2025 Cross Country Previews: 3A Girls Ranked

The 3A Girls classification has been strong over the last few years, producing many teams with national berths. This year looks different, as we have more top-tier teams than perhaps ever before in the state. Let’s take a look at our top 25 teams.

1. Barrington

Coaches: Debbie Revolta / Dan Lowry, Emily Mohr

Last Year's Finish: State Champions @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Mia Sirois (Jr.), Abby Lewis (Sr.), Madison Miles (Sr.), Victoria Tarara (So.), Angelica Hil (Jr.), Charlotte Luft (Jr.), Liva Ketkar (Jr.), Paige Kusmerz (So.)

Key Newcomers: Ellie Ganas (Fr.), Cece Babel (Fr.), Rikki Chatterjee (So.)

Unexpected Losses: Georgia Storms (So.)

Outlook: The Broncos will look to defend their state title from last year as they once again enter the season as the top projected team in Illinois. They’ll be without their superstar Mia Sirois for the majority of the fall due to a fractured fibula. Sirois, the state record holder in the 3-mile, is still likely to be the individual state champion—even with the injury setback. She is slated for an early October comeback which will cause this squad to fall in the rankings throughout the year. Until she returns, it will be Victoria Tarara leading the charge. Tarara was the fifth runner for this squad last year and had a strong track season, running 10:59 in the 3200m. She is poised to surprise many this year. Abby Lewis had a standout spring as well, posting times of 2:16 in the 800m and 5:09 in the 1600m. A three-time state qualifier, Lewis will aim to return for her senior season. Running alongside her will be Angelica Hil and Madison Miles, who should be within 10 seconds of Lewis. Hil had a phenomenal sophomore track season, going 5:11 in the 1600m and 11:22 in the 3200m. Miles produced nearly identical marks, running 5:16 and 11:19. This team also has incredible depth, with several other athletes capable of breaking 18:00 this fall. Liva Ketkar clocked 11:33 in the 3200m, Rikki Chatterjee ran 2:17 in the 800m and 5:22 in the 1600m, and Charlotte Luft recorded 11:43 in the 3200m. Keep an eye on freshman Ellie Ganas, who placed 10th at the IESA XC State Meet with a 12:07 for 2 miles. If she develops well, she could be a breakout name. Coach Revolta stated, "We lost 3 runners to graduation that had a huge impact on last years team.  I feel that this years athletes have the potential to fill those spots and have a very productive season.  We have had great leadership this summer and I expect that to continue throughout the season.  This group is close knit and are welcoming the freshmen and helping them adjust to high school running."

2. Elmhurst (York)

Coaches: Lauren DeAngelis / Kelly Leonard, Jimmy Kolb, Maddie Cranny

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

Key Returners: Karlin Janowski (So.), Sophia Galiano-Sanchez (Sr.), Maggie Quinn (Sr.), Stella Rosso (Jr.), Lila Stanley (Sr.), Gigi Hill (Sr.), Julia Weseloh (Jr.), Amelia Crotty (So.), Dehlia Bernardi (So.), Kyla O’Halloran (So.)

Key Newcomers: Molly McGreal (Sr.), Claire Twohy (Fr.)

Outlook: The Dukes enter this year with a lot of intrigue after a track season that drew plenty of attention. Karlin Janowski placed 2nd at the 2024 State XC Meet with a time of 16:30 for 3 miles. However, during the track season, she ran 11:05 in the 3200m—slower than her cross country pace from the fall. It remains to be seen if Janowski can recapture that momentum this season, but regardless, she should be a lock for all-state honors again. Sophia Galiano-Sanchez was all-state last fall and will be looking to repeat that achievement in 2025. She clocked 2:14 in the 800m this past spring. Expect new transfer Molly McGreal to run right alongside Galiano-Sanchez. McGreal joins from Trinity, where she was a 2x All-Stater in 2A cross country, including an 8th-place finish in 2023. She also ran 5:05 during track and will be a key piece to the team’s success this year. Maggie Quinn is entering her senior year and has been a vital member of the Dukes over the past three seasons. She will be their fourth runner and could potentially make an all-state push. Rounding out the scoring will be Stella Rosso, who had an excellent track season with a 5:19 in the 1600m. She’ll aim to stay close to Quinn this fall. Coach DeAngelis stated, "The 2025 team has big goals and expectations coming off a state runner-up finish by 1 point last year.  We are looking forward to competing with the amazing teams in Illinois, as distance running in this state is so competitive!  Our focus will continue to be working together as a pack/family to progress steadily throughout the season.  The team is looking forward to seeing how every member of the team can get stronger physically and mentally each week towards our very competitive WSC meet on all levels along with the state series."

3. Naperville North

Coaches: Dan Iverson / Matt Sniadecki, Jen Weigand, Meghan Donovan, Matt Blanco, Kim Castner, Janeth Ohst

Last Year's Finish: 7th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Shania Tandon (Sr.), Rianna Tandon (Sr.), Kathryn Rohr (So.), Chloe Piot (Jr.), Elliana White (Jr.), Georgia Karstens (So.), Sophia Schulz (Jr.), Haddie Stilling (Sr.), Valentina Abramov (Sr.), Alex Pobozny (So.), Thain Karr (Sr.)

