2026 Illinois Indoor Championships Preview

The stage is set for one of the most anticipated meets of the indoor season as the Illinois Indoor Championships return this Saturday to the fast, banked surface of the Dr. Conrad Worrill Track & Field Center. With elite talent from across the state converging under one roof, this meet promises high-level competition, breakthrough performances, and early glimpses of athletes poised to make noise when the outdoor season arrives. From loaded distance fields to explosive sprints and highly competitive field events, every event is expected to deliver intensity and excitement as Illinois’ best battle for championship honors.

PREVIEW SHOW 6PM TO 7PM FRIDAY

LIVE STREAM STARTING AT 8AM SATURDAY

Boys 60m

The 60m last year marked the true emergence of eventual State Champion and State Record Holder Will Landwer of New Trier. This year presents another opportunity for a rising sprint star to break through. Joe Owusu of Plainfield East has put together several strong efforts over the 55m distance, including a 6.35 performance to place 2nd at the SPC Indoor Conference. He returns as the top finisher from last year after taking 3rd in this event. Oreoluwa Sobodu of Dundee-Crown has also enjoyed a solid season in the short sprints, highlighted by a 6.86 PR for 2nd place at the Lakes Clash at the Coliseum Invite. With multiple 7.0x performances on his resume, he will be looking to dip back under 7.00 here. Braylen Anderson of DeKalb, more known for his long sprints, made a statement at the DuPage Valley Conference by defeating then-#1 ranked Daniel Robinson to claim the title in 6.90. Ken-Ye Pendleton of Grayslake Central has been trending upward, with his best races coming in recent weeks. After breaking out with a 6.92 at the Homewood-Flossmoor ABC Invite, he followed it up with a 6.88 to win the NLCC Conference title. Micah Pickett of Hoffman Estates is a sneaky contender in this field, coming off a huge weekend at Adidas Indoor Nationals where he ran a 6.85 PR in the prelims before finishing 5th in 6.90 in the finals to earn All-American honors. Prezadent Morgan of Thornton is still rounding into form with limited races this season, but his talent is undeniable, highlighted by a 21.46 200m PR from last outdoor season. He is more than capable of winning this race. Brady Anderson of Morrison adds small-school firepower to the field, entering with a 6.93 season best and legitimate winning potential. Others to watch include Cole Pemberton of Grant, Jack Murphy of Lincoln-Way East, Christopher Williams of Joliet West, and Janardie Turner of Rockford Jefferson, all of whom have the ability to contend with the right race.

Boys 200m

Last year, in the 200m at IIC’s debut, we saw current University of Iowa sprinter Austin Rowswell drop a blazing 21.41 to defeat current Howard sprinter Armond Boulware. This year’s field has the depth and potential to produce a sub-21 second performance, along with several elite matchups that make this race a must watch. Braylen Anderson, the senior sprinter from DeKalb, enters this meet off two of his best in-state performances of the season: a 21.67 at the Illinois Meet of Champions and a recent win at the DVC Conference meet. Anderson also made the trip to Boston for NBNI, where he placed 9th, just shy of All-American status. That performance showed he can rise to the occasion, as he ran a lightning-fast 21.26 on the banked track. Expect Brady Anderson, the senior from Morrison, to be right behind him. Entering with a 21.76, he has the experience to keep this race tight, highlighted by his 100m state title and runner-up finish in the 200m at last year’s 1A State Meet. After picking up a win at The Circuit earlier this season, there is no reason to believe he won’t contend for another title here. Nasir Robinson, a senior from Plainfield East, will also be a major factor as he enters the meet in top form. This has been a breakout year for Robinson, with significant PRs in the 60m, 200m, and 400m. His 21.84 at Worrill puts him firmly in the mix for a top-three finish, especially considering he only broke 22 seconds once outdoors last season. Chase Cutler of Hononegah will be right in the mix as well. After running 22.04 earlier this season on a flat track, he is in a great position to take advantage of the banked surface at IIC and chase a big personal best. Matching that 22.04 mark is Levi Milder, the senior from Morrison, who has steadily improved throughout the indoor season. Milder brings proven championship experience, having defeated Brady Anderson at last year’s 1A State Meet with a 21.44 and placing third in the 100m. His early race speed gives him an edge, especially over the opening 60 meters. Myles Lyons of New Trier is another name to watch thanks to his versatility and strength across the sprint events. Most notably, he placed third in the 400m at last year’s 3A State Meet. With a season best of 22.37, Lyons will look to make a strong addition to his résumé. Dundee-Crown may not always be in the spotlight, but senior Oreoluwa Sobodu is looking to change that. Entering with a 22.10, Sobodu has improved with each race this indoor season. After winning the Hoffman Estates 3A Sectional last year, he has already shown he can deliver in high-pressure moments. With the indoor season coming to a close, everything is on the line this Saturday at IIC.

Boys 400m

Illinois has rarely been nationally renowned for its sprinters, but this year we’re witnessing an unreal group that is ready to shatter depth records. This 400m field is shaping up to be one of the fastest in state history, setting the stage for an electric showdown for the IIC title. Braylen Anderson of DeKalb has been the top name in the event throughout the indoor season, owning a 48.44 IL #1 on a banked track while winning nearly every race he’s entered. His only blemish came last week at the DVC Championships, where Henry Faber of Metea Valley took him down with a blistering 48.70, winning by over half a second. With a rematch set for IIC, Faber has firmly inserted himself into the title conversation and will look to prove that performance was no fluke. However, both may find themselves chasing Chase Cutler of Hononegah, who enters with a 48.84 from a flat track and an impressive 47.37 outdoor PR. Having yet to face top-tier competition this season, Cutler could be primed for a breakout against elite company. Edmond Ankomah of Bolingbrook is another major threat after a stunning 49.41 on a 160m track, and his consistent 49-second relay splits suggest he’s ready to dip into the 48s. Myles Lyons of New Trier, a 47.46 performer, will also be looking to make a statement as he builds off a 49.51 season best. Depth continues with Edward Mason of Neuqua Valley coming off a strong DVC showing, Brian Jackson of Oak Park-River Forest already owning a 49.09 this season, and Adam Lyon of Barrington, who is trending toward breaking the 49-second barrier. This field is loaded from top to bottom, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see multiple athletes deliver breakthrough performances when it matters most.

Boys 800m

The 800m in Illinois has been in a golden era over the past few years, and this season may be its peak. Evan White of Rockford Christian enters as the clear frontrunner after an outstanding 1:55 on a flat track, an effort that signals he could be in line for another massive drop and a potential gold medal performance. However, Bo Breed of Oswego is back and healthy after dealing with foot issues, and his return adds a major wrinkle to this race. After placing fourth at Batavia, Breed looks poised to challenge White and could very well contend for the win. Cian Scalon of Lincoln-Way Central has emerged as one of the biggest breakout names this season, opening with a five-second PR that immediately puts him in the conversation. If he finds another gear, he could shake up the entire field. Ethan Petrillo of St. Ignatius has also proven himself against high-level competition, highlighted by a top-three finish at The CIRCUIT Chicago, making him another serious contender. The depth in this field is just as impressive. Caden Wolfe of Andrew returns after a sixth-place finish at last year’s state meet and will look to use this race as a springboard back to peak form. Michael Wilson of St. Charles East is coming off a conference title and appears to be regaining momentum after a disappointing state meet a year ago. Orlando Sandoval of Berwyn-Cicero has begun to shine in open 800s outside of relay duties and could position himself as a future state medal threat with a strong performance here. Rounding out the field, Nate Martin of McHenry has made a significant breakthrough this indoor season by breaking 2:00 for the first time and looks to be peaking at just the right moment. While a few key names may be absent, this field remains loaded with talent and upside. With so many athletes capable of big drops, this race has all the makings of a fast, tactical, and highly competitive four-lap battle.

Boys 1600m

The boys 1600m has emerged as one of the premier events in the field this year, featuring a loaded lineup of Illinois’ top milers ready to deliver in what should be an action-packed race. On paper, Philip Cupial of Downers Grove North stands as the clear favorite. He owns the top seed time at 4:16.5 and recently showcased his strength with a blazing 1:52.7 anchor leg to secure the win in the Mustang Relays 4x800. Cupial will also be motivated to reclaim his mile crown after missing the state finals last spring, despite later running a state-leading 4:07. While Cupial has looked dominant, the field behind him is stacked with talent capable of making this a battle. Thomas Jochum of Glenbard South sits as the second seed at 4:17.25 and is coming off a state-leading 9:02 two mile at Nike Indoor Nationals, proving his elite fitness. After missing last outdoor season due to injury, Jochum has returned in top form and, while known for aggressive early pacing, has recently shown the ability to close races with even splits. Owen Horeni of Yorkville brings elite range to the table, owning the fastest 800m time in the state at 1:52.6 to go along with a 4:20.12 seed. A third-place finisher at the cross country state meet and a 49.6 400m runner, Horeni has the tools to control the race in multiple ways and could be primed for a breakthrough win. Bryce Counihan of Lincoln-Way Central has also taken a major step forward this season, entering with a 4:16.8 personal best and positioning himself as a serious contender. Conrad Saner of Downers Grove South returns after placing fifth in this event last year and will look to climb higher on the podium, while Thomas Czerwinski of Plainfield North, last year’s third-place finisher, enters as the last seed but brings proven championship experience that could lead to a major surprise. With a blend of speed, strength, and race experience across the field, this year’s 1600m has all the ingredients for a fast and highly competitive showdown.

Boys 3200m

The boys 3200m was one of the premier events at IIC last year, and this year should be no different. Alex Batsala of Plainfield South leads the field on paper with a 9:09 season best from Batavia Distance Madness. His splits of 4:38 and 4:31 suggest there’s still more in the tank, and a new PR feels well within reach for the junior. Right behind him in that same race was Ellery Shutt of Woodstock, who made a massive breakthrough by dropping over 20 seconds to run 9:14. Clearly, Shutt has found another level this offseason, and if that progression continues, a dip into the 9:0X range is very realistic. Aidan Connors of Plainfield North is another major contender, returning with a 9:10 PR from last spring and a strong opportunity to match, or surpass, that mark this weekend. Jamie Chandler of Deerfield, who owns a 9:18 PR, has stepped away from the event for a bit, but his aerobic strength makes him a dangerous presence if he’s ready to fire fresh. Orlando Sandoval brings a unique weapon to this field with his closing speed, giving him the ability to outkick competitors in the final stretch if he’s within striking distance. Meanwhile, Andrew Straley of Brother Rice has been outstanding in the mile this season and has shown that his fitness translates well to the 3200. If he can stay connected to the lead pack, he’ll be right in the mix for a top-five finish. With multiple athletes trending upward and several capable of big breakthroughs, this race has all the makings of another fast and highly competitive distance showcase.

Boys 60H

One of the must-watch events of the weekend will be the 60m hurdles, featuring one of the deepest fields we’ll see all season. Janardie Turner of Rockford Jefferson enters as the clear favorite, having dominated the indoor circuit with a blistering 7.74 season best. Currently ranked US #14, Turner has been undefeated all season and has firmly established himself as the hurdler to beat. However, this race is far from a lock. Jalyn Cole of Belleville West is surging at the right time, coming off a massive 7.80 PR at Nike Nationals. The returning state champion in the 110m hurdles is more than capable of pulling off the upset, and if he executes cleanly, he could challenge Turner all the way to the line. Ben Schoettle of Glenbard West is another major contender, having already broken the 8-second barrier and recently dropping an impressive 7.35 in the 55m hurdles at the WSC Silver Championships. His progression from last season has been significant, and he’s in prime position to contend for a top-three finish. Adding to the depth, Aiden Williams of Fenwick is coming off a strong 7.97 performance at the CCL Championships and will look to replicate that sub-8 form. Meanwhile, Akinyemi Igbalajobi of Metea Valley appears poised for a breakout. After consistently running in the 8.13–8.19 range and suffering a disqualification at his conference meet, he’ll enter IIC with something to prove. With elite talent at the top and serious depth throughout the field, the 60m hurdles has all the ingredients for a fast, highly competitive, and potentially unpredictable showdown.

Boys 4x200m

This has the potential to be one of the events that truly steals the show this weekend. The top seed comes from Burbank (St. Laurence), who have been outstanding lately with the quartet of Jacob Diaz, Matthew Williams, Isaiah Little, and Joey Philip. This group dominated the CCL Conference meet at Gately last week, running a new IL #1 of 1:28.20. Both Joey Philip and Matthew Williams anchor the squad as key pieces, each holding sub-7.00 speed in the 60m. A major X-factor from that CCL lineup is Andrew Delgado, who was listed as not running, despite already clocking 22.67 in the 200m at Gately this season. If he’s added into the mix here, this relay takes on an entirely different level of firepower. Plainfield East, however, may still enter as the slight favorites on paper despite not owning the fastest seed time. Their lineup of Nasir Robinson, Joe Owusu, Josiah Wilcox, and David Croom brings elite depth and top-end sprint talent across all four legs. They ran 1:30.04 on a flat track at the SPC Conference meet, and the most intriguing part of that performance is that Robinson eased up significantly in the closing meters, leaving time on the table. With their current form, this is a group fully capable of pushing into the 1:27 range at Gately. Robinson and Owusu stand out as two of the premier sprinters in the state, while Wilcox and Croom continue to emerge as rising threats. Winnetka (New Trier) is another serious contender, with Will Miller, Erik Bertrandt, CJ Dominello, and Gio Borlo forming a balanced and experienced relay unit. Three of those four were part of the 1:28.55 4x200m squad at New Balance Indoor Nationals, showing they can deliver on the biggest stage. Kankakee also enters the mix for a top-three finish with Zyair Turner, Dominic White, George Noble, and Philip Turner, who combined for a 1:30.70 on a flat track at the Gene Armer Invite last week. Beyond the top tier, teams like Frankfort (Lincoln-Way East), Schaumburg, Bolingbrook, Grayslake Central, and Park Ridge (Maine South) will be battling tightly for top-five positioning in what should be a loaded and fast relay field.

Boys 4x400m

The “last dance,” most hyped, and craziest comebacks are all fitting ways to describe the 4x400m relay and this year at IIC, all three storylines feel like they’re in play. Leading the field is Oak Park River Forest. The quartet of Keyante Johnson, Michael Degnan, Moses Espinosa, and Brian Jackson looks like a true championship-caliber group, with the firepower to bring home an indoor title for their program. Even with their talent, they will have serious pressure from Kankakee, which enters with the fastest time in the field so far. The squad of Zyair Turner, Dominic White, George Noble, and Philip Turner has been dominant this season, and this 2A-turned-3A group is fully capable of going head-to-head with the best teams in the state. A showdown with OPRF for the title feels inevitable and could turn this into one of the meet’s signature races. Right behind them is Bolingbrook, another dangerous contender. The group of Yorachukwu Ifeajekwu, Tyshawn Harris, Jason Vervack, and Edmond Ankomah has been on fire this season, steadily building momentum and positioning themselves as legitimate podium threats. If they execute cleanly, they have the talent to leave with hardware. Naperville North also brings a strong lineup into the mix with Andrew Hebron, Jayke Collins, Charlie Minott, and Jude Knechtel, a group capable of pushing the leaders and competing for a top finish in a deep field. While most of the spotlight sits on 3A programs, Sterling enters as one of the top 2A programs in the state and a potential underdog storyline to watch. With Derek Prieto, Aiden Lacy, Quincy Mass, and Maurice Delacruz, they’ve consistently shown they can compete at a high level, and this weekend offers a chance to test themselves against elite competition. While they are not the favorite on paper, Sterling has the makeup of a team that could turn heads and emerge as one of the biggest surprise stories of the meet.

Boys 4x800m

The 4x800m has been one of the most stacked events in Illinois this year, as the state’s middle-distance depth has continued on a steep upward trajectory over the past year. When you combine four of those high-caliber athletes onto one relay, it creates the recipe for something special and potentially some of the fastest indoor marks we’ve seen all season. While the Mustang Relays featured the deepest field of the year in this event, IIC still brings multiple powerhouse programs capable of producing a showdown at the front. The top seed belongs to Lincoln Way Central, who will line up Cian Scanlon, Mekhai Wright, Ronin Borgeson, and Bryce Counihan. After dominating their conference meet, this group has firmly established itself as one of the premier 4x800m squads in the state and could very well control the race from start to finish. If they execute cleanly, they have the potential not only to win, but to do so in convincing fashion. Downers Grove South is not far behind and enters as a serious challenger after an impressive showing at Mustang Relays. Their lineup of John Clinton, AJ Handy, Will Miller, and Chris Janota brings both experience and proven speed, making them a legitimate threat to Lincoln Way Central if the race stays tight into the final leg. Andrew (Tinley Park Andrew) also cannot be overlooked in the title conversation. With Jack Radtke, Caden Wolfe, Gabe Govea, and Evan Misura, this squad has the ability to stay patient and close hard late, giving them a real chance to steal the win if the leaders falter. Finally, Plainfield North brings the strength of a true cross country powerhouse into the mix with Cal Anderson, Dom LaMontagna, Jake Schmauderer, and Liam Beavers. While the 800m is a different challenge than their XC distance profile, their depth, toughness, and ability to work as a unit could translate into a strong performance on the track. In a field this deep, teamwork and execution could be the difference between a good finish and a podium result.

Boys Shot Put

The shot put will feature four premier throwers, all of whom have a legitimate chance to walk away with the IIC title. Jordan Phelan of Lakes has delivered a breakout indoor season and will look to continue his stretch of dominance. Phelan made a major statement at the Lakes Clash at the Colosseum with a massive PR of 59’5”, and he has since added another three inches to reach 59’8”, which currently ranks him IL #7. One of the most consistent performers in the field, Phelan enters as the slight favorite and has the clearest path to the top of the podium. Right behind him is another breakout athlete in Shea Lewis of Prospect. Lewis has made a significant jump since the outdoor season, pushing his personal best to 59’5” and sitting just behind Phelan at IL #8. With both throwers separated by inches on paper, this matchup shapes up as a true head-to-head battle for the title. Dakota Edwards of Proviso West is firmly in the mix as well, bringing a best of 58’7” into the competition. Edwards is one of the most consistent throwers in the field, regularly producing marks above 57 feet. If the top two stumble even slightly, he has the ability to capitalize and walk away with the win. Rounding out the field is Jonathan Sibley Diggs of Oak Park River Forest. While primarily known for his success in the discus, he still owns a solid shot put PR of 57’1”. He has yet to surpass 55 feet this season, so he will need to find peak form if he wants to contend with the leaders in this highly competitive four-man battle.

Boys High Jump

The boys high jump should be a spectacle at IIC, so let’s meet the field. Griffin Schlenbecker of Wheaton Academy enters as the favorite this weekend. Ranked IL #2 with a towering season best of 6’10”, Schlenbecker has been one of the most consistent high jumpers in the field. Although he hasn’t competed in Illinois since the summer, he has been dominant on the national circuit throughout the winter, finishing runner-up at the Simplot Games and taking the win at the Iowa Winter Games. Challenging him is Addis Wilson of Oak Park River Forest, who started the season on a heater. Wilson has cleared 6’7” in each of his first three meets, including a 6’9” PR. With only one loss on the season coming at the HF ABC Invite, he rebounded with a win at the WSC Silver Conference Meet and looks poised to push Schlenbecker for the title. Derek Jamison of Homewood-Flossmoor is another major contender in the field. Jamison was the athlete who defeated Wilson at the HF ABC Invite and has shown flashes of elite potential throughout the season. While consistency has been a challenge at times, his ceiling is high enough to put him in the title conversation if he finds his rhythm on the big stage. Also in the mix are athletes like Nathan Botanga of Lincoln-Way East, Aiden Kolkmeyer of Yorkville, and Kyle Brents of Dundee-Crown, all of whom have the ability to jump into the top three and shake up the final standings in what should be a highly competitive and exciting high jump competition.

Boys Pole Vault

The pole vault is shaping up to be one of the most tightly contested events at IIC, especially in the battle for second through fifth place, which should make for an extremely compelling competition throughout. The favorite entering the weekend is Will Mercure of Lakes, who has already cleared 15’9” this season. With just one loss on the year, coming against Hayden Dahlin, who is widely regarded as a co-favorite for the outdoor state title. Mercure has established himself as the clear frontrunner here. On paper, it would be a major surprise if he does not come away with the win here. The chase pack is led by Rylan Schmidt of Dundee-Crown, who enters as the second-best seed and a strong contender for runner-up honors. Schmidt is coming off a breakthrough performance at the FVC Conference Championships, where he captured the title with a big PR of 14’8.75”. He has been on a strong upward trend in recent weeks and looks poised to carry that momentum into another big performance. Dylan Gates of Lakes is also firmly in the mix. One of the most consistent vaulters in the field, Gates has cleared 14 feet or higher on five separate occasions this season. He will look to form a powerful 1-2 finish alongside his teammate Mercure and secure valuable points for Lakes. Charlie Beazley of Glenbrook North rounds out the top contenders. Beazley owns a PR of 14’6” from the Sequoit Showdown, where he placed third behind Mercure and ahead of Gates. With proven experience competing in this exact matchup, he is more than capable of sliding into the top three once again and shaking up the final standings in what should be a tightly bunched field behind the favorite.

Boys Long Jump

The long jump field is extremely high quality at IIC, and this year’s competition looks even stronger than last season. The depth has clearly taken a step forward, with multiple athletes ranked inside the top 10 in Illinois and four competitors entering with marks over 23 feet. While the field is loaded, there is still one athlete who stands above the rest on paper. That athlete is Janardie Turner of Rockford Jefferson, who enters with a staggering 24’7” mark. Currently ranked No. 4 in the country, Turner has been one of the breakout stars of the indoor season. While most know him as one of the best hurdlers in the nation, his progression in the long jump has been just as impressive, especially considering he did not qualify for state in the event last year and didn’t even surpass 21 feet. This season has been a complete turnaround, with Turner winning all but one of his competitions, and another jump toward 25 feet feels well within reach. Just behind him is Arman Lepuzanovic of Rolling Meadows, who comes in with a 24’3” personal best. Lepuzanovic is coming off a huge PR performance at the Nagel-Saylor meet and continues to trend upward after gaining valuable experience at New Balance Indoor Nationals. If he wants to challenge Turner for the win, another PR will likely be necessary, but his recent consistency suggests he is more than capable of delivering it. Next is Andrei Konstantinidis of Stevenson, a sophomore sensation entering with a 23’9.5” mark, currently fifth-best in Illinois and the third-best 10th grader in the country. Konstantinidis has been remarkably consistent and remains undefeated in the long jump this season. His most recent victory came in the 15–16 division at the USATF Indoor Championships with a 23’4” effort, further proving his ability to perform on big stages. The fourth athlete over 23 feet is Zoelen Terry of Metea Valley, who should not be overlooked. After a slower start to the indoor season, Terry appears to be rounding back into form, highlighted by a runner-up finish at the DVC Conference meet with a 23’1.75” jump. The reigning IHSA 3A state champion in the long jump has the championship pedigree to make a serious impact, and if his rhythm continues to improve, he could easily reinsert himself into the top tier of this competition. With elite talent at the top and multiple athletes capable of big jumps, this year’s long jump has all the makings of one of the premier events of the entire meet.

Boys Triple Jump

We will see a strong battle in the triple jump at IIC, led by the top-ranked triple jumper in the state, Nicholas Jafilan of Richards. Jafilan has been extremely consistent in recent weeks, jumping over 14 meters in each of his last three competitions. In total, he has surpassed that mark five times this indoor season, and that level of consistency makes him one of the most reliable performers in the field. Challenging him for the win is William Bundy of Homewood-Flossmoor, the top returner from the 2025 IHSA 3A State Meet. Bundy has had an excellent indoor campaign and currently holds the best PR in the field at 14.22 meters. The junior enters as a co-favorite and will be a major threat to Jafilan in what should be a tightly contested battle for the title. Tebit Okwen of Lincoln-Way East is another serious contender after a strong performance at the SWSC Conference meet, where he placed third behind Bundy. Having already surpassed 14 meters this season, Okwen has proven he belongs in the mix and will be aiming for a top-three finish once again. JMari Jackson of Hoffman Estates is also capable of breaking into the podium conversation. He earned a win at the MSL Indoor Conference meet with a 13.50-meter jump and owns a personal best of 13.94, giving him the potential to step up in a bigger field. Finally, Carvelle Caldwell of Plainfield South cannot be overlooked after a clutch final attempt of 13.98 meters to win the SPC Indoor Conference meet. With momentum on his side, Caldwell is another athlete who could sneak into the top three if the competition tightens up.

Girls 60m

The girls 60m dash looks like it will be an instant classic this year. The top five seed times also represent the five fastest marks run statewide this season, setting the stage for an all-out showdown. The favorite appears to be Rayna Raglin of Alton, who enters a perfect 10-for-10 on the season across her three events (60m, 200m, and 400m) and leads Illinois with a 7.42. Her consistency and range make her the slight frontrunner, but her undefeated streak will be put to the ultimate test. Standing directly in her way is Jamie Esther of Danville, who also brings a flawless record with ten individual wins this season. Esther owns the No. 2 mark in Illinois at 7.46 and has shown she can rise in high-pressure moments, setting up a true head-to-head battle at the top. Also in the mix is Samaya Butler-Batista of Chicago Jones, who matches Esther’s personal best at 7.46. Butler-Batista enters off perhaps the most electric win of the season, having taken down Jordan Hamb of Chicago South Shore International College Prep at the CPL Indoor Championships. Hamb is also in this field and will be looking for redemption after running a 7.56 personal best just last weekend. Rounding out the top contenders is Mariyah Robinson of Homewood-Flossmoor, who comes in fresh off a SWSC Indoor Conference title. Robinson owns an IL #4 time of 7.49 and has proven she can deliver in championship settings. With all five top seeds owning season-best marks within a tenth of a second of each other, this race has all the makings of a photo finish and one of the most exciting events of the entire meet.

Girls 200m

This will be a highly contested battle between three of the top sprinters in the state. Daisha Brunson of Conant enters as the top seed in the field. The Michigan-bound sprinter/hurdler captured the MSL Conference title in the 200m last week, running 24.48 at North Central College. That converts to roughly 24.11, giving her the top seed in this field. Brunson also dipped under 24 seconds at the state prelims last year and went on to finish 4th at the state meet, along with a 5th-place finish at the USATF Junior Olympics over the summer that earned her All-American honors. Jamia Esther of Danville has been unchallenged in the 200m so far this season and brings a personal best of 24.64 on a flat 200m track into this race. She has developed into one of the elite sprint threats in Illinois this indoor season, and this will be her toughest test yet. If she rises to the occasion, she has the potential to push into the 24.1–24.2 range. Rayna Raglin of Alton will be many people’s favorite entering this race. She opened her season with a 24.27 at the Worrill Invite in February and has been largely untested since. Raglin owns a 23.79 PR from last summer and placed 5th at the state meet in May, proving she can deliver on the biggest stage. Maliyah Miller of St. Ignatius, last year’s 3rd-place finisher at the state meet, is another major name to watch. She has been steadily building form this season and could be poised for a breakout performance in a deep championship field. Finally, Brie Noel of Evanston rounds out the top contenders and is expected to factor into the top five conversation as well. With three proven elite sprinters at the top and multiple athletes capable of breaking out, this 200m final has all the ingredients for a fast, tightly contested showdown.

Girls 400m

At the Illinois Indoor Championships, the girls 400m has the potential to deliver one of the most intense moments of the entire meet, showcasing a deep field of athletes who combine both speed and endurance at a high level. The top seed, Briyah Beatty of Plainfield East, brings extensive experience in the event, with competition across indoor club this winter and outdoor club last summer. She placed 7th at the state meet in May with a blazing 56.99, and now enters IIC with a point to prove as she moves up a heat from the 2025 season. Senior Maliyah Miller of St. Ignatius is seeded third with a converted 57.93 and has already proven she can perform under pressure, having qualified for state last year with a 58.45. The 400m demands both patience and precision, and Miller’s discipline and experience make her a strong contender in what should be a tactical race.

Also in the mix is Rayna Raglin of Alton, one of the most versatile sprinters in the state. After qualifying for the 100m, 200m, 4x100m, and 4x200m at state last May, Raglin has shown she can handle championship pressure across multiple events. While she has only raced the 400m twice this indoor season, she remains right on the heels of the top seeds and has the range to challenge late. Senior Kayla Riepe of Whitney Young enters in strong form after running two 57.6 performances this indoor season, and she will be looking to replicate that consistency on one of the biggest stages of the year. Meanwhile, sophomore Aubree Haley-Jones of Homewood-Flossmoor comes in off a promising 58.71 at the SWSC Conference meet and could benefit from the fast rhythm of the banked track as she continues to develop. Although not in the fast section, Kennedy Ruff of Hinsdale South is another athlete to watch. The senior has been racing primarily on 160m tracks throughout the season, and this setting could set her up for a significant breakout performance. With a mix of proven state performers, rising underclassmen, and athletes peaking at the right time, the girls 400m is shaping up to be a strategic, high-stakes battle where execution will matter just as much as raw speed.

Girls 800m

The girls 800m field is one of the deepest of the entire day, with the top eight runners all capable of running 2:16 or faster. This is the kind of lineup where positioning, patience, and timing will matter just as much as raw fitness, and it has all the ingredients for a championship-caliber race from start to finish. Top seed Polina Krupsky of Lake Zurich enters fresh off a blazing 2:11.07 personal best at New Balance Indoor Nationals, a mark that actually surpasses her third-place finish at the state meet last May. If she can replicate anything close to that performance on the banked track, she will be extremely difficult to beat. If anyone is positioned to challenge her, it is Lily Hodneland of Hinsdale Central. Hodneland has been in excellent form this season, coming within milliseconds of her personal best with a 2:13.91 at the WSC Silver Conference Meet. The opportunity to race on the banks at Gately could elevate her into serious contention for the IIC title. Another key contender is Nicole Mayer of St. Charles East, who captured the DuKane Conference title with a 2:16.55, holding off Julia Rodney of St. Charles North (2:17.70). Rodney, however, owns the faster personal best at 2:14.41, which she ran en route to a 6th-place finish in the Emerging Elite section at Nike Indoor Nationals. The two are set for another matchup here, and it could play a major role in shaping the front pack. Rodney’s teammate Gwen Hobson also enters as a major threat. She ran 2:15.02 to place 10th in the Emerging Elite section at Nike Indoor Nationals, a performance that also stands as a best over her outdoor PR, signaling strong upward momentum. Kylie Simpson of Hononegah has quietly put together an impressive indoor season, highlighted by a 2:16.00 PR to finish second at Batavia Distance Madness, just behind Hodneland. She remains firmly in the mix for a top finish in a tightly packed field. Two more athletes capable of making a major impact are Keira Jenke of Benet Academy and Alexa Novak of Glenbard West. Jenke arrives fresh off a strong national showing, placing 6th at Adidas Indoor Nationals in 2:16.12, while Novak ran 2:16.01 at New Balance Nationals and will be looking to make a statement on the state stage. With national-level talent, conference champions, and multiple athletes separated by seconds, the girls 800m is set up to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable races of the entire meet.

Girls 1600m

Just like the 800m field, the 1600m lineup is absolutely loaded and should deliver top-tier marks across the board at the state level. The field is deep with sub-5 talent, and several athletes arrive with both proven championship experience and breakout potential. A major storyline will be the rematch between Annika Swan of St. Ignatius and Sydney Gertsen of Montini. The two last met at the GCAC Indoor Championships, where Swan came out on top in 4:59.32 to 5:01.42. However, Gertsen holds the faster season’s best at a huge 4:52.25, a mark she ran while finishing just behind Sunny Weber at the Illinois Meet of Champions. With both athletes peaking at the right time, this matchup sets up as one of the premier duels of the meet. Another athlete on an absolute tear is freshman Lennox Szymonik of Jacobs. She has already broken five minutes twice this season, highlighted by a 4:55.72 PR in her win at Batavia Distance Madness. In that race, she outdueled strong competition from Mia Forystek of Lincoln-Way Central and Kara Glenn of St. Charles North, both of whom also dipped under five minutes with 4:56.67 and 4:59.10 respectively. All three will meet again at Gately, setting up a highly anticipated rematch between emerging stars. Returning from the 800m earlier in the day, Alexa Novak of Glenbard West is another major name to watch. Already a sub-5 performer, she ran 4:59.66 to win the WSC Silver Conference Meet at Proviso West. If she can replicate that form on the banked track at Gately, Novak has the potential to leave IIC with a significant indoor personal best and firmly establish herself among the state’s elite milers. With rising freshmen, proven veterans, and multiple athletes already under five minutes, the girls 1600m is set to be one of the most competitive and exciting distance races of the entire meet.

Girls 3200m

Leading the charge is Marlie Czarniewski of Plainfield North. She ran 10:35.36 at the Mizzou Distance & Sprint Elite Meet at the University of Missouri in early February. Since then, she has added strong performances of 5:02 in the 1600m and 2:19 in the 800m, suggesting she is in prime form and poised to lower this already impressive mark at IIC. Behind her, the chase pack will be tightly bunched, with three athletes separated by just seconds on the seed list. The last sub-11-minute seed belongs to Ella Satre of Hinsdale Central, who enters with a 10:58.07 after finishing third at the WSC Silver Conference Meet. Just behind her is Isabella Ciesla of Huntley at 11:03.4. Ciesla made a massive 27-second improvement from the HF ABC Invite to Batavia Distance Madness, where she placed third in a loaded field, and she now has a strong chance to dip under 11 minutes for the first time at IIC. Another name trending upward is Tessie Bradley of Maine South. She has shown dramatic year-over-year improvement, dropping from a 12:00 3200m last outdoor season to an 11:11.02 indoors this winter. Given her continued progression through the cross country season, Bradley could be primed for another significant breakthrough on the big stage.

Girls 60H

The 60m hurdles last year was won by then-junior Daisha Brunson of Conant, who went on to become the eventual IHSA 3A state champion in the 100m hurdles. This year, there is real potential for a similar breakout storyline, with Kaiya Collier of Homewood-Flossmoor emerging as the headliner in a loaded field. Collier currently ranks as the 16th-best junior hurdler in the country with a blazing 8.70 personal best. Her resume this season is already stacked, highlighted by a podium finish (3rd) at the Worrill Invite and a recent SWSC title. She also brings proven championship experience, finishing 7th in the 100m hurdles at last year’s state meet, showing she can rise on the biggest stage. With her combination of top-end speed and technical consistency, Collier enters as a strong favorite. However, teammate Diaymond Childress will have plenty to say about the outcome. Childress finished just behind Collier at the SWSC meet, but brings her own high-level pedigree, including a fourth-place finish in the 100m hurdles at the USATF Junior Olympic Games. Currently sitting at 8.92, Childress has shown she can close the gap quickly, especially when championship stakes are on the line, making this a highly competitive Homewood-Flossmoor showdown. The third piece of the Homewood-Flossmoor trio, London Jarrett, adds even more depth to the event. One of the most versatile athletes in the state, Jarrett placed top-five in the heptathlon at the AAU Junior Olympic Games and has competed in four separate events at Nike Indoor Nationals, including winning the Emerging Elite high jump section. While her 9.00 season’s best may not fully reflect her ceiling, her ability to perform across multiple disciplines makes her a dangerous wildcard who can absolutely contend for a podium finish. Beyond the trio from Homewood-Flossmoor, Kennedy Ruff of Hinsdale South and Emilia Rogowski also bring strong credentials into the field. Ruff enters as the WSC Gold champion in the 60m hurdles and adds further credibility with her runner-up finish in the 3A 300m hurdles at state, proving her ability to perform under pressure. Rogowski, meanwhile, holds a strong 8.38 in the 55m hurdles, which projects well into the low 9-second range and puts her firmly in contention for a top-five finish. With elite speed, technical depth, and multiple state-level contenders, the girls 60m hurdles is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and unpredictable races of the entire meet.

Girls 4x200m

The girls 4x200m at the Illinois Indoor Championships has long been one of the most iconic events of the meet, highlighted by the all-time state record of 1:38.49 set by Plainfield North. This year, Homewood-Flossmoor will look to challenge that mark once again with a lineup capable of pushing the pace from start to finish. The Vikings previously clocked 1:38.96 at the Bronco Relays earlier this month at Gately, though that performance featured London Willingham, who is not currently listed on the relay card. Even so, their projected quartet of Mariyah Robinson, Khloe Daniels, London Jarrett, and Aniya Mullins has the speed and depth to contend not only for a state title, but potentially the all-time record if everything comes together on race day. Another team firmly in the mix is Kankakee, who will be eyeing a sub-1:40 performance. Their 1:41.60 on a flat track converts to roughly 1:40.05 on the banked surface, putting them right on the edge of a major breakthrough. Their lineup of DaMariana Tooles, Trinity Noble, Jemya Williams, and Essence Bell gives them a star-studded quartet capable of running with anyone in the state. Burbank (St. Laurence) enters as a serious contender as well, coming off a GCAC Conference title in the 4x200m at Gately. The all-freshman squad of Madison Taylor, Gabrielle Jones, Mariah Woods, and Eniece Danzy has already proven it can compete under pressure and will be looking to translate that momentum into a top-three finish on one of the state’s biggest stages. Danville is another intriguing group that has flown under the radar for much of the season before a runner-up finish to Kankakee last week brought them back into the spotlight. Led by Jamia Esther, this squad has the ability to put itself in strong position early, with Samantha Brown, Yariah Shaw, and Jhe’Nyi Parker needing sharp execution throughout the exchange zones to contend. If everything clicks, Danville has the potential to dip into the 1:41 range. Zion-Benton also enters as a team capable of finishing in the top tier despite lacking a single standout star. Instead, they rely on balance and consistency, with Janiyah Waters, Victoria Hunter, Leah Gray-Matthews, and Tyla Pryor forming a well-rounded quartet that can execute cleanly and capitalize on mistakes from other teams. With record-chasing potential at the top and multiple squads capable of sub-1:42 performances, the girls 4x200m promises to be one of the most electric and unpredictable races of the entire Illinois Indoor Championships.

Girls 4x400m

This will be a great showing in arguably the best event in track & field. The 4x400m relay brings together athletes from every discipline—distance runners, field athletes, and pure sprinters—creating one of the most dynamic and unpredictable races on the program.

St. Charles North enters as the top seed with a converted 3:57.18 from the DGS Mustang Relays. While they will be without Gwen Hobson, who is only listed in the 4x800m relay, they gain a key addition in Kara Glenn, who split 58 seconds on the B team at Mustang Relays. That adjustment keeps them firmly in the title conversation. Their projected lineup of Kara Glenn, Katie Shook, Julia Rodney, and Alanna Gupta gives them a balanced and experienced squad that enters as the favorite on paper. Kankakee is also coming in with momentum after a strong 4:01.42 performance at the Gene Armer Invite last week. Their relay of Jasiah Hawkins, Trinity Noble, Jamya McMurtry, and Essence Bell brings plenty of star power, especially with both Noble and Bell already dipping under 60 seconds in the open 400m this season. With that kind of firepower in the middle legs, Kankakee is absolutely in contention for the win. Homewood-Flossmoor may have the highest ceiling in the field. Their quartet of Mariyah Robinson, Aniya Mullins, Aubree Haley-Jones, and Khloe Daniels owns a combined flat-track equivalent of 3:53.05, which converts to roughly 3:50.00 on the banked track. That level of speed puts them squarely in range of history. The current meet record of 3:53.48, also the all-time Illinois indoor record set by Lincoln-Way East, is very much in danger if HF executes cleanly and runs to their potential.

Plainfield North and Lincoln-Way East will both be slightly short-handed but still appear in the fast section and could factor into the final standings. Even with incomplete lineups, both programs have enough depth and championship experience to potentially disrupt the top teams if the race gets tactical or messy. Adding another layer of depth, St. Charles North’s B team will compete out of Section 2 after running 4:02 at Mustang Relays. While they are outside the main title conversation, they could still crack the top five and further highlight the program’s remarkable relay depth. With record potential at the top, elite sprint depth across multiple programs, and several teams capable of sub-4:00 performances, the girls 4x400m shapes up as a fitting finale to one of the most competitive meets in the state.

Girls 4x800m

Though most teams are not fully loading their 4x800m lineups, fast marks are still very possible at Gately. The St. Charles North squad enters with a 9:06 seed time and, even without Julia Rodney, they remain one of the top contenders in the field. With proven strength from athletes like Kara Glenn and Gwen Hobson, they still project as the team to beat and will be expected to challenge for the win. Similarly, Lincoln-Way Central will be competing without their top 800m runner Mia Forystek, but the depth of their group keeps them firmly in the mix. Every athlete on their roster has broken 2:30 this season, with Katie Petrosky leading the way at 2:19 from Batavia Distance Madness. If they execute well across all four legs, they have the ability to stay right with St. Charles North deep into the race. One of the most complete squads in the field is Lake Zurich, who appear to be fully loaded and could make a major jump in the standings. Led by 2:11 performer Polina Krupsky and 2:20 runner Celia Blaylock, the Bears have a strong front end capable of shifting the race early. With Chloe Wettstein and Avery Muhr completing the quartet, Lake Zurich has the potential to drop a significant season’s best and possibly contend for the win. South Elgin brings a young but promising group, featuring three freshmen in their lineup. Irma Jimenez, who has run 2:23 this season, leads the way alongside sub-2:30 performer Kayleia Lindsey. With continued development, the Storm have a realistic shot at improving on their 9:44 performance from the Rockford Auburn Girls Invite and could make a jump in a deep field. Benet Academy, led by 2:16 performer Keira Jenke, also enters as a team to watch, though they appear slightly short-handed with only two of their top four 800m runners seeded in the relay. Even so, their top-end talent keeps them in the conversation for a solid finish in a competitive section. With a mix of incomplete lineups, rising young squads, and a few fully loaded contenders, the girls 4x800m sets up as a race where execution will matter just as much as raw speed, and the final outcome could shift dramatically on the anchor leg.

Girls Shot Put

Many top girls throwers are entered at the Illinois Indoor Championships, and the field for the Illinois Indoor Championships is loaded with some of the best talent in the state across all classes. The girls shot put in particular is shaping up to be one of the most competitive field events of the weekend. Leading the entries is Jaloni Wiley of Homewood-Flossmoor, who sits at number one in the state and in the entries across all classes. A top returner from last year’s state meet, Wiley brings both elite consistency and championship experience into this weekend’s competition. Also among the top contenders is Leijla Maljevic of Evanston Township, who is currently ranked inside the top ten in Illinois this season. She has put together a strong and steady indoor campaign, highlighted by multiple high-level marks that position her firmly in the title conversation. A deep chase pack includes Carly Uhlein of Jacobs, Maeve Bonacker of Fenwick, and Elena Fetzer of Huntley. All three athletes are ranked inside the top 15 in the state this season and have shown impressive consistency throughout the indoor season. If they can put together their best series on Saturday, each has the potential to move up significantly in the standings. Two additional names to watch are London Denton of Homewood-Flossmoor and Ebony Turner of Evanston Township. Both have produced strong throws this season and will be making their first appearance at the Illinois Indoor Championships. Their upside adds even more depth to an already strong field. With a mix of proven state leaders, rising contenders, and breakout threats, the girls shot put is set to be one of the most competitive and closely watched field events of the meet.

Girls High Jump

The girls high jump field features several strong entries, but the event is highlighted by three standout athletes who all bring state-title potential into Saturday’s competition.

Leading the entries is Jordan Dimke of Rockton (Hononegah), who has already cleared the second-best height in the state this season and enters as the top-ranked competitor for the Illinois Indoor Championships. With her consistency at elite marks, Dimke will be one of the clear athletes to watch as she looks to convert top-seed status into a championship performance. Another major contender is Olivia Stranz of Roselle (Lake Park), who remains undefeated indoors this season. A strong returner from last year’s 3A state meet, Stranz has shown both reliability and composure in big moments, making her a serious threat to challenge for the win if she continues her current form. Also drawing attention is Londyn Hendry of Plainfield East, one of the most intriguing young talents in the field. Even in middle school, Hendry cleared a height that would have ranked inside the top five among Illinois high school girls during last year’s outdoor season, underscoring her exceptional natural ability. Now continuing to progress at the high school level, she enters as a dangerous wildcard with significant upside. With proven state contenders, undefeated momentum, and emerging talent all in the same field, the girls high jump is shaping up to be one of the most compelling events of the Illinois Indoor Championships.

Girls Pole Vault

Moving on to the pole vault, the top entries are tightly grouped and set up what should be a highly competitive and entertaining event on Saturday. With several vaulters ranked among the best in the state, the bar for a podium finish will be extremely high from the opening heights. Leading the entries is Kylie Koehler of New Lenox (Lincoln-Way Central), currently ranked #5 in Illinois with a clearance of 12’2.75”. Koehler brings proven consistency at elite heights and will be one of the top contenders as she looks to convert her ranking into a championship-level performance. Another major name in the field is Yane Jansen Van Rensburg of Barrington, who currently sits among the top-ranked vaulters in the state. She has put together a steady and impressive indoor season, consistently clearing strong marks and positioning herself as a serious threat for the win if she can peak at the right time. Also in the mix is Bryn Garnier of Lake Villa (Lakes), a freshman who has already shown exceptional poise and talent this season. Garnier enters with significant momentum after winning a state title last year as an eighth grader, and she has continued to prove she can compete at a high level against older competition. Rounding out the key contenders is Ava Offerman of Joliet West, a top returner from last year’s 3A state meet who currently ranks inside the top ten in Illinois this season. With valuable championship experience and a strong seasonal base, Offerman is well-positioned to contend for a podium finish if she performs at her best. With a mix of established state leaders, proven returners, and rising young talent, the girls pole vault is shaping up to be one of the most closely contested field events of the Illinois Indoor Championships.

Girls Long Jump

The girls long jump is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and competitive field events at the Illinois Indoor Championships. With multiple athletes ranked inside the top ten in the state, the event features a deep field where consistency and big jumps on the final attempts could decide the outcome. Leading the entries is Emilia Rogowski of Hersey, who enters IIC as the top seed and remains undefeated this season. Ranked #4 in Illinois, Rogowski has established herself as one of the most consistent horizontal jumpers in the state, and she will look to extend her winning streak on Saturday against a loaded field. Another major contender is Kaiya Collier of Homewood-Flossmoor, who sits inside the top ten in the state this season. Known for her versatility and explosive athleticism, Collier has the ability to produce a big mark at any time and will be a strong threat in a championship setting. Also in the mix is Taya Rice of Chicago (Agricultural Science), a top-ten state-ranked jumper and returning medalist from last year’s 2A state meet. With proven championship experience, Rice brings a level of composure that could be a difference-maker in a tightly contested competition. Addison Busam of Huntley is another top-ten performer this season who has consistently delivered strong marks throughout the indoor campaign. With her steady progression, she remains firmly in the conversation for a podium finish if she can peak at the right time. Rounding out the top contenders is Me’She Eubanks of DeKalb, also ranked inside the top ten in Illinois this season. Eubanks has shown the ability to compete with the state’s best and will be looking to translate her consistency into a breakthrough performance on Saturday. With multiple elite-level athletes and very little separating the top entries, the girls long jump is set up to deliver a highly competitive and potentially dramatic showdown at the Illinois Indoor Championships.

Girls Triple Jump

The girls triple jump is expected to be one of the most tightly contested events on the schedule, with the top three entries all holding marks ranked inside the top 15 in Illinois. With little separation at the top, consistency and execution on each phase will be critical in determining the final standings. The Homewood-Flossmoor duo of Janell Robertson and Khloe Daniels both enter with strong momentum and season-best marks of 11.39m and 11.52m, respectively. Robertson will be looking to make a statement heading into the outdoor season as she continues her push toward All-State status in the event, narrowly missing that honor last year by just eight inches. Daniels, meanwhile, comes in riding confidence after an electrifying victory at last weekend’s SWSC Indoor Girls Conference meet, and will aim to carry that momentum onto the state stage. However, the clear favorite entering the competition is Karen Boakye of Downers Grove South. Boakye brings the most championship experience in the field, having finished 4th at last year’s state meet as the number two returner in Illinois. She enters undefeated in the triple jump this season with a season-best of 11.74m, which ranks sixth in the state. If she delivers at her usual level, she will be extremely difficult to surpass and will force the rest of the field to produce a near-perfect series to challenge for the win.