2026 Pre-Season XC Previews: 2A Boys 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. Dixon

Coaches: Simon Thorpe / Aiden Johnson

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

Key Returners: Dean Gieger (Sr.), Averick Wiseman (Sr.), Ethan Carter (So.), Alonzo Bautista (So.), Abe Garcia (So.), Brody Hopper (Sr.), Jaron Greve (So.), Jacob Wendt (So.), Jense Atkinson (So.)

Key Newcomers: Bentlee Lawrenz (Fr.), Myles Bautista (Fr.)

Outlook: After a dominant 2025 campaign that culminated in the IHSA Class 2A State Championship, the Dukes return with virtually every key contributor back in the lineup and appear poised to make another run at the top of the classification. Dixon boasts one of the deepest and most talented rosters in Class 2A, with proven All-State talent, one of Illinois' top incoming freshmen, and an impressive group of underclassmen continuing to develop. With so much experience returning from a championship squad, the Dukes enter 2026 as the clear favorite to defend their Class 2A title. Leading the charge are returning All-Staters Dean Geiger and Averick Wiseman, giving Dixon one of the strongest front-end duos in Illinois. Geiger shifted his focus to the 800 meters during the track season and responded with an outstanding personal best of 1:54.29, showcasing the speed that makes him a dangerous cross country competitor. Wiseman enjoyed an equally impressive spring while concentrating on the 1600 meters, ultimately running a converted 4:14 at a postseason meet in Iowa. That performance ranks him among the top returning milers in the state, and both Geiger and Wiseman enter the fall as legitimate contenders to finish inside the top ten individually at the State Meet. The biggest addition to Dixon's front pack may actually come from within. Ethan Carter missed much of last cross country season because of a hamstring injury, but returned in time for the State Meet and still managed an impressive 15:01 despite having only five weeks of training. Now healthy after a full track season, Carter appears primed for a major breakthrough. If he continues his rapid development, he has the talent to emerge as an All-State contender and give the Dukes a devastating three-man front pack. Freshman Bentlee Lawrenz immediately elevates an already loaded roster. Widely regarded as one of the top incoming freshmen in Illinois, Lawrenz arrives after a remarkable middle school career that included IESA State Championships in cross country, the 800 meters, and the 1600 meters. His personal bests of 2:03 in the 800 meters and 4:25 in the 1600 meters are exceptional for an incoming freshman, and he has all the tools to make an immediate impact at the varsity level. The Dukes' depth only continues from there. Alonzo Bautista enjoyed an outstanding freshman season that culminated in a 4:22 performance in the 1600 meters at Illinois Top Times while also contributing to Dixon's runner-up 4x800-meter relay at the State Meet. He has already established himself as one of the top sophomores in Illinois and should play a significant scoring role this fall. Abram Garcia also turned in an exceptional freshman campaign. He posted the fourth-fastest freshman 800-meter time in the state at 1:59.37 while also running 4:28 in the 1600 meters, one of the fastest freshman performances in Illinois. Like Bautista, Garcia gives Dixon another young athlete with tremendous upside. Perhaps the biggest factor in determining just how dominant this team can become is the continued progression of Ethan Carter. If he develops into the All-State caliber runner his talent suggests, Dixon could feature three athletes capable of finishing among the top 15 individually at the State Meet. Combined with one of the strongest freshman additions in the state and exceptional depth throughout the lineup, the Dukes possess all the ingredients to separate themselves from the rest of Class 2A. Simply put, Dixon returns nearly every piece from last year's championship squad while adding another elite young talent to the mix. With experience, front-end firepower, and remarkable depth, the Dukes enter the 2026 season as the overwhelming favorite to defend their Class 2A State Championship.

2. Morton

Coaches: Thomas Razo / Kat Kerns

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

Key Returners: Maxwell Carter (Sr.), Abe Martin (Jr.), Keyston Beyer (Sr.), Duke Hendrick (Sr.), Owen Riesberg (So.), Isaiah Hartter (Jr.), Noah Harris (Jr.), Logan Deverman (Sr.), Milo Kaiser (So.), Ben Roth (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Ben Volpert (Fr.)

Outlook: On paper, the Potters may have the deepest team in all of Class 2A. After bringing home a State trophy in 2025, Morton returns every member of that lineup, including three returning All-Staters and one of the strongest supporting casts in the classification. The Potters backed up their outstanding cross country season with an excellent spring that was highlighted by a fourth-place finish in the Class 2A 4x800-meter relay. While preseason favorite Dixon added one of the state's elite freshmen this offseason, Morton counters with unmatched experience and depth. If the Potters continue the progression they showed throughout the track season, they have every opportunity to compete for a State Championship this fall. Morton's strength begins with its outstanding front trio of Maxwell Carter, Abe Martin, and Keyston Beyer. All three earned All-State honors during last year's cross country season and return with realistic aspirations of standing on the podium once again in November. Carter enters the season as one of the top runners in Class 2A after making major strides during the track season. His continued improvement has positioned him to challenge for a top-10 finish at the State Meet, and if he reaches that level, Morton's championship aspirations become even more realistic. Martin enjoyed one of the finest middle-distance seasons of any sophomore in Illinois this spring. His combination of speed and endurance gives him tremendous upside entering cross country, and he appears poised to once again finish among the top 25 runners in the classification. Beyer also took a significant step forward on the track, lowering his personal bests and continuing his development after last fall's All-State campaign. Like Martin, he has the talent to return to the All-State podium and provide Morton with one of the strongest front threes in Illinois. The supporting cast is every bit as impressive. Duke Hendrick could prove to be the X factor that elevates the Potters from trophy contender to State Champion. After running 15:40 for three miles last fall, Hendrick exploded during the track season, lowering his personal bests to 4:26 in the 1600 meters and 9:47 in the 3200 meters. Those performances suggest he is primed for a breakout cross country season and could become one of the top fourth runners in the state. Freshman Owen Riesberg gives Morton another exciting weapon. Already owning a 4:33 personal best in the 1600 meters, Riesberg enters high school as one of the premier freshmen in Class 2A. His talent should allow him to make an immediate impact, and he has the potential to improve rapidly throughout the season. Few teams can match Morton's depth beyond its projected scoring five. Isaiah Hartter returns after running 15:28 in each of the past two cross country seasons, while Noah Harris owns a personal best of 15:38 for three miles. Having runners of that caliber competing for varsity spots is a luxury that very few programs possess and provides the Potters with outstanding lineup flexibility throughout the year. The biggest difference between Morton and Dixon on paper may simply be the addition of an elite freshman capable of immediately challenging near the front of the State Meet. Otherwise, the Potters have every ingredient necessary to win a championship: three proven All-Staters, exceptional depth, and a supporting cast that continues to improve. If Carter makes the leap into the top ten individually and Hendrick delivers the breakout season many expect, Morton has all the pieces needed to contend for the Class 2A State Championship.

3. Peoria (Notre Dame)

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

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

Key Returners: Maxwell Kirby (Sr.), John Baker (Sr.), Luke Fady (Jr.), Frederic Couri (Sr.), Joshua Stedwill (Sr.), Ben Yontz (Sr.), Gabe Yontz (So), Augie Crank (Sr.)

