’t run amazing, but this new PR is a sign that big things are coming for him. His PR of 15:40 is in for a rude awakening; he will also be in all-state contention this fall. After these two, you’ll see Jonah Sartain step into the third spot. Sartain had a productive track season, running a huge PR of 9:48 in the 3200 and also making it down to the state meet. He ran 15:55 last fall—he will crush that mark this fall. Lucas Galiendo and Sam Rowe will round out the top 5 nicely. Galiendo ran 4:53 and 10:18 this track season, both huge PRs for him. He ran 16:24 in the 3-mile off of a mediocre track season, so he could be ready for a huge breakout this fall. Rowe ran 4:54 and 10:30 in the indoor season, which is much more consistent than he typically is. If he can stay on the trajectory that he’s been on for the last three years, then he’ll be just under the 16-minute border this fall. The Cadets have a lot to look forward to; this could potentially be another top ten team for this prestigious program.

15. Maple Park (Kaneland)

Coaches: Chad Clarey / Clayton Brundige

Last Year's Finish: 5th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Carson Kaiser (So.), Evan Whildin (Sr.), Nolan Reutimann, (Jr.), Gavin Schnurstein (So.), Joey Schuch (Jr.), Nathan Kowalczyk (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Gavin Smith (Jr.)

Outlook: It’s a new year for Kaneland, just like it is for everyone else. How will they replace the seniors that made such an impact on their squad last season? The same way everyone else will, with hard work and patience. It might take a while for this team to return to the level they were at in previous years, but they have a young group who looks ready to fill the shoes of those before them. Carson Kaiser is a great example of that youth, as he’s one of the fastest incoming sophomores in the entire country. He ran 9:17 for 3200 (converted from full two miles) and 4:21 in the 1600 as a freshman. He is competing for a top three position this fall, and he’ll be a massive lowstick scorer for the Knights. One of the only veterans on this team, Evan Whildin, will look to close out his senior year with a bang. He has been steadily improving over his career, and after a 4:28 and 9:46 from the indoor season, he will be ready for even more this fall. His 3-mile PR is his most impressive mark, with a 15:08 from the Interstate 8 Conference meet. He was 15:10 at the state meet last fall, where he took 36th as one of the top returning runners. He will be gunning for an all-state medal and he’ll be the veteran leader for this young team. After Whildin, you’ll see appearances from Nolan Reutimann and Joey Schuch. Reutimann had a breakout season on the oval, with a 1600 PR of 4:43. His 3-mile time of 17:28 will be garbage compared to what he’s ready to run—he’s going to be incredible this cross country season. Schuch runs mid-distance during track, and his 800 PR of 2:00 is proof of his proficiency. He has a 3-mile PR of 15:58, which showcases some of his range and how well he’s able to step up from mid-distance. Gavin Schnurstein is another young runner who will contribute to this varsity squad this fall. He had a great 1600 during the indoor season, with a huge PR of 4:43. He ran 10:25 in the 3200 outdoors, which was another big PR. His 3-mile only sits at 17:48, but he’ll likely tear that to shreds this fall. Gavin Smith is a new junior addition to this squad as well; his 800 speed will prove useful to this Knights roster. Smith ran 1:57.38 this spring to qualify for the 3A state meet. He’s never run cross country before, so he could be anywhere from 15:30 to 17:30. It’ll be exciting to see how he develops in the hands of a program like this—he could be a wild card for this Kaneland roster. Realistically, the Knights are a lot higher than 2A #15. They have a chance at breaking the top ten, but the cross times just aren’t there yet. Once we get in season and they carry the momentum from the track to the grass, we’ll see just how good this team really is.

16. Highland

Coaches: Megan McKee / Nick Schaible

Last Year’s Finish: 13th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Adin Roach (Sr.), Caleb Knobloch (So.), Donnie Miller (Sr.), Joshua Knobloch (So.), Walker Nehrt (Jr.)