Outlook: It seems like this is the year for the Huskies to return to the podium for the first time since 2022. This group will be led by the Tandon twins, who were both all-state last fall. Rianna Tandon had the stronger 2024–2025 school year, running 17:08 on the grass and 10:58 in the 3200m. Shania Tandon wasn’t far behind, with marks of 17:23 for 3 miles and 11:10 in the 3200m. Both are expected to run in the low to sub-17:00s this season. Kathryn Rohr and Georgia Karstens, now entering their sophomore year, had terrific breakout track seasons and could potentially run in the mid-17:00s this fall. Rohr ran 5:08 in the 1600m at DNP, while Karstens clocked 5:16 in the 1600m and, more impressively, 11:15 in the 3200m—an outstanding stat line for a rising sophomore. Sophia Schulz is another breakout athlete from track. She ran 5:14 in the 1600m after barely breaking 20:00 in cross country the prior fall. She also brings strong speed credentials, having qualified for the state meet in the 4x400m relay. Schulz will look to run under 18:00 this fall and could really turn some heads. Coach Iverson stated, "We have the potential to be a very good team this fall. We have a nice mix of sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have developed well since XC last year, and are in a position to contribute this fall. I don’t have a definite comparison point to years past, but I can definitely say that this year’s group should be capable of developing as the year progresses into a great team. Where that will put us, I really don’t know. But I definitely believe this team has the potential to be excellent."

4. Chicago (St. Ignatius)

Coaches: Matt Haffner / Gio Sira, Mahalia Gilot, Christine Mayeaux, Emma McGarrity

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

Key Returners: Annika Swan (Sr.), Allison Shutler (So.), Greta Sheaffer (So.), Elle Sheaffer (Jr.), Aurora Steinhofer (So.), Olivia Brophy (So.), Katherine McAllister (Sr.), Ella Kueker (So.), Gabrielle Duque (Sr.), Pilar Curran (Sr.), Mary O'Reilly (Jr.), Maya Williams (Sr.), Elizabeth Schmiedeler (Jr.)

Outlook: The Wolfpack had a magical year in 2024, culminating in a State Championship at the 2A level. They carried that success into the track season, where they pulled off a surprise 3rd-place trophy finish at the 3A State Meet. They will feature the best 1–2 punch in the state with Annika Swan and Ally Shutler. Swan was the state runner-up in 2A cross country last fall and captured both the 800m and 1600m titles in 3A track. Elle Sheaffer and Greta Sheaffer will serve as the squad’s third and fourth runners. Both had excellent track seasons—Elle ran 5:10 in the 1600m, and Greta clocked 11:18 in the 3200m. Both are poised to run in the mid-17:00s this fall. Aurora Steinhofer will look to round out the scoring as the team’s fifth runner. She played soccer this past spring and ran 18:11 during last cross country season. Unfortunately, the Wolfpack will be without superstar freshman Berrit Shure for a while, as she underwent extensive ankle surgery this summer. Coach Haffner stated, "We are back to 3A due to the IHSA policies and not due to our enrollment.  Two of our top-7 from last year played soccer in the Fall - freshmen Rory Steinhofer and Olivia Brophy.  Both were committed and joined us for the indoor season until the soccer tryouts.  That should help them pick up where they left off last season."

5. Lake Zurich

Coaches: Jeremy Kauffman

Last Year's Finish: 14th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Polina Krupsky (Sr.), Ruby Nissen (Sr.), Hannah Gillhaus (Sr.), Morganne Stawarz (Sr.), Avery Muhr (Jr.), Celia Blaylock (Jr.), Trish Johnson (So.)

Key Newcomers: Chloe Wettstein (Fr.), Abby Kocher (Fr.)

Outlook: The Bears bring plenty of intrigue and excitement into this season as they return their top six from last year and add two phenomenal freshmen. This team looks to be led by Chloe Wettstein, Avery Muhr, and Polina Krupsky, all of whom will be in all-state contention this year. Wettstein was a standout on the IESA scene, running 5:07 in the 1600m this past spring and 11:25 in the 2-mile during cross country. She will likely be the top runner for this squad as just a freshman. Muhr had a massive track season and appears ready to make a huge leap forward—she ran 11:01 in the 3200m and should be in the low 17:00s this year. Krupsky also had a breakout track season, taking 3rd at the IHSA 3A State Meet in the 800m with a time of 2:11 and running 5:05 in the 1600m. If she transitions well to cross country, she could be flirting with the 17:00 mark. Abigail Kocher, Cecilia Blaylock, Trish Johnson, and Ruby Nissen will round out the rest of the team’s top seven. Each of these athletes has the potential to break 18:00 this season. Kocher was another phenomenal IESA athlete last year, running 5:15 in the 1600m. Blaylock also had a strong track season, posting a 5:16 in the 1600m. Johnson showed big improvement with an 11:33 in the 3200m. And we can’t forget about Nissen, who was the squad’s third runner last year. Coach Kauffman stated, "I do believe we are on a path to be qualifying consistently now as we only lose 1 SR in the starting 7 and we have great talent coming in yearly and also that our JV Program has become so strong the entire Team is on board with who we are and our Goals."

6. Batavia

Coaches: Chad Hillman

Last Year's Finish: 5th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Avery Hacker (Jr.), Madeline Cassidy (Sr.), Gwendolyn Krodel (Jr.), Claire Deppe (Jr.), Chloe Kammes (Sr.), Sara Wolfe (So.), Halle Hillman (So.), Nora Koziol (Sr.), Kylie McDougall (So.)

Key Newcomers: Reese Knysak (Fr.)

