2025 XC Conference Rundown: Saturday Edition

CCL/GCAC Conference

Key Boys Teams: Aurora (Central Catholic), Chicago (DePaul), Aurora (Marmion Academy)

Key Boys Individuals: Andrew Straley (Chicago [Brother Rice]), Jack Swiatek (Aurora [Central Catholic]), John Rienbold (Aurora [Central Catholic]), Ben Bohr (Aurora [Central Catholic]), 

Key Girls Teams: Chicago (St. Ignatius), Chicago (DePaul), Wheaton (St. Francis), 

Key Girls Individuals: Ally Shutler (Chicago [St. Ignatius]), Annika Swan (Chicago [St. Ignatius]), Sydney Gertsen (Lombard [Montini]), Elena Mamminga (Wheaton [St. Francis]), Emily Stecky (Chicago [DePaul]), Margaret Andrzejewski (Wheaton [St. Francis]), 

Outlook: This girls race is shaping up to be one of the best of the weekend, featuring several big names battling for the GCAC title. The St. Ignatius duo of Ally Shutler and Annika Swan are coming off a record breaking week and look ready for the postseason. Shutler ran an astonishing 16:15 at the Lakes Sunset Invite, with Swan close behind in 16:20. They’ll face a strong challenge from Sydney Gertsen of Montini Catholic, one of the top runners in 2A. Gertsen has only lost once this season to the elite Emaline Foster of Prairie Ridge, but since Shutler and Swan both defeated Foster at Sunset, they’ll enter this race as clear favorites. Wheaton St. Francis will send Elena Mamminga and Margaret Andrzejewski to the front of the pack, both capable of competing for a top five finish. In the team race, St. Ignatius should comfortably take the win. With such a dominant front duo and a solid supporting pack, it’s unlikely another team will be able to challenge them. The real battle will be for second, with Wheaton St. Francis and DePaul Prep expected to go toe to toe in a close contest. On the boys side, Andrew Straley of Brother Rice enters as the individual favorite after a stellar performance at the Peoria High Invite, where he placed third in 14:50. His season best of 14:48 leads the field, and he should have little trouble securing the victory. Aurora Central Catholic will be right behind him, led by the trio of Jack Swiatek, John Rienbold, and Ben Bohr, a pack known for their tight racing and consistency. Their front three will be the difference maker, setting the tone for what should be a commanding team win for Aurora Central Catholic.

Fox Valley Conference

Key Boys Teams: Crystal Lake (Central), Huntley, Crystal Lake South, McHenry, 

Key Boys Individuals: Amana Omale (Crystal Lake [Central]), Joseph Sittler (Huntley), Joey Gonzalez (Crystal Lake [South]), Nate Martin (McHenry), Myles Wagner (McHenry), Thomas Henry (Prairie Ridge), Ethan McMahon (Crystal Lake [Central])

Key Girls Teams: Crystal Lake (Prairie Ridge), Huntley, Crystal Lake (South), Algonquin (Jacobs)

Key Girls Individuals: Lennox Szymonik (Algonquin [Jacobs]), Emaline Foster (Crystal Lake [Prairie Ridge]), Caroline Lucas (Crystal Lake [South]), Morgan Sauber (Huntley), Maia Lancaster (Crystal Lake [Prairie Ridge]), Anneke Dam (Crystal Lake [Prairie Ridge]), Isabella Ciesla (Huntley)

Outlook: This year’s FVC Championships will feature a primetime showdown on the girls’ side that no one will want to miss. In one corner stands the state’s hottest runner, fresh off a blazing 16:26 performance. In the other is the freshman sensation who’s lost only once this season to an athlete who runs 16:19. The conference rivalry between Emaline Foster of Prairie Ridge and Lennox Szymonik of Jacobs is one that could define the next two years. Expect a thrilling battle for the top spot between these two stars. While Foster and Szymonik duel for first, Caroline Lucas of Crystal Lake South will lead a deep group of sub 18 runners vying for the remaining all conference positions. On the team side, it’s shaping up to be a tight contest between Huntley and Prairie Ridge. The deciding factor will likely come down to which chase pack performs better, Morgan Sauber and Isabella Ciesla for Huntley, or Maia Lancaster and Anneke Dam for Prairie Ridge. On the boys’ side, Amana Omale of Crystal Lake Central enters as the individual favorite, boasting the best PR in the field. However, his competition won’t make it easy. Joey Gonzalez of Crystal Lake South is eager to bounce back after a rough outing at the Lakes Sunset Invite, and Joseph Sittler of Huntley, the conference’s rising young star, is coming off a standout 15:21 at the Peoria High Invite. Nate Martin and Myles Wagner of McHenry have also been in great form and could challenge for the lead on a strong day. Teamwise, Crystal Lake Central looks poised to take the win after an impressive showing at Lakes Sunset. Huntley will be close behind, an impressive feat given their youth. With two freshmen in their top three and a sophomore in the fourth spot, this team has a bright future, and pulling off an upset for the conference title would be a defining moment for this young squad.

