2026 Pre-Season XC Previews: 1A Girls Teams Ranked

Class 1A has long been known for producing championship-caliber teams, and the 2026 season is shaping up to be another exciting one. From defending state contenders to emerging programs on the rise, this year's preseason Top 25 features teams with a strong blend of returning experience, talented underclassmen, and proven postseason success. Our rankings are based solely on performances and information available prior to July 1st, 2026, meaning any races or results after that date were not considered in the evaluation. In addition to race results and returning personnel, many coaches provided valuable insight by completing our preseason questionnaire, helping paint a clearer picture of what to expect this fall. While these rankings offer a snapshot of where teams stand entering the season, every program will have the opportunity to prove itself as the road to Detweiller Park unfolds.

1. Eureka

Head Coach/Coaches: Olivia Morris / Matt O’Hanlon, Brandon Heider, Tom Engelhorn, Kellen Ehrenhardt, Graham Morris

Last Year’s Finish: 7th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Ava Otto (Sr.), Sierra Herrmann (Sr.), Sophia Watson (Sr.), Bre Lehman (Sr.), Eva Knapp (So.), Anna Sears (So.), Staley Sancken (So.), Ella Bally (Sr.), Vivian Neukomm (Sr.)

Key Additions: Kinsey Stoller (Fr.), Hailey Zimmerman (Fr.), Kenna Walder (Fr.), Kenzie Heider (Fr.) 

Outlook: The Hornets look to be the team to beat this year following an outstanding spring during the track and field season. They will also receive key additions from a talented freshman class that could elevate a team returning its top four runners from last year's seventh place finish at the State Meet. Ava Otto and Sierra Herrmann narrowly missed All State honors in 2025, finishing 29th and 30th, respectively, at the State Meet. They followed that up with impressive track campaigns, as Otto ran 5:09 in the 1600 meters and 11:22 in the 3200 meters, while Herrmann posted an 11:19 in the 3200 meters. Both should firmly be in the All State conversation this fall after those performances. Sophia Watson will be one of the biggest wildcards on this roster. She enjoyed an excellent track season in the 800 meters, earning All State honors in Class 2A with a seventh place finish. She owns personal bests of 2:15 and 5:20, demonstrating her potential for a highly successful cross country season. Eva Knapp also had a strong track season in the 800 meters, where she posted a personal best of 2:24, and she should be in the mix to score for this team. Bre Lehman was one of the Hornets' top four runners in 2025, finishing 129th at the State Meet, and will once again compete for a spot among the team's top five. Kinsey Stoller is the new name to watch as the freshman enters the season following an excellent middle school career. She owns personal bests of 2:26 in the 800 meters and 12:34 in the 2 Mile and should immediately contend for a scoring position on this squad. Coach Morris stated, “We have had both returners and newcomers putting in the work. The plan is to find our strengths and be ready to go out and compete.”

2. Elmwood

Head Coach/Coaches: Cooper Hoffmann / Gregg Meyers, Kyle Anderson, Tom Gorham

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

Key Returners: Mya Hill (Jr.), Bristol Schmidgall (Jr.), Riley Kelly (Jr.), Madalyn Ori (So.), Charlotte Walker (So.), Taylor Forney (Sr.), Ashlyn Berstch (Jr.)

Key Additions: Berlyn Schmidgall (Fr.), Maya Zeman (Fr.), Sophie Hulslander (Fr.), Grace Enloe (Fr.), Dayna Johnson (Fr.), Kendall Johnston (Fr.)

Outlook: The Trojans enjoyed an excellent 2025 to 2026 school year and will look to build on that success during the 2026 to 2027 campaign, returning their top six runners from the team that finished fifth in the classification last fall. They will once again be led by Mya Hill, who narrowly missed All State honors in 2025 with a 28th place finish at the State Meet. She followed that performance with an outstanding track season, posting times of 2:18 in the 800 meters and 5:00 in the 1600 meters. Hill has the potential to finish among the top 10 runners in the classification this season. Bristol Schmidgall returns as the team's second runner after posting an 18:08 during cross country last fall. She also enjoyed a strong track season, recording personal bests of 2:20 in the 800 meters and 5:20 in the 1600 meters. The key for this squad will be keeping the gap between its third and fifth runners under 30 seconds if it hopes to contend for a State Title. Taylor Forney had an excellent track season, running 2:22 in the 800 meters and 5:28 in the 1600 meters. Berlyn Schmidgall is a freshman who could make an immediate impact after posting personal bests of 2:24 in the 800 meters and 12:15 in the 2 Mile. Riley Kelly, who ran 19:03 during the cross country season, will also be in the mix as a scorer. Madalyn Ori had a solid track season, highlighted by a personal best of 2:33 in the 800 meters. Maya Zeman is another freshman capable of making an impact after running 5:39 in the 1600 meters and 12:39 in the 2 Mile. Charlotte Walker was the team's fourth runner last season with a time of 19:25 and should once again find herself in contention for a spot among the Trojans' top seven. Coach Hoffmann stated, “The team has a good group of older girls returning from last season, and the freshmen are doing a good job of following their example. Summer training has been solid, so It will be fun to see how things progress.”

3. Winnebago

Head Coach/Coaches: Janet Erb and Joe Erb

Last Year’s Finish: State Champions @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Molly Webb (Jr.), Ella Carlson (Sr.), Avery Dimke (So.), Svea Glidden (Sr.), Emma Ward (So.), Audra Mecum (Sr.), Ashlynn Robinson (Jr.), Linnea Lyons (Jr.), Avery Kaap (Jr.)

Key Additions: Kyanna Robinson (Fr.)

Outlook: The Indians returned to the top of the mountain last season by winning the State Championship. They return six of their top seven runners from that title team and should once again be in the mix to repeat as State Champions in 2026. They bring back an outstanding top four, but developing a reliable fifth runner will be the key if they want to contend with the other top teams in the classification. Molly Webb returns after earning All State honors with her 14th place finish at the State Meet last fall and gives the Indians an excellent front runner. Ella Carlson also had an outstanding track season that should put her firmly in the All State conversation this fall after running 5:11 in the 1600 meters. Svea Glidden and Avery Dimke also enjoyed excellent track seasons. Glidden posted personal bests of 5:32 in the 1600 meters and 11:57 in the 3200 meters, while Dimke ran 2:25 in the 800 meters and 5:29 in the 1600 meters. Either could be one of the strongest fourth runners in the classification. The key for the Indians will be developing an athlete such as Emma Ward, Linnea Lyons, Audra Mecum, Ashlynn Robinson, or Kyanna Robinson into a dependable fifth runner who can stay within 30 seconds of the team's fourth runner. If they can accomplish that, the State Title could very well remain in the Rockford area for another season.

4. Shelbyville

Head Coach/Coaches: Jason Palmer

Last Year’s Finish: 2nd @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Leah Shoaff (So.), Natalie Nohren (So.), Tessa Tomblin (So.), Laynie Lockart (Sr.), Kinley Hardy (Jr.), Anna Skinner (So.), Crista Arebalo (So.)

Key Additions: Hazel Atkins (Fr.), Gracelyn Stephens (Fr.)

Outlook: The Rams will look to return to the cross country podium for the second straight year after finishing as the State runner up in 2025. They return four scoring runners from that team and add an outstanding freshman class that could make them one of the top contenders in the classification. They will be led by Leah Shoaff, who narrowly missed All State honors last season with her 27th place finish at the State Meet. She followed that up with an excellent track season, posting personal bests of 5:15 in the 1600 meters and 11:13 in the 3200 meters. Hazel Atkins is another runner who should immediately contend for All State honors as a freshman. She enjoyed an outstanding middle school career, running 5:16 in the 1600 meters while winning two middle school State Cross Country titles, including the 2025 championship over Molly Mocko. She is also the granddaughter of ITCCCA Hall of Famer Kevin Kramer, the longtime coach at Shelbyville. Natalie Nohren and Tessa Tomblin ran 18:32 and 18:52, respectively, last cross country season and should provide the Rams with excellent third and fourth runners. The key for this squad will be solidifying the fifth scoring position, which on paper appears to belong to Laynie Lockart. The Rams may also have a secret weapon in freshman Graclyn Stephens. She ran 12:36 in the 2 Mile as a seventh grader before enduring a difficult eighth grade season. If she can return to that level of fitness, this team has the potential to be one of the most dangerous squads in the classification.

5. El Paso-Gridley

Head Coach/Coaches: Michael Melick

Last Year’s Finish: 3rd @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Haven Miller (Sr.), Kiley Knapp (Sr.), Verity Nowark (Jr.), Audrey Roth (So.), Mya Griffin (Sr.), Ellie Webster (So.), Addison Smith (Jr.)

Key Additions: Emersyn Harms (Fr.), Holly Nowark (Fr.), Harper Hall (Fr.)

Outlook: The Titans left the 2025 State Meet with a third place trophy and return four members of that squad while adding a talented freshman class that could help them reach the podium once again. Kiley Knapp and Haven Miller are expected to lead the team after strong track seasons. Miller, in particular, enjoyed an outstanding spring, posting personal bests of 2:19 in the 800 meters and 5:22 in the 1600 meters. Knapp also returns as one of the team's key front runners and should play a major role in the Titans' success this fall. Verity Nowark and Audrey Roth ran 19:04 and 19:07, respectively, for 3 miles last cross country season and should once again be among the team's scoring runners. Freshman Emersyn Harms arrives with plenty of excitement surrounding her and should make an immediate impact. She ran 12:09 in cross country as an eighth grader, finished 18th at the IESA State Cross Country Meet, and followed that performance with an impressive personal best of 2:26 in the 800 meters during track season. Mya Griffin could also provide valuable depth for the Titans. She posted personal bests of 2:38 in the 800 meters and 5:42 in the 1600 meters during the track season, and with a strong summer of training, she has the potential to become an important contributor. If the Titans can develop their younger runners while getting continued production from their returning scorers, they should once again be in the hunt for a State trophy. The key for this squad will be keeping their 1-5 split under 40 seconds. 

6. Anna-Jonesboro

Head Coach/Coaches: Matthew Denny / Brodie Denny, Rick Vicenzi

Last Year’s Finish: 4th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Jadyn Gerardi (Sr.), Kylee Myers (Sr.), Kinley Leek (Sr.), Elliott Cox (Sr.), Melaina Bundren (Jr.), Sophia Hill (Jr.), Lindyn Eudy (So.)

Key Additions: Kelly Smith (Fr.)

Outlook: The Wildcats will once again be one of the top teams in the Class 1A classification this season. This senior class has been the foundation of the program's success over the past three years and will be looking to add another State trophy to its resume in 2026. They will be led by senior Jadyn Gerardi, who, according to Coach Denny, is having the best summer of her career. Gerardi is a three time All State selection in cross country and will be looking to become a four time All Stater this fall. The Wildcats' greatest strength, and what they will once again rely on, is their pack. To bring home another trophy, they will likely need to keep the gap between their second and fifth runners under 10 seconds. Sophia Hill, Kylee Myers, and Melaina Bundren all finished among the top 100 at the 2025 State Meet and should once again be key contributors. Bundren will be a runner to watch after a difficult track season, as she looks to return to the form that made her a scorer for this team last fall. Freshman Kelly Smith enters the program with an impressive personal best of 11:30 for 3000 meters and could make an immediate impact on the varsity lineup. Kinley Leek also enjoyed an excellent track season, posting personal bests of 2:30 in the 800 meters and 5:36 in the 1600 meters. Her steady improvement throughout the spring could translate into a breakout cross country season and provide another valuable scoring option for the Wildcats. Coach Denny stated, “I see us having another stellar year. The seniors have stepped up as leaders. The kids are locked in. All are way ahead of last year at this time. Nowhere near where we need to be but it is July. The mindset is there is we can just hold it together. While I think we will be better than we have ever been, there are 8-9 teams that could win it all in girls 1A this year. And Winnebago isn't going anywhere.”

7. Effingham (St. Anthony)

Head Coach/Coaches: Art Geen / Chuck Keller

Last Year’s Finish: 13th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Isabella Keller (Sr.), Aubrey Denning (Sr.), Emeline Wines (Jr.), Nora Niebrugge (So.), Leah Delrossi (Jr.), Taylor Denning (So.)

Outlook: This team has the potential to be one of the most interesting squads in the classification this season with the addition of a talented freshman class to an already strong varsity lineup. The group will once again be led by individual favorite Isabella Keller, who has put together one of the most accomplished careers in IHSA history. She is a two time All American at NXN and a three time State Champion, making her the clear favorite to capture another individual title this fall. Aubrey Denning is another one of the top returning runners in the state after finishing 13th at the State Meet as a junior. She has been an immediate contributor throughout her high school career and will look to close it out with her best season yet. Denning has the potential to finish among the top 10 runners in the state. Emeline Wines finished 96th at the State Cross Country Meet as a sophomore last season and should once again be a key scorer for the team. Nora Niebrugge can also provide valuable scoring depth after a breakout track season that saw her lower her personal best to 2:35 in the 800 meters. The key for this squad will be developing a fifth man throughout the year. With a proven front runner, an established second option, this team has the pieces to contend for a trophy this fall.

8. Pleasant Plains

Head Coach/Coaches: Rob Havens

Last Year’s Finish: 7th @ IHSA 1A Elmwood Sectional

Key Returners: Maddy Hegele (Jr.), Alli VanVeldhuizen (Sr.), Finley Ewald (So.), Fiona Hilton (So.), Summer Paul (So.), Maddie Welch (So.)

Key Additions: Ava Driskill (Fr.), Leah Johnson (Fr.), Kaitlyn Johnson (Fr.), Harper Huston (Fr.)

Outlook: The Cardinals narrowly missed qualifying for the State Meet in 2025, but they enter this season with a roster that appears even stronger than last year's. If their young talent develops as expected, they have the potential to earn a trip to Detweiller Park this fall. They will likely be led by freshman Ava Driskill, who is coming off an outstanding middle school career. Driskill battled injuries during her time at Pleasant Plains Junior High, but if she can stay healthy, her potential is enormous after running 11:44 for 2 Miles as a seventh grader. Alli Vanveldhuizen and Maddy Hegele are expected to be the second and third runners for this squad. Both enjoyed excellent track seasons, recording personal bests of 2:24 and 2:25 while competing on the Cardinals' fifth place 4x800 meter relay team at the State Meet. Finley Ewald should also be a key scorer after competing on that same State Meet relay. She split 2:33 and appears to be the leading candidate for the team's fourth scoring position. The Cardinals will then rely on the development of freshmen Kaitlyn Johnson and Leah Johnson. The pair ran 13:00 and 13:01, respectively, for 2 Miles during last year's middle school cross country season as eighth graders. If they can make a smooth transition to the high school level, this team has the depth to take a significant step forward this fall.

9. St. Joseph-Ogden

Head Coach/Coaches: Jason Retz / Coach Farney, Coach Acklin, Coach Grifith

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

Key Returners: Grace Bressner (Jr.), Charlene Barbee (So.), Tessa Walker (Jr.), Kyla Franckey (Sr.), Taylor Vaughn (So.), Abigail Bello (Sr.), Allie Bott (So.), Caylah Roberts (So.), Kiah Riesel (Sr.)

Key Additions: Alayna Nekolny (Fr.), Thea Hinkel (Fr.)

Outlook: The Spartans return all seven members of the team that finished sixth in the classification last season. They enter this year with plenty of experience, but they will also have some questions to answer after a difficult 2026 track season for several of their key runners. Grace Bressner returns after earning All State honors with a 17th place finish as a sophomore at last year's State Meet. She followed that up by running 5:17 in the 1600 meters during the track season, giving the Spartans a proven front runner. After Bressner, the biggest questions surround the rest of the lineup. Tessa Walker, Charlene Barbee, and Kyla Franckey all finished among the top 100 at the State Meet last fall. Walker posted personal bests of 5:40 in the 1600 meters and 13:06 in the 2 Mile, Barbee ran 5:52 in the 1600 meters, and Franckey recorded a 14:29 in the 2 Mile during the track season. All three are capable of much more and will need to prove it this fall if the Spartans hope to return to trophy contention. Taylor Vaughn is expected to once again be the team's fifth runner after running 19:54 during last year's cross country season and posting a personal best of 5:58 in the 1600 meters during the track season. If the Spartans can regain the form they showed last fall, they have the experience and depth to remain one of the top teams in the classification. Coach Retz stated, “If you know, you know. The summer story wasn't written in headlines; it was written in early alarms, humid miles, quiet consistency, and a lot of "meet me at sunrise." The cast has a blend of familiar voices who know every lyric and new faces learning the harmony, and that's usually when the best albums are made. The goal isn't to chase someone else's era—it's to write our own. If the chemistry keeps building the way it has through the summer, expect plenty of personal bests, a lineup that keeps finding another gear when it matters most, and a team that believes the ending hasn't been written yet. There may be a few Easter eggs along the way for those paying attention, but we're hoping November is when everyone finally realizes what this group has been hinting at since June.”

10. Clinton

Head Coach/Coaches: Rachel Lyons and Leann Sosamon

Last Year’s Finish: 8th @ IHSA 1A Elmwood Sectional

Key Returners: Aubrey Peterson (Jr.), Averie Fatheree (Sr.), Kacy Koritz (Jr.), Jozlin Velez-Noble (Sr.), Ava Cothern (So.), Holland Devalle (Sr.), Audrey Toohill (Sr.)

Key Additions: McKenna Beck (Fr.), Lainey Snow (Fr.)

Outlook: The Maroons have the potential to be one of the most exciting teams in the classification this fall and could make the jump into the state's top tier. They will be led by the front running duo of McKenna Beck and Aubrey Peterson, both of whom have the potential to earn All State honors this season. Beck is the new face on the roster after an outstanding middle school career. She ran 11:32 for the 2 Mile and finished third at the IESA Class 3A State Cross Country Meet. She also placed third in the IESA Class 3A State 800 meters and captured the IESA Class 3A State Championship in the 1600 meters. Peterson earned All State honors as a freshman before health issues limited her sophomore season. She is now fully healthy and will be looking to return to the form that made her one of the top runners in the classification. Averie Fatheree appears to be the leading candidate for the team's third scoring position after an excellent track season in which she ran 2:30 in the 800 meters and 5:43 in the 1600 meters. Ava Cothern, Kacy Koritz, and Jozlin Velez Noble will all compete for the fourth and fifth scoring spots. If two of those three runners can break 20:00 this fall, the Maroons should have a strong chance to finish among the top 10 teams at the State Meet. Coach Lyons’ stated, “Our summer has been magical. We have a phenomenal group of young women that are fully invested in our team culture, the process and encouraging the next generation. After our trip to Colorado Coach Leann Sosamon said it best “These athletes are going to run really well this year…but they are so much more than their performances. They are incredible kids: faithful, caring, disciplined, hilarious and so precious to us.”

11. Aledo (Mercer County)

Head Coach/Coaches: Peter Nelson

Last Year’s Finish: 13th @ IHSA 1A Sherrard Sectional

Key Returners: Emalyn Miller (Jr.), Brookelyn Clark (So.), Helen Baldwin (Jr.), Jorgi Arnold (Sr.), Mahailey Hamilton (So.), Lilly Dodge (Jr.), Jema Hajostek (Jr.)

Key Additions: Abigail Struble (Fr.), Stormie Herrera (Fr.), Nathalia Pollock (Fr.), Kyra Cardine (Jr.), Delaney Millar (Fr), Carla Osborne (Fr.)

Outlook: The Golden Eagles have just one State Meet qualification in program history, earning that berth in 2021. This year's squad has the opportunity to rewrite the record books and could very well become the best team in school history. They will be led by Emalyn Miller, who qualified for the State Meet as a sophomore and finished 56th overall. She followed that performance with an outstanding track season, posting personal bests of 2:24 in the 800 meters, 5:22 in the 1600 meters, and 11:33 in the 3200 meters. Miller has the potential to earn All State honors this fall. Brookelyn Clark also qualified for the State Meet as an individual last season, finishing 73rd overall. She and Helen Baldwin should spend much of the season running together, as Baldwin enjoyed a breakout track season that included a personal best of 2:25 in the 800 meters and a leg on the Golden Eagles' All State 4x800 meter relay. Jorgi Arnold also showed tremendous improvement during the track season and was another member of the school's All State 4x800 meter relay. She split 2:31 at the State Meet and should provide the Golden Eagles with an excellent fourth runner. The biggest question for this team will be finding a dependable fifth runner. If they can answer that question, the Golden Eagles have the talent and depth to finish among the top 10 teams in the state this season. Coach Nelson stated, “I am very excited for this season. Not only do we have talent and depth. But we have improved leadership, focus, determination, and discipline. Emma and Brookelyn advanced to state as individuals last year. We brought the whole girls team on the trip to show them what the State Meet was about and to start thinking about this upcoming year. We had one of the best top 3's in the area. Emma, Brookelyn, and Helen have always been hungry for their own success and have really put in a lot of time and effort ensuring team success. We look to show up in a big way this year and even set the stage for Emma and Helen's senior year. The varsity returners and freshmen will definitely help in closing the gap in our top 5 and pad the top 7. It'll come down to working as a team by realizing individual success only helps team success and push others to be better. Competition is our ally this season. This will set up a sustained success as the underclassmen grow.”

12. Breese (Mater Dei)

Head Coach/Coaches: Colten Strotheide / Dave Venhaus

Last Year’s Finish: 17th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Finley Haag (Sr.), Camryn Wheeler (So.), Katelin Huelsmann (So.), Stella Hummert (So.)

Key Additions: Myla McAllister (Fr.), Clara Netemeyer (Fr.), Aubrey Eversgerd (Fr.), Maribeth Cowgill (Fr.)

Outlook: The Knights may surprise some people with how high they are ranked entering the season, but this team received a tremendous boost from an outstanding freshman class. That influx of talent, combined with an experienced returning core, gives the Knights the potential to emerge as one of the biggest risers in the Class 2A field. The team will be led by one of the top freshmen in the state, Myla McAllister. McAllister capped off an exceptional middle school career by winning the SIJHSAA Cross Country State Championship in 2025 while running 10:46 for 3000 meters. She followed that performance with an incredible track season, winning SIJHSAA State Championships in the 800 meters, 1600 meters, and 4x400 meter relay. She enters high school with personal bests of 2:21 in the 800 meters and 5:05 in the 1600 meters and has the potential to finish among the top 10 runners in the classification by the end of the season. Finley Haag and Camryn Wheeler return as the top two runners from last year's squad and should provide valuable experience behind McAllister. Wheeler finished 111th at the State Meet in 2025, while Haag placed 142nd and followed that performance with an excellent track season that included a personal best of 5:38 in the 1600 meters. Freshman Aubrey Eversgerd is another newcomer who could make an immediate impact. She finished eighth at the SIJHSAA Cross Country State Meet as an eighth grader and enjoyed an outstanding spring, helping her team capture SIJHSAA State Championships in the 4x100 meter relay, 4x200 meter relay, and 4x400 meter relay. Katelin Huelsmann is expected to round out the scoring lineup after serving as the team's fifth runner last season. Her experience should provide stability as the Knights integrate several talented freshmen into the varsity lineup. With one of the strongest freshman classes in the state joining an experienced group of returners, the Knights have the talent to exceed expectations and establish themselves as one of the top teams in Class 2A this fall.

13. Belleville (Althoff Catholic)

Head Coach/Coaches: Tom Fischer

Last Year’s Finish: 19th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Claire Skaff (So.), Grace Jansen (Jr.), Faith Jansen (So.), Breigh Desmond (Sr.), Ava Lock (Sr.), Bethany Kee (Sr.), Marlena Youngmeyer (So.)

Outlook: The Crusaders were one of the best stories of the 2025 season as they steadily climbed the rankings throughout the year. Although the State Meet did not end the way they had hoped, they return all seven members of that squad and should once again be in the mix as one of the top teams in the classification. They will once again be led by Claire Skaff, who finished 66th at the State Meet in 2025. While she did not have the track season she was hoping for, she has already proven she can be this team's front runner during the cross country season. Grace Jansen should be much closer to Skaff this fall after an excellent track season that included personal bests of 5:40 in the 1600 meters and 12:03 in the 3200 meters. Breigh Desmond was the team's third runner in 2025 after finishing 127th at the State Meet and is expected to fill that role once again this season. Faith Jansen should also be much closer to Desmond after a solid track season and could provide valuable depth for the Crusaders. Ava Lock is the leading candidate to once again be the team's fifth runner. If she can lower her time to around the 20:00 mark this fall, the Crusaders should have a strong opportunity to finish among the top 10 teams at the State Meet.

14. Athens

Head Coach/Coaches: Layne Hill / James Goodenow

Last Year’s Finish: <5 Scorers @ Regionals

Key Returners: Leilah Link (Sr.), Samantha O’Neill (Jr.)

Key Additions: Emily Patton (Fr.), Corinn Hart (Fr.), Fayth Sokolis (Fr.), Gracelyn Grimsley (Fr.), Peyton Armitage (Fr.)

Outlook: Many people may be surprised to see this team ranked after coming off a season in which it had only two runners. However, this group welcomes a major influx of young talent that helped Athens Junior High capture the IESA Class 2A State Championship and has the potential to make an immediate impact at the high school level. The Warriors will be led by the freshman duo of Corinn Hart and Emily Patton, both of whom enjoyed outstanding middle school careers. Hart was the top runner on the Athens Junior High squad last fall, finishing 12th at the IESA Class 2A State Cross Country Meet. She also earned All State honors during the track season with an eighth place finish in the 1600 meters while posting personal bests of 2:32 in the 800 meters, 5:32 in the 1600 meters, and 12:18 in the 2 Mile. Patton finished 21st at the IESA Class 2A State Cross Country Meet and owns a personal best of 12:26 for 2 Miles. She made tremendous progress during the track season, placing fourth in the State 1600 meters while lowering her personal bests to 2:26 in the 800 meters and 5:29 in the 1600 meters. Following those two will be the pack of Leilah Link, Fayth Sokolis, and Gracelyn Grimsley. If that trio can keep its split within 10 seconds, this team has the potential to finish among the top 10 at the State Cross Country Meet. Link, the lone senior on the roster, will also provide valuable leadership as the team's talented freshman class adjusts to varsity competition. Coach Hill stated, “The goal is to try and get them all around 18:45, with one or two breaking away for some low 18's. If we can hone in on that, I think some special things will happen this season. The biggest thing will be their adjustment from 2 to 3 miles, but I don't think that will be an issue in the slightest for a majority of them. Emily and Corinn are both coming off of an amazing track season, Emily ran 2:26 and 5:29, while Corinn ran 2:38 and 5:40. Building some healthy miles off of that is looking good so far, I think come October they will be two runners to watch on the 1A level!”

15. Port Byron (Riverdale)

Head Coach/Coaches: Kevin Claus

Last Year’s Finish: 7th @ IHSA 1A Sherrard Sectional

Key Returners: Ava Martel (So.), Ava Gaulrapp (Jr.), Jillian Murray (Sr.), Grace Schmidt (Sr.), Naomi Peschang (Sr.), Kaylee Overton (Jr.), Stella Peirce (So.)

Key Additions: Aleah Goss (Fr.)

Outlook: The Rams have never qualified for the Girls State Cross Country Meet in program history, and 2026 could very well be the year they earn their first appearance. With a strong returning core, this team has an excellent opportunity to make history this fall. They will be led by Jillian Murray, who enjoyed an outstanding track season by running 2:18 on the 4x800 meter relay and posting a personal best of 5:21 in the 1600 meters. Those performances have put her firmly in the All State conversation entering the cross country season. Ava Gaulrapp also had an excellent track season and is expected to be the team's second runner after lowering her personal best to 5:34 in the 1600 meters. Ava Martel was the Rams' top runner during the 2025 cross country season but endured a difficult track season. She will be looking to return to form this fall and provide the team with another reliable front runner. Aleah Goss, Naomi Peschang, and Grace Schmidt are expected to round out the scoring lineup. All three will be aiming to run in the mid 20:00 range this season, and their development will be the key to helping the Rams earn the first State Meet berth in program history.

16. Manteno

Head Coach/Coaches: Troy Mitchell

Last Year’s Finish: 22nd @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Klarke Goranson (Jr.), Lyla Nevel (Jr.), DeLanie Monroe (So.), Olivia Zwirkoski (Sr.), Riley Powell (So.), Sawyer Maveety (Jr.)

Key Additions: Kylie Stanley (Fr.)

Outlook: The Panthers competed with only six runners at the 2025 State Meet, but they return all six from that squad and add a talented freshman who should provide valuable depth. With an experienced core and one of the top individuals in the classification, this team has the potential to take a significant step forward this season. They will once again be led by superstar Klarke Goranson, who enters the season as a potential top five finisher in the classification. Goranson owns outstanding personal bests of 2:11 in the 800 meters and 4:50 in the 1600 meters, demonstrating the talent that makes her one of the state's elite runners. Lyla Nevel returns after running 18:24 last cross country season and finishing 42nd at the State Meet. Although she endured a difficult track season, she will be looking to bounce back this fall. DeLanie Monroe could close the gap on Nevel after an excellent track season that saw her run 12:11 in the 3200 meters. Olivia Zwirkoski appears set to be a dependable fourth runner after posting a personal best of 6:01 in the 1600 meters during the track season. The biggest question for the Panthers will be finding a reliable fifth runner. Their fifth runner posted a time of 23:51 at last year's State Meet, and that position will need to improve significantly if the Panthers hope to finish among the top 15 teams in the state this season. Coach Mitchell stated, “Our team is looking forward to competing at the 1A level once again this season, with all of our runners returning from our

State qualifying team from 2025, along with Freshman Kylie and hopefully more young runners joining us in August!”

17. Urbana University

Head Coach/Coaches: Kyle Hummel

Last Year’s Finish: 12th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Clara Knutson (Jr.), Janny Knutson (So.), Cadence Scheunemann (Sr.), Sofia MacDonald (Jr.), Layla Zong (Jr.)

Key Additions: Lena Guild Borchers (Fr.), Bridget Yasunaga (Fr.), Kennedy Wallace (Fr.)

Outlook: The Illineks are coming off an excellent 2025 campaign and will look to carry that momentum into the 2026 season. They return four members from the team that finished 12th at the State Meet last fall and have the experience to take another step forward. Clara Knutson was the team's top runner as a sophomore and is expected to lead the Illineks once again as a junior. She ran 18:24 and finished 43rd at the State Cross Country Meet. While she endured a difficult track season, she will be looking to return to form as she gets back on the grass this fall. Janny Knutson and Cadence Scheunemann are expected to once again be the team's second and third runners. Janny finished 97th at the State Meet last season, while Scheunemann crossed the line in 104th, giving the Illineks a solid returning core. Sofia MacDonald was the team's fifth runner last season and could take on an even larger role as a junior after posting a personal best of 5:52 in the 1600 meters during the track season. The final scoring position will likely depend on freshman Lena Guild Borchers. She enters high school after running 6:09 in the 1600 meters and 13:55 in the 2 Mile during her middle school career. If she can make a smooth transition to the varsity level, the Illineks should once again have the depth to compete among the top teams in the classification.

18. Monticello

Head Coach/Coaches: Matthew Miller

Last Year’s Finish: 7th @ IHSA 1A Cumberland Sectional

Key Returners: Macie Owen (Jr.), Taylor Mabry (Sr.), Madison Morrow (Sr.), Sophie Burkybile (So.), Mckenzie Koester (So.), Annie Robinson (Sr.), Suri Nguyen (So.)

Key Additions: Lucy Robinson (Fr.), Majela Harty (Fr.), Ela Rudolph (Fr.), Noella Fowler (Fr.), Penelope Dill (Fr.), Lily Moore (Fr.)

Outlook: The Owls took a major step forward in 2025 as they began to rebuild their cross country program after a few down years. They will look to build on that momentum once again this season and continue their climb up the team standings. They will be led by Taylor Mabry and Macie Owen, both of whom should be firmly in the All State conversation this fall. Mabry enjoyed an outstanding track season, posting personal bests of 5:07 in the 1600 meters and 11:08 in the 3200 meters. Owen also had an excellent spring, running 2:20 in the 800 meters and 5:22 in the 1600 meters. Madison Morrow is expected to be the team's third runner after posting a time of 19:29 during the 2025 cross country season. The key for the Owls will be finding two more runners to solidify their fourth and fifth scoring positions. If they can develop two athletes capable of running under 21:00 this fall, the Owls have the potential to finish among the top 15 teams in the state.

19. Tolono Unity

Head Coach/Coaches: Kara Leaman / Hannah Stone

Last Year’s Finish: 10th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Brooklyn Mumm (Sr.), Mia Reifsteck (Jr.), Grace Wherley (Sr.), Kelsey Adcock (So.), Carolina Popovics (So.), Galina Fairbanks (Sr.), Payten Niles (Jr.), Tessa Horn (Jr.)

Key Additions: Nadia Fairbanks (Fr.)

Outlook: The Rockets have entered a rebuilding phase after a historic run that saw the program earn team trophies at nine consecutive State Meets in cross country. They return six members from last year's 10th place squad, but there is one glaring question they will need to answer if they hope to remain among the state's best. That question is finding a true front runner. The Rockets could have a gap of under 60 seconds between their first and fifth runners, but they will likely need someone capable of running in the 17 minute range if they want to finish among the top 10 teams in the state once again. Brooklyn Mumm appears poised to lead the team after finishing 76th at the State Meet last fall, earning a spot among the top 100 runners in the state as a junior. Behind her is a tightly grouped pack consisting of Mia Reifsteck, Carolina Popovics, and Grace Wherley. Reifsteck and Wherley both finished among the top 150 at the State Meet in 2025, while Popovics enjoyed an excellent track season, posting personal bests of 2:36 in the 800 meters and 5:53 in the 1600 meters. Those performances should put her firmly in the mix as one of the Rockets' top scorers. The battle for the fifth scoring position will likely come down to Kelsey Adcock or Tessa Horn. If one of those runners can emerge while the Rockets develop a dependable front runner, this experienced group has the potential to remain a top 10 team in the classification. Coach Leaman stated, “We don’t have a lead runner this year for the first time in over a decade. So it will be a revolving door in the top five. I love that about this team. They aren’t in competition with each other for any one spot. They just all want the same thing - team success.”

20. Williamsville

Head Coach/Coaches: Hayley Chaldny

Last Year’s Finish: 16th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Joelle Wilson (Sr.), Brooklyn Turley (Jr.), Maddie Overmeyer (Jr.), Kaylea Hollinshead (Sr.), Alaina Woolsey (Sr.), Ella Knoles (Sr.), Sydney Kircher (Sr.)

Key Additions: Lauren Rose (Fr.), Tim Turley (Fr.)

Outlook: The Bullets captured the State Cross Country Championship in 2024, and the 2025 season served as something of a regrouping year following that historic accomplishment. They now enter the 2026 season hungry to climb back up the rankings and contend for another State trophy. They will be led by senior Joelle Wilson, who narrowly missed All State honors in 2025 by finishing 26th at the State Meet. That performance helped fuel an outstanding track season in which she posted personal bests of 2:16 in the 800 meters and 5:16 in the 1600 meters. Wilson should once again be firmly in the All State conversation this fall. Brooklyn Turley also returns after finishing among the top 100 at the State Meet last season and is expected to once again serve as the team's second runner. Rounding out the scoring lineup will likely be the trio of Kaylea Hollinshead, Maddie Overmeyer, and Alaina Woolsey. The Bullets will rely on those three to maintain a tight pack if they hope to move back into trophy contention. With a proven front runner and solid returning depth, this team has the pieces to make a significant jump during the 2026 season.

21. Byron

Head Coach/Coaches: Mike McHale

Last Year’s Finish: 20th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Ashley Potter (Sr.), Gracyn Smith (So.), Grace Burnes (Jr.), Emma Franchi (Sr.), Elinor McHale (Sr.), Alayna Swanson (Sr.)

Key Additions: Makya Ingersoll (Fr.), Collins Gerdes (Fr.)

Outlook: The Tigers have qualified for the State Meet in each of the past two seasons and will be looking to make it three straight appearances this fall. With a strong returning core and an impactful freshman addition, they have a solid foundation to continue that streak. Ashley Potter enjoyed an outstanding 2025 season, running 18:31 and finishing 51st at the State Meet. She will once again lead the Tigers and should be one of the top returning runners in the sectional. Gracyn Smith and Grace Burnes are the leading candidates to fill the second and third scoring positions after both finished among the top 150 at the State Meet last season. They should be joined by freshman Makya Ingersoll, who enters high school after running 13:03 for 2 Miles during her middle school career. Ingersoll has the potential to make an immediate impact and could spend much of the season running alongside Smith and Burnes. The Tigers will likely rely on Emma Franchi or Elinor McHale to round out the scoring lineup. If one of those runners can develop into a consistent performer near the 20:00 mark, the Tigers should have a strong opportunity to qualify for the State Meet for a third consecutive season.

22. Litchfield

Head Coach/Coaches: Jeremy Palmer

Last Year’s Finish: 11th @ IHSA 1A Elmwood Sectional

Key Returners: Maggie Schwab (So.), Leighton Warchol (Sr.), Rilynn Younker (Sr.), Madison Betz (So.), Breanna White (Jr.)

Key Additions: Libbey Gibbs (Fr.), Tinley Brikenkamp (Fr.), Rylee Hemken (Fr.)

Outlook: The Panthers will look to return to the State Meet for the first time since 2016. This has the potential to be one of the strongest teams in program history if everything comes together this fall. Last season, Maggie Schwab qualified for the State Cross Country Meet as an individual after finishing 64th overall. This year, she will look to lead the Panthers back to the State Meet as a team. Schwab has established herself as one of the top runners in the area and will once again be the leader of this squad. Leighton Warchol enjoyed an excellent track season and is expected to once again be the team's second runner. She posted personal bests of 2:30 in the 800 meters and 5:50 in the 1600 meters, showing significant improvement over the course of the spring. Rilynn Younker and Madison Betz appear to be the leading candidates for the third and fourth scoring positions. Both will be aiming to break 20:00 this fall, which would give the Panthers a much stronger scoring pack. The Panthers will likely rely on freshmen Tinley Birkenkamp and Libbey Gibbs to compete for the fifth scoring spot. Both enjoyed solid middle school careers, and if one can make an immediate impact at the varsity level, the Panthers should have an excellent chance to earn their first State Meet berth in a decade.

23. Roxana

Head Coach/Coaches: Benjamin Scamihorn

Last Year’s Finish: 23rd @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Gianna Stassi (Sr.), Nova Shaw (So.), Bailey Schallenberg-Decker (Sr.), Elizabeth Clouse (Sr.), Savannah Cline (So.), Leah Newton (Jr.), Sophie Copple (So.)

Key Additions: Elizabeth Vazquez (Fr.)

Outlook: The Shells returned to the State Meet for the first time in six years last fall and will be looking to make the trip back for a second consecutive season. They return all seven members of last year's squad, giving them plenty of experience as they pursue another postseason berth. They will be led by the duo of Gianna Stassi and Nova Shaw, both of whom finished among the top 50 at the State Meet last season. Although both endured difficult track seasons, they will be looking to return to form as they get back on the cross country course. If they can do so, they will once again provide the Shells with one of the strongest front running duos in the classification. The biggest key for this team will be staying healthy, as they currently have five proven scoring runners. Elizabeth Clouse, Bailey Schallenberg Decker, and Savannah Cline are expected to round out the scoring lineup and should all be capable of running in the mid 20:00 range this fall. If the Shells can remain healthy throughout the season, they have a strong chance to return to the State Meet once again.

24. Princeton

Head Coach/Coaches: Patrick Hodge

Last Year’s Finish: 8th @ IHSA 1A Sherrard Sectional

Key Returners: Payton Frueh (Sr.), Ruby Acker (Sr.), Alexandra Waca (Sr.), Susanna Bohms (Jr.), Leila Acker (So.), Natalie Meyer (Sr.), Lenora Hopkins (So.), Lily Simpson (So.)

Key Additions: Lydia Kyle (Fr.)

Outlook: It has been 24 years since the Tigers last qualified for the State Meet in cross country, with their most recent appearance coming in 2002. They will be looking to earn just the third State Meet qualification in program history during the 2026 season. The Tigers will be led by Payton Frueh, who qualified for the State Meet as a junior in 2025 and finished 139th overall. She returns as the team's proven front runner and will look to lead the program back to the State Meet. Not far behind her will be the duo of Ruby Acker and Alexandra Waca. Acker ran 19:52 during last year's cross country season and followed it with a personal best of 2:37 in the 800 meters during the track season. Waca enjoyed a breakout spring, lowering her personal best to 5:52 in the 1600 meters. Rounding out the scoring lineup will likely be Leila Acker and Susanna Bohms, both of whom should be capable of running in the mid 20:00 range this fall. If the Tigers can continue to improve throughout the season, they have an opportunity to make program history with a return to the State Meet.

25. Sullivan

Head Coach/Coaches: Isaiah Plank

Last Year’s Finish: 12th @ IHSA 1A Cumberland Sectional

Key Returners: Julia Moody (Sr.), Aaliyah Osborn (So.), Avery Renfro (Jr.), Miracle Wilson (Sr.), Kaylee Smith (Sr.)

Key Additions: Harley Alms (Fr.), Clarice Standerfer (Fr.), Avery Florey (Fr.)

Outlook: The Redskins round out the preseason rankings and will be looking to make some noise during the 2026 season. They are led by a talented front runner and have the pieces to compete for a State Meet berth if they can develop the necessary depth. Julia Moody returns after qualifying for the State Meet as an individual in 2025, where she finished 68th overall. She followed that performance with an outstanding track season, posting personal bests of 5:23 in the 1600 meters and 11:28 in the 3200 meters. Those performances should put her firmly in the All State conversation this fall. Aaliyah Osborn is expected to be the team's second runner after an impressive freshman campaign. Avery Renfro also gives the Redskins a solid option as their third runner. The biggest question for this squad will be finding consistent fourth and fifth runners. If they can answer those questions and develop the depth behind their top three, the Redskins have the potential to surprise teams and contend for a State Meet berth this season.