Outlook: The Bulldogs will enter the season as some people’s favorites based on the fact that they return six of their top seven from last year’s team that took 5th at the State Meet. They will be an excellent team this year but find themselves ranked here due to other teams having stronger track seasons. They will once again be led by Avery Hacker, who had an excellent cross country season in 2024 and an even better track season. She ran 10:43 in the 3200m, which was extremely eye-opening. She took 8th last fall and will look to be within the top 10 again. Madeline Cassidy had a great 2024 XC season that saw her take 21st at the IHSA State XC Meet. Her track season wasn’t anything overly impressive, but it was still considerably better than her freshman campaign. She should still be in all-state contention this season. Gwendolyn Krodel and Claire Deppe will look to be the fourth and fifth runners for this squad. Both can run in the mid-17:00s this year after posting 17:33 and 17:42 last season. Wrapping up the scoring will be Chloe Kammes, who PR’d by over a minute at the State XC Meet last year. If she can rekindle that magic, this will be an excellent squad. Coach Hillman stated, "We return a great group of workers and performers. Avery Hacker, Maddie Cassidy, Gwennie Krodel, Claire Deppe, Chloe Kammes, Halle Hillman, Sara Wolfe, Kylie McDougall are all returners who lead in some way every day. We have some newcomers who could enter the mix as the season develops. That will hopefully provide more healthy competition for the top 7 battle. We have a great group of hard working kids who are determined to be at their best."

7. Mt. Prospect (Prospect)

Coaches: Pete Wintermute / Ian Arms, Ryan Hopper, Sarah Harden

Last Year's Finish: 4th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Meg Peterson (Sr.), Anna Zajac (Sr.), Ella Benassi (Sr.), Jocelyn Farina (Sr.), Mali Scorza (Jr.), Sami Lobacz (So.), Alli Kalkwarf (So.), Kaitlin Miazga (So.)

Key Newcomers: Ashley Skelton (Fr.), Caitlin Resac (Fr.), Juliana Mihalopoulos (Fr.), Brooklyn Stocking (Fr.), McKenna Carroll (Fr.), Audrey Childs (Fr.), Erin Collins (Fr.), Lucy Wintermute (Fr.), Malin O’Meara (Fr.)

Outlook: The Knights enter a new era in their program’s history. They graduated many seniors from last year’s team but bring in the best freshman class in the state. Meg Peterson is finally a senior and will look to be the leader of the team this year after a transformational track season. She ran 4:52 in the 1600m and, more impressively, 10:32 in the 3200m—a massive breakthrough. She will look to be a top-five runner in the state. Samantha Lobacz also had a terrific track season, running 11:12 in the 3200m. She didn’t make the state top seven last year, but this fall she could run in the mid-17:00s and be this group’s second runner. Rounding out the rest of their top five will likely be three athletes. Anna Zajac will look to be the veteran leader of this pack, having competed at the State Meet last year. She had a phenomenal spring, running 5:15 in the 1600m. Adelaide Galla is a highly touted freshman, entering after winning the IESA 4A State Championship in cross country. She also ran 5:17 in the 1600m to place 3rd at the IESA State Meet. Juliana Mihalopoulos is a very intriguing name, having run 2:21 in the 800m and 5:18 in the 1600m in middle school. Others such as McKenna Carroll, Allison Kalkwarf, Ashley Skelton, and Brooklyn Stocking could also step up throughout the year. Coach Wintermute stated, "The Knights will be reloading in 2025 after the departure of Znajda, Wildhart, Laba, Fransen, and Emma Skelton. This year, there is an influx of young talent that will look to make their footprints in Prospect XC history, but it is going to take time. There may be some new and surprising faces in October for the Knight’s lineup but for now it will be the veterans that will pave the way. At the top we have returners Meg Peterson (sr), Ella Benassi (sr), Olivia Farina (sr), Mali Scorza (jr), Sami Lobacz (so), and Alli Kalkwarf (so) who will be leading our team in more ways than one. The goal will be to help imbed the new athletes into the Knight’s culture as we focus on the details of daily training. Running is simple but doing all the little things that it takes to be great can be difficult. We are excited about the future of the Prospect Knights."

8. Arlington Heights (Hersey)

Coaches: Mikayla Olsen / Aileen White

Last Year's Finish: 9th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Alexa Izenstark (Jr.), Sofia Donner (Jr.), Alexandra Kopacz (Jr.), JoJo Messer (So.), Elizabeth Waltz (Sr.), Jamie Laskiewicz (Sr.), Zuzanna Kruszewski (So.), Martyna Makowksi (Jr.), Amelia Makowksi (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Graceleen Mabry (Fr.), Clara Vincent (Fr.)

Outlook: The Huskies return a very young team this year, with only two of their projected top eleven being seniors. More importantly, their entire projected top five will return next year. This team seems to be a year away from serious trophy contention, but they will be fighting to finish among the top ten teams in the state again this year. This group will be led by superstar freshman Graceleen Mabry, who enters high school with a lot of hype. She was the IESA 2A XC State Champion and, more impressively, ran 13:39 in the 4K at USATF Nationals to take 2nd. That USATF performance can be argued as the greatest ever by a middle school female athlete. She is bound to break 17:00 this year and finish among the top ten at the State Meet. Alexa Izenstark and Alexandra Kopacz will look to be the second and third runners for this squad after strong track seasons. Izenstark ran 11:11 in the 3200m, while Kopacz ran 5:08 in the 1600m—indicating both can potentially run in the mid-17:00s. Sofia Donner also had a great track season and will likely be this squad’s fourth runner. She ran 5:15 in the 1600m, a performance that opened some eyes. It will be up to JoJo Messer, Clara Vincent, Elizabeth Waltz, Zuzanna Kruszewski, and Martyna Makowski to make up the rest of the team. All of them have the potential to break into the low 18:00s this year—and perhaps one of them even breaks out into the 17:00s. Coach Olsen stated, "They are a fun crew and still know how to work hard. They elevate each other and are an amazing group of girls. I am excited to see what's next for them."

9. Minooka

Coaches: Kevin Gummerson / Matt Clark, Ashley Tutt, Jes Hopkins, Leslie Hencinski

Last Year's Finish: 6th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Natalie Nahs (11), Clara Getsoian (10), Leah Kleckauskas (11), Melinda Torres (12), Paige Joachim (11), Layla Dobczyk (10), Kimora Rodely (11), Carolina Jorge (10), Natalie Andrews (10)

Key Newcomers: Ellie Porath (Fr.), Chelsi Heyob (Fr.)

Outlook: The Indians are another team that will be severely elevated by an incoming freshman class. Natalie Nahs looks to be the leader of this team following the graduation of Maya Ledesma. She had an excellent track season, running 2:13 in the 800m after just missing all-state last fall with a 27th-place finish at State. Leah Klekcauskas appears to have had a transformational track season, running 11:11 in the 3200m—a huge breakthrough. She will look to run in the mid-17:00s this year. Clara Getsoian had an excellent cross country season as well, running 17:53 for 3 miles and placing 60th at the State Meet. She will likely be joined by freshman Ellie Porath, who could be a major addition to this group. She ran 11:59 in the 2-mile and 5:18 in the 1600m in middle school and could translate into a sub-18:00 runner this year. Rounding out their scoring will likely be freshman Chelsi Heyob, who placed 9th at the IESA 4A State Meet last year. She also has tremendous speed, having run 1:00.67 in the 400m to place 4th at the IESA State Meet in that event. Melinda Torres could also factor in as the team’s fifth runner after running 18:23 last fall. Coach Gummerson stated, "I am excited to see this group attacks this season.  They made some great improvements last year, and now it is their turn to run this team.  Natalie Nahs is coming off an outstanding year last year, and she has improved her training this summer.  Her confidence is high and we are looking to see that translate onto the XC course.  In addition, we have a nice core group that has put together a strong summer returning with Leah Kleckauskas, Clara Getsoian, and Paige Joachim.  In addition to this group, we have a bunch of newcomers and sophomores who have been working hard and are looking to help this team take it up another level."

10. Edwardsville

Coaches: George Patrylak / Alexis Keller, Keri Burmester

Last Year's Finish: 8th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Madison Popelar (Sr.), Morgan Popelar (So.), Willow Jackson (So.), Ella Thompson (Jr.), Antonella DeAvila (Sr.), Ava Horsfall (Jr.) and Reagan Jumper (So.)

Key Newcomers: Ainsley Goodwin (Fr.), Clara Johnson (Fr.), Kate Looper (Fr.), Allie Merrick (Fr.), Quinn Neal (Fr.), Sophia Shapiro (Fr.)

Outlook: The Tigers return their entire top seven from last year’s seventh-place finish at the State Meet. They will be led by the trio of Madison Popelar, Morgan Popelar, and Willow Jackson, all of whom are capable of running in the mid-17:00s this year. At last year’s State Meet, they finished within four seconds of each other. Ella Thompson and Antonella DeAvila, who both ran 18:22 last season, round out the scoring and will aim for low-18:00 performances this fall. The team had a relatively quiet track season, which contributes to their slightly lower preseason ranking compared to last year’s state finish. A strong group of freshmen could also emerge as key contributors. Coach Patrylak stated, "Last season, we made school history with our highest finish in school history. Returning all 7 runners from that squad, plus adding a talented freshman group, you would have to think we would improve on that finish. That being said, do not expect to see this squad setting the cross country world on fire during the first half of the season. The girl’s track season did not go as planned. There were injuries to several of our key runners, including one athlete who missed the entire season. Several runners struggled without the leadership from those individuals. I know that the talent is there, but we are trying to build up or base before anything too crazy. I do like that most of our top girls are running together this summer. We will slowly start ramping things up. Many of the girls will be competing at Mud Mountain, our team fundraiser that is run on our high school course. This will give a better indicator of where we are. If we can maintain our health and get a similar progression from this year’s freshman as we did from our group a year ago, I know we are a top ten team. The season will dictate just how high."

11. Huntley

Coaches: Matt Kaplan / Jason Monson, Brandy Swanson, Jimmy Jestus

Last Year's Finish: 10th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Cori Kilvinger (Sr.), Haley Rahman (Jr.), Izzy Ciesla (Sr.), Morgan Sauber (Jr.), Aspen Maldonado (Sr.), Ella Farquhar (So.), Lena Jurczyk (So.)

Key Newcomers: Brynn Early (Fr.)

Outlook: The Red Raiders had a phenomenal year in 2024 that ended with a top-ten finish at the State Meet. They return all of their top five from that squad this fall. This team will be led by the duo of Haley Rahman and Isabella Ciesla, who both had strong track seasons. Rahman ran 11:11 in the 3200m, while Ciesla ran 11:17 in the same event. Both should be in the mid-17:00s this year. Cori Klivinger ran 18:00 at last year’s State Meet to place 74th and will aim to break 18:00 this season. Rounding out the scoring are Aspen Maldonado and Morgan Sauber, who both ran in the 18:20s last year. They’ll look to improve into the low 18:00s this fall. Coach Kaplan stated, "This summer our girls top returners put in quality consistent weeks as they approach another season.  Our top returners are Cori Kilvinger (Sr), Haley Rahman (Jr), Izzy Ciesla (Sr), Morgan Sauber (Jr), Aspen Maldonado (Sr).  This group has been running together for multiple seasons and they know what they're all capable of as a group. This season we'll look to our seniors to continue to push our team to be the best we can when it counts in the post season.  Incoming freshman Brynn Early has had a solid summer running with our front group and looks to help impact our varsity team.  Our group will look to perform our best when necessary in the post season.  If they can continue to work hard this group could be running towards another top 10 team finish at the end of the season."

12. New Lenox (Lincoln-Way Central)

Coaches: Ryan Stapinski / Becky Cherry, Cara Anderson, Brian Mulford

Last Year's Finish: 28th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Keira Faxel (So.), Ava Dughetti (Sr.), Mia Forystek (Jr.), Jillian Davies (Jr.), Katie Petrosky (Jr.), Brea Counihan (Jr.), Aubrey Shipman (Sr.), Ana Dal Ponte (So.), Macy Gallagher (Sr.), Paige Keating (So.), Ania Topor (So.)

Key Newcomers: Grace Mathis (So.) [transfer from Andrew]

Outlook: The Knights are a very intriguing team in the state this year, with the potential to skyrocket up the rankings. Based on what’s on paper, Keira Faxel looks to lead the team after an impressive track season where she ran 5:08 in the 1600m. She’ll aim to be in the mid-17:00s this fall. However, she could end up being this team’s third-best runner depending on how things shake out. Brea Counihan dealt with injuries throughout her sophomore year but is finally healthy, according to Coach Stapinski. As a freshman, she was all-state in cross country and ran 17:23 for three miles. Mia Forsytek is also healthy after missing last summer due to injury. Despite the setback, she still ran 18:16 last fall and has a few 2:12 performances in the 800m on her resume. She could easily emerge as the team’s top runner. Rounding out the scoring will be Jillian Davies and Ava Dughetti, who had strong track seasons, running 11:30 and 11:33 in the 3200m, respectively. Both have the potential to dip under 18:00 this fall. Coach Stapinski stated, "We return 6 out of 7 runners from State last fall. Brea Counihan and Mia Forystek are both healthy and had good summers. They will both be huge contributors on our team this season. Ava Dughetti has been incredibly strong and consistent this summer. She’s led our team this summer as a season and has had a pack meeting up and running together. Jillian Davies and Keira Faxel both look outstanding in summer workouts. Jillian and Keira are both very tough competitors and showed the sky is the limit for them in track season. Katie Petrosky made huge strides her sophomore year and looks like she will do the same during her junior season. Macy Gallagher has absolutely crushed summer workouts and Detweiller at Dark, but has looked relaxed while doing it. She will surprise a lot of people this season. Ana Dal Ponte wowed people during her freshman year track season and she looks ready to do the same during sophomore year cross country. These additions will make us much stronger as a team and we’re excited to see who surprises us this season. Ania Topor and Grace Mathis have both shown the potential to be in the mix for varsity spots as well as Aubrey Shipman. Paige Keating is another runner who made huge improvements during her freshman year and showed us in track that she is a strong runner. Paige works incredibly hard and is very consistent. She could work her into our varsity group by the end of the season. As a group this has been our best summer of training both in terms of consistency and intensity. The main thing is staying healthy so we can show everyone what this team is capable of doing. The girls have made it a goal to be a top 10 team in the state and that is definitely a realistic goal we’re working to achieve."

13. Hinsdale Central

Coaches: Mark McCabe / Courtney Wallace, Maura Passaglia

Last Year's Finish: 19th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Lily Hodneland (Sr.), Ella Satre (Jr.), Morgan Kohn (Jr.), Marin Barkus (So.), Addie Krogstie (Sr.), Evelyn Skay (Jr.), Lucy McCormick (Jr.), Grace Gruber (Sr.), Sophia Molfese (Sr.)

Outlook: This squad will be led up front by Ella Satre and Lily Hodneland, who will both be in all-state contention this year. Hodneland had a terrific track season, running 2:13 in the 800m and 4:59 in the 1600m during the postseason. She has clearly made major improvements since last cross country season. Satre also had a strong track season, posting 10:57 in the 3200m. Both runners should be in the low 17:00s this fall. Morgan Kohn also impressed on the track, running 5:15 in the 1600m, and could potentially break 18:00 this year. Wrapping up the scoring looks to be Marin Backus and Evelyn Skay, who will aim for the mid-18:00s. Backus had a solid track season with a 5:29 in the 1600m.

14. St. Charles North

Coaches: Shari Hayes / Christina Flauter

Last Year's Finish: 10th @ 3A Lake Park Sectional

Key Returners: Julia Rodney (Jr.), Gwen Hobson (Jr.), Alyssa Oblak (Jr.), Brooklyn Thompson (So.), Juliana Gonzalez (Jr.), Elsie Pimsner (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Kara Glenn (So.)

Outlook: This squad will be powered by a terrific top three but will need to focus on developing their fifth runner throughout the season. Leading the way is first-year cross country runner Kara Glenn, who had an excellent freshman track season, running 10:51 in the 3200m to place 10th at the 3A State Championships. Julia Rodney and Gwen Hobson are expected to be the team’s second and third runners. Both ran 5:08 in the 1600m this past spring, with Rodney also clocking 11:05 in the 3200m. Alyssa Oblak had a strong track season as well, running 5:40 in the 1600m and 11:54 in the 3200m, and will likely be in the mid-18:00s this fall. Brooklyn Thompson projects to be the team’s fifth runner this year. Coach Hayes stated, "We have high expectations for this upcoming season, especially with most of our varsity team returning from last year. Over the summer, the team has put in solid mileage and consistent training, building both endurance and team chemistry. Leading the way are returning top runners Julia Rodney and Gwen Hobson, who had standout performances last season. This year, they’ll be joined by Kara Glenn, forming a strong front-running trio. Behind them, Alyssa Oblak, Brooklyn Thompson, and Juliana Gonzalez have shown great progress and are poised to close the gap to our top group, adding critical depth to the lineup. With the team’s hard work and competitive drive, we’re excited to chase big goals this season and make a strong impact at every meet."

15. Chicago (DePaul College Prep)

Coaches: Stephanie Stecz

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

Key Returners: Emily Stecky (Jr.), Abigail Radich (So.), Claire Duman (Sr.), Kate Lawrence (So.), Katherine Redich (Sr.), Simrin Anderson (Sr.), Emily Stoessel (Sr.), Lilyana Mugnaini (Jr.), Ava Giordano (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Macy Leahy (Sr.) [Transfer from Wayzata, MN]

Outlook: This squad will feature two potential all-state runners in Emily Stecky and Abigail Radich. Stecky had an outstanding track season, winning the 2A 800m State Title in 2:09, while also running 4:59 in the 1600m and 10:52 in the 3200m. She is expected to be among the top ten runners in the state this year. Radich had an impressive freshman track campaign, running 5:02 in the 1600m — a performance that signals elite potential — and she has the ability to run in the low 17:00s. Macy Leahy, a transfer from Wayzata, MN, also had an excellent track season with a 5:14 in the 1600m and could dip under 18:00 this fall. Claire Duman, Kate Lawrence, and Katherine Radich will likely fill the team’s fourth, fifth, and sixth spots in some order, with all three aiming to break 19:00 this year.

16. Glen Ellyn (Glenbard West)

Coaches: Paul Hass / Mark Staron, Kelly Hass

Last Year's Finish: 23rd @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Alexa Novak (Sr.), Shayne Dietzen (So.), Alyssa Novak (So.), Lauren Bennett (Jr.), Ella Demchinski (Sr.), Mackenzie Gilbert (Sr.), Addie Nordman (Jr.), Maya Slowikowski (Jr.), Ava Chase (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Nora Janninck (Jr.), Katie King (So.)

Outlook: This squad will be led by returning all-stater Alexa Novak, who had a strong spring season with a PR of 4:59 in the 1600m. She will aim to run in the low 17:00s this fall. Her sister, Alyssa Novak, is expected to be the team’s second runner after clocking 11:21 in the 3200m and could break 18:00 this year, along with Shayne Dietzen, who accomplished that feat last season. Addie Nordman, Lauren Bennett, and Ella Demchinski will likely fill the team’s fourth, fifth, and sixth spots in some order, with all three targeting the low 18:00s. Coach Hass stated, "The girls attended more summer camp days and put in more miles both in camp and on their own, as a collective, than any previous team I coached. We may not be a large team but the girls who committed to run with us this fall are determined to get the most out of their talent and fulfill their potential. With one returning all-state runner in Alexa Novak (23rd in 2024 XC) leading the way, we will need to have a tight pack behind her. Our objective is to place at least four girls within :60 or less of Alexa’s finish by the end of the season. As good as Alexa is, that will be difficult, but I believe we have girls with the talent and dedication to accomplish this challenge. If we even come close to this goal, we should be a competitive team this fall."

17. Plainfield North

Coaches: Andy Derks / Sam Barranco, Roxanne Hall, Emilie Hatzl

Last Year's Finish: 16th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Marlie Czarniewski (Jr.), Tessa Russo (Sr.), Emaan Hussain (Sr.), Zeta Zbroszczyk (Sr.), Ayla Czarniewski (Jr.), Ireland Hockman (Jr.), Madeline Singh (Jr.), Alynn Bledsoe (Sr.), Megan Morris (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Kate Beavers (Fr.), Emery Davis (So.), Aven Thomas (So.)

Outlook: The Tigers enter this season with a strong core of returning talent. Marlie Czarniewski appears to be the leader of the squad after an outstanding track season, running 4:57 in the 1600m and 10:31 in the 3200m. She could potentially be a top-five runner in the state. Tessa Russo heads into her senior year following a stellar track season in the shorter events, earning State Runner-Up honors in the 4x800m and winning the State Championship in the 4x400m. She placed 10th at last year’s cross country state meet, and if she can recapture that form, she could set the team up for major success. Emaan Hussain and Ayla Czarniewski should both be capable of running in the low 18:00s, with Hussain clocking 18:23 last fall and Czarniewski posting a strong 5:34 in the 1600m during track season. Zeta Zboszczyk, Ireland Hockman, and Kate Beavers are all candidates for the team’s fifth scoring spot. Coach Derks stated, "I truly have no idea what is going to happen, and that is kind of fun. Marlie and Tessa have the potential to beat just about anyone when fully healthy and challenged. We have an experienced senior in Emaan Hussain who is hungry to improve on her performance in track, and is quietly putting in a huge summer and regaining that confidence day by day.  Then we have this group of 4-5 girls that are just getting better and better. I'm not sure what that will look like yet, but the potential is there. It's going to be a fun ride for this team."

18. Downers Grove North

Coaches: Tim McDonald / Matt Maletich, Bob Calder

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

Key Returners: Lily Eddington (Sr.), Macy Ermitage (So.), Sophia Schlueter (Jr.), Helen Justice (Sr.), Mairead Courtney (Jr.), Gianna Modica (Jr.), Evan Vlasic (Jr.),

Outlook: The Trojans enter a new phase of their program after graduating much of last year’s top seven. Macy Ermitage appears poised to lead the team after missing most of last cross country season due to injury. She enjoyed a phenomenal track campaign, running 4:59 in the 1600m and 10:32 in the 3200m. Lily Eddington, a two-time all-stater in cross country, is seeking redemption after a hamstring injury cut her track season short. She placed 10th at the State Meet as a sophomore and will aim to return to that form. Helen Justice projects as the squad’s third runner this year, having posted 18:24 for three miles last fall and 5:21 in the 1600m during the spring. Several athletes are capable of breaking 19:00 to fill the fourth and fifth scoring spots, including Katelyn Cutright, Sophia Schlueter, Ginna Modica, Mairead Courtney, and Kayla Solem. Coach McDonald stated, "In May, we graduated a lot of great athletes that had a lot of success over the years.  It will take some time, but I think that this year's team will be a very solid, competitive team by the end of the season.   The girls are working hard and building a team together.  We are excited to see what they can become by the end of the season!"

19. Yorkville

Coaches: Chris Muth / Lauren Vriezen, Tori Gatlin, Kerry Stillmunkes

Last Year's Finish: 11th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Ashley Schraeder (Sr.), Annabelle Reeder (Sr.), Athena Triner (So.), Mia Evans (Jr.), Rachel Rotramel (So.), Linden Moss (So.), Paige Timm (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Elle Meyers (Fr.)

Unexpected Losses: Nicole Kraus (Jr.)

Outlook: The Foxes have been among the best teams in the state for well over a decade. They will be led by Ashley Schraeder and Athena Triner, who will both likely be in the mid-17:00s this year. Schraeder ran 17:36 last season, while Triner posted a 17:41 in the three-mile. Rachel Rotramel had a terrific spring, running 5:37 in the 1600m and 11:43 in the 3200m, and should be in the mid-to-low 18:00s this fall along with Annabelle Reeder, who missed most of last cross country season. Mia Evans looks to be the team’s fifth runner once again after holding that spot last year. Coach Muth stated, "This is going to be a smaller team than in years past with the additions of other girl fall sports.  Having said that, the team's health is our most important component to success.  We have a solid group of returning runners with Ashley, Annabelle, and Athena leading the way, all of whom have posted top 20 times in school history.  Rachel Rotramel is primed for a breakout season coming off of a solid varsity freshman season, as well as Mia Evans who showed very impressive flashes last year as a sophomore.  Our other varsity spots are up in the air, but some strong summers from Linden Moss, Elle Meyers and Paige Timm could factor into rounding out the team.  Our goal is always to finish the season at the state meet and match or beat the previous season's finish.  This team needs to continue to progress and push each other to improve each and every day.  We have potential, but need some things to fall our way to compete with the top teams in the state."

20. Chicago (Lane)

Coaches: Laura McKnight

Last Year's Finish: 9th @ 3A Lake Park Sectional

Key Returners: Ainsley Carter (Jr.), Amy Herzog (So.), Samantha Borg-Breen (So.), Gillian Katz (Jr.), Antonina Leary (So.), Sydney Van Aken (Sr.), Josephine Zupko (So.), Caitlin Thomas (Sr.), Greta Trinter (So.), Izzy Ide (Sr.), Eve Gray (Jr.), Grace Siurek (So.), Riley Coomer (Sr.), Annie Glenn (So.), Sophie Halliday (Jr.), Emika Crampton (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Sienna O'Malley (Fr.)

Outlook: The Champions are one of the deepest teams in the state, with many runners capable of breaking 19:00 this year. They are expected to be led by Ainsley Carter, who had an excellent track season, running 5:14 in the 1600m. She could potentially dip under 18:00 this fall. Joining her is Sienna O'Malley, who posted a 5:19 in the 1600m during middle school. The last name may be familiar—she is the niece of Sandburg Head Coach John O'Malley. If her summer training went well, she could also join Carter under the 18:00 barrier. The third, fourth, and fifth spots will be contested among Amy Herzog, Samantha Borg-Breen, Gillian Katz, Antonina Leary, and Sydney Van Aken, all of whom are similar in ability and capable of running in the mid-to-low 18:00s. Herzog and Borg-Breen both ran 5:23 in the 1600m this track season, Katz clocked 11:45 in the 3200m, Leary ran 5:26 in the 1600m, and Van Aken posted a 5:28.

21. Naperville Central

Coaches: Matthew Blondell / Aislinn Hicks, Sarah Braun

Last Year's Finish: 17th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Macy Bjork (Sr.), Emma Breese (Sr.), Katelyn Burke (Jr.), Charlotte Danahy (So.), Eloise Graft (Sr.), Kaitlin Orf (So.), Lauren Quigg (Jr.), Kavea Senthilanand (So.), Hannah Zei (So.)

Key Newcomers: Carly Ernst (So.), Izzy Barnard (Fr.), Maddie Calvey (Fr.), Claire Lin (Fr.), Maggie Muszynski (Fr.), Kinley Zielinski (Fr.)

Outlook: The Redhawks have high hopes this year for the team’s potential. They will be led by the trio of Eloise Graft, Charlotte Danahy, and Emma Breese, all of whom are capable of running in the low 18:00s. Graft ran 5:18 in the 1600m, Danahy posted a 5:20 in the 1600m, and Breese clocked 11:38 in the 3200m. All three had strong track seasons. Kavea SentilAnand, Macy Bjork, Lauren Quigg, and Katelyn Burke will compete for the fourth and fifth scoring spots, with each capable of running in the mid-to-low 18:00s. Coach Blondell stated, "We’re excited about the direction of our team heading into the season. Summer training went well, with consistent effort and steady progress in fitness. We have a healthy mix of experienced returners and promising newcomers who are already showing they can contribute at a high level. Our returning athletes bring strong leadership and a clear understanding of what it takes to compete, while our talented freshmen and new additions have added depth and energy. The team has embraced a process-focused mindset, committing to daily habits that support long-term success. If we continue to build on the momentum from summer and stay healthy, we believe this group has the potential to make it back to the State meet and compete for a top-15 finish."

22. Downers Grove South

Coaches: Doug Plunkett / Mike Arenberg, Hannah Stark, Sarah Miller, Mary Namestnik

Last Year's Finish: 27th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Nia Ortega (Jr.), Rose Jones (Jr.), Gianna Lamb (Jr.), Nora Maier (So.), Emily Gantz (Sr.), Claire Posmer (Sr.), Gabija Dauderis (Sr.), Audrey Dunn (Sr.), Lilly Ring (So.)

Outlook: This team surprised many last year by returning to the State Meet and will be looking for even more success this season. They are led by Nia Ortega, a potential top-10 runner in the classification, who had an outstanding spring with a 10:41 in the 3200m. Rose Jones looks to be the squad’s second runner after clocking 11:36 on the track and could dip into the low 18:00s this fall. Gianna Lamb ran 18:28 last season and should be a reliable third scorer. Nora Maier posted an impressive 5:32 in the 1600m and will aim to break 19:00 as the team’s fourth runner. Emily Gantz also stepped up this spring, running 5:39 in the 1600m. Coach Plunkett stated, "We are returning 6 of our top 7 from last year's team that came on strong at the end, surprising many in qualifying for the State meet. We lost our #4, Holly Johnson, to graduation, but return our top 3 (Nia Ortega, Gianna Lamb, Rose Jones) who are all juniors this year. Nia is coming off a breakout track season where she finished All-State (6th place) in the 3200m at State running 10:41. So, we expect her to contend for top 25 honors in CC this season. Gianna and Rose were right with Nia throughout most of last season and will hopefully keep things close again to make up our top 3. The key for our team will be finding 2 more girls to step up as our 4th and 5th runners. I expect that we will struggle some early on in the season and look better towards the end."

23. Wheaton Warrenville South

Coaches: Robert Harvey / Maddie Weeden, Sarah Bikulcius-Smith, Brian English

Last Year's Finish: 12th @ IHSA 3A State

Key Returners: Adrienne Aderhold (Jr.), Abby Barrett (Sr.), Emily Fahrman (Sr.), Ellie Flores (Sr.), Clara Franken (So.), Arielle Friebel (Jr.), Emily Enright (So.), Kate Jeffers (So.), Addy Lindsay (So.), Eva Martin (Sr.), Olivia Martinez (Sr.), Shyla Paramsothy (So.), Kate Rodakowski (Jr.)

Outlook: The Tigers enter the post-Poglitsch era of their program looking to build on last year’s success. They will be led by sophomore Addy Lindsay, who had a fantastic cross country season, running 18:07 for 3 miles. She will be a strong candidate to break 18:00 this year. Behind her is a tight pack of four — Clara Franken, Abby Barrett, Arielle Friebel, and Shyla Paramsothy — all capable of running in the mid-18:00s. Last year, they each clocked between 18:30 and 18:45 for 3 miles. Coach Harvey stated, "We had a very successful 2024 cross country season highlighted by a regional championship and a 12th place at the state championships. We used that positive momentum as a springboard into a great track & field season with 19 girls breaking 6:00 in the 1600 meters. Our summer has been great with a young and hungry group.. Much of our summer was spent on focusing on getting stronger and building our aerobic strength. With the graduation of some great seniors, we have also focused on developing our team's upperclass leadership. We had an overwhelming turnout for our summer camps with over 65 middle school and high school girls participating. As with every season, we will have a long-term season approach using every workout and race to build momentum. Our season schedule has been modified adding a few more chances to race. We will need every competitive opportunity and workout to reach our full potential. We have a great senior class...positive leadership should not be an issue for us. They have all stepped up to welcome our underclass athletes into the program."

24. Northbrook (Glenbrook North)

Coaches: Bob LeBlanc / Bryan Musolf, Kelly McClearn

Last Year's Finish: 15th @ IHSA 2A State

Key Returners: Nicole Golebiowski (Sr.), Veronica Eichmiller (Jr.), MJ Seay (Jr.), Gabriela Tamamidis (Sr.), Payton Walker (Jr.), Janessa Wu (So.), Hannah Kinzer (So.)

Outlook: The Spartans had a strong 2024 season and return four members of their top seven. Nicole Golebiowski is back as the team’s top runner after clocking 17:43 for 3 miles last year, with the potential to dip into the mid-17:00s. Veronica Eichmiller and MJ Seay are both expected to be in the low 18:00s, while Gabriela Tamamidis will aim for the high 18:00s. The key for this team will be finding a reliable fifth runner who can get into the low 19:00s if they hope to return to the state meet. Coach LeBlanc stated, "Last season was very special for the team with the 15th place finish downstate.  We hope to continue that momentum as we move into the fall season."

25. Palatine (Fremd)

Coaches: Joseph Marcin / Rachel Dziagwu

Last Year's Finish: 8th @ 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

Key Returners: Isa Hasty (Sr.), Addie Dietrich (Jr.), Helen Hermann (So.), Linaya Donnelly (Jr.), Riley Gaan (So.), Emma Kelly (So.), Michelly Coombes (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Sophia Lin (Jr.)

Outlook: This squad will be led by Isa Hasty, who dipped under 18:00 last fall with a time of 17:56 and served as the team’s top runner. Adeline Dietrich returns as the squad’s second runner and will be joined by Helen Hermann, who had an excellent track season, running 5:25 in the 1600m. Rounding out the scoring will be Serena Palmer and Riley Gaan, both of whom could break 19:00 this year after each posting 12:06 in the 3200m during the spring. Coach Marcin stated, "Summer has been strong.  Like last summer, we emphasized running more mileage.  The girls tackled some challenging, high aerobic reps along with solid strength sessions.  Some of the more experienced girls challenged themselves by running their first half-marathon this summer."