2026 Pre-Season XC Previews: 2A Girls Teams Ranked

Class 2A 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. Crystal Lake (Prairie Ridge)

Head Coach/Coaches: Kelly MacDonald / Rachel Kautz

Last Year’s Finish: 3rd @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Emaline Foster, Anneke Dam, Maia Lancaster, Emily Laporte, Genevieve Torgerson, Sophia Gibson, Caitlyn Macaulay and Addison Sawyer

Key Additions: Zoey Ko (Fr.), Nastia Skyba (Fr.), Victoria Noble (Fr.), Maeve Clough (Jr.)

Outlook: The Wolves have established themselves as one of the premier programs in Class 2A over the past several seasons, highlighted by third place finishes at the State Meet in 2018,  2019, and 2025. This fall, they enter the season with perhaps the strongest team in program history and will be chasing the first State Championship in school history. The Wolves will be led by individual favorite Emaline Foster, who will be looking to redeem herself after one of the most heartbreaking finishes in recent State Meet history. Foster was leading the race until the final 150 meters before collapsing, allowing Sydney Gertsen to pass for the State Title. Injuries limited her throughout the track season, but if she returns to full strength, she remains one of the most talented runners in the state and the favorite to contend for the individual championship. Anneke Dam gives the Wolves another elite front runner after an outstanding breakout season in 2025. Dam earned All State honors with a 12th place finish at the Cross Country State Meet before putting together an exceptional spring, finishing second in the Class 2A State Meet in the 800 meters with a personal best of 2:12. She enters the fall as a strong candidate to finish among the top 10 individuals. Maia Lancaster also earned All State honors last season after placing 18th at the State Meet. She followed that performance with another strong track season, qualifying for the Class 2A State Meet in the 3200 meters. With three proven All Staters leading the way, the Wolves possess one of the strongest front lineups in Illinois. The final two scoring positions provide the Wolves with several quality options. Sophia Gibson returns after finishing 76th at the State Meet, while Genevieve Torgerson placed 100th. Both ran in the 18:40 range last season and have the experience to strengthen the team's scoring pack. Freshman Zoey Ko adds another intriguing option after an outstanding middle school career. Although her eighth grade track season did not go as planned, she finished 27th at the IESA State Cross Country Meet and enjoyed an exceptional seventh grade track season, posting personal bests of 2:27 in the 800 meters and 5:29 in the 1600 meters while placing third at the IESA State Meet in both events. If she adjusts quickly to the high school level, she could become an important contributor immediately. With three proven All State runners, experienced depth, and an exciting freshman addition, the Wolves have all the pieces necessary to contend for the first State Championship in program history this fall. Coach MacDonald stated, “This is a great team to coach! The girls are eager and fun to be around. We have had a good summer of running and they have done what was asked of them. Many of the girls have worked hard this last year and have seen improvement on last year's times. The incoming freshmen are solid. There will be competition for spots in our top seven from  last year's injured kids and possibly from some of the freshmen. If there are no major injuries we should have a team capable of success at the end of this season.”

2. Chatham (Glenwood)

Head Coach/Coaches: Mike Garber

Last Year’s Finish: 1st @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Ali Londrigan (Sr.), Sophie Rentmeister (Sr.), Ali Broaddus (Jr.), Brenna Sloman (Sr.), Addie Hamrick (Sr.), Milly Celletti (So.), Keira Gorrie (Jr.), Michelle Park (Jr.), Hadley Sloman (So.)

Key Additions: Claire Ihnen (Fr.)

Outlook: The Titans have established themselves as one of the premier programs in the classification, capturing three consecutive State trophies over the past three seasons. While this senior laden group enters what could be the final chapter of its impressive run, it also has all the pieces necessary to contend for another State Championship. The Titans will once again be led by Ali Londrigan and Sophie Rentmeister, both of whom finished among the top 10 at the 2025 State Meet. Rentmeister returns as the team's top finisher after placing fourth overall. She followed that performance with an outstanding track season, qualifying for the Class 3A State Meet in both the 800 meters and the 1600 meters while posting personal bests of 2:13 and 4:58. She enters the fall as one of the top individual contenders in the state. Londrigan will also be in the hunt for the individual State Championship. She capped off an excellent track season by placing ninth in both the 1600 meters and the 3200 meters at the Class 3A State Meet while running personal bests of 4:55 and 10:47. Alongside Rentmeister, she gives the Titans one of the strongest front running duos in Illinois. Ali Broaddus made tremendous progress throughout the 2025 cross country season, culminating in a 32nd place finish at the State Meet. After that breakthrough season, she enters the fall as a legitimate All State contender. Brenna Sloman also returns after placing 66th at the State Meet and provides the Titans with an outstanding fourth runner. She followed her cross country season with a personal best of 5:27 in the 1600 meters during the spring. The fifth scoring position is expected to belong to Addie Hamrick, who ran 19:07 last fall but did not compete at the State Meet. If Hamrick can lower her time into the mid to low 18 minute range, the Titans will have the depth needed to challenge for another State Championship. With two elite front runners, experienced depth, and a senior class that has already proven it can compete for championships, the Titans have all the ingredients to make another run at the top of the podium this fall.

3. Mahomet-Seymour

Head Coach/Coaches: Jama Grotelueschen / Kaci Pommier

Last Year’s Finish: 8th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Paige Jansen (So.), Cecily Smith (Jr.), Anniston Huff (Sr.), Taylor Mills (Sr.), Kennedy Ashby (Jr.), Ava Cvengros (So.), Finley Smith (Jr.), Emma Dewitt (So.)

Key Additions: Ashley Martin (Fr.), Chandler Mills (Fr.), Jane Hartman (Fr.)

Outlook: The Bulldogs may be the deepest team in the classification, with nearly 10 athletes capable of earning spots in the varsity lineup this season. That depth gives them tremendous flexibility and makes them one of the favorites to contend for a State trophy this fall. Leading the way is the duo of Anniston Huff and Ashley Martin, both of whom should be firmly in the All State conversation. Huff enjoyed a breakout track season, finishing ninth at the Class 2A State Meet in the 800 meters with a personal best of 2:17. She also helped the Bulldogs earn a State runner up finish in the 4x400 meter relay. Huff continued her outstanding year during the summer, placing second nationally in the 1500 meters at the Vipers Track Club National Championships with a time of 4:47. Martin enters high school with significant expectations after an outstanding middle school career. She owns a personal best of 5:12 in the 1600 meters and earned IESA State Meet medals by placing third in the 800 meters, second in the 1600 meters, third in the 4x400 meter relay, and second in the sprint medley relay. She has all the tools to make an immediate impact at the varsity level. Paige Jansen is the top returning runner from last year's cross country squad after finishing 70th at the State Meet. She followed that performance with an excellent track season, qualifying for the State Meet in the 3200 meters and the 4x800 meter relay while posting personal bests of 5:25 in the 1600 meters and 11:42 in the 3200 meters. Cecily Smith also returns after finishing 79th at the State Meet in 2025. While she focuses primarily on the 400 meters and the pole vault during track season, she narrowly missed All State honors in the pole vault and has proven she can contribute at a high level once she transitions back to cross country. Taylor Mills could be one of the biggest difference makers on the roster. She ran 19:22 early last season before injuries sidelined her for much of the fall. With a personal best of 18:15 from her sophomore year, a healthy Mills would give the Bulldogs another front line scorer. Kennedy Ashby has competed at the State Meet in each of the past two cross country seasons and will once again battle for a varsity position. Ava Cvengros and Finley Smith also return after helping last year's team qualify for the State Meet, giving the Bulldogs even more experienced depth. The freshman class adds another layer of talent. Chandler Mills and Jane Hartman both enjoyed outstanding middle school careers and have the ability to compete for varsity spots immediately. With two potential All State front runners, a proven group of returning scorers, and exceptional depth throughout the roster, the Bulldogs have as much talent as any team in the classification. If they stay healthy, they have all the pieces necessary to compete for a State Championship this fall.

4. West Chicago (Wheaton Academy)

Head Coach/Coaches: Daniel Ball

Last Year’s Finish: 4th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Sydnie Becker (Jr.), Addie Painter (Sr.), Brylee Painter (So.), Charlotte Brown (Jr.), Adeline Farrell (Jr.), Lucy Ruettiger (So.), Vada Ashman (So.), Kelsey Brust (Jr.), Kaiah Pyykkonen (Jr.)

Outlook: The Warriors return one of the most talented teams in the classification, but after a challenging track season for many of their athletes, they will be looking to reestablish themselves on the cross country course this fall. If this group can return to the level it displayed during the 2025 season, it has all the pieces necessary to contend for a State trophy. Sydnie Becker enjoyed the strongest track season on the team, posting a personal best of 2:15 in the 800 meters. She also helped the Warriors earn All State honors with a sixth place finish in the 4x800 meter relay. Becker is the team's top returning cross country runner after placing 34th at the State Meet and should once again lead the Warriors this season. Brylee Painter returns after serving as the team's second runner at the State Meet, where she finished 49th with a time of 18:18. She also qualified for the State Track Meet in the 4x400 meter relay. While her track season did not produce the results she was hoping for, she has already proven she can compete at a high level during cross country. Charlotte Brown and Addie Painter both finished among the top 70 at the State Meet in 2025, placing 62nd and 69th, respectively. Both endured difficult track seasons, running slower in the 3200 meters than their pace through two miles at the State Cross Country Meet. The biggest key for the Warriors will be getting both athletes back to the form they displayed last fall. The fifth scoring position gives the Warriors multiple quality options. Kaiah Pyykkonen enjoyed an excellent track season, lowering her personal best to 5:39 in the 1600 meters while helping the Warriors earn All State honors in the 4x800 meter relay. Adeline Farrell also returns after serving as the team's fifth runner at the State Meet, where she finished 101st. She was also a member of the All State 4x800 meter relay and qualified for the State Track Meet in the 4x400 meter relay. If the Warriors can regain the form that made them one of the top teams in the classification last fall, they have the depth, experience, and talent to once again contend for a State trophy.

5. Deerfield

Head Coach/Coaches: Jeff Beaumont / Lisa Amstutz, Monica Fairman

Last Year’s Finish: 7th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Audrey Dickerson (Sr.), Azalea Modes (Sr.), Stella Martin (Sr.), Maddie Geres (Sr.), Riley Shafer (Sr.), Sophia Nangle (So.), Avni Sharma (Jr.), Sadie Dregne (Jr.)

Key Additions: Lindsee Lazar (Fr.)

Outlook: The Warriors are coming off the best season in program history after finishing seventh at the State Meet in 2025. With the majority of their core returning, they will look to build on that breakthrough campaign and contend for the first State trophy in school history. The Warriors will be led by the trio of Azelea Modes, Audrey Dickerson, and Stella Martin, who have the potential to form one of the strongest front packs in the classification. Modes enjoyed the best track season of the group, lowering her personal best to 11:42 in the 3200 meters. Dickerson also had an outstanding spring, running 2:18 in the 800 meters and qualifying for the State Meet in the event. She also returns after finishing 64th at the State Cross Country Meet, giving the Warriors another proven front runner. Martin continued her steady improvement during the track season, posting a personal best of 5:23 in the 1600 meters. Madeline Geres is another key returner after finishing 83rd at the State Meet in 2025. Her experience gives the Warriors another dependable scorer and adds valuable depth to an already talented lineup. The biggest key for this team will be finding a reliable fifth runner. Riley Shafer and Caroline Shi appear to be the leading candidates for that role, and if one of them can consistently run under 19:00 this fall, the Warriors will have the depth necessary to challenge for a State trophy. With an experienced front four and continued improvement throughout the lineup, this team has the potential to take another significant step forward in 2026.

6. Peoria Notre Dame

Head Coach/Coaches: Dan Gray / Elyse Dell, Jacki Mateas, Tyler Francisovich, Michael Kouri, Kate Socha, Patrick Couri

Last Year’s Finish: 11th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Lillian Chaddock (So.), Shannon Zopel (Sr.), Norah Gould (Sr.), Elizabeth Leustek (Sr.), Audrey Shane (Jr.), Mackenzie James (Jr.)

Key Additions: Charlotte Gould (Fr.), Brigid Gould (Fr.), Natalie Krumholtz (Fr.), Rae Ellen Craig (Fr.)

Outlook: The Irish return six of the seven runners from the team that finished 11th at the State Meet in 2025. The biggest difference for this year's squad could be the talented freshman class joining an already experienced roster. If those newcomers make an immediate impact, the Irish have the potential to move into State trophy contention. They will be led by returning All Stater Lillian Chaddock, who finished 23rd at the State Meet last fall. Chaddock did not compete during the track season after choosing to play soccer in the spring, but she returns as one of the top front runners in the classification and will once again anchor the Irish lineup. The likely second and third runners will be freshman twins Charlotte Gould and Brigid Gould, two of the most accomplished middle school runners entering the state this year. Charlotte finished seventh at the IESA Class 1A State Cross Country Meet, won the IESA State Championship in the 400 meters, and finished second in the 800 meters. She also owns personal bests of 1:02 in the 400 meters, 2:26 in the 800 meters, and 12:03 in the 2 Mile. Brigid also enjoyed an outstanding middle school career, placing ninth at the IESA Class 1A State Cross Country Meet while finishing sixth in the 800 meters and fifth in the 1600 meters at the IESA State Track Meet. She enters high school with personal bests of 2:30 in the 800 meters, 5:39 in the 1600 meters, and 12:06 in the 2 Mile. Both sisters bring a wealth of championship experience and have the talent to contribute immediately at the varsity level. Shannon Zopel returns after finishing among the top 100 at the State Meet in 2025 and should once again provide the Irish with another dependable scorer. The battle for the fifth scoring position gives the Irish outstanding depth. Norah Gould returns after serving as the team's fourth runner at the State Meet with a time of 19:36, while Audrey Shane was close behind in 19:41 as the fifth runner. Elizabeth Leustek and Mackenzie James also return after finishing 150th and 161st, respectively, at the State Meet, giving the Irish several experienced options. Coach Gray has also spoken highly of freshman Natalie Krumholtz, who has spent much of the summer training alongside the Gould twins. She could emerge as another major contributor as the season progresses. With a proven All State leader, one of the strongest incoming freshman classes in the state, and exceptional depth throughout the roster, the Irish have all the ingredients to make a significant jump up the team standings this fall.

7. Morton

Head Coach/Coaches: Thomas Razo / Kat Kerns

Last Year’s Finish: 20th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Jemma Farrell (So.), Eden Beyer (So.), Elsie Parnham (So.), Annaliese Sanders (Sr.), Madison Greiner (Jr.), Caroline Hillebrand (Jr.)

Key Additions: Katie Watson (Fr.), Annelise Hopkins (Fr.), Alyssa VanMeenen (Fr.)

Outlook: The Potters made tremendous strides during the track season and enter the fall as one of the most intriguing teams in the classification. Their improvements on the track have positioned them to take another significant step forward on the cross country course this season. Leading the way will be the duo of Elsie Parnham and Eden Beyer. Parnham enjoyed an outstanding spring, running a personal best of 5:21 in the 1600 meters while qualifying for the State Meet in both the 1600 meters and the 4x400 meter relay. Beyer also qualified for the State Meet in the 1600 meters and lowered her personal best to 5:23, giving the Potters a strong front running tandem. Jemma Farrell, who was the team's top runner during the 2025 cross country season, is expected to slot into the third position this fall. Farrell finished 91st at the State Meet last year and gives the Potters another experienced scorer. Annaliese Sanders is the final returning runner from last year's State Meet squad. She placed 142nd at the State Meet before enjoying an excellent track season, posting personal bests of 5:45 in the 1600 meters and 12:32 in the 3200 meters. Her continued development provides valuable depth to the lineup. Freshman Katie Watson could also become a major contributor immediately. Watson enters high school after running 12:33 for the 2 Mile during her middle school career and has the talent to make an immediate impact on the varsity roster. With two proven front runners, experienced returning scorers, and an exciting freshman addition, the Potters have the pieces to continue their upward trajectory and emerge as one of the teams to watch this fall.

8. LaGrange Park (Nazareth Academy)

Head Coach/Coaches: Joe Wejman / Anthony Gonzalez, Emily Beedie

Last Year’s Finish: 12th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Kathleen Hardy (Jr.), Maggie Morrissey (So.), Elena Vlahos (So.), Claire Sigmund (Sr.), Allie O'Halloran (Sr.), Audrey Wendt (So.), Julia Parkes (Sr.), Mya Mann (So.), Mallory Waters (So.)

Key Additions: Nora Trayser (Fr.), Cate Riberto (Fr.), Avery Janiszewski (Fr.)

Outlook: The Roadrunners are coming off an excellent 2025 season and enter 2026 looking to build on that momentum. With an experienced core and an exciting freshman addition, they have the pieces to remain one of the top teams in the Class 2A field. They will be led by Kathleen Hardy, who finished 44th at the State Meet in 2025. Hardy is a proven front runner, having earned All State honors in 2024, and will once again anchor the Roadrunners' lineup this fall. Maggie Morrisey returns after serving as the team's second runner last season and finishing 71st at the State Meet. Although she endured a difficult track season, she will look to return to form on the cross country course. The same can be said for Allie O'Halloran, who finished 98th at the State Meet last fall and has the experience to provide another valuable scoring position. Freshman Nora Trayser adds another exciting dimension to this roster. She enjoyed an outstanding middle school career, placing 13th at the IESA State Cross Country Meet while also finishing 11th in the 800 meters and eighth in the 1600 meters at the IESA State Track Meet. Trayser enters high school with impressive personal bests of 2:27 in the 800 meters, 5:33 in the 1600 meters, and 12:33 in the 2 Mile, giving her the potential to make an immediate impact. The Roadrunners also have excellent depth in the battle for the fifth scoring position. Claire Sigmund, Julia Parkes, and Elena Vlahos all have the potential to earn varsity spots and should be capable of running under 19:00 this season. If that depth continues to develop, the Roadrunners will once again be a team to watch throughout the 2026 campaign.

9. Springfield (Sacred Heart-Griffin)

Head Coach/Coaches: Josh Bluhm

Last Year’s Finish: 21st @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Paityn Brady (Jr.), Phoebe DeFrain (So.), Oceana Huang (Jr.), Hadley Grider (Sr.), Kate Lambert (Sr.), Hannah Ruscin (So.), Macey Koehn (Sr.)

Outlook: The Cyclones entered the 2025 season with high expectations but were forced to compete without one of their top runners for nearly the entire year. With a healthier roster entering this fall, they have the potential to reemerge as one of the top teams in the classification. Paityn Brady will once again lead the Cyclones after earning a fifth place finish at the State Meet in 2025. While her track season did not produce major personal bests, she still posted solid marks of 5:14 in the 1600 meters and 11:33 in the 3200 meters. She also earned All State honors as a member of the Cyclones' 4x800 meter relay, reinforcing her status as one of the top runners in the state. Phoebe DeFrain could be the difference maker for this team. Injuries limited her to just one 3 Mile race last fall, where she ran 18:27. If she returns to full health, she has the talent to contend for All State honors and gives the Cyclones another elite front runner. Oceana Huang and Hadley Grider are expected to round out the front four. Huang finished 106th at the State Meet last season and was also a member of the Cyclones' All State 4x800 meter relay this spring. Grider finished 111th at the State Meet and returns as another experienced scorer capable of taking a significant step forward this season. The final scoring position will likely come down to Kate Lambert or Hannah Ruscin. Lambert appears to have the edge after qualifying for the State Track Meet in the 4x400 meter relay while also helping the Cyclones earn All State honors in the 4x800 meter relay. If the Cyclones can keep their lineup healthy and get the production they expect from DeFrain, they have the depth and front running talent to be a serious contender throughout the 2026 season.

10. Wheaton (St. Francis)

Head Coach/Coaches: Joline Staeheli / Jason Accardi, Rob Whitacre

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

Key Returners: Elena Mamminga, Erin Hinsdale, Abby Yarusso, 

Key Additions: Clara Hall (Fr.), Quinn Foley (Fr.), Audry McCarty (Fr.), Madi Sloma (Jr.)

Outlook: The Spartans have established themselves as one of the premier programs in Class 2A, finishing among the Top 10 teams in the State in each of the past three seasons. That run culminated in a State trophy last fall, and they enter 2026 with another talented group capable of returning to the podium. The Spartans will be led by the outstanding trio of Elena Mamminga, Erin Hinsdale, and Abby Yarusso, all of whom have the potential to earn All State honors this season. Mamminga returns after finishing eighth at the State Meet in 2025 and followed that performance with an exceptional track season. She posted personal bests of 5:09 in the 1600 meters and 10:55 in the 3200 meters, helped the Spartans win the Class 2A State Championship in the 4x800 meter relay, and placed fifth in the 3200 meters at the State Meet. Hinsdale also enjoyed a tremendous junior season, finishing 11th at the State Meet before putting together one of the strongest track seasons in the classification. She ran personal bests of 5:02 in the 1600 meters and 11:17 in the 3200 meters, helped the Spartans capture the State Championship in the 4x800 meter relay, qualified for the State Meet in the 800 meters, and placed fourth in the 1600 meters. Yarusso narrowly missed All State honors in cross country last fall after finishing 29th but appears ready to make that leap in 2026. She also placed 10th in the 3200 meters at the State Track Meet while lowering her personal bests to 5:20 in the 1600 meters and 11:14 in the 3200 meters. Freshman Clara Hall is expected to make an immediate impact on the varsity lineup after running 5:46 during her middle school career. She gives the Spartans another promising piece as they look to replace key graduation losses. The biggest question for this team will be developing another scorer to run alongside Hall. If the Spartans can find that fifth runner and tighten the gap behind their outstanding front three, they have the talent to return to the State podium and compete for another trophy this fall.

11. Rockford (Boylan)

Head Coach/Coaches: Katherine Schmid

Last Year’s Finish: 13th @ IHSA 2A Lakes Sectional

Key Returners: Nora Wedwick (Jr.), Gabrielle Kohnle (Sr.), Elle Sosnowski (Jr.), Vanessa Tekampe (Sr.), Allie Hodge (So.), Olivia Mace (Sr.), Faith McGroarty (So.), Katelyn Nooner (So.), Caroline Baker (Sr.)

Outlook: The Titans experienced what many programs would consider a rebuilding season in 2025, yet still managed to finish fourth at the State Meet. With another year of development and an outstanding track season behind many of their athletes, they appear ready to make another push toward the top of the Class 2A standings. The Titans will be led by the duo of Gabrielle Kohnle and Nora Wedwick. Wedwick was the team's top runner last fall, earning All State honors with a 22nd place finish at the State Meet. She followed that performance with another excellent spring, earning All State honors in both the 4x400 meter relay and the 4x800 meter relay while also qualifying individually for the State Meet in the 800 meters. Kohnle also enjoyed a tremendous track season, running 11:18 in the 3200 meters while helping the Titans earn All State honors in the 4x800 meter relay. She should provide the Titans with another strong front runner this fall. Elle Sosnowski made one of the biggest jumps on the roster during the track season. She lowered her personal best to 5:20 in the 1600 meters, qualified individually for the State Meet in the event, and earned All State honors in both the 4x400 meter relay and the 4x800 meter relay. Vanessa Tekampe also took a significant step forward, lowering her personal best to 5:40 in the 1600 meters. Like her teammates, she earned All State honors in both the 4x400 meter relay and the 4x800 meter relay, giving the Titans outstanding depth throughout their lineup. The biggest question for this team will be finding a dependable fifth runner. If the Titans can develop another athlete capable of consistently running in the 19 minute range, they have all the pieces necessary to contend for another State trophy this fall.

12. Normal University

Head Coach/Coaches: Jill Burroughs

Last Year’s Finish: 18th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Leya Alcorn (Jr.), Chloe Layman (So.), Mili Davis (So.), Harper Funk (So.), Nora Bloebaum (Jr.), Eva Stalets (So.), Eva Barke (So.), Jocelyn Lewis (Sr.), Kelly Dietsch (So.)

Outlook: The Pioneers did not have the 2025 season they were hoping for, but they enter 2026 determined to bounce back. With a strong returning core and an emerging young star, they have the talent to work their way back into the top tier of the Class 2A rankings. The Pioneers will be led by sophomore Chloe Layman, who enjoyed an outstanding track season that included a personal best of 5:15 in the 1600 meters. After that breakthrough spring, Layman enters the cross country season firmly in the All State conversation and has the potential to become one of the top runners in the classification. Leya Alcorn returns after serving as the team's top runner last fall, finishing 73rd at the State Meet. She provides the Pioneers with an experienced and dependable second runner who should once again play a major role in the team's success. Mili Davis also returns after narrowly missing the top 100 at the State Meet with a 104th place finish. Harper Funk was another key scorer for the Pioneers last season, placing 157th at the State Meet, and will once again be counted on to provide valuable points. The final scoring position will likely come down to Nora Bloebaum or Eva Stalets. If one of them can develop into a runner capable of consistently competing in the low 19 minute range, the Pioneers will have the depth needed to contend for a Top 10 finish in the classification this fall.

13. Lake Villa (Lakes)

Head Coach/Coaches: Steph Gates

Last Year’s Finish: 11th @ IHSA 2A Lakes Sectional

Key Returners: Madison Schrader (So.), Hannah Salbilla (Sr.), Frances Makela (So.), Katelyn Kelly (Sr.), Kylie Smith (Jr.), Timyra Caces (Jr.), Caitlin Crawford (Sr.)

Key Additions: Bryn Ouimette (Fr.), Gema Marasovich (Fr.)

Outlook: The Eagles will look to return to the State Meet for the first time in two years. They have the talent to make that happen, but they will have to navigate one of the toughest sectionals in Class 2A to earn a berth. If they can put together strong performances throughout their lineup, they have the potential to finish among the top seven teams in the sectional. The Eagles will be led by Madison Schrader, who qualified for the State Meet as an individual in 2025 and finished 39th overall. After an outstanding junior season, Schrader enters this fall as a legitimate contender for All State honors. Hannah Salbilla has been a key contributor to the program over the past several seasons and enters her senior year as another experienced leader. She broke 19:00 last fall and has the potential to lower that mark into the mid 18:00 range this season. Frances Makela appears poised for a breakout cross country campaign after an excellent track season in which she lowered her personal best to 11:57 in the 3200 meters. Her continued development gives the Eagles another strong scoring option. Katelyn Kelly and Kylie Smith are expected to round out the scoring lineup and both have the potential to run in the mid 19:00 range this fall. If they can reach that level, the Eagles will have the depth necessary to compete with some of the top teams in the classification. The Eagles also have several talented freshmen who could develop into varsity contributors as the season progresses. If those newcomers make an impact, this team has the depth and experience to challenge for a return trip to the State Meet.

14. Arlington Heights (St. Viator)

Head Coach/Coaches: Bill Stanczak / Mike Olayos, Nick Fratto, Grace Kraft

Last Year’s Finish: 5th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Isabella Renguso (Sr.), Camila Fuentes (Sr.), Yuliana Manzanares (Jr.), Breanna Klokkenga (So.), Marin Janiak (So.), Sarah Kreiner (So.)

Key Additions: Gianna Suvada (Fr.), Emma Jahnke (Fr.), Hannah Long (Fr.)

Outlook: The Lions are coming off the best season in program history after finishing fifth at the State Meet in 2025. While several of their returning runners did not enjoy the track seasons they were hoping for, this remains a team with tremendous upside and the potential to once again finish among the top 10 teams in the Class 2A field. The Lions will be led by freshman Gianna Suvada, one of the top newcomers in the state. Suvada put together an outstanding middle school career, highlighted by a second place finish at the IESA State Cross Country Meet, a sixth place finish in the 800 meters, and a fourth place finish in the 1600 meters at the IESA State Track Meet. She enters high school with impressive personal bests of 2:24 in the 800 meters, 5:09 in the 1600 meters, and 11:46 in the 2 Mile, giving her the potential to make an immediate impact. Breanna Klokkenga returns after serving as the team's top runner during the 2025 cross country season, finishing 54th at the State Meet. Although she did not have the track season she was hoping for, posting a personal best of 11:55 in the 3200 meters, she has already proven she can compete at a high level during the cross country season and should provide the Lions with a strong second runner. Marin Janiak also returns after placing 78th at the State Meet last fall. She posted a personal best of 5:50 in the 1600 meters during the track season and should once again be a dependable scorer. Isabella Renguso finished 92nd at the State Meet in 2025 and lowered her personal best to 5:56 in the 1600 meters during the spring. If both Janiak and Renguso can return to the form they displayed last cross country season, the Lions will have one of the stronger front packs in the classification. Hannah Long is the leading candidate to round out the scoring lineup. After earning All State honors during her middle school cross country career, she will look to carry that success into her freshman season at the high school level. With one of the state's top incoming freshmen joining an experienced core that is capable of bouncing back after a challenging track season, the Lions have all the ingredients to surprise people once again and contend for another Top 10 finish at the State Meet.

15. Cary-Grove

Head Coach/Coaches: Mark Anderson

Last Year’s Finish: 17th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Alexandra Santoyo (Jr.), Isabella Limburg (Jr.), Isabella McMorris (So.), Maggie Jablonski (Jr.), Isabella Frangiamore (So.), Leah Tatroe (So.), Brook Gerstung (Sr.), Grace Puhar (So.)

Outlook: The Trojans are coming off an excellent 2025 season that culminated in a 17th place finish at the State Meet. With six runners returning from that lineup, they enter 2026 looking to build on that success and continue climbing the Class 2A rankings. The Trojans will be led by Alexandra Santoyo, who finished 38th at the State Meet last fall. She followed that performance with an outstanding track season, posting personal bests of 5:27 in the 1600 meters and 11:15 in the 3200 meters. Santoyo enters the fall as a legitimate contender for All State honors and gives the Trojans one of the stronger front runners in the classification. One of the team's greatest strengths will be the tight pack behind Santoyo. Isabella Frangiamore served as the Trojans' third runner at the State Meet last season, finishing 130th overall. Although she endured a difficult track season and posted a personal best of 6:07 in the 1600 meters, a return to her cross country form would make her a valuable scorer once again. Isabella Limburg also returns after placing 148th at the State Meet in 2025. She enjoyed an excellent spring, lowering her personal bests to 5:48 in the 1600 meters and 12:12 in the 3200 meters, positioning herself for a strong cross country season. Maggie Jablonski, Leah Tatroe, and Isabella McMorris round out one of the deepest packs on the roster. Just two seconds separated the three runners at the State Meet last fall, and all will compete for scoring positions throughout the season. That depth gives the Trojans multiple lineup options as they look to improve on last year's State Meet finish. With an All State caliber front runner, six experienced returners, and a tightly packed supporting group, the Trojans have the pieces to take another step forward and continue building on last season's breakthrough campaign.

16. Lemont

Head Coach/Coaches: Tim Plotke 

Last Year’s Finish: 16th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Hannah Farley (Jr.), Lizzy Rupsis (Jr.), Amelia Sinnett (Jr.), Ally Christman (Sr.)

Key Additions: Kaida Mescher (Fr.), Rylee Russell (Fr.), Mia Merkouris (Fr.), Malia Desai (Fr.)

Outlook: Lemont returns four members of the team that finished 16th at the State Meet last fall and adds an outstanding freshman class that could elevate the program to another level in 2026. With a proven front runner and several talented newcomers, Lemont will have the potential to make a significant jump in the Class 2A standings. The team will once again be led by two time Cross Country All Stater Hannah Farley. Farley finished 24th at the State Meet in 2025 and followed that performance with a solid track season, posting a personal best of 5:14 in the 1600 meters. As one of the most accomplished runners in the classification, she provides Lemont with a dependable low stick capable of leading the team throughout the postseason. Freshman Kaida Mescher is expected to step into the number two role immediately after an outstanding middle school career. Mescher earned All State honors in the 800 meters during her eighth grade track season and posted personal bests of 2:25 in the 800 meters and 5:33 in the 1600 meters. She also finished among the top 100 runners at the USATF National Cross Country Championships, giving her valuable experience against elite competition. Another freshman to watch is Rylee Russell, who also enjoyed an excellent middle school career. Russell owns personal bests of 5:41 in the 1600 meters and 12:42 in the 2 Mile and has the potential to break the 19 minute barrier during her first high school cross country season. Lizzy Rupsis returns after helping Lemont qualify for the State Meet in 2025, where she finished 105th overall. Her experience should make her an important leader as she works alongside Mescher and Russell to strengthen the team's scoring lineup. The fifth scoring position will likely belong to Amelia Sinnett, who placed 135th at the State Meet last fall. However, freshman Mia Merkouris will challenge for that spot and could work her way into the varsity lineup as the season progresses. With an experienced All State leader, several proven returners, and an exciting freshman class, Lemont has the talent to improve upon last year's State Meet finish and emerge as one of the more dangerous teams in Class 2A.

17. Crystal Lake South

Head Coach/Coaches: Ken Greenfield / Matt Dunker

Last Year’s Finish: 9th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Caroline Lucas (Jr.), Lily Brooks (Sr.), Abigail Magadan (So.), Cecelia Piemontese (Sr.), Kiera O’Leary (Jr.), Emme Reall (Jr.), Ellie Starnes )Jr.)

Key Additions: Maggie Golko (Sr.), Audrey Ahlstrom (Fr.), Quinn Allison (Fr.)

Unexpected Losses: Annalee Aarseth (Sr.)

Outlook: The Gators have established themselves as one of the premier programs in Class 2A, finishing in the Top 10 at the State Meet in each of the past six seasons. That impressive streak could be in jeopardy in 2026, but the Gators still have the talent to extend it if their lineup continues to develop throughout the fall. The team will be led by Caroline Lucas, who finished 40th at the State Meet last season. Lucas showed her potential with a 17:38 performance at the Lakes Sunset Invite before an uncharacteristically difficult race at the State Meet. After narrowly missing All State honors over the past two seasons, she enters 2026 with an excellent opportunity to finally break into the top 25. The Gators will have to replace a major piece of their lineup after Annalee Aarseth, the team's second runner in 2025, decided to focus on wrestling and will not compete this fall. That opens the door for Lily Brooks to step into the number two role. Brooks finished 114th at the State Meet last season and followed it up with an outstanding track campaign, lowering her personal best to 5:31 in the 1600 meters. She appears poised for a breakout cross country season. Abigail Magadan also returns after placing 120th at the State Meet in 2025. She will once again be counted on as a key scorer and gives the Gators another experienced runner in their front pack. The biggest question for this team will be the fourth and fifth scoring positions, where Cecilia Piemontese, Maggie Golko, Kiera O'Leary, and Emme Reall will all compete for varsity spots. If two runners from that group can consistently perform in the low 19 minute range, the Gators will have a legitimate chance to extend their streak of Top 10 finishes at the State Meet.

18. Rochester

Head Coach/Coaches: Bill Owens

Last Year’s Finish: 6th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Calista Gardner (Jr.), Amara Kaeding (Sr.), Talia Daniels (Jr.), Charlotte Long (Jr.)

Key Additions: Cali Lowder (Fr.), Pippa Gardner (Fr.)

Unexpected Losses: Sophia Dunn (So.)

Outlook: It is hard to believe the Rockets are entering the post Ziebert sisters era, as all three sisters have now graduated. Their impact helped establish one of the most successful stretches in program history, but the Rockets have enough returning talent to believe that success can continue. After qualifying for the State Meet in each of the past four seasons, they will be looking to extend that streak once again in 2026. The Rockets will be led by Calista Gardner, who finished 47th at the State Meet last fall. She followed up an outstanding cross country season with an excellent spring, qualifying for the State Meet in the 800 meters and the 4x400 meter relay while also earning All State honors as part of the Rockets' 4x800 meter relay. Gardner has the experience and talent to anchor this lineup throughout the season. Freshman Cali Lowder could quickly become one of the team's biggest contributors. She enjoyed an outstanding middle school career, running 12:23 for the 2 Mile while finishing 38th at the IESA State Cross Country Meet. Lowder has the talent to make an immediate impact and strengthen the Rockets' front pack. The remainder of the scoring lineup is expected to come from the trio of Amara Kaeding, Talia Daniels, and Charlotte Long. All three finished within four places of one another at the State Meet in 2025 and were separated by just four seconds, giving the Rockets one of the tighter scoring packs in the classification. Long could be in line for a breakout season after helping the Rockets earn All State honors in the 4x800 meter relay during the track season. If she continues that progression and the rest of the pack develops alongside her, the Rockets will have an excellent opportunity to qualify for the State Meet for a fifth consecutive season.

19. Bloomington

Head Coach/Coaches: Veronica Grundman / Brandon Thornton

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

Key Returners: Josie Skeate (Sr.), Lorelei Hulsing (So.), Ali Huffaker (So.), Morgan Hart (Sr.), Hailey Elizarraras (So.), Kylie Huffaker (Sr.), Penelope Johnson (Jr.)

Key Additions: Sydney Meierotto (Fr.), Mia Johnston (Fr.)

Outlook: The Purple Raiders are coming off an excellent 2025 season, and according to Coach Grundman, this year's team has the potential to be even better. With a talented returning core and several athletes coming off outstanding track seasons, the Purple Raiders have the pieces to emerge as one of the top teams in the Class 2A field. The team will be led by sophomore Lorelei Hulsing, who enjoyed a remarkable freshman campaign. Hulsing finished 55th at the Cross Country State Meet before breaking out during the track season. She qualified for the Class 3A State Meet in the 800 meters and posted personal bests of 2:15 in the 800 meters, 4:42 in the 1500 meters, and 10:38 in the 3000 meters. Her summer only added to the excitement, as she finished second in the 1500 meters, eighth in the 3000 meters, and third in the 4x800 meter relay at the AAU Junior Olympics. Those performances convert to approximately 5:02 for the 1600 meters and 11:25 for the 3200 meters, making her a legitimate contender for a Top 10 finish at the State Meet this fall. Josie Skeate is expected to be the team's second runner after placing 90th at the State Meet in 2025. She followed that performance with a strong track season, posting personal bests of 5:30 in the 1600 meters and 11:35 in the 3200 meters, positioning herself for another strong cross country campaign. Alison Huffaker returns after finishing 103rd at the State Meet last season and should once again be an important scorer for the Purple Raiders. Her sister, Kylie Huffaker, also adds valuable depth after an outstanding track season that saw her qualify for the Class 3A State Meet in both the 100 meter hurdles and the 300 meter hurdles. Kylie also proved herself as a cross country runner by finishing 128th at the State Meet last fall. The biggest question for the Purple Raiders will be developing a dependable fifth scorer. If they can find another runner capable of consistently competing in the low 19 minute range, they have the talent and depth to finish among the Top 10 teams in the Class 2A standings this season.

20. Sycamore

Head Coach/Coaches: Adam Bezinovich / Dolores Emma

Last Year’s Finish: 15th @ IHSA 2A Lakes Sectional

Key Returners: Chloe Shere (So.), Anna Anderson (So.), Kylie Kula (So.), Layna Berry (Jr.), Kendall Green (Sr.), Zoey Pearson (So.)

Key Additions: Alana Fix (So.), Violet Groom (Fr.), Adeline Coulter (Fr.)

Outlook: The Spartans are coming off an outstanding track season and enter the fall looking to take the next step as a program by qualifying for the State Meet for the first time since 2008. With a talented mix of returning athletes and promising newcomers, they have the potential to make a serious push for a postseason berth. The Spartans will be led by Chloe Shere, who enjoyed an exceptional freshman track season. Shere lowered her personal best to 2:17 in the 800 meters and helped her team finish fourth in the Class 2A State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay. Her speed and continued development make her one of the team's top front runners entering the cross country season. Anna Anderson and Alana Fix were also key members of that fourth place 4x800 meter relay. Anderson put together a strong track season, running a personal best of 2:29 in the 800 meters, and appears poised for a breakout cross country campaign. Fix will compete in cross country for the first time after contributing a 2:31 split on the State medal winning relay, making her one of the more intriguing newcomers to watch this fall. Kylie Kula returns as another important scorer after an excellent spring that included personal bests of 5:52 in the 1600 meters and 12:35 in the 3200 meters. Her continued improvement gives the Spartans another dependable contributor. Freshman Violet Groom is expected to round out the scoring lineup after an impressive middle school career that included a personal best of 12:43 in the 2 Mile. She has the talent to make an immediate impact at the varsity level. With a talented group of runners coming off an outstanding track season and several athletes still developing, the Spartans have the pieces to challenge for their first State Meet appearance in nearly two decades.

21. Mt. Zion

Head Coach/Coaches: Kelly Fox

Last Year’s Finish: 19th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Zoe Heitz (So.), Ellie Jones (So.), Sandra Munoz (Jr.), Lola Maldonado (Sr.), Elena Coon (Jr.), Ella Morgan (So.), Adalyn Patterson (Jr.), Georgia Sullivan (So.)

Outlook: The Braves will look to return to the State Meet once again this season after building a strong and experienced lineup. With several returning scorers and quality depth throughout the roster, they have the pieces to remain in the postseason conversation. The team will be led by Lola Maldonado, who enjoyed an excellent track season. She lowered her personal best to 5:35 in the 1600 meters and helped the Braves qualify for the State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay. Maldonado enters the fall as the team's front runner and will look to continue her steady progression on the cross country course. Zoe Heitz and Ellie Jones provide the Braves with an experienced second and third scoring duo after finishing 110th and 125th, respectively, at the State Meet in 2025. Both have proven they can compete on the state's biggest stage and will once again play important roles this season. Elena Coon is expected to be the team's fourth runner after an excellent track season in which she posted a personal best of 5:45 in the 1600 meters. She finished 153rd at the State Meet last fall and appears ready to take another step forward. The battle for the fifth scoring position should be one of the team's strengths. Adalyn Patterson, Sandra Munoz, and Ella Morgan are all capable of filling that role, and each has the potential to run in the low 19 minute range this season. If the Braves can continue to develop that depth, they will have an excellent opportunity to earn another trip to the State Meet.

22. Highland

Head Coach/Coaches: Megan McKee

Last Year’s Finish: 22nd @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Katie Fenton (So.), Brooklyn Giffhorn (Jr.), Morgan Greenwald (So.), Josie Kircher (Jr.), Rowan Passmore (Sr.), Adelaide Cook (So.)

Key Additions: Morgan Inlow (Fr.)

Outlook: The Bulldogs returned to the State Meet in 2025 after a four year absence and will be looking to make that appearance the start of another successful run. With four experienced scorers returning and several athletes coming off outstanding track seasons, the Bulldogs have the pieces to qualify for the State Meet once again. The team will be led by Katie Fenton, who emerged as the Bulldogs' top runner as a freshman last fall. Fenton finished 81st at the State Meet before putting together an excellent track season, lowering her personal bests to 5:46 in the 1600 meters and 11:57 in the 3200 meters. She enters her sophomore season as one of the team's biggest strengths. Morgan Greenwald is expected to be the Bulldogs' second runner after an outstanding spring. She posted personal bests of 5:33 in the 1600 meters and 12:31 in the 3200 meters while helping the Bulldogs finish third in the Class 2A State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay. Greenwald also qualified for the State Meet as a member of the 4x400 meter relay. Brooklyn Giffhorn returns after finishing 108th at the State Meet in 2025 and brings valuable postseason experience to the lineup. Josie Kircher also returns after placing 126th at the State Meet and followed that performance with an excellent track season, helping the Bulldogs earn a third place finish in the 4x800 meter relay at the State Meet. Rowan Passmore is expected to round out the scoring lineup after running 20:10 last season. If she can break the 20 minute barrier this fall, the Bulldogs will have the depth necessary to make another run at the State Meet. With a talented sophomore leader, an experienced supporting cast, and a group of runners coming off an outstanding track season, the Bulldogs are well positioned to qualify for the State Meet for a second consecutive year.

23. Chicago University

Head Coach/Coaches: Marty Billingsley

Last Year’s Finish: 23rd @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Taara Sajdeh (Sr.), Celia Lukas (Sr.), Morgan Purcell (Jr.), Suna Choi-Hortacsu (Sr.), Ledya Wreden (Sr.), Liv Rodriguez (Sr.), Tyra DeWeese (Sr.)

Key Additions: June Ridgway (So.), Katherine Blander (Fr.)

Outlook: The Maroons returned to the State Meet in 2025 for the first time in six years and now enter the 2026 season with the experience and talent to make another postseason run. Returning five members from last year's State qualifying squad, the Maroons have the foundation to once again contend for a State Meet berth. The team will be led by Taara Sajdeh, who enjoyed one of the best seasons of any runner in the classification. Sajdeh narrowly missed All State honors in cross country with a 30th place finish before putting together an outstanding track season. She finished fourth in the 3200 meters and sixth in the 1600 meters at the Class 2A State Meet while posting exceptional personal bests of 5:03 in the 1600 meters and 10:45 in the 3200 meters. She enters the fall as one of the top individual contenders in Class 2A. Celia Lukas gives the Maroons another outstanding front runner after finishing 77th at the State Meet in 2025. She qualified for the State Track Meet in both the 1600 meters and the 3200 meters and owns personal bests of 5:33 and 11:43, making her a dependable second scorer. Morgan Purcell returns after serving as the team's third runner during last year's State Meet appearance, where she finished 158th overall. Joining her in the scoring lineup should be freshman June Ridgway, who is expected to make her cross country debut after an excellent freshman track season. Ridgway qualified for the State Meet in both the 800 meters and the 4x800 meter relay while lowering her personal best to 5:53 in the 1600 meters. Suna Choi Hortacsu is the leading candidate to round out the scoring lineup after finishing 187th at the State Meet last fall. She also qualified for the State Track Meet as a member of the 4x800 meter relay, adding more postseason experience to the roster. With one of the top front runners in the classification, a strong supporting cast, and several athletes coming off successful track seasons, the Maroons have all the pieces to return to the State Meet and continue building on last year's breakthrough season.

24. Elmhurst (Timothy Christian)

Head Coach/Coaches: Laura Pergande

Last Year’s Finish: 14th @ IHSA 1A State Championships

Key Returners: Lyla Plaisier (So.), Maddie Turner (Jr.), Addison Butler (Jr.), Eden Moore (Sr.), Abbee Baker (Jr.), Phoebe Leppink (Jr.)

Key Additions: Kaitlyn Pergande (Fr.), Megan Lumkes (Fr.)

Outlook: The Trojans have quickly emerged as one of the top programs in the classification and appear poised for another strong season. They will once again be led by Lyla Plaisier, who is coming off an outstanding freshman campaign. Plaisier finished 11th at the State Cross Country Meet and followed that performance with an impressive track season, posting personal bests of 5:14 in the 1600 meters and 11:14 in the 3200 meters. Joining Plaisier at the front of the lineup will be freshman Kaitlyn Pergande, one of the most highly regarded newcomers in the classification. Pergande enjoyed an exceptional middle school career, running 11:50 for 2 Miles in cross country. She also demonstrated impressive range during track season by running 59.89 in the 400 meters and 5:21 in the 1600 meters. Her versatility gives the Trojans another runner with tremendous upside. Addison Butler also had an excellent track season and is expected to be one of the team's third or fourth runners alongside Maddie Turner. Butler posted personal bests of 2:26 in the 800 meters and 5:42 in the 1600 meters, while Turner was the Trojans' second runner at last year's State Meet after running 19:34. The final scoring position will likely come down to Megan Lumkes, Abbee Baker, and Phoebe Leppink. If one of those three athletes can develop into a runner capable of breaking 20:00 this fall, the Trojans should have an excellent opportunity to finish among the top 25 teams at the State Meet.

25. Carterville

Head Coach/Coaches: Nancy Adams / Caleb Swartz, Mike Robertson

Last Year’s Finish: 25th @ IHSA 2A State Championship

Key Returners: Lane Sambursky (Jr.), Lyla Seaman (Sr.), Claire Samples (So.), Landry Crain (Sr.), Alissa Ruiz (Jr.), Liesel Balmforth (Sr.), Rose Balmforth (So.)

Outlook: The Lions have qualified for the State Meet in each of the past two seasons and will be looking to make it three consecutive appearances in 2026. With an experienced core returning and several athletes coming off strong track seasons, the Lions have the talent to remain in the postseason conversation. Laney Sambursky is expected to once again lead the team after finishing 60th at the Cross Country State Meet last fall. She followed that performance by qualifying for the Class 2A State Track Meet in the 800 meters and owns impressive personal bests of 2:20 in the 800 meters and 5:35 in the 1600 meters. Sambursky gives the Lions a proven front runner capable of leading the team throughout the season. Lyla Seaman appears poised for a breakout cross country campaign. After placing 89th at the State Meet in 2025, she qualified for the State Track Meet in both the 800 meters and the 4x800 meter relay. Her personal best of 2:23 in the 800 meters, along with the confidence expressed by Coach Adams, suggests she could take a significant step forward this fall. Claire Stamples is projected to be the team's third runner after finishing 129th at the State Meet last season. Her postseason experience provides another dependable scorer for the Lions. The final scoring positions will be critical to the team's success. Landry Crain and Liesel Balmforth are the leading candidates to round out the varsity lineup after both helped the Lions qualify for the State Track Meet in the 4x800 meter relay. If they continue to develop throughout the season, the Lions will have an excellent opportunity to extend their streak of State Meet appearances to three consecutive years.