Outlook: Highland loses a big piece in Christian Knobloch, but the program’s depth—and the Knobloch family pipeline—should keep the Bulldogs competitive. Sophomore twins Caleb and Joshua Knobloch are primed for breakout seasons after impressive freshman track campaigns. Caleb posted 4:46 and 9:59 PRs, along with a 2:02 relay split, while Joshua was right on his heels with 4:48 and 10:04. They’ll join forces with senior leaders Adin Roach and Donnie Miller. Roach brings consistency and experience, with PRs of 4:32 and 15:34, the latter standing as Highland’s fastest returning 3-mile mark. Miller, a middle-distance specialist, adds another dynamic weapon to the mix. He clocked 1:57.76 in the 800, 51.52 in the 400, and even dropped a massive 1600 PR to 4:31, making his 15:58 cross country best ripe for a serious drop this fall. Rounding out the top five is Walker Nehrt, another middle-distance athlete who has developed the strength to contribute on the grass. With PRs of 2:05 and 54.52, plus a big improvement to 4:49 in the 1600, Nehrt appears ready to push toward the 16:00 barrier. If that happens—and the Knobloch twins keep climbing—Highland could be one of the more dangerous under-the-radar teams in 2A this season.

17. Chicago (Latin)

Coaches: Dan Daly / Jim Spivey, Sarah Lawrence

Last Year's Finish: 3rd @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Micah Weiss (So.), Nico Rastatter (So.), Jack Ramsey (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Gavin Moffat (Fr.), Ojas Gupta (Fr.)

Outlook: This is a young squad that’s just one blue-chip away from re-entering the state title conversation. Their strength starts with two sophomores capable of chasing all-state honors—Micah Weiss and Nico Rastatter. Weiss had a phenomenal freshman season, clocking 4:17 in the 1600m, a mark that ranked among the best in the nation for his class and placed him among the top returners in 2A. His range is impressive, with a 15:03 3-mile PR from last year’s state meet, where he placed 30th overall and emerged as one of the top freshmen in Illinois. Rastatter wasn’t far behind, running 15:16 at state. On the track, he posted 4:36 and 9:44, making him a clear top-tier sophomore who will need to close the small gap on Weiss to secure a spot in the top 25. Behind them, two incoming freshmen will likely fill the third and fourth scoring spots. Gavin Moffat arrives after an outstanding middle school career, including times of 2:07 and 4:36, plus a runner-up finish at IESA State in 10:47 for 2 miles. His mile PR already edges out Rastatter’s, but his aerobic base still needs time to catch up. Ojas Gupta is another strong addition, running 4:52 for 1600m and 10:09 for 3000m last spring. While he’ll trail the front three early, he has the potential to break 16:00 this fall. The fifth spot will belong to Jack Ramsey, who’s looking to bounce back from an injury-filled 2024. His 18:17 best from last year doesn’t reflect his true potential, and even his PR of 17:47 will need to drop significantly—likely into the low 17:00s—for Latin to maintain a top-20 ranking. Coach Daly is optimistic, noting that “Jack Ramsey has had a nice summer of running after being hindered during the track season due to injury. He’s put in the work just like the rest of the top 5.” If Ramsey can make that leap, this group could surprise in 2025. Even if they don’t break into the top 15 this season, their youth and talent make it likely that Latin will be back to championship form within a few years.

18. Chatham (Glenwood)

Coaches: Mike Garber / Lindsay Cook, John McElmeel

Last Year’s Finish: 24th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Brady Moser (Sr.), Van Schneider (Sr.), Adam Galvan (So.), Hudson Schneider (So.), Ari Anderson (So.), Yehun Suh (Jr.), Gage Atkinson (So.)

Key Newcomers: Jax Barton (Fr.)

Outlook: In the words of Coach Garber, “last season was a mixed bag” for Chatham Glenwood. The Titans battled injuries and illness all fall, rarely getting the chance to compete at full strength. With a clean slate in 2025, they’re looking for redemption and a climb back into the top 15. Leading the way are two senior front-runners with lethal middle-distance speed. Brady Moser was electric on the track, running a 1:55.61 in the 800m and an eye-popping 49.13 in the open 400m. His finishing kick makes him dangerous in any tactical race. Van Schneider brings similar firepower, clocking 1:54 in the 800m as a sophomore and qualifying for one of the fastest 3A 800m finals ever. He also ran 4:22 in the 1600m that year before an injury cut his cross country season short. Despite limited training, he still ran 15:24 at state. Healthy and consistent this spring, Schneider is an all-state threat if everything clicks. The supporting cast will be a group of eager underclassmen. Adam Galvin returns after missing most of last season, having broken 16:00 in the opening week before being sidelined. He ran 2:05 and 4:41 on the track this spring and could surprise as a strong third man. Hudson Schneider sits in the fourth spot with a 2:03 800m PR, aiming to bring his 16:54 3-mile down toward the 16:00 mark. Freshman Jax Barton, a standout in middle school with a 4:53 mile and 2:10 800m, will immediately contend for a scoring role and could push into the low-16:00s as well. This Glenwood squad is tough to pin down—on paper, they have the speed and depth to soar up the rankings, but they’ll need health and consistency to put it all together. One thing is certain: they’ll be far better than last year, and that alone spells good news for the Titans.