KRC Conference

Key Boys Teams: Woodstock

Key Boys Individuals: Ellery Shutt (Woodstock), Grady Smith (Johnsburg), 

Key Girls Teams: Woodstock, Sandwich

Key Girls Individuals: Sunny Weber (Sandwich)

Outlook: Sunny Weber of Sandwich is expected to cruise to another conference title at the KRC Championships. She’s one of the best runners in the state and holds a PR nearly three minutes faster than anyone else in the field. There’s little debate about the outcome, Weber is the clear favorite. Behind her, the real excitement will come from the race for second place. Divina Okwong of Woodstock North, Clara Nicoline of Johnsburg, and Sophie Sarabia of Woodstock are separated by only a few seconds, setting up a thrilling battle to round out the podium. In the team standings, Woodstock is the favorite on both sides. The girls’ race should be tight, with Woodstock projected to narrowly edge Sandwich. Woodstock’s ability to place five runners ahead of Sandwich’s fifth gives them the advantage, but Sandwich’s front-running edge with Weber keeps things interesting. On the boys’ side, Woodstock should claim the team title comfortably. They have three runners projected in the top five, and their fourth and fifth aren’t far behind. Johnsburg looks like a solid second, but the gap will likely be sizable. Individually, Ellery Shutt of Woodstock will look to keep Grady Smith of Johnsburg from finding his rhythm. Shutt is coming off a stellar race at the Lakes Sunset Invite, where he ran a season best 14:46, making him the clear man to beat. Smith has rebounded well after a midseason slump and looked sharp at the Columbus Day Invite, but while he may challenge Shutt early, the Woodstock standout remains the strong favorite to take the win.

MSL Conference

Key Boys Teams: Arlington Heights (Hersey), Mt. Prospect (Prospect), Palatine (Fremd), Palatine

Key Boys Individuals: Mateus Salomao (Arlington Heights [Hersey]), Alex Krieg (Palatine), Quinn Davis (Mt. Prospect [Prospect]), Luke Robinson (Mt. Prospect [Prospect]), David Moore (Palatine [Fremd]), Jack Jennings (Palatine [Fremd]), Elliot Baik (Arlington Heights [Hersey]), Brody Cushing (Mt. Prospect [Prospect])

Key Girls Teams: Barrington, Mt. Prospect (Prospect), Arlington Heights (Hersey)

Key Girls Individuals: Mia Sirois (Barrington), Meg Peterson (Mt. Prospect [Prospect]), Graceleen Mabry (Arlington Heights [Hersey]), Victoria Tarara (Barrington), Angelica Hil (Barrington), Adelaide Galla (Mt. Prospect [Prospect]), 

Outlook: Ladies and gentlemen, this is the meet where we finally get to see our returning state champion back in action. Mia Sirois of Barrington has battled through a fractured fibula over the past few months, but she’s now fully recovered and ready to roll. You don’t need a reminder of how dominant she is, just be excited that she’s back on the course. With Sirois returning from injury, there’s a small chance that Meg Peterson of Prospect could seize the opportunity and steal the conference crown. Peterson owns a season best of 16:58, one of the few sub 17 marks in Illinois this fall, and she’s a legitimate threat to challenge the reigning champion. On the team side, Barrington should cruise to victory. The Fillies have been the top ranked team in 3A for most of the season, and now they welcome back a 15:51 three miler into their lineup. With their superstar low stick back, there’s virtually no scenario where they don’t win this meet. On the boys side, we’ll see some of the strongest teams in 3A clash for the MSL title. Hersey and Prospect, both top five caliber programs, will battle for supremacy. Hersey has the edge up front with Mateus Salomao leading the Huskies, but Prospect counters with superior depth, especially in the four and five spots, which could make all the difference. Hersey was outstanding at Naperville Twilight, and if they can replicate that kind of performance, the title is theirs to lose. Individually, expect Alex Krieg of Palatine to narrowly top Mateus Salomao of Hersey. Krieg has consistently delivered against elite competition, earning runner up finishes at both Red Devil and the Palatine Invite. Based on the caliber of athletes he’s been running with, many clocking around 14:20, it’s clear that’s where his true potential lies. If he races to that level again, he should come away with the win. Still, Salomao is rapidly finding his stride after an impressive 14:52 at Naperville Twilight, and he’ll be right on Krieg’s heels from start to finish.

