2025 Cross Country Previews: Middle School Girls Teams

The middle school scene was on fire this past year. We saw potentially the greatest year of IESA XC in history, with so many amazing performances. This year looks to not disappoint as well. So many great teams enter the season, and in this article, we look at the top 25 preseason teams. 2025 Summer Races past the month of July are not looked at in these rankings. This is due to those races potentially containing athletes that are not trying to go all out and make a statement at that point in the season.

1. Lemont (Old Quarry)

Head Coach: Taylor McCormick

Last Year's Finish: 5th @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Julia Farley (7th), Rylee Russell (8th), Raye Pavlis (7th), Kaida Mescher (8th), Mia Merkouris (8th), Maura Power (7th), Gracey Earnest (7th), Lexi Lewandowski (7th)

Outlook: Old Quarry enters the season as the top-ranked middle school girls cross country team in Illinois, and they have the depth and firepower to back it up. Leading the charge is Julia Farley, a proven front-runner with a 5:28 1600m personal best who has the potential to contend for individual titles. Kaida Mescher and Rylee Russell provide a strong supporting cast, both bringing sub-6:00 speed on the track that should translate well to the trails. Raye Pavlis and Mia Merkouris round out a top five that offers both consistency and upside, while Maura Power and Gracey Earnest give the team valuable depth. With a mix of top-end talent and reliable pack running, Old Quarry is well-positioned to stay on top and contend for a state championship this fall.

2. Edwardsville (Lincoln)

Head Coach: Mark Tschudy

Last Year's Finish: 12th @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Audrey Floyd (8th), Abigail Godard (8th), Emery Lawson (8th), Zoe Scroggins (8th), Violet Shaffer (8th), Annabelle Sirko (8th), Kennedy Jumper (8th), Lillian Wylie (7th), Charlotte Hanson (7th), Hannah Rashman (7th)

Outlook: Edwardsville Lincoln is shaping up to be one of the strongest challengers in the state this season, with a powerful front three and a deep supporting cast. Audrey Floyd leads the way with a swift 5:23 1600m personal best, giving the team a true low stick capable of running with the state’s best. She’s backed by Emery Lawson and Zoe Scroggins, both of whom bring strong track credentials and are expected to be key scorers in every major meet. Abigail Godard adds reliability in the fourth spot, while Violet Shaffer, Annabelle Sirko, and Kennedy Jumper provide essential depth that could be the difference-maker in big fields. With their combination of front-end talent and developing depth, Edwardsville Lincoln is a serious contender for a podium finish this fall.

3. Batavia (Rotolo)

Head Coach: Kate Hillman

Last Year's Finish: 6th @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Sam Deane (7th), Eme Helfer (8th), Devyn Korn (8th), Adrienne Castillo (7th), Sarah Kennedy (7th), Emma Deppe (8th), Olivia Labuhn (8th). Brynnley Olson (8th), Melissa Ebel (7th), Greysen Owca (7th), Charlotte Costello (7th), Elliana Sage (8th), Skye Kowalik (8th), Rebecca Halsall (7th), Sally Skrivan (8th)

Outlook: Ranked No. 3 in the state, Rotolo enters the season with a deep and balanced lineup built for championship-level success. At the front, Sem Deane sets the tone with strong early-season fitness, while Eme Helfer brings proven track speed with a 5:43 1600m PR that signals major upside on the cross country course. Devyn Korn, Adrienne Castillo, and Sarah Kennedy give Rotolo a tight, dependable pack through the middle, which will be crucial in large, competitive races. With Emma Deppe and Olivia Labuhn providing strong support in the six and seven spots, Rotolo has the kind of depth and consistency that makes them a legitimate threat to move up the rankings and contend for a state trophy this fall.