19. Herrin

Coaches: James Elliot

Last Year’s Finish: 27th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Nolen Frost (Jr.), Mason King (Sr.), Braden Davis (Sr.), Maddox Burks (Sr.), Sam Jolliff (Sr.), Miles Ellet (So.)

Outlook: Herrin’s senior class has been building toward this moment for years, and 2025 could be the season everything clicks. Leading the charge is Nolen Frost, who made massive leaps on the track this spring. After opening high school with 4:56 and 10:40 PRs as a freshman, Frost dropped to 4:34 and 9:50 as a sophomore, also breaking the 2:00 barrier in the 800m. His 15:34 from last fall already puts him in strong territory, but signs point to him being well ahead of that pace this season. Mason King and Braden Davis form a powerful 2–3, both boasting sub-2:00 800m speed. King was a consistent 1:58 relay leg on Herrin’s 4x800m squad and ran 4:32 in the 1600m, with a 15:52 from last cross country season that he should easily trim down. Davis, splitting 1:59s and running low-4:40s for the mile, also dipped under 16:00 last year and has the tools to push even further. The X-factor could be Maddox Burks, whose 4:34 1600m matches Herrin’s top runners on the track but whose 16:32 3-mile leaves plenty of room for improvement. He’s primed for a huge breakthrough on the grass. The fifth spot will come down to Sam Jolliff and Miles Ellet. Jolliff’s 4:50 mile PR and strong training suggest his 17:20 from last fall will drop substantially. Ellet, a freshman last year, only raced twice in cross country—posting a 17:18—but ran just off King in both meets. His 2:06 800m shows promise, and if he closes the gap on King in the fall, Herrin could skyrocket up the rankings. At 2A #19, Herrin might look like a safe pick right now, but with their senior leadership, middle-distance speed, and room for big PRs, they have legitimate top-15 potential if all the pieces fall into place.

20. Olney (Richland County)

Coaches: Charlie Butler

Last Year’s Finish: 12th @ 2A Olney Sectional

Key Returners: Quaid Berger (So.), Judah Dicks (So.), Tristan Butler (So.), Landon Livingston (So.), Austin Kuenstler (So.), Oliver Fehrenbacher (So.)

Key Newcomers: Nathan Zwilling (Fr.)

Outlook: At first glance, Olney might appear vulnerable without any upperclassmen, but a closer look reveals one of the most exciting young squads in Illinois. This team is powered by a dynamic sophomore core that matured quickly over the spring and now looks ready to make noise in the fall. Leading the charge is Quaid Berger, who was electric on the track, running a stunning 9:23 in the 3200m to place third at 2A Top Times. One of the fastest freshmen in the nation at that distance, Berger went on to take seventh at state and will be aiming for a top-10 finish this cross country season.

Behind him, Judah Dicks and Tristan Butler form a strong 2–3 punch. Dicks impressed with a 4:44 1600m and 9:49 3200m, the latter earning him 11th at 2A Top Times in perhaps his best race of the year. Butler, more of a mid-distance specialist, clocked 2:01 and 4:30, missing a state berth in the 1600m by just two-tenths of a second. Both are poised to translate that track speed into big results on the grass. Freshman Landon Livingston will slot in at No. 4 after an impressive debut season, posting 2:06 in the 800m and 4:50 in the 1600m. His 17:57 3-mile PR is almost certain to take a major hit this fall. The main question mark for Olney lies at the fifth spot, where Austin Kuenstler and Oliver Fehrenbacher will battle for the role. Kuenstler’s 18:39 from last fall should drop significantly after a promising track season, while Fehrenbacher—though off Kuenstler’s pace in cross—matched him on the oval this spring, suggesting he’s closing the gap. If that fifth runner steps up, Olney could sneak into the state meet this year. Even if they fall short, the foundation is set for the Tigers to be a serious threat in 2026.