Big 12 Conference

Key Boys Teams: Peoria (Notre Dame), Champaign (Central)

Key Boys Individuals: Maxwell Kirby (Peoria [Notre Dame]), Caleb Mathias (Champaign [Central]), AJ Ince (Normal [Community]), John Baker (Peoria [Notre Dame]), Joshua Stedwill (Peoria [Notre Dame]), Luke Fady (Peoria [Notre Dame]), Dax Duffy (Peoria [Notre Dame])

Key Girls Teams: Peoria (Notre Dame), Bloomington

Key Girls Individuals: Lillian Chaddock (Peoria [Notre Dame]), Renee Warren (Normal [Community West]), Julie Bach (Normal [Community West]), Lorelei Hulsing (Bloomington)

Outlook: Arguably the most competitive conference in Central Illinois, this meet will feature some serious talent taking flight. On the boys side, Peoria Notre Dame looks poised for a dominant team victory. They’re one of the premier squads in 2A and will be right at home here. Maxwell Kirby provides stability up front as the individual favorite, and the team’s depth through seven makes them nearly untouchable. Champaign Central should be the next best team, but it likely won’t be enough to dethrone the Irish. Individually, Kirby enters as the favorite, though Caleb Mathias of Champaign Central can’t be overlooked. Mathias actually beat Kirby here last fall, but Kirby has made major strides since then. The advantage goes to Kirby, but expect Mathias to keep things close. AJ Ince of Normal Community is another name to watch, as he’s had an impressive season and could make a serious push for second, or even sneak into the win conversation if things break his way. On the girls side, Lillian Chaddock of Peoria Notre Dame will look to claim her first of many Big 12 titles. She’s coming off a strong 17:23 performance at the Gene Jones Invite and will enter as the clear favorite. Still, Renee Warren of Normal Community West presents a legitimate challenge. Warren is a seasoned racer with a PR of 17:35, and if she’s on her game, Chaddock will need to work to secure the win. In the team race, it’s shaping up to be Peoria Notre Dame vs. Bloomington in a clash of 2A powers. PND has a strong top three behind Chaddock, but their four and five lag slightly behind. That’s where Bloomington could capitalize, with all five of their scorers projected to finish before PND’s fourth. Expect this one to come down to single digits, a thrilling battle that could go either way.

Central State 8 Conference

Key Boys Teams: Normal (University), Springfield, 

Key Boys Individuals: Andrew Aldeman (Normal [University]), Sean Kaeb (Normal [University]), Preston Short (Lincoln), Ben Walden (Springfield), Alex Ratz (Springfield), Adam Galvin (Chatham [Glenwood])

Key Girls Teams: Chatham (Glenwood), Rochester

Key Girls Individuals: Ali Londrigan (Chatham [Glenwood]), Ashlyn Chopra (Chatham [Glenwood]), Sophie Rentmeister (Chatham [Glenwood]), Paityn Brady (Springfield [Sacred Heart Griffin]), Ashley Zeibert (Rochester), Ali Broaddus (Chatham [Glenwood]), 

Outlook: This meet will be a showcase of pure dominance on both sides, just from different programs. On the girls side, Chatham Glenwood looks ready to completely dismantle the team field. They’re the #1 team in 2A and have proven themselves against some of the strongest competition in 3A. Coming off an excellent showing at the Lakes Sunset Invite, where six of their seven varsity runners set new PRs, Glenwood enters with unmatched momentum. It would take a miracle performance from Rochester to dethrone them, an unlikely scenario. Individually, Ali Londrigan of Chatham Glenwood will look to find her rhythm again after a rare off day at Sunset. Despite that outing, she remains the team’s reliable front runner and should bounce back here. Teammates Ashlyn Chopra and Sophie Rentmeister are poised to follow closely behind, potentially giving Glenwood a clean sweep of the top three. On the boys side, Normal University should cruise to a commanding team win. They impressed last week at the Gene Jones Invite, finishing third behind only Mahomet Seymour and Peoria Notre Dame, two of the state’s best 2A teams. Their trademark depth remains a strength, but with Andrew Aldeman and Sean Kaeb emerging as legitimate front runners, their ceiling just got even higher. Springfield is the next closest contender after a strong Gene Jones performance, but Normal U is operating on a completely different level. Individually, expect Aldeman and Kaeb to battle for first and second. Preston Short of Lincoln had a strong race at Gene Jones, but with both Aldeman and Kaeb already having bested him there, he’s the smart pick for third.