4. Brimfield

Head Coach: Amy McKinty

Last Year's Finish: 3rd @ IESA 1A State

Key Returners: Berlyn Schmidgall (8th), Jersey Hoerr (7th), Haylie Butterfield (7th), Maud Nelson (6th), Kenna Zeman (8th), Remi Cahill (6th), Maya Zeman (8th), Lexi Meinders (8th), Kendall Johnston (8th)

Outlook: Brimfield enters the season ranked No. 4 in the state and could be one of the most dangerous teams in Illinois thanks to its exceptionally tight front pack. Jersey Hoerr leads the way with a strong 5:41 1600m PR, giving Brimfield a dependable low stick capable of scoring big in elite fields. Right behind her is a trio of nearly interchangeable scorers—Berlyn Schmidgall, Hattie Butterfield, and Maud Nelson—all with sub-5:52 speed, forming one of the most compact and efficient top fours in the state. Kenna Zeman, Remi Cahill, and Maya Zeman round out a solid back end that gives this team the depth it needs to contend. If Brimfield’s tight spread holds throughout the season, they could be in serious contention for a podium finish at the state meet.

5. Metamora

Head Coach: Dakota Myers

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

Key Returners: Gianna Domenighini (8th), Mikaela Gerkin (8th), Saige Potter (6th), Olivia Symmonds (7th), Zoey Poignant (6th), Olivia Moehling (8th), Olivia Russell (6th), Madison Sterr (6th), Sloane Buerkett (7th), Katelyn Wilkerson (6th), Christina Lyons (8th), Callie McDonald (7th)

Outlook: Metamora comes into the season ranked No. 5 in the state, armed with a deep and tightly packed group that could make major noise as the season progresses. Leading the charge is Gianna Domenighini, a proven front-runner with a 5:42 1600m PR and the potential to compete with the state's elite. Behind her, Mikaela Gerkin, Saige Potter, and a trio of runners—Olivia Symmonds, Zoey Poignant, and Olivia Moehling—all clock in within a handful of seconds of each other, creating one of the most compact packs in Illinois. Olivia Russell adds even more depth to this already-loaded lineup. With a small scoring spread and legitimate front-end talent, Metamora has the tools to remain a top-five squad and challenge for a podium spot if they continue to close the gap to the front.

6. Athens

Head Coach: Jennifer Rhoades

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

Key Returners: Corinn Hart (8th), Gracelyn Grimsley (8th), Fayth Sokolis (8th), Emily Patton (8th), Aurora Holmes (8th), Hollie Pellman (6th), Peyton Armitage (8th)

Outlook: Athens enters the season ranked No. 6 in the state and boasts a formidable front duo that could carry them deep into the postseason. Corinn Hart leads the way with a swift 5:32 1600m PR and the strength to finish among the top individuals in any race. Close behind is Emily Patton, who adds another reliable low stick with her 5:40 speed and consistent performance. Gracelyn Grimsley and Fayth Sokolis round out a solid top four, providing the pack depth necessary for high team finishes. Aurora Holmes, Hollie Pellman, and Peyton Armitage add valuable support in the fifth through seventh positions. If Athens can tighten its scoring spread behind their front two, they’ll remain a strong podium contender as the season unfolds.

7. Mahomet-Seymour

Head Coach: Lisa Martin

Last Year's Finish: 3rd @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Ashley Martin (8th), Chandler Mills (8th), Roya Beere (8th), Jane Hartman (8th), Jilyan Clark (8th), SB Gergen (8th), Tatum Kesler (7th), Cora Kasper (8th)

Outlook: Mahomet-Seymour comes into the season ranked No. 7 in the state, featuring a strong front four and the potential to climb even higher. Ashley Martin and Chandler Mills lead the way with excellent track speed—5:40 and 5:43 PRs respectively—and form a reliable 1-2 punch capable of setting the tone in big meets. Behind them, Roya Beere and Jane Hartman provide consistency through the middle of the lineup, with Hartman bringing additional upside thanks to her 5:52 mile speed. Jilyan Clark, SB Gergen, and Tatum Kesler offer valuable support at the back end of the roster. If Mahomet-Seymour can tighten its scoring gap and develop more depth through its fifth runner, this team could be a sleeper to break into the top five by season’s end.