21. Springfield

Coaches: Trae Cotner / Joy Guardia

Last Year’s Finish: 15th @ 3A Normal Sectional

Key Returners: Alex Ratz (Sr.), David Peeler (Jr.), Kishan Ugrappa (Jr.), Abdul Aleem Faiza (Jr.), Benjamin Walden (Sr.), Jordan Green (So.), Collin Nolte (Jr.), Clayton Borah (Sr.), Sam Batterman (Jr.), Jake Tolsdorf (Jr.), 

Key Newcomers: Shrihan Aleti (Fr.), Carter Borah (Fr.)

Outlook: No team on this list can match Springfield’s depth—it’s their biggest weapon and will make them dangerous in every race this fall. Trying to identify a clear-cut number one is nearly impossible, as the roster is loaded with runners hovering around the same level. In fact, eight different Springfield athletes ran between 4:37 and 4:42 in the 1600m this spring, a stat so rare it almost defies belief. Instead of dissecting a scoring lineup, it’s better to introduce the sheer volume of talent they bring to the table.

Alex Ratz is perhaps a half-step ahead of the rest, clocking a 4:37 1600m and owning the team’s second-fastest returning 3-mile time of 16:07. Coach Cotner noted, “Alex looks to be a clear number 1 right now and I look for him to have a breakout season.” The only freshman in that elite miler group, Jordan Green, is also poised for a big leap after a 4:42 1600m and a 10:05 3200m. Having started last fall at 17:55, he’s primed to shatter that PR and become a major contributor. From there, it’s anyone’s guess. Mid-distance standouts Abdul Aleem Faiza, Benjamin Walken, and Jake Tolsdorf all boast low-2:00 marks in the 800m, while Kishan Ugrappa—the top returning 3-miler at 16:00—adds another weapon to the mix. David Peeler dipped under 4:40, Collin Nolte brings consistency with multiple low-4:40 races plus a 16:15 3-mile, and Clayton Borah is looking to leave his 17-minute days behind after running 4:41 and 2:02 in track. With so many interchangeable pieces, Springfield’s top seven will be decided in a season-long dogfight, but one thing is certain: their pack split will be among the smallest in Illinois. That tight compression is going to put them firmly inside the top 20 by season’s end.

22. Taylorville

Coaches: Steve Walters

Last Year’s Finish: 8th @ 2A Olney Sectional

Key Returners: Liam Bettis (Jr.), Logan Halligan (Jr.), Colt Perkins (So.), Alex Davis (Sr.), Tyler Corpin (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Zach Wright (Fr.)

Outlook: This will be a good team, but Taylorville needs to stay healthy in order to be in top 20 contention. They are led by Liam Bettis who is certain to be a single digit scorer in most races. Bettis isn’t ranked in the top ten individually for nothing, he had one of the best track seasons out of anyone who is returning in 2A. He shattered his PRs, running 9:14 and 4:18. He didn’t have his best day at the state meet last fall, but he’ll be back on top of his game this time around. Taylorville’s #2 was hurt during last year’s cross country campaign, Logan Halligan will be out for redemption this fall. He had a terrific track season, running 4:35 in the 1600 and 10:23 in the 3200. His track times suggest he’s much faster than a 16:15, which is his current PR on the grass. He looks like the definite 2 for the Tornados, but he’ll need to improve on his 3 mile time immensely to make it happen. Colt Perkins will pick up the third spot after a great freshman year of running. He was an impressive 4:42 in the 1600 and he even broke 10 minutes in the 3200 with a 9:59. He is ready for a breakout year on the grass, he will tail Halligan pretty closely. Tyler Corpin and Alex Davis will close out the top 5, both are hoping for epic senior seasons. Davis dropped some good time in the 1600 this spring, running 4:47 at the Mattoon invite. Corpin wasn’t quite as fast, but he was much more consistent than he has been in the past. Both have been successful on the grass, with PRs sitting in the low 16 minutes. If both of them can break 16 this fall, then Taylorville is going to be much higher on this list than they currently are. 

23. Crystal Lake Central

Coaches: Judd Shutt / Shawn Brodie

Last Year’s Finish: 10th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Amana Omale (Sr.), Reed Mihelich (Sr.), Oliver Lavaty (Jr.), Chase Teresi (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Ethan McMahon (Jr.), Finn Godlewski (Jr.), Daniel Polston (Fr.)

Outlook: This could go down as one of the most inaccurate preseason rankings in history—and Crystal Lake Central is the reason why. They enter 2025 as one of the most mysterious, undercover teams in the state, making them almost impossible to place. Up front, they have proven strength with seniors Amana Omale and Reed Mihelich. Omale focused on mid-distance during track, posting a respectable 1:58 in the 800m. With his summer training geared toward the 3-mile, he should be able to bring his 15:42 down significantly. Mihelich had a breakout track season, dropping a massive 4:24 in the 1600m—one of the best returning mile times in 2A—which makes him an invaluable lowstick for the Tigers. After the top two, things get interesting. Oliver Lavaty is the likely number three, but a June injury means he may not be at full strength until October. He ran a strong 2:01 in the 800m this spring and was the alternate on CLC’s 4x800m squad, narrowly missing a State Meet appearance. Once healthy, he’ll be a difference-maker, but until then, someone has to step up. Enter Ethan McMahon and Finn Godlewski, two soccer converts set to make a massive impact. Both have prior track experience—McMahon with a 4:49 mile, Godlewski just over 5:00—but neither has trained seriously for running until this summer. According to Coach Shutt, “Both are projected varsity runners, their potential is undefinable.” The fate of this team hinges on their development. If McMahon and Godlewski live up to the hype, Crystal Lake Central could be pushing for a top-10 finish by November. If they fall short, the preseason ranking of #23 will prove accurate. Either way, this is a team teetering on the edge of something special, and it’s hard not to root for them.

24. Woodstock

Coaches: Jay Fuller

Last Year’s Finish: 21st @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Ellery Shutt (Sr.), Jason Trojan (Sr.), Elijah Hedges (Jr.), Josh Roth (Jr.), Adam Bailey (Jr.), Will Kashmier (Sr.)

Outlook: A huge lowstick presence up front should carry Woodstock to the State Meet. Ellery Shutt returns as the Blue Streaks’ number one and is one of the strongest runners in 2A this fall, with a legitimate shot at a top-five finish. He placed ninth at last year’s State Meet in 14:42, an impressive mark given his 4:34 PR in the 1600m, and will be a single-digit scorer come November. The second spot will be filled by Jason Trojan, who is primed for a breakout season after clocking 16:03 at State—a massive three-minute improvement from his sophomore year. Trojan primarily ran hurdles in track, so there’s no clear measure of his distance fitness, but his XC results prove his potential as a strong number two. Elijah Hedges and Josh Roth will form a tight 3-4 pairing, running 16:13 and 16:23 respectively last fall. Both broke 5:00 in the 1600m and, if they stay on their upward trajectory, should once again play key roles in Woodstock’s success. The final scoring spot goes to Adam Bailey, who made a huge leap from the high-19s as a freshman to 17:00 as a sophomore. If he can take another step forward, Woodstock will be in excellent position to qualify for the State Meet. This team’s trademark is clear—they may not post flashy track times, but they consistently deliver on the grass. If that pattern holds, the Blue Streaks will be a dangerous squad this fall.

25. Belvidere North

Coaches: Ken Husser, Alec Beutel, Eryk Yunk

Key Returners: Judah Binger (So.), Martin Hernandez (So.), Lukas Hoemke (Sr.), Zach Rediger (Sr.), Henrik Piske (So.), Isaac Erwin (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Devin Svarc (Fr.)

Coach Husser’s Outlook: There is a core group of 18 to 20 runners that have been consistent and putting in the work.  There is more competition for the top 7 spots than we have had in several years, along with a large group of seniors that are trying to make this their best season. We have a nice combination of seniors and a younger talented group of runners.  During the summer the culture has been excellent, with a solid group of runners who were consistent and dedicated to getting better.  Judah looks really good right now and if he stays healthy, he may be able to finish in the top 10 at state.  I am really excited for the season and if everything falls into place we will have a really good season.