Outlook: It is not often that a program moves up from Class 1A and immediately establishes itself as one of the top teams in Class 2A, but Peoria Notre Dame appears capable of doing exactly that. The Irish have steadily built toward this moment over the past two seasons, and now their talented core has reached its senior year. This experienced group has developed into one of the most complete teams in the classification and enters the season with legitimate State trophy aspirations. While some of the teams around them may boast flashier track credentials, Peoria Notre Dame has consistently proven that its runners elevate their performances once cross country season arrives. Leading the way is Maxwell Kirby, one of the premier front runners in Class 2A. Kirby has established himself as one of the state's best cross country competitors after running an outstanding 14:20 at last year's State Meet to finish sixth overall and earn All-State honors. Although he continued to improve during the track season with personal bests of 4:28 in the 1600 meters and 9:28 in the 3200 meters, it is on the grass where he has consistently been at his best. He enters the fall with realistic expectations of challenging for a top-five finish and gives the Irish one of the strongest low sticks in the classification. John Baker returns as the team's dependable second runner after playing a key role throughout last season. Baker ran 15:16 at the State Meet while providing outstanding consistency all year. He backed that up with another excellent spring, lowering his personal bests to 4:30 in the 1600 meters and 9:47 in the 3200 meters. Those performances suggest he is well positioned to once again be one of the top number-two runners in Class 2A. Luke Fady should once again form a strong pack alongside Baker. After running 15:26 during last year's cross country season, Fady continued his steady progression on the track, lowering his 1600-meter personal best to 4:35. Another summer of development should position him for another significant improvement this fall. Frederic Couri has also established himself as a runner who consistently performs at his best during cross country season. He was a valuable fourth scorer for the Irish last fall, running 15:33 while helping lead the team to another outstanding finish. Couri posted a solid personal best in the 1600 meters during the spring, but like teammate Kirby, his greatest strength has always been the three-mile distance. Expect him to once again be a dependable scorer when the championship season arrives. Joshua Stedwill rounds out what could be one of the strongest scoring fives in Class 2A. Competing in his first track season, Stedwill immediately showed tremendous promise by running 4:33 in the 1600 meters and 9:59 in the 3200 meters. With that experience now under his belt, he appears poised for another major jump during cross country. The common theme throughout this roster is that the athletes consistently outperform what their track credentials alone might suggest. Year after year, this group has elevated its performances on the grass, and there is little reason to believe that trend will stop now. Their pack running, experience, and ability to peak during the fall make them one of the most dangerous teams in the classification. With an elite front runner, a veteran supporting cast, and a roster full of proven cross country performers, Peoria Notre Dame has all the pieces necessary to contend for a State trophy in its second season competing in Class 2A again. If this experienced senior class finishes its career the way it has steadily progressed over the past two years, the Irish could become one of the biggest success stories of the 2026 season.

4. Deerfield

Coaches: Scott Friedlander / Bill Anderson, Jess Brown, Noelan Tossing

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

Key Returners: Andrew Calderon (Sr.), Becket Shifrin (Jr.), Ethan Reich (Sr.), Jace Tossing (So.), Itai Gelber (So.), Logan Luo (Sr.) Jasper Fine (Sr.), Ben Borucki (Jr.), Brady Knutsen (Sr.), Kevin Hou (Jr.), Lucas Bryan (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Chris Bennie (Fr.)

Outlook: Few programs in Illinois develop depth quite like Deerfield, and that is exactly why the Warriors find themselves back in the State trophy conversation despite graduating an outstanding senior class. Last year's squad brought home another State trophy, but instead of rebuilding, Deerfield reloads with a mixture of proven varsity contributors, talented underclassmen, and one of the state's premier freshman recruits. If everything falls into place, the Warriors have the pieces to return to the podium and could even find themselves battling the top teams in Class 2A. Leading the way is Andrew Calderon, the top returning runner from last year's trophy-winning squad. Calderon finished the season with an outstanding 14:57 performance at the State Meet and continued his steady development during the track season by lowering his personal bests to 4:18 in the 1600 meters and 9:29 in the 3200 meters. He enters the fall as one of the top returning runners in Class 2A and will likely need to earn All-State honors if Deerfield hopes to secure another trophy. Joining him up front is Becket Shifrin, who could become one of the breakout stars of the season. After making his varsity cross country debut with an impressive 15:11 for three miles last fall, Shifrin took another significant step forward during the spring. He lowered his personal bests to 4:26 in the 1600 meters and 9:34 in the 3200 meters, establishing himself as a legitimate All-State contender. If Shifrin makes that jump, Deerfield's front-end firepower becomes one of the best in the classification. Ethan Reich provides valuable experience as the final returning scorer from last year's State trophy team. Reich ran 15:24 at the State Meet before seeing his track season cut short by injury. If he returns healthy this fall, he has the talent to significantly improve upon last year's performance and give the Warriors another dependable scorer. One of the most intriguing additions in Class 2A is freshman Chris Bennie. Bennie was one of the premier middle school distance runners in Illinois, highlighted by a remarkable 10:30 performance at the IESA State Meet as a seventh grader. Now entering one of the state's best developmental programs, his upside is tremendous. If Bennie adapts quickly to the high school level and develops into a varsity scorer by November, Deerfield's ceiling rises dramatically. The race for the fifth scoring position will be one of the most competitive battles on the roster. Logan Luo enters the season as the slight favorite after an excellent track campaign that saw him run 4:35 in the 1600 meters and 2:00 in the 800 meters. Although his current three-mile personal best is 16:10, Deerfield has consistently developed runners who make major improvements during cross country season, making Luo a strong candidate to take another significant step forward. The Warriors also have several talented athletes pushing for varsity spots. Rising sophomores Jace Tossing and Itai Gelber posted nearly identical track seasons, each running 4:38 in the 1600 meters while also breaking into the low 10-minute range in the 3200 meters. Neither enjoyed the cross country season they had hoped for as freshmen, but both possess the talent to improve dramatically this fall. Jasper Fine is another intriguing option after battling injuries throughout much of his career. When healthy, Fine has shown his potential, running 4:36 in the 1600 meters and 10:09 in the 3200 meters during the indoor season. What separates Deerfield from many of the other contenders is its depth. The Warriors have multiple athletes capable of filling varsity scoring positions, creating internal competition that has become a hallmark of the program's sustained success. Despite graduating several key seniors, they once again have the pieces to compete at the highest level. If Calderon and Shifrin both earn All-State honors, Reich returns to full strength, and one of the talented underclassmen emerges as a reliable scorer, Deerfield has all the ingredients necessary to capture another State trophy. With one of the deepest rosters in Class 2A and a proven developmental system, the Warriors are built not only to contend this season but to remain among the state's elite for years to come.

5. Aurora (Central Catholic)

Coaches: Troy Kerber / Larry Lillwitz, Jose Lopez, Kaitlin Dineen

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

Key Returners: John Reinbold (Jr.), Ben Bohr (Sr.), Cal Reinbold (Jr.), Bryan Lopez (Sr.), Reece Voller (Sr.), AJ Viveros (Sr.), Brecken Oester (Jr.), Aiden Goecker (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Luke Matejcak (Fr.), Ethan Riddell (Fr.), Noah Yankewicz (Fr.), Charlie Hilby (Fr.)