CPS Championships

Key Boys Teams: Chicago (Lane), Chicago (Whitney Young), Chicago (Payton)

Key Boys Individuals: Sam Assefa (Chicago [Lane]), Amilo Rajandram (Chicago [Whitney Young]), Quinn Anderson (Chicago [Lane]), Tramonti Williams (Chicago [Payton]), Gary Angelo (Chicago [Lane]), Hugo Ayala (Chicago [Lane])

Key Girls Teams: Chicago (Lane), Chicago (Whitney Young)

Key Girls Individuals: Sienna O’Malley (Chicago [Lane]), Ainsley Carter (Chicago [Lane]), Amy Herzog (Chicago [Lane]), Macy Ferchinger (Chicago [Payton])

Outlook: Hosted at Washington Park in Chicago, the CPS City Championship is expected to be dominated on both sides by Lane Tech. For the girls, 3A #12 Lane Tech enters as the heavy favorite. The Champions are led by freshman Sienna O’Malley and Ainsley Carter, ranked 3A #20 and #21, respectively. Both have broken 17:35 for three miles, with O’Malley owning a season best of 17:25 and Carter close behind at 17:34. They’ve also impressed over two miles, clocking 11:06 and 11:11 to shatter the course record at the Mather Invite #3. The individual crown should come down to this talented duo. Behind them, a close race is expected between Amy Herzog of Lane and Macy Ferchinger of Payton. While Herzog has the quicker PR at 18:10, both athletes have been neck and neck in recent weeks, running 18:30 and 18:31, respectively. Not far behind, Sydney Van Aken, Guadalupe Lopez, and Antonina Leary will round out Lane’s tight scoring pack, aiming to keep the team’s split minimal. Expect Viviana Tryfonopoulos of Kennedy to also mix into the top group. On the boys’ side, 3A #4 Lane Tech looks poised for another dominant showing. The Champions boast one of the most cohesive packs in Illinois, highlighted by their 38-second scoring spread at Naperville Twilight. At the Richard Spring Invite, four of their runners dipped under 15 minutes, with their fifth at 15:06, an incredible display of depth. The only team with a realistic chance to challenge Lane is 3A #22 Whitney Young. The Dolphins have consistently trailed Lane this season, but their depth and front-runner presence could make this race closer than expected. Individually, 3A #20 Sam Assefa of Lane Tech enters as the favorite with PRs of 9:21 for two miles and 14:39 for three. However, 3A #23 Amilo Ranjandram of Whitney Young, who shares that same 14:39 mark from Richard Spring, will make it a thrilling head-to-head battle for the city title. Behind them, expect strong performances from Lane’s supporting cast of Quinn Anderson, Gary Angelo, Hugo Ayala, and Alex Fitzpatrick, as well as defending city champion Tramonti Williams of Payton.

CSL Conference

Key Boys Teams: Deerfield, Glenview (Glenbrook South), Vernon Hills, Winnetka (New Trier)

Key Boys Individuals: Andrew Calderon (Deerfield), Jamie Chandler (Deerfield), Jack Lyons (Glenview [Glenbrook South]), Martin Issa (Winnetka [New Trier]), Franckie Hackl (Glenview [Glenbrook South]), Sam Chaban (Deerfield), Will Gagamov (Vernon Hills), Konstantin Koychev (Vernon Hills), 

Key Girls Teams: Winnetka (New Trier), Park Ridge (Maine South)

Key Girls Individuals: Miriam Enyon (Winnetka [New Trier]), Nicole Golebiowski (Northbrook [Glenbrook North), Tessie Bradley (Park Ridge [Maine South]), Kaitlyn Burns (Glenview [Glenbrook South])

Outlook: The New Trier girls are on a hot streak and are expected to keep it going at the CSL Championships. Their season has been exciting to watch, highlighted by a third-place finish at the Palatine Invitational, which really impressed us. Miriam Enyon leads the Trevians and enters as one of the favorites for the individual title. New Trier’s pack is tight, with three runners between 18:20 and 18:30 and their fifth at 18:40, leaving little room for error in their bid for the team win. Individually, Enyon narrowly takes the top spot. She delivered an outstanding performance at Loyola Flight Night, placing sixth with a huge PR of 17:39. Considering Loyola’s course tends to run slow, that time truly stands out in this field. However, the veterans can’t be overlooked like Kaitlyn Burns of Glenbrook South and Nicole Golebiowski of Glenbrook North both have PRs in the low 17:40s from last year and remain among the top returners from last season’s CSL meet. On the boys’ side, Deerfield is ready to reclaim its title. The Warriors have looked excellent in recent weeks and stand as one of the premier 2A programs this year. Their main competition will be Glenbrook South, which has appeared in the 3A rankings several times this fall. GBS can hang with Deerfield through the third runner, but Deerfield’s depth should make the difference in a meet like this. Individually, Andrew Calderon and Jamie Chandler of Deerfield will lead the charge after strong showings at Peoria High. Jack Lyons of Glenbrook South and Martin Issa of New Trier also have a legitimate shot at the win, as their PRs are right in range with the Deerfield duo. On a good day, any one of these four could take home the individual title.

DuKane Conference

Key Boys Teams: St. Charles (North), Wheaton (North)

Key Boys Individuals: Sam Hill (St. Charles [North]), Matthew Russell (St. Charles [North]), Michael Wilson (St. Charles [East]), Liam Meyer (Wheaton [Warrenville-South])

Key Girls Teams: Batavia, St. Charles (East)

Key Girls Individuals: Kara Glenn (St. Charles [North]), Avery Hacker (Batavia), Sofia Borter (Geneva), Adley Wilson (St. Charles [East]), Gwen Hobson (St. Charles [North]), Ruth Dellaria (Roselle [Lake Park]), Gwendolyn Krodel (Batavia)

Outlook: The girls’ individual race is shaping up to be electric, featuring some of the biggest names in the state. Kara Glenn of St. Charles North is the clear standard for this meet and should walk away with the win. She posted an incredible 16:19 at the Richard Spring Invitational, finishing second only to Isabella Keller of St. Anthony. Glenn regularly faces the DuKane competition and hasn’t lost yet this season, so don’t expect that to change now. Avery Hacker of Batavia will likely bridge the gap between Glenn and the chase pack. Hacker is a consistently strong performer who’s been excellent throughout her career, and she’s a solid bet for a strong runner-up finish. Expect Sofia Borter of Geneva, Ruth Dellaria of Lake Park, and Adley Wilson of St. Charles East to round out the top five. On the team side, Batavia is the favorite to take home the win. After a rocky start to their season, the Bulldogs have found their rhythm and once again look like a top-tier 3A program. St. Charles East should be the primary challenger. While they don’t have quite the same depth through five runners as Batavia, their low sticks will be enough to secure second place. The boys’ race is expected to be a St. Charles North showcase, led by Sam Hill, who should guide the North Stars to a dominant victory. Hill has enjoyed a stellar season, with his only off day coming at Richard Spring, where he still ran a 14:30 for 14th place. As one of the top runners in 3A, he should comfortably claim the individual title. Teammate Matthew Russell will lead the chase pack in second, giving St. Charles North a likely 1-2 finish that will power them to the team win. Ranked among the top ten teams in 3A, the North Stars will look every bit the part here. Wheaton North and Wheaton Warrenville South will battle for second, but neither squad is likely to challenge SCN for the top spot.

DuPage Valley Conference

Key Boys Teams: Naperville (Central), Naperville (North) Naperville (Neuqua Valley)

Key Boys Individuals: Jesse Gudauskas (Naperville [Neuqua Valley]), Grayson Meek (Naperville [Neuqua Valley]), Manny Najera (Naperville [Central]), Jackson Truty (Naperville [North])

Key Girls Teams: Naperville (North), Naperville (Central)

Key Girls Individuals: Ariana Nemvar (Naperville [Neuqua Valley]), Kaylee Russell (Aurora [Metea Valley]), Charlotte Danahy (Naperville [Central]), Shania Tandon (Naperville [North]), Rianna Tandon (Naperville [North])

Outlook: The boys race will feature the dynamic duo from Neuqua Valley, setting the stage for an exciting showdown. Jesse Gudauskas and Grayson Meek are the clear favorites for first and second, and it shouldn’t be close. Both have made remarkable progress this season, with Gudauskas clocking a 14:22 PR at the Richard Spring Invitational. Meek typically runs right alongside him but had an off day there, leaving his PR a bit behind. Assuming both are in 14:20 shape, they should cruise to a 1–2 finish. Behind them, Manny Najera of Naperville Central and Jackson Truty of Naperville North will lead the chase pack. Both runners have sub-15 PRs and the talent to secure third and fourth. On the team side, Naperville Central holds the advantage. Their depth from the third through fifth runners is unmatched in the conference, giving the Redhawks a clear edge over Neuqua Valley’s front-running power. The girls race promises to be a thriller with several top contenders in the mix. Kaylee Russell of Metea Valley burst onto the scene at the Naperville Twilight Invitational, running a 17:48 PR on a relatively slow course. Ariana Nemvar of Neuqua Valley enters with the best PR in the field at 17:45, though it came on the faster Richard Spring course. Charlotte Danahy of Naperville Central, along with Shania Tandon and Rianna Tandon of Naperville North, all broke 18 minutes at Twilight and should be right in contention for the win. On the team side, Naperville North is the favorite. With the Tandon twins providing strong low sticks and impressive depth throughout their lineup, the Huskies have all the tools to claim the team title.

HOI Conference

Key Boys Teams: Eureka, El Paso (Gridley), Downs (Tri-Valley)

Key Boys Individuals: Gavin Stalter (Eureka), Keegan Dewall (Gibson City), Drew Cooper (El Paso [Gridley]), Weston Hodel (El Paso [Gridley]), Davin Dingledine (Eureka), Timothy Rogers (Eureka), Landon Wurmnest (Eureka)

Key Girls Teams: Eureka, El Paso (Gridley)

Key Girls Individuals: Ellie Emberson (Fisher), Adeline Bruce (Downs [Tri-Valley]), Kiley Knapp (El Paso [Gridley])

Outlook: A proud 1A conference, you’ll see two top-three teams face off in the boys race. Eureka and El Paso Gridley are the big favorites, but Eureka should come out on top. With Gavin Stalter leading the way and a strong pack of five or six following him, victory for the Hornets is almost certain. El Paso Gridley won’t give up the win without a fight, as their depth is impressive as well. They have four runners under 16 minutes who will challenge Eureka’s chase pack, but their fifth runner needs to step up to make it a close race. Downs (Tri-Valley) will likely take third but should be detached from the front two teams. Individually, Gavin Stalter of Eureka and Keegan Dewall of Gibson City will battle for the win. Stalter can be hot and cold, but when he’s hot, he’s unstoppable. A strong race from him could blow this conference out of the water. If not, Dewall, who is much more consistent, could seize the opportunity. Dewall’s PR of 15:35 comes from the Dunlap Invite, which isn’t a particularly fast course. This is his first season of cross country, and a conference title would be a huge accomplishment. On the girls side, it should be easy money for Ellie Emberson of Fisher. She has the fastest PR in the field by a wide margin, 17:21 from the Spartan Classic, and should dominate the race. Adelin Bruce of Downs (Tri-Valley) will be next, with a PR of 18:16, giving her a large gap over the following runners. She will have to run this race largely solo but can still have a strong performance. Kiley Knapp of El Paso Gridley will lead the chase pack behind Bruce. She had a great race at the Pontiac Invite and could be a contender to surprise here. On the team side, Eureka is the favorite for a sweep. They are a top-ten team in 1A and should have no trouble claiming the team title.

NIC-10 Conference

Key Boys Teams: Rockton (Hononegah), Belvidere (North)

Key Boys Individuals: Judah Binger (Belvidere [North]), Landon Samuelson (Rockton [Hononegah]), Jack McLarty (Rockton [Hononegah]), Martin Hernandez (Belvidere [North])

Key Girls Teams: Rockton (Hononegah), Rockford (Boylan)

Key Girls Individuals: Kylie Simpson (Rockton [Hononegah]), Lucinda Hodges (Rockton [Hononegah]), Nora Wedwick (Rockford [Boylan])

Outlook: Last year's NIC 10 title went to Belvidere North High School, beating Hononegah by 36 points. This year, Hononegah looks to have a slight edge over Belvidere North. Hononegah is led by senior Landon Samuelson and sophomore Jack McLarty. This duo will be crucial in helping the school contend for the team title. Belvidere North will be led by sophomore standout Judah Binger, who is the favorite to win the race with a personal best of 14:43, the fastest time across the field. His teammate Martin Hernandez will be another runner to watch. The team title could be very tight; if Hernandez and Belvidere’s third through fifth runners have strong races or place better, Belvidere could come out victorious. If not, Hononegah will need to remain consistent to secure the win. It could be a Hononegah day on the girls side as well. Senior Kylie Simpson leads the field with a personal best of 17:04 and is the favorite to take the individual title and help Hononegah claim the team championship. Her teammate Lucinda Hodges will also be a key factor for Hononegah. Another runner to watch is Nora Wedwick of Boylan.

NSC Conference

Key Boys Teams: Lake Zurich, Libertyville, Mundelein

Key Boys Individuals: Karanveer Patil (Lake Zurich), Cameron Libby (Lake Zurich), Luke Marshall (Lake Zurich), Taylor Rihm (Libertyville), Elijah Mendoza (Mundelein), Filip Vojvodic (Libertyville)

Key Girls Teams: Lake Zurich, Gurnee (Warren)

Key Girls Individuals: Chloe Wettstein (Lake Zurich), Celia Blaylock (Lake Zurich), Kaylee Wilson (Gurnee [Warren]), Pilar Rosales (Lake Forest), 

Outlook: Lake Zurich is poised for a sweep here at NSC’s, with very little standing in their way. Their boys team has perhaps the strongest front three in the entire state, with Karanveer Patil, Cameron Libby, and Luke Marshall all at or under 14:30. Their fourth and fifth runners are a bit back, but with such a dominant lowstick presence, Libertyville can do little but take second place, and they are still a strong team this year. Individually, the top spots should go to the three Lake Zurich boys up front, followed by Taylor Rihm of Libertyville and Elijah Mendoza of Mundelein. On the girls side, Chloe Wettstein and Celia Blaylock of Lake Zurich will lead the Bears to a big team title. With much better depth than their boys team, they should dominate this team race with ease. Wettstein and Blaylock will also lead the individual race, but Kaylee Wilson of Warren could challenge for second. She was only a second behind Ella Satre of Hinsdale Central at the Midwest Invitational and could surprise in this race.

SWSC Conference

Key Boys Teams: Orland Park (Sandburg), New Lenox (Lincoln-Way Central), Frankfort (Lincoln-Way East)

Key Boys Individuals: Brendan Hanrahan (Frankfort [Lincoln-Way East]), Bryce Counihan (New Lenox [Lincoln-Way Central]), Jack Krusinski (Palos Hills [Stagg]), Mateo Ramiro Garcia (Orland Park [Sandburg]), Nicholas Dul (New Lenox [Lincoln-Way West]), Brayden Gaffud (Orland Park [Sandburg])

Key Girls Teams: New Lenox (Lincoln-Way Central), Orland Park [Sandburg])

Key Girls Individuals: Keira Faxel (New Lenox [Lincoln-Way Central]), Aubrey Clark (Frankfort [Lincoln-Way East]), Mia Forystek (New Lenox [Lincoln-Way Central]), Jillian Davies (New Lenox [Lincoln-Way Central]), Brea Counihan (New Lenox [Lincoln-Way Central]), Ava Dughetti (New Lenox [Lincoln-Way Central])

Outlook: This conference has a pre-conference to start the season, which saw Lincoln-Way Central win both team races. It’s expected to be the same result on the girls side, but on the boys side, Sandburg has been running much better throughout the year. The individual race will be exciting, featuring Bryce Counihan of Lincoln-Way Central, Jack Krusinski of Stagg, Brendan Hanrahan of Lincoln-Way East, Mateo Ramiro-Garcia of Sandburg, and Nicholas Dul of Lincoln-Way West. Hanrahan likely enters this one as the favorite, but you can’t count out Counihan, who has beaten Hanrahan a few times this year. Krusinski was right on Hanrahan’s tail at Richard Spring, where most of the field ran their PRs, so watch for him to sneak into the top three. Ramiro-Garcia has looked better as the season progresses and has an outside shot at winning. Dul has emerged this year as a major surprise and is a name to watch. On the girls side, expect Keira Faxel to lead a strong Lincoln-Way Central squad. Mia Forystek and Jillian Davies have also been top runners for this team at different points this year and shouldn’t be underestimated. The only athlete outside LWC’s squad with a chance at the top five is Aubrey Clark of Lincoln-Way East, who ran 17:43 at Richard Spring. After Clark, Brea Counihan and Ava Dughetti, both of LWC, will be in contention for the remaining spots.

Interstate 8 Conference

Key Boys Teams: Morris, Maple Park (Kaneland)

Key Boys Individuals: Carson Kaiser (Maple Park [Kaneland]), Cuyler Swanson (Morris), Everett Swanson (Morris), Evan Whildin (Maple Park [Kaneland]), Tyler Johnson (Rochelle)

Key Girls Teams: Sycamore, Morris

Key Girls Individuals: Ava Conley (Morris), Macey Jug (Maple Park [Kaneland]), Chloe Shere (Sycamore)

Outlook: On the boys side, the team title will be a battle between Morris and Kaneland. Maple Park will be led by Carson Kaiser, who has made his mark this season with a fast 14:28 at the First To The Finish Invitational and looks poised to lead his team to the title. Cuyler Swanson of Morris will trail closely and could propel his team toward a championship as well. If Maple Park can tighten their 1-5 split and improve performances from their third through fifth runners, they could potentially edge out Morris. Other runners to watch include Everett Swanson of Morris, Evan Whildin of Kaneland, and Tyler Johnson of Rochelle. The girls race will mirror the boys, with Sycamore and Morris battling for the team title. The outcome may come down to single-digit points, and Morris will need a strong performance from their number two runner to secure victory. Ava Conley of Morris, Macey Jug of Kaneland, and Chloe Shere of Sycamore are the top athletes to watch as they compete for the individual title.

NLCC Conference

Key Boys Teams: Fox Lake (Grant), Wauconda

Key Boys Individuals: Adan Cordova (Grayslake Central), Maxx Haas (Fox Lake [Grant]), Carson Lanners (Antioch), Cooper Summy (Lake Villa [Lakes]), Nathan Kempf (Fox Lake [Grant])

Key Girls Teams: Grayslake (Central), Lake Villa (Lakes)

Key Girls Individuals: Madison Schrader (Lake Villa [Lakes]), Madison Peterson (Grayslake [North]), Violet Rowe (Grayslake [Central]), Ava Pietruszynski (Grayslake [Central]), Hannah Salbilla (Lake Villa [Lakes])

Outlook: The NLCC boys race is shaping up to be the best it’s been since the Aho brothers left high school, promising an exciting showdown. Adan Cordova of Grayslake Central and Maxx Haas of Fox Lake Grant will be the front runners, with Cordova as the favorite. Both ran PRs at the Sunset Invite, Cordova at 14:52 and Haas at 14:57. If they replicate those times, they should go 1-2 with ease. Carson Lanners of Antioch and Cooper Summy of Lakes will be next in line to challenge, likely battling for third. Teamwise, Grant is expected to pull away for an easy win. Their strong 1-4 lineup, combined with a solid fifth runner, should secure the victory. On the girls side, Madison Schrader of Lakes is the favorite, having run an impressive 18:26 at the Sunset Invite, the fastest in the field. Madison Peterson of Grayslake North boasts the strongest PR at 18:08 from last year’s State Meet. Although she hasn’t raced recently, she could still contend for the win. Teamwise, the race will be tight between Grayslake Central and Lakes. Both teams have strong low sticks, but Central holds a slight depth advantage through the fifth runner. The outcome will likely come down to which chase pack performs best, making this a close and competitive meet.

WSC Silver Conference

Key Boys Teams: Downers Grove (North), Hinsdale (Central), Elmhurst (York)

Key Boys Individuals: Phillip Cupial (Downers Grove [North]), William Surratt (Downers Grove [North]), Henry Miller (Hinsdale [Central]), Matt King (Glen Ellyn [Glenbard West]), Michael Gamboa (Hinsdale [Central]), 

Key Girls Teams: Elmhurst (York), Glen Ellyn (Glenbard West), Hinsdale (Central), Downers Grove (North),

Key Girls Individuals: Karlin Janowski (Elmhurst [York]), Macy Ermitage (Downers Grove [North]), Alexa Novak (Glen Ellyn [Glenbard West]), Ella Satre (Hinsdale [Central]), Molly McGreal (Elmhurst [York])

Outlook: The WSC Silver has historically been one of the best conferences in the state, and this year promises to be no different. Downers Grove North is the top team in 3A and should claim a big win. Their low sticks are some of the best in Illinois, with Phillip Cupial and Will Surratt leading the way. Their pack has developed extremely well, with Isaac Stein and Tyler Lynch Goff improving significantly to contribute to the top five. It remains to be seen if Stephen Cox will run after missing the last two meets. What really demonstrates their strength is their competition, both York and Hinsdale Central are top 15 teams in 3A, and DGN is still expected to dominate this conference. Individually, the DGN duo will likely finish 1 and 2, with Henry Miller of Hinsdale Central and Matt King of Glenbard West right behind them. Miller’s PR of 14:30 is one of the best in the field and should not be overlooked. King had a slow start to the season but has improved steadily, with a 12th place finish at the Twilight Invite in 15:05 putting him in top-five conversations. On the girls side, the front is extremely competitive, with several girls under 17 minutes. The favorite is Karlin Janowski of York, who has a season best of 16:36. Her convincing win at the Palatine Invite solidifies her position at the top, and she is likely to take the win. Macy Ermitage of Downers Grove North and Alexa Novak of Glenbard West will battle for second. Novak edged Ermitage at Richard Spring with a PR of 16:53, but Ermitage ran 16:52 at the Naperville Twilight meet, a slower course than Richard Spring, making this a close race for second. On the team side, the competition will be tight between York and Glenbard West. York’s top three would normally secure the win, but with Molly McGreal sidelined in a boot, Glenbard West’s superior depth could give them the edge. With York’s number two out, GW’s top five may be enough to take the team title.