8. Dixon (Reagan)

Head Coach: Evan Thorpe

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

Key Returners: Brynleigh Davis (8th), Tess McCommons (7th), Karrington Higley (8th), Grace Conderman (8th), Olivia Martinez (7th), Lillian Haws (7th), Lily Tomasino (8th), FIona Kelly (8th), Breckin Burmeister (8th)

Outlook: Dixon Reagan enters the season ranked No. 8 in the state, boasting a well-rounded lineup with strong front runners and solid depth. Brynleigh Davis leads the squad with impressive speed, highlighted by a 5:45 1600m PR, setting a competitive pace for the team. Close behind, Tess McCommons and Karrington Higley bring consistency and strength, both running under six minutes on the track. The middle pack—anchored by Grace Conderman and Olivia Martinez—adds reliability, while Lillian Haws and Lily Tomasino provide valuable support at the back. With a balanced mix of talent and depth, Dixon Reagan looks poised to stay competitive and make a strong push in the state meet this fall.

9. Minooka

Head Coach: Thomas Neisler

Last Year's Finish: 4th @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Addy Vahl (7th), Rowen Slowinski (7th), Layla Shoenberg (8th), Hannah Vahl (8th), Lucy Lukasik (8th), Olivia Flanigan (8th), Claire Mascolino (8th), Gabby Hamilton (6th), Hannah Fish (8th), Jaylyn Miller (8th), Anna Staab (8th), Elyse Celeski (7th), Elsie Thomas (7th), Lennox Klekauskas (7th)

Outlook: Minooka enters the season ranked No. 9 in the state with a standout front-runner and a deep, consistent pack ready to compete. Addy Vahl leads the team with an impressive 5:33 1600m personal best, providing Minooka with a strong low stick capable of challenging the top runners in any race. Just behind her, Rowen Slowinski and Layla Shoenberg offer solid middle-pack strength with times clustered tightly in the 12:50s, while Hannah Vahl and the Lukasik twins—Lucy and Emma—add valuable depth to the lineup. Rounding out the roster is Olivia Flanigan, who helps ensure a well-balanced scoring group. With this mix of front-end talent and steady depth, Minooka looks poised to remain a formidable contender throughout the season.

10. Clinton

Head Coach: Ben Barth

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

Key Returners: McKenna Beck (8th), Saige Williamson (8th), Katelyn Bentz (7th), Madison Gordon (6th), Lainey Snow (8th), Emerson Moody (8th), Winnie Sosamon (6th)

Outlook: Clinton comes into the season ranked No. 10 in the state with a strong mix of front-end speed and dependable depth. Led by McKenna Beck, who boasts a 5:31 1600m personal best, the team has a clear front-runner capable of competing with the best. Close behind, Saige Williamson and Katelyn Bentz bring solid middle-pack strength, both running just under and over six minutes on the track. Rounding out the scoring lineup are Madison Gordon, Lainey Snow, Emerson Moody, and Winnie Sosamon, who add valuable experience and consistency. With this balanced roster, Clinton looks well-positioned to make a strong showing and remain competitive throughout the season.

11. Mt. Prospect (Lincoln)

Head Coach: Kelly Bailey

Last Year's Finish: 2nd @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Amelia Kronforst (8th), Julia Adamczyk (7th), Alexandra Koulentes (7th), Sofia Costales (8th), Kenzie Marling (7th), Kendall Macak (7th), Makena Ambrose (8th)

Outlook: Lincoln enters the season ranked No. 11 in the state with a talented and well-balanced squad that blends speed and depth. Led by Amelia Kronforst, who brings a solid 5:39 1600m personal best, the team has a reliable low stick to set the pace in races. Close behind are Alexandra Koulentes and Julia Adamczyk, both expected to provide strong support in the middle of the pack. The team’s depth is further bolstered by Sofia Costales, Kenzie Marling, Kendall Macak, and Makena Ambrose, who bring valuable experience and consistency. With this combination, Lincoln is positioned to remain competitive and make a strong push in key meets throughout the season.

12. Arlington Heights (Thomas)

Head Coach: Joe Kim

Last Year's Finish: State Champions @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Madeline Serur (8th), McKenna Fox (8th), Megan Fritzsche (8th), Eliana Yeh (8th), Lauren Cole (7th), Madlyn Reece (8th), Sydney Bohnenstiehl (7th), Hannah Even (8th), Vera Kozak (7th), Madelyn Milewski (7th)

Outlook: Thomas enters the season ranked No. 12 in the state with a standout leader and a strong, balanced team behind her. Madeline Serur sets a blazing pace with an impressive 5:07 1600m personal best, giving Thomas a clear low stick capable of competing for individual titles. Following her, McKenna Fox and Megan Fritzsche provide a solid second and third scoring presence, while Eliana Yeh, Lauren Cole, Madlyn Reece, and Hannah Even add valuable depth and consistency throughout the lineup. With this blend of top-end speed and reliable pack runners, Thomas looks poised to remain a serious contender as the season unfolds.

13. Arlington Heights (St. James)

Head Coach: David Long

Last Year's Finish: State Champions @ IESA 1A State

Key Returners: Gianna Suvada (8th), Hannah Long (8th), Regina Riegler (7th), Ashley Sandoval (8th), Leigh Blandford (7th), Sofia Walberg (8th)

Outlook: St. James comes into the season ranked No. 13 in the state with a strong front-runner and solid depth throughout their lineup. Gianna Suvada leads the team with a swift 5:22 1600m personal best, providing a competitive edge at the front of the pack. Following her, Hannah Long and Regina Riegler bring steady middle-pack strength with times just under and slightly over six minutes, helping maintain momentum during races. The team’s depth is further supported by Ashley Sandoval, Leigh Blandford, and Sofia Walberg, who add valuable experience and resilience. With this combination, St. James is well-positioned to remain competitive and push for strong finishes throughout the season.

14. River Forest (Roosevelt)

Head Coach: Louisa Starr

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

Key Returners: Sloane Steinberg (7th), Lilia Fobes (7th), Nora Gundrum (8th), Brigitte Drab (8th), Maci Sardon (8th), Asha Lee (7th), Mia Murphy (7th)

Outlook: Roosevelt enters the season ranked No. 14 in the state with a balanced and promising lineup that combines steady performers and growing depth. Led by Sloane Steinberg, who sets a solid early pace, the team benefits from Nora Gundrum and Lilia Fobes, both of whom bring consistent middle-pack strength. The group is rounded out by Brigitte Drab, Maci Sardon, Asha Lee, and Mia Murphy, providing valuable depth and experience to support the scoring effort. With this well-rounded roster, Roosevelt looks ready to compete at a high level and make a strong showing throughout the season.

15. Tolono (Unity)

Head Coach: Jeff Kyle

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

Key Returners: Molly Kleiss (8th), Nora Blanchard (8th), Ashley Mumm (8th), Lexi Wolken (8th), Mallory Schmid (7th), Lydia Crowe )8th), Lena Guild-Borchers (8th)

Outlook: Tolono Unity enters the season ranked No. 15 in the state with a solid and well-rounded lineup ready to compete. Led by Molly Kleiss, who sets the pace for the team, Tolono Unity benefits from strong middle-pack performers like Nora Blanchard and Ashley Mumm, who bring consistent speed and reliability. Supporting them are Lydia Crowe, Lexi Wolken, and Mallory Schmid, who add depth and experience to the roster. Rounding out the team is Lena Guild-Borchers, providing valuable support. With this balanced group, Tolono Unity looks poised to make a strong impact and remain competitive throughout the season.

16. Barrington (Prairie)

Head Coach: Jim Bartlett

Last Year's Finish: 9th @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Kate Kusmerz (7th), Sadie Van Ryn (8th), Natalie Birch (7th), Madline Juster (7th), Zoe Ganas (7th), Kiley Baird (8th), Scarlett Kanchwala (8th), Everly Alexander (7th)

Outlook: Prairie enters the season ranked No. 16 in the state with a strong and balanced lineup anchored by a pair of front runners who share identical 12:00 times and 5:34 1600m personal bests. Behind them, Natalie Birch and Madline Juster provide solid middle-pack strength, helping to maintain the team’s competitive positioning. The depth of the roster is rounded out by Zoe Ganas, Kiley Baird, and Scarlett Kanchwala, who add valuable experience and consistency. With this combination of speed and depth, Prairie is well-positioned to compete effectively throughout the season.

17. Belvidere Central

Head Coach: Jody Archer

Last Year's Finish: 7th @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Brisa Avila (7th), Lauren Cox (8th), Emersyn Morris (7th), Charlotte Derry (7th), Kara Wilinski (7th), Emberleigh Elder (7th), Kasia Funk (7th)

Outlook: Belvidere Central enters the season ranked No. 17 in the state with a competitive and balanced team. The front of the lineup is led by Brisa Avila and Lauren Cox, who brings a 5:55 1600m personal best, providing a strong start for the team. Emersyn Morris and Charlotte Derry add depth through the middle of the pack, helping to maintain the team’s position in races. The roster is rounded out by Kara Wilinski, Emberleigh Elder, and Kasia Funk, who offer valuable support and consistency. With this solid mix of talent and depth, Belvidere Central looks ready to compete throughout the season.

18. Lake Zurich South

Head Coach: Matt Marston

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

Key Returners: Julia Gonzalez (8th), Sarah Vance (8th), Colette Deignan (8th), Zoe Butterfield (8th), Emilia Krogman (8th), Nikki Jha (8th), Adele Topolsky (7th)

Outlook: Lake Zurich South enters the season ranked No. 18 in the state with a solid and competitive lineup. Julia Gonzalez leads the team with a strong 5:46 1600m personal best, setting the tone at the front. Close behind are Sarah Vance and Colette Deignan, who bring consistency and depth through the middle of the pack. Zoe Butterfield, Emilia Krogman, Nikki Jha, and Adele Topolosky round out the roster, providing valuable support and experience. With this balanced group, Lake Zurich South is well-positioned to compete strongly throughout the season.

19. Johnsburg

Head Coach: Kim Reinhard

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

Key Returners: Sawyer Smith (7th), Elsie Pawela (8th), Elsie Eastland (7th), Reese Davis (6th), Siana Collins (8th), Reese Schreiber (7th), Morgan Becker (8th)

Outlook: Johnsburg enters the season ranked No. 19 in the state with a tightly packed and competitive lineup. Leading the way is Sawyer Smith, closely followed by Elsie Pawela and Elsie Eastland, who form a strong front pack that can set a solid pace. Reese Davis, Siana Collins, and Reese Schreiber provide reliable depth in the middle, helping to maintain the team’s scoring strength. Morgan Becker rounds out the roster, adding valuable support. With this balanced and consistent group, Johnsburg looks poised to make a strong impact throughout the season.

20. Prospect Heights (MacArthur)

Head Coach: Dan Perillo

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

Key Returners: Ella Bruce (8th), Emily Rugg (8th), Bella Glinko (8th), Anna Swierzcak (8th), Natalie Drej (8th), Mikayla Mabry (7th), Sophia Khoja (8th), Izzy Schaefer (7th)

Outlook: MacArthur enters the season ranked No. 20 in the state, led by Ella Brace, who brings front-running strength with a 5:40 personal best in the 1600m. Emily Rugg and Bella Glinko follow as reliable scorers in the middle of the pack, helping to solidify the team’s core. Anna Swierczek adds depth alongside Natalie Drej, who also contributes with experience and endurance. Mikayla Mabry rounds out the lineup, providing additional support. With a solid top runner and a dependable supporting group, MacArthur is well-positioned to stay competitive throughout the season.

21. Arlington Heights South

Head Coach: Tyler Stordahl

Last Year's Finish: 8th @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Kaylee Leone (8th), Isabella Caldera (8th), Loretta Cox (8th), Riley Weiner (7th), Maria Bollweg (7th), Madelyn Searle (8th), Sienna Trapani (8th)

Outlook: AH South enters the season ranked No. 21 in the state with a lineup anchored by Kaylee Leone, whose 5:42 personal best in the 1600m gives the team a strong presence up front. Isabella Caldera and Loretta Cox add consistency through the middle, while Riley Weiner and Maria Bollweg provide additional scoring depth. Rounding out the team are Madelyn Searle and Sienna Trapani, who contribute valuable support in the final scoring positions. With a solid leader and a well-rounded supporting cast, AH South is positioned to be a competitive force as the season progresses.

22. Chicago (St. Benedict)

Head Coach: Lisa Zabor

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

Key Returners: Chloe Milton (8th), Maren Castelli (7th), Reese Massick (8th), Zoe Hughes (8th), Katherine Gerlach (8th), Zoe Warmbir (8th), Emma Albrecht (6th)

Outlook: St. Benedict enters the season ranked No. 22 in the state, led by Chloe Milton, who brings front-running potential with a 5:35 personal best in the 1600m. Maren Castelli and Reese Massick follow closely behind, providing key middle-pack strength to support team scoring. Zoe Hughes and Katherine Gerlach help round out the core of the lineup, while Zoe Warmbir and Emma Albrecht add valuable depth and stability at the back end. With a standout leader and a reliable supporting group, St. Benedict is well-positioned to make an impact as the season unfolds.

23. Shelbyville (Moulton)

Head Coach: Jason Palmer

Last Year's Finish: State Champion @ IESA 2A State

Key Returners: Hazel Atkins (8th), Gracelyn Stephens (8th), Tatum Tomblin (6th), June Atkins (6th), Kami Duckett (6th), Sawyer Lockart (7th), Charlie Fleming (7th)

Outlook: Moulton enters the season ranked No. 23 in the state, led by standout Hazel Atkins, whose impressive front-running ability and 5:17 personal best in the 1600m make her one of the top individuals in the classification. Gracelyn Stephens provides strong support with a solid second position, while Tatum Tomblin, June Atkins, and Kami Duckett form the core of the team’s middle pack. Sawyer Lockart and Charlie Fleming round out the roster, bringing added depth and development potential. With one of the strongest top runners in the state and a growing supporting cast, Moulton has the pieces to climb the rankings as the season progresses.

24. LaGrange (William F. Gurrie)

Head Coach: Steve Driscoll

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

Key Returners: Alex Schuda (7th), Cate Riberto (8th), Zoey Schuda (7th), Mary Monohan (7th), Kennedy Hartmann (8th), Sydney Hartmann (8th), Molly Hurn (7th)

Outlook: Gurrie enters the season ranked No. 24 in the state with a tight and experienced lineup that thrives on pack running. Alex Schuda leads the way, with Cate Riberto and Zoey Schuda close behind, forming a reliable front trio. Mary Monohan and Kennedy Hartmann add strength through the middle of the pack, while Sydney Hartmann and Molly Hurn provide depth and consistency. With a compact scoring group and a strong team dynamic, Gurrie is well-equipped to remain competitive and challenge for a higher spot in the rankings this season.

25. Morton

Head Coach: Kristen Dalfonso

Last Year's Finish: 10th @ IESA 4A State

Key Returners: Katie Watson (8th), Emmy Martin (7th), Alyssa VanMeenen (8th), Mila Goggins (8th), Annelise Hopkins (8th), Lucy Bishop (8th), Kylie Adolphson (8th), Adelaide Purdy (8th)

Outlook: Morton enters the season ranked No. 25 in the state, led by Katie Watson, who provides a steady presence up front. Emmy Martin, Alyssa VanMeenen, and Mila Goggins form a compact and consistent middle pack that will be key to the team’s scoring success. Annelise Hopkins, Lucy Bishop, and Kylie Adolphson round out the lineup, adding valuable depth and support. With a well-balanced group and tight pack running, Morton has the tools to remain competitive and potentially climb the rankings as the season unfolds.