Outlook: Aurora Central Catholic may have graduated several key contributors from last year's outstanding squad, but the Chargers remain firmly in the hunt for another State trophy. The program has consistently developed front-line talent, and this year's roster is no different. Led by one of the premier sophomore duos in Illinois and backed by an experienced senior class, Aurora Central Catholic has the firepower to once again compete among the top teams in Class 2A. If the Chargers can develop a reliable third scorer behind their two stars, they have all the ingredients to make a podium run. Leading the way is sophomore John Reinbold, who has already established himself as one of the brightest young stars in Illinois distance running. Reinbold is one of only six returning All-Staters in the Class of 2028 and enters the season as one of the most talented runners in the state regardless of class. He enjoyed a tremendous track season, lowering his personal best to 4:17 in the 1600 meters while also helping Aurora Central Catholic capture the Class 2A State Championship in the 4x800-meter relay with a sub-1:55 split. After earning All-State honors as a freshman, Reinbold enters the fall with his sights set on another podium finish and potentially an even higher placing. Alongside him is Ben Bohr, giving the Chargers one of the strongest one-two combinations in Class 2A. Bohr took another major step forward during the spring, lowering his personal best to 4:20 in the 1600 meters while also splitting under 1:55 on Aurora Central Catholic's state championship 4x800-meter relay. He narrowly missed earning an All-State medal in cross country a year ago, and after the progress he displayed during track season, he appears poised to break onto the podium this fall. The biggest X-factor for the Chargers may be Cal Reinbold. John's twin brother has battled injuries throughout much of his high school career, preventing him from building consistent momentum. This past spring finally provided a healthy season, and he responded by lowering his personal best to 9:52 in the 3200 meters. If he can remain healthy throughout the fall, Cal has the talent to develop into an outstanding third runner and dramatically raise Aurora Central Catholic's team ceiling. Behind the Reinbold brothers, the Chargers return an experienced group of seniors capable of rounding out another strong varsity lineup. Reece Voller served as the team's fourth runner at last year's State Meet after running 15:43 for three miles and brings valuable championship experience back to the roster. Bryan Lopez matched Voller's 15:43 personal best last season and has continued to develop into another dependable scoring option. A.J. Viveros was close behind at 15:45 as the team's sixth runner and also returns after another productive track campaign. All three veterans have the experience and ability to continue improving during their final cross country season. Aurora Central Catholic's success this fall will ultimately depend on the development of a true three-man front pack. Reinbold and Bohr already give the Chargers one of the best low-stick combinations in the classification, but if Cal Reinbold can stay healthy and reach the level his talent suggests, Aurora Central Catholic becomes a legitimate threat to challenge for another State trophy. Combined with the steady veteran depth provided by Voller, Lopez, and Viveros, the Chargers have more than enough pieces to remain among the elite teams in Class 2A. While graduation took away some key contributors, Aurora Central Catholic continues to demonstrate why it has become one of the state's premier distance programs. With elite talent up front, experienced depth throughout the lineup, and several runners capable of taking another step forward, the Chargers enter the 2026 season with realistic expectations of once again standing on the podium in November.

6. Washington

Coaches: Kathryn Petravick / Troy Walcott

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

Key Returners: Ben Gorsage (Sr.), Alex Linneman (Jr.), Ethan Adams (Jr.), Evan Goettler (So.), Ethan Sakata (Sr.), Jonah Rose (So.), Jayce Hughes (Jr.), Aiden Crull (Sr.), JB Redling (So.)

Key Newcomers: Bentlee Link (Fr.), Teyden Fehr (Fr.), Reid Lang (Fr.)

Outlook: The Panthers enter the 2026 season with one of the youngest rosters among the top teams in Class 2A, but that youth also brings tremendous upside. Washington has assembled an exciting core of underclassmen around one of the state's elite front runners, and the program appears ready to take another significant step forward. If the Panthers' young talent continues to develop throughout the fall, they have the potential to compete for one of the top trophies in Class 2A. Leading the way is senior Ben Gorsage, one of the premier distance runners in Illinois. Gorsage enjoyed an outstanding junior campaign on the grass, running 14:33 to establish himself as one of the top returners in the classification. He followed that up with an exceptional track season, highlighted by a blistering 1:48.60 performance in the 800 meters at the HOKA Festival of Miles. His combination of elite speed and proven cross country success makes him a legitimate contender for another top-10 finish at the State Meet. As the lone veteran at the front of the roster, Gorsage will also be counted on to provide leadership for an otherwise youthful squad. Behind him, Ethan Adams and Alex Linneman appear set to battle for the number two position throughout the season. Adams quietly put together an outstanding spring, lowering his personal bests to 4:38 in the 1600 meters and 9:38 in the 3200 meters. His continued progression suggests he is ready to make a substantial jump during cross country. Linneman brings a different skill set but just as much potential. He emerged as Washington's second-fastest 800-meter runner during the spring after running an impressive 1:57.14. The Panthers have developed a reputation for turning talented middle-distance runners into outstanding cross country athletes, making Linneman another runner with significant upside. Both he and Adams own three-mile personal bests in the 15:30 range after trading places throughout last season, and if both can make the leap into the low 15-minute range, Washington's ceiling rises dramatically. Sophomore Evan Goettler also returns after a promising freshman campaign. Goettler served as Washington's fourth runner at the State Meet after running 15:48 for three miles. Although injuries limited much of his track season, he still managed personal bests of 2:11 in the 800 meters and 4:48 in the 1600 meters before being sidelined. With a healthy offseason behind him, he appears poised for another step forward. Perhaps the most intriguing storyline surrounding the Panthers is their incoming freshman class. Bentlee Link arrives as one of the top freshmen in Class 2A after an outstanding middle school career. Link posted exceptional personal bests of 2:04 in the 800 meters and 4:45 in the 1600 meters while also running 10:45 during the middle school cross country season. His talent gives him the opportunity to make an immediate varsity impact, and if he develops into one of Washington's top scorers by November, the Panthers' team ceiling becomes significantly higher. The freshman class does not stop there. Teyden Fehr enters high school after running 5:02 in the 1600 meters and 11:11 during the middle school cross country season. Reid Lang is another talented newcomer after running 11:13 in cross country while posting a 4:58 1600-meter performance as a seventh grader. Both athletes possess tremendous long-term potential and could contribute to the varsity lineup before the season concludes. Washington's success will ultimately depend on how quickly its young runners develop around Gorsage. The Panthers already have one of the best front runners in the state, but if Adams, Linneman, Goettler, and the talented freshman class continue progressing throughout the fall, this team has the potential to become one of the biggest surprises in Class 2A. The talent is certainly there for Washington to compete for a State trophy, and with continued growth from its underclassmen, the Panthers could realistically find themselves battling for a top-three finish by November.

7. Mahomet (M.-Seymour)

Coaches: Andrew Walmer

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

Key Returners: Adam Smigielski (Jr.), Tate Bode (Sr.), Tayten Gergen (Jr.), Carter Alderks (Jr.), Liam Burwell (Jr.), Henry Welch (Jr.), Jackson Koontz (Sr.), Jack Van Hoorn (Sr.), Caleb Zulauf (So.), Will Bednar (So.), Kiptyn Fan (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Gavin McMinn (Fr.)

Outlook: The Bulldogs enter 2026 in what could best be described as a reload rather than a rebuild. After capturing the Class 2A State Runner-Up trophy last fall, Mahomet-Seymour graduated two of the biggest pieces from that squad in Augustus Gaudio and Henry McMurry. Even with those departures, the Bulldogs return enough talent to remain firmly in the hunt for another Top 10 finish. The roster is considerably younger than a year ago, but the program has consistently developed runners throughout the summer and fall, making this another dangerous team with plenty of upside. Leading the way is Adam Smigielski, who enters the season as one of the best runners in Class 2A without an All-State medal to his name. Smigielski served as Mahomet-Seymour's second runner during last year's runner-up finish, posting an outstanding 14:48 at the State Meet but narrowly missing the podium with a 27th-place finish. He continued to improve during the track season by lowering his personal bests in both the 1600 and 3200 meters, positioning himself as a strong candidate to finally earn All-State honors this fall. Tate Bode appears ready to slide into the number two role after focusing primarily on the 800 meters during the spring. He played a key role on Mahomet-Seymour's third-place 4x800-meter relay that clocked 7:48 at the State Meet, showcasing his outstanding speed. With a three-mile personal best of 15:05 already on his résumé, Bode has the tools to once again become one of the top second runners in the classification. Tayten Gergen returns as the final scoring member from last year's State trophy team. Gergen's greatest strength has been on the grass, where he ran 15:24 while dropping nearly a full minute from the previous season. Although his track improvements were more gradual, another strong summer of training could position him for another significant breakthrough and solidify the Bulldogs' front three. The biggest storyline for Mahomet-Seymour may be the emergence of its talented junior class. Carter Alderks and Liam Burwell both enjoyed strong track seasons, posting nearly identical personal bests of 10:11 and 10:16 in the 3200 meters. After running in the low 16-minute range during cross country last fall, both appear poised to break into the 15-minute range and provide valuable scoring depth. Henry Welch also took a major step forward during the spring, lowering his personal bests to 4:46 in the 1600 meters and 10:15 in the 3200 meters. Because he saw limited opportunities during cross country last season, Welch enters the fall as one of the Bulldogs' biggest breakout candidates and has the potential to become an important varsity contributor. Jackson Koontz and Jack Van Hoorn provide even more depth after continuing to improve throughout the track season. Both have steadily lowered their personal bests and give Mahomet-Seymour additional options as the varsity lineup begins to take shape. The Bulldogs will need several young runners to make substantial improvements if they hope to return to the State trophy stand, but that has become a hallmark of the program. Year after year, Mahomet-Seymour athletes take significant leaps during the offseason, and this roster appears capable of continuing that tradition. Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of this team is its youth. With only one or two seniors projected to crack the varsity lineup, this group has the potential to remain among the top programs in Class 2A for several years. While replacing the production of Gaudio and McMurry will not be easy, the Bulldogs have more than enough talent to remain one of the state's premier teams. If their young runners continue developing at the rate Mahomet-Seymour has become known for, another Top 10 finish and perhaps even another State trophy remains well within reach.

8. Glen Ellyn (Glenbard South)

Coaches: Doug Gorski, Chris MacTaggert

Last Year’s Finish: 13th @ IHSA 2A State Championships

Key Returners: Thomas Jochum (Sr.), Giancarlo Pietrasanta (Jr.), Evan Rubinas (Jr.), Trent Galas (Jr.), Andrew Walter (Jr.), Leo OBrill (Jr.), Connor McKenna (Sr.) Austin Frederick (Sr.)

Outlook: It has been two years since Glenbard South has found itself in the Class 2A Top 10 conversation, but that drought could come to an end this fall. The Raiders possess one of the greatest low-stick combinations in the classification, headlined by the top-ranked individual in Class 2A. If the supporting cast can continue its development, Glenbard South has the firepower to return to the State's elite and make its first Top 10 finish in years. Everything starts with Thomas Jochum, who enters the season as the consensus favorite for the individual Class 2A State Championship. Jochum has developed into one of the premier distance runners in Illinois regardless of classification after an extraordinary junior campaign. Last fall, he ran an outstanding 14:15 at the State Meet, one of the fastest returning three-mile performances in Class 2A, while displaying remarkable strength by closing the race with a negative split. He backed that up with arguably the best track season in the classification, posting a converted 8:59 for 3200 meters after running 9:02 for the full two miles at New Balance Nationals and lowering his 1600-meter personal best to a blistering 4:10 at the Illinois Indoor Championships. Jochum enters the fall as the clear individual favorite and gives Glenbard South one of the lowest scoring opportunities of any team in Illinois. The Raiders also feature an outstanding second front runner in Giancarlo Pietrasanta, who appears ready to make the leap into All-State territory. Pietrasanta ran an impressive 14:53 at last year's State Meet before carrying that momentum into an outstanding track season. He lowered his personal bests to 1:56 in the 800 meters and 4:19 in the 1600 meters while demonstrating his fearless racing style throughout the spring. At the Illinois Indoor Championships, Pietrasanta boldly led the mile through the opening half against some of the state's top runners, including Phillip Cupial and Owen Horeni. His willingness to race aggressively, combined with his continued development, makes him one of the strongest number two runners in Class 2A. Evan Rubinas provides a solid third scorer after another productive year of improvement. He lowered his personal bests to 2:03 in the 800 meters and 4:38 in the 1600 meters during the track season, but his most valuable performance remains the 15:24 he ran during last year's cross country season. If Rubinas returns to that level this fall, he gives Glenbard South a dependable third runner capable of keeping the Raiders firmly in trophy contention. The biggest question surrounding the Raiders lies with the development of Trent Galas and Andrew Walter. Both athletes have steadily improved throughout their high school careers and now have an opportunity to become the final pieces of Glenbard South's varsity lineup. Galas made one of the biggest jumps on the team during the spring, lowering his 800-meter personal best by 15 seconds to 2:02. Walter also enjoyed a productive season, trimming approximately 10 seconds from his 1600-meter best and another 12 seconds from his 800-meter time. Their current three-mile personal bests of 16:17 and 16:30 leave plenty of room for improvement, and another strong summer of training could easily see both runners move into the low 16-minute range. Ultimately, Glenbard South's season will be determined by its chase pack. There is little question about the strength of Jochum and Pietrasanta at the front of the lineup, as they form one of the most dangerous one-two combinations in Class 2A. The key will be whether Rubinas, Galas, and Walter can continue their progression and compress the team's overall split. If the supporting cast takes another step forward, the Raiders have more than enough front-end firepower to return to the Top 10 and reestablish themselves among the premier programs in Class 2A. With the individual favorite for the State Championship leading the way and a rapidly improving supporting cast behind him, Glenbard South enters 2026 as one of the most intriguing teams in the classification.

9. Lincoln

Coaches: Kim King / Jenna Crombie

Key Returners: Preston Short (Sr.), Owen Cyrulik (Sr.), Henry Stolzenburg (Jr.), Pierce King (Jr.), Colin Crombie (Sr.), Andres Pablo (So.)

Outlook: Few Class 2A programs have enjoyed as much success in the 4x800-meter relay as Lincoln over the past decade, and that middle-distance tradition has assembled another team capable of making noise during cross country season. The Railsplitters produced one of the state's top 2A 4x800-meter relays this spring, running 7:48 and earning a sixth-place finish at the State Meet. Now, that same talented group will shift its focus to the three-mile distance in hopes of earning a Top 10 finish at the Cross Country State Meet. While depth remains a concern, Lincoln's top five has the talent to compete with nearly anyone in the classification. Leading the way is Owen Cyrulik, one of the premier middle-distance runners in Class 2A. Cyrulik enjoyed an outstanding junior campaign, placing seventh in the open 800 meters at the State Meet after running a blazing 1:54.40 while also helping Lincoln earn All-State honors in the 4x800-meter relay. He continued his breakout season by lowering his 1600-meter personal best to 4:19 at Magis Miles, proving he has the range necessary to become a dangerous cross country runner. If that track fitness translates to the grass, Cyrulik could find himself in the All-State conversation by November. Joining him up front is Preston Short, who gives Lincoln another outstanding low-stick option. Short returns as the team's top cross country performer after running 15:25 for three miles last season. He also enjoyed an excellent spring, highlighted by a 4:22 personal best in the 1600 meters and a lifetime-best 1:55.8 relay split in the 4x800 meters at the Collinsville Invitational. His combination of cross country experience and middle-distance speed makes him another runner capable of competing for an All-State finish. Pierce King gives the Railsplitters a strong third scorer after another impressive season of development. King lowered his 1600-meter personal best to 4:27 while splitting 1:58 on Lincoln's sixth-place State Meet 4x800-meter relay. He also returns with a solid 15:37 personal best from last fall's cross country season. Given the progress he displayed on the track, King appears poised to take another substantial leap this fall and strengthen Lincoln's front pack. One of the biggest keys to the Railsplitters' season will be the development of Colin Crombie. Primarily an 800- and 400-meter runner, Crombie possesses outstanding speed with personal bests of 1:59.68 in the 800 meters and 51.48 in the 400 meters. He also ran 4:46 in the 1600 meters during the indoor season, but his current three-mile personal best sits at 16:40. If he can translate his middle-distance ability into a significant cross country improvement, Lincoln's team ceiling rises considerably. Henry Stolzenburg rounds out what projects to be the team's scoring five and could become one of the biggest surprises on the roster. Although this will be his first cross country season, Stolzenburg has already demonstrated impressive versatility on the track. He owns personal bests of 1:59.53 in the 800 meters, 4:31.95 in the 1600 meters, and 9:58 in the 3200 meters, showing he has the range necessary to adapt quickly to the demands of cross country. His ability to contribute immediately could be one of the biggest reasons Lincoln finds itself among the top teams in Class 2A. The biggest question surrounding the Railsplitters is depth. Their projected top five has the talent to compete for a Top 10 finish, but there is little margin for error behind that group. Staying healthy throughout the season will be critical, as any significant injury would leave Lincoln with difficult decisions regarding its varsity lineup. If the Railsplitters can keep their core group healthy and continue translating their outstanding middle-distance success onto the cross country course, they have all the ingredients to return to the State Meet and compete for a Top 10 finish. Their proven speed, experienced leadership, and outstanding front-end talent make Lincoln one of the more dangerous teams in Class 2A entering the 2026 season

10. Maple Park (Kaneland)

Coaches: Chad Clarey / Clayton Brundige

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

Key Returners: Carson Kaiser (Jr.), Gavin Smith (Sr.), Nathan Kowalczyk (Sr.), Gavin Schnurstein (Jr.), Joey Schuch (Sr.), Nolan Reutimann (Sr.), Drew Gritzner (Jr.), Mason Stalcup (Jr.), Aiden Palmer (So.)

Outlook: Kaneland has been one of the premier programs in Class 2A for well over a decade, and the Knights appear poised to return to the Top 10 after narrowly missing that mark a season ago. Led by one of the very best front runners in the classification and backed by a talented supporting cast with significant upside, Kaneland has all the ingredients necessary to climb back among the state's elite. If several of the team's emerging runners take the expected step forward, the Knights could become one of the biggest movers in Class 2A this fall. Everything begins with Carson Kaiser, one of the favorites to contend for the individual State Championship. Kaiser returns with the second-fastest three-mile personal best among all Class 2A runners after blazing a 14:12 at last year's State Meet. He also enters the season as one of the premier distance runners in Illinois despite battling injuries throughout much of the offseason. Now back to training, Kaiser possesses the experience and talent to contend for the individual title and should once again provide Kaneland with one of the lowest scoring opportunities in the state. The Knights' second runner projects to be Gavin Smith, who emerged as one of the state's top middle-distance runners during the track season. Smith placed fifth in the Class 2A 800-meter final after lowering his personal best to an outstanding 1:53.51. Although last fall marked his first season of cross country, he showed remarkable improvement throughout the championship portion of the season. After breaking 16 minutes for the first time at the sectional meet to help qualify Kaneland for State, he lowered that mark again with a 15:42 performance at Detweiller Park. Given his continued development and elite speed, Smith appears capable of making another substantial jump this fall and could emerge as one of the better number-two runners in the classification. One of the biggest swing factors for the Knights will be Gavin Schnurstein. Injuries limited much of his cross country season last year, leaving his potential on the grass largely unknown. However, he enjoyed an outstanding spring, highlighted by a 4:29 personal best in the 1600 meters at the sectional meet. Based on his track performances, Schnurstein has the ability to run alongside Smith or perhaps even ahead of him which would significantly raise Kaneland's ceiling. Nathan Kowalczyk returns as another important piece after steadily progressing throughout his high school career. His personal bests of 4:46 in the 1600 meters and 10:15 in the 3200 meters point toward another breakthrough cross country season. If that improvement carries over to the three-mile distance, Kowalczyk should provide the Knights with another dependable scoring option. The final varsity position appears likely to come down to Joey Schuch or Nolan Reutimann. Both runners have shown the potential to develop into solid contributors and possess the ability to approach the 16-minute barrier this season. If either athlete reaches that level, Kaneland's overall lineup becomes much stronger heading into the championship portion of the schedule. The biggest strength of this team is its upside. Kaiser gives the Knights one of the very best low sticks in Class 2A, while Smith, Schnurstein, and Kowalczyk all appear capable of taking major steps forward this fall. If the supporting cast develops as expected and the fifth runner closes the gap, Kaneland has all the pieces necessary to return to the Top 10. With one of the premier front runners in the state, an improving supporting cast, and a program that has consistently produced successful championship teams, the Knights are well positioned to reestablish themselves among the best programs in Class 2A during the 2026 season.

11. Marion

Coaches: Scott Gill

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

Key Returners: Gabriel Greer (Sr.), Raphael Greer (Sr.), Wyatt Kremer (Jr.), Seve Bruce (So.), Ashton Phillips (Jr.), Jonathan Parks (Sr.) 

Key Newcomers: Luke Gill (Fr.), Jordan Tapia (So.)

Outlook: Marion enters the 2026 season with one of the most dangerous front-running duos in Class 2A, and the Wildcats will look to capitalize on what is likely their final season with the Greer twins leading the program. While there are still questions surrounding the depth of the roster, few teams can match the firepower Marion brings at the front of its lineup. If the supporting cast continues to develop throughout the season, the Wildcats have every opportunity to contend for a Top 10 finish at the State Meet. Everything begins with twins Gabriel Greer and Raphael Greer, who form one of the premier one-two punches in the classification. Gabriel enters the season after finishing runner-up at last year's Class 2A State Meet, establishing himself as one of the elite distance runners in Illinois. He backed up that performance with another outstanding track season, earning All-State honors in the 3200 meters after running 9:00 during the indoor season. He enters the fall as one of the favorites to compete for the individual State Championship. Raphael Greer's 2025 cross country season did not unfold the way many expected after an injury derailed his championship run, resulting in a 105th-place finish at the State Meet. However, he reminded everyone of his talent during the track season by also running 9:00 indoors and earning All-State honors in the 3200 meters. With a healthy offseason behind him, Raphael has all the tools to return to All-State form, giving Marion one of the strongest front-running combinations in Class 2A. Wyatt Kremer returns as the Wildcats' projected third runner after another year of steady development. Kremer served as a dependable scorer throughout last season before moving into the number-two position at the State Meet following Raphael's injury. He finished the fall with a 15:40 personal best before continuing his improvement during track, lowering his marks to 4:40 in the 1600 meters and 10:13 in the 3200 meters. His consistent progression suggests another breakthrough could be on the horizon. The battle for the fourth scoring position should be one of the most intriguing storylines on the roster. Seve Bruce enters the season after running 16:20 as a freshman last fall. Although he did not compete during the track season, Bruce arrived in high school with outstanding credentials, including a 4:40 personal best in the 1600 meters as an eighth grader. If he translates that talent onto the cross country course, he has the potential to become a major contributor for the Wildcats. Freshman Luke Gill will also push for a varsity spot immediately. Gill enjoyed an excellent middle school cross country career, highlighted by a sixth-place finish at the SIJHSAA State Meet against one of the strongest fields in Southern Illinois. While his track credentials are more modest, he has consistently demonstrated greater strength on the grass and could develop into a valuable fifth scorer during his first high school season. Another intriguing option is freshman Jordan Tapia. Tapia elected not to compete during last year's cross country season but enjoyed an outstanding freshman track campaign, posting personal bests of 2:00 in the 800 meters and 4:46 in the 1600 meters. If he transitions successfully to cross country, he gives Marion another athlete with tremendous upside and could significantly strengthen the Wildcats' varsity lineup. The biggest question surrounding Marion is its overall depth. The Greer twins provide as much front-end firepower as nearly any team in the state, but the Wildcats will need Kremer and several young runners to continue progressing if they hope to compete with the deepest teams in Class 2A. Fortunately, the talent is clearly present throughout the roster. With two legitimate individual title contenders leading the way and several promising young athletes ready to step into larger roles, Marion has the potential to be one of the most exciting teams in the classification. If the supporting cast develops as expected, the Wildcats have all the pieces necessary to secure a place among the Top 10 teams in Class 2A this fall.

12. Olney (Richland County)

Coaches: Charlie Butler

Key Returners: Quaid Berger (Jr.), Judah Dicks (Jr.), Tristan Butler (Jr.), Landon Livingston (Jr.), Austin Kuenstler (Jr.), Nathaniel Zwilling (So.), Oliver Fehrenbecker (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: Ezra Dicks (Fr.)

Outlook: For the past two seasons, Olney Richland County has had the front-end talent to compete with some of the best teams in Class 2A, but finding a reliable fifth scorer has kept the Tigers from reaching their full potential. That may finally change in 2026. With one of the state's premier front runners, an improving supporting cast, and an incoming freshman expected to strengthen the back end of the lineup, the Tigers have the pieces to compete for a Top 15 finish this season while setting themselves up for an even brighter future. Everything starts with junior standout Quaid Berger, one of the elite distance runners in Illinois regardless of classification. Berger enters the fall with outstanding personal bests of 4:16 in the 1600 meters and 9:01 in the 3200 meters, placing him among the fastest returners in Class 2A. His track season was highlighted by a victory at Illinois Top Times in the 3200 meters over standout runners Raphael Greer and Gabriel Greer of Marion as well as Carson Kaiser of Kaneland, proving he can compete with anyone in the state. Berger's aggressive racing style and willingness to challenge the best make him a legitimate top-five contender at the State Meet and give the Tigers one of the premier low sticks in the classification. Judah Dicks projects as the Tigers' second runner after taking another significant step forward during the track season. Dicks lowered his personal best in the 3200 meters all the way to 9:30, establishing himself as one of the stronger returning runners in Class 2A. After narrowly missing consideration for the preseason Top 25 individuals, he enters the fall with realistic aspirations of earning his first All-State medal. Tristan Butler provides another experienced scorer behind the team's top duo. While his improvement during track season was more modest, Butler still achieved important milestones by breaking 4:30 in the 1600 meters and lowering his 800-meter personal best to 1:58. His 15:38 three-mile performance from last fall already makes him a dependable third runner, and another year of development should only strengthen the Tigers' lineup. Landon Livingston appears ready for another breakthrough after enjoying an excellent spring. Livingston lowered his 1600-meter personal best to 4:39 at the St. Teresa Invitational while also improving from 2:06 to 2:03 in the 800 meters. His steady progression throughout his first two high school seasons suggests he is capable of challenging the 16-minute barrier in cross country this fall, giving Olney Richland County another valuable scoring option. One of the biggest additions to the lineup will be freshman Ezra Dicks, the younger brother of Judah. Ezra enters high school after an outstanding middle school career that included personal bests of 5:03 in the 1600 meters and 2:21 in the 800 meters. His most impressive performance came during the cross country season, when he ran 10:35 for 3,000 meters at the SIJHSAA State Meet. While there will naturally be an adjustment to the high school level, Ezra appears capable of immediately filling the fifth scoring position and providing the stability this team has been searching for. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of this roster is its long-term outlook. Every projected member of the varsity lineup is expected to return next season, giving the Tigers an outstanding opportunity to continue developing together. While a Top 10 finish may still be a year away, the foundation is clearly in place for Olney Richland County to become one of the premier programs in Class 2A. For now, the Tigers have enough talent to challenge for a Top 15 finish, led by one of the state's very best front runners and supported by an improving cast that continues to make significant strides. If the young runners continue progressing, Olney Richland County could become one of the most dangerous teams in the classification not only this season but for years to come.

13. Lombard (Montini)

Coaches: Eric Brechtel / Alex Zasso

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

Key Returners: Nino Pesola (Sr.), Matthew Ferris (So.), Adriel Garcia (Sr.), Owen Ferris (Sr.), Gavin Conway (Sr.), Graham Reiser (Sr.), Kevin Barrett (Jr.), Charles Ahrens (Jr.), Victor Sharma (So.), Benjamin Conway (So.)

Outlook: Montini may not be receiving as much preseason attention as some of the other contenders in Class 2A, but the Broncos have quietly assembled a veteran group capable of making a serious push toward the Top 10. Built around an experienced senior class and several runners coming off strong track seasons, Montini has the pieces to outperform its preseason ranking. If its chase pack continues to develop throughout the fall, this could be one of the biggest surprise teams in the classification. Leading the way is senior Nino Pesola, who brings both experience and championship pedigree to the front of the lineup. Pesola is already a former IHSA Class 1A All-Stater from two seasons ago and returns after running 15:05 at last year's Class 2A State Meet. He followed that up with an excellent track season, lowering his 3200-meter personal best to 9:32 while continuing to establish himself as one of the better distance runners in the classification. Entering his senior year, Pesola appears poised to challenge for another All-State medal and provides Montini with an outstanding low stick. Adriel Garcia returns as the Broncos' second runner after playing a major role in last year's State Meet team. Garcia ran 15:31 at Detweiller Park last fall and was also a member of Montini's State-qualifying 4x800-meter relay during the spring. Although he competed sparingly during the track season, he still lowered his relay split to 2:02.5 at the State Meet. With another summer of training behind him, Garcia should once again provide a dependable scoring performance for the Broncos. Sophomore Matthew Ferris enters the fall as one of the team's biggest breakout candidates. Ferris enjoyed an outstanding freshman track season, lowering his personal bests to 4:41 in the 1600 meters and 9:53 in the 3200 meters. He also broke the 16-minute barrier for the first time last fall, running 15:59 at the State Meet. Given the progress he displayed on the track, Ferris appears ready to take another significant step forward and strengthen Montini's front pack. Owen Ferris also returns after completing his first full track season. While his track times may not fully reflect his cross country ability, he already owns a strong 15:50 personal best from last fall's State Meet. If he returns to that level or continues improving he gives Montini another experienced and reliable scorer. Rounding out the projected varsity lineup is Gavin Conway, another runner whose development could determine just how high the Broncos climb this season. Competing in his first year of track, Conway posted encouraging personal bests of 4:44 in the 1600 meters and 2:05 in the 800 meters while helping Montini qualify for the State Meet in the 4x800-meter relay. His current three-mile personal best of 16:08 leaves considerable room for improvement, and another year of development could see him emerge as an important contributor. One of Montini's greatest strengths is the balance throughout its lineup. Pesola provides an established front runner, while Garcia, the Ferris brothers, and Conway all have legitimate opportunities to improve significantly this fall. The internal competition among that chase pack should help elevate the entire team as the season progresses. The Broncos may enter the year flying under the radar, but they possess the experience and upside to surprise many people. If their veteran group continues the progression it showed during the track season, Montini has all the ingredients to challenge for a Top 10 finish and could very well outperform its preseason expectations. Watch for the Broncos to become one of the more dangerous teams in Class 2A as the championship season approaches.

14. Metamora

Coaches: Hunter Roedell / Cory Shoopman, Bree Shoopman, Amanda Young, Dan Herring, Sydney Goforth

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

Key Returners: Zach Born (Sr.), Drew Hodel (Sr.), Zane Kingham (So.), Elijah Gerkin (Sr.), William Gentle (Sr.), Mitchell Hohulin (So.),  

Key Newcomers: Karter Brown (Fr.), Lucas Roos (Sr.), Connor McDonald (Sr.)

Outlook: Few programs in Class 2A carried more momentum out of the track season than Metamora. The Redbirds captured the Class 2A State Championship in the 4x800-meter relay while setting a new school record of 7:48, and they now look to translate that remarkable middle-distance success onto the cross country course. While much of this roster is built around speed, the Redbirds have enough returning experience to make a serious push toward the Top 15 and could climb even higher if their track improvements carry over to three miles. Leading the way is senior Zach Born, one of the premier front runners in Class 2A. Born has been remarkably consistent throughout his high school cross country career, earning All-State honors in each of the past two seasons after running 14:42 and 14:39 at the State Meet. He elevated his profile even further during the spring, winning the Class 2A State Championship in the 800 meters with a blistering 1:51.18 before lowering his 1600-meter personal best to 4:15 at Magis Miles. With elite speed and proven championship experience, Born enters the fall as a legitimate top-10 contender and gives Metamora one of the strongest low sticks in the classification. Behind Born, Drew Hodel and Zane Kingham project to form a strong supporting duo. Hodel enjoyed an outstanding track season, lowering his personal bests to 51.39 in the 400 meters, 1:57.11 in the 800 meters, and 4:38 in the 1600 meters. He also served as Metamora's second runner during last year's cross country season after running 15:44 at the State Meet. If his improved speed translates to the grass, Hodel has the potential to make a substantial jump this fall. Kingham emerged as one of the team's brightest young talents during his freshman season. He posted impressive personal bests of 1:59.78 in the 800 meters and 4:34 in the 1600 meters while gaining valuable experience throughout his first cross country campaign. Although his three-mile personal best leaves room for improvement, another year of development should position him to run alongside Hodel and become a valuable scorer. Elijah Gerkin gives the Redbirds another experienced option after making steady progress during the track season. Gerkin lowered his personal bests to 2:02 in the 800 meters and 4:49 in the 1600 meters while already owning a solid 15:59 three-mile personal best from his sophomore season. Like several of his teammates, his greatest improvements have come on the track, making him another runner whose cross country ceiling could rise considerably this fall. The battle for the final varsity position should come down to William Gentle and Mitchell Hohulin. Gentle returns after running 16:16 last season and has already proven he can contribute in championship races. Hohulin is another promising option after running 16:21 as a freshman while also enjoying a productive first track season. Both athletes give Metamora valuable depth and competition heading into the fall. The biggest question surrounding the Redbirds is how effectively their remarkable middle-distance speed translates to the three-mile distance. Over the past two years, Metamora has established itself as one of the premier 800-meter programs in Class 2A, and now the challenge becomes turning that speed into championship-level cross country performances. If Hodel, Kingham, and the rest of the supporting cast make the expected leap, Metamora has the potential to outperform its preseason ranking. With an elite front runner, one of the state's strongest middle-distance groups, and plenty of athletes still improving, the Redbirds have all the ingredients to make a serious push toward the Top 15 and potentially climb even higher by November.

15. Niles (Northridge)

Coaches: Julian Murphy

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

Key Returners: Joshua Allen (Sr.), Blake Quinley (Sr.), John Masaka (Sr.), James Masaka (So.), Ben Volderming (So.), Peter White (Jr.), Nicholas Krebs (So.), Kevin Krebs (So.)

Key Newcomers: David Barder (Fr.)

Outlook: Northridge Prep enters 2026 in a reload year after graduating several key contributors from last season's sixth-place State team, but counting out the Knights has rarely been a wise decision. One of the premier small-school distance programs in Illinois still returns enough talent to compete for a Top 15 finish, and if a few runners return to peak form, Northridge could once again find itself battling for a spot inside the Top 10. Leading the way is Blake Quinley, the top returning runner from last year's State Meet lineup. Quinley ran an impressive 15:18 at Detweiller Park while serving as one of the team's most consistent performers throughout the season. During the spring, he focused primarily on the middle-distance events, helping Northridge earn All-State honors in the 4x800-meter relay while posting a 1:58.9 relay split and a personal best of 4:34 in the 1600 meters. His steady improvement on both the track and cross country course makes him an ideal leader for this year's squad. Joining Quinley up front is Joshua Allen, who may have the highest ceiling of anyone on the roster. Allen overcame the adversity of losing a shoe just after the one-mile mark at last year's State Meet and still managed to finish in an impressive 15:25. He elevated his performances significantly during the track season, lowering his personal best to 4:24 in the 1600 meters while also splitting 1:59.1 on Northridge's All-State 4x800-meter relay. Alongside Quinley, Allen gives the Knights a dangerous one-two combination capable of pushing toward the low 15-minute range and competing for All-State honors. One of the biggest breakout candidates is sophomore James Masaka. James enjoyed an outstanding freshman track season and played an important role on Northridge's All-State 4x800-meter relay, splitting 2:00.9 in the preliminaries to help the Knights advance to the State Final. He also lowered his personal best to 4:38 in the 1600 meters at the Ignatius Friday Night Lights meet. After a successful first year of high school competition, he appears ready to become a reliable varsity scorer this fall. The biggest X-factor for Northridge is senior John Masaka. John already owns one of the highest ceilings in Class 2A after finishing 13th at the Class 1A State Meet two years ago with a personal best of 15:07 while helping lead the Knights to a State Championship. Injuries and inconsistency limited him last fall, though he still managed a respectable 15:48 at the State Meet. If Masaka can rediscover the form that made him an All-State runner as a sophomore, Northridge's team ceiling rises dramatically. A healthy and confident John Masaka running alongside Quinley and Allen could elevate the Knights well beyond their preseason expectations. Freshman David Barder projects to round out the varsity lineup and gives Northridge another promising young talent. Barder enters high school after an impressive middle school career that included an 11:17 two-mile, a 2:11 personal best in the 800 meters, and a 56.26 performance in the 400 meters at the IESA State Meet. His combination of endurance and speed suggests he is well equipped to make an immediate impact, and if he can develop into a runner near the 16:30 range by season's end, he could become a valuable piece of this lineup. While graduation took away several important contributors, Northridge Prep continues to demonstrate why it remains one of the most consistent distance programs in the state. The Knights once again possess a strong front-end duo, intriguing young talent, and a potential wildcard in John Masaka that could dramatically change the outlook of this team. A Top 15 finish appears well within reach, and if Masaka returns to his All-State level while the younger runners continue progressing, Northridge Prep has enough firepower to climb back into the Top 10. Reload years have become commonplace for this program, and the Knights once again appear ready to prove they belong among the best teams in Class 2A.

16. Taylorville

Coaches: Steve Walters

Last Year’s Finish: 10th @ IHSA 2A State Championships

Key Returners: Liam Bettis (Sr.), Logan Halligan (Sr.), Colt Perkins (Jr.), Zac Wright (So.) 

Key Newcomers: Ezra Davis (Fr.), Jackson Rogers (Fr.)

Outlook: Taylorville exceeded nearly every expectation during the 2025 season, earning a Top 10 finish at the Class 2A State Meet behind one of the strongest front-running groups in the classification. Replacing several graduated contributors will not be easy, and the Tornadoes will need their incoming freshmen to develop quickly if they hope to return to that level. Fortunately, few teams can match the strength of Taylorville's top three runners, giving the Tornadoes a strong foundation entering the 2026 season. Everything begins with senior Liam Bettis, one of the premier distance runners in Illinois. Bettis returns after earning All-State honors with a seventh-place finish at last year's State Meet, where he ran an outstanding 14:23 for three miles. He elevated his profile even further during the track season, emerging as the top returning miler in Class 2A after running the equivalent of 4:09 for 1600 meters from his 4:11 full mile at a national meet. His range is among the best in the state, highlighted by a 9:05 personal best in the 3200 meters and a 1:54 relay split in the 4x800 meters. Bettis enters the fall with legitimate aspirations of finishing among the top five individually and gives Taylorville one of the premier low sticks in the classification. Behind Bettis, Logan Halligan and Colt Perkins form a strong supporting duo that could determine just how high the Tornadoes climb this season. Halligan was an outstanding second runner throughout last fall, finishing with a 15:16 personal best at the State Meet. He continued to improve during the indoor season, lowering his personal bests to 4:36 in the 1600 meters and 10:02 in the 3200 meters. If he returns to the form he displayed last cross country season, Halligan provides Taylorville with another dependable scorer. Perkins may possess the highest upside of anyone on the roster outside of Bettis. After running 15:31 during last year's cross country season, he enjoyed a tremendous breakthrough during the spring, lowering his personal bests to 4:26 in the 1600 meters and 9:33 in the 3200 meters. Those track performances suggest he is capable of making a significant jump on the grass, and if he reaches that potential, Taylorville will once again have one of the stronger top-three groups in Class 2A. Sophomore Zach Wright returns as the final scorer from last year's State Meet lineup. Wright ran 16:16 as a freshman while steadily improving throughout both the cross country and track seasons. He now takes on an even more important role as the bridge between Taylorville's experienced front runners and a talented incoming freshman class. The Tornadoes will be counting on freshmen Ezra Davis and Jackson Rodgers to provide immediate depth. Davis enters high school after an excellent middle school career that included an 11:29 two-mile in cross country and a 5:13 personal best in the 1600 meters. Rodgers brings impressive middle-distance speed after running 2:16 in the 800 meters while also posting an 11:33 two-mile. Both athletes possess the talent to contribute during their freshman season, although adjusting to the three-mile distance will be the biggest challenge. Taylorville's outlook ultimately depends on how quickly its young runners mature. Bettis gives the Tornadoes one of the very best front runners in Class 2A, while Halligan and Perkins provide an outstanding supporting cast capable of competing with nearly any team in the state. If Wright continues progressing and the freshmen can develop into reliable varsity scorers by the postseason, Taylorville has the talent to remain among the better teams in the classification. Replacing last year's graduating seniors will certainly be a challenge, but the strength of the Tornadoes' front three provides a high ceiling. While returning to the Top 10 will require significant development from the back half of the lineup, Taylorville has enough proven talent to once again contend for a place among the top teams in Class 2A.

17. Belvidere (North)

Coaches: Ken Husser

Last Year’s Finish: 9th @ IHSA 2A Lake Villa (Lakes) Sectional

Key Returners: Judah Binger (Jr.), Martin Hernandez (Jr.), Devin Svarc (So.), Henrik Piske (Jr.), Giannie Casis (Sr.), Brayden Mireles (Jr.), Xavier Torres (Jr.)

Key Newcomers: John Noble (Fr.), Jesus Avila (Fr.)

Outlook: Belvidere North has quietly continued building momentum since its State trophy finish in 2023, and this year's squad has the potential to take another step forward. Led by one of the premier front runners in Class 2A and supported by a strong returning core, the Blue Thunder have the pieces to challenge for a Top 15 finish at the State Meet. The biggest question will be whether they can develop enough depth behind their top three runners, but the talent is certainly there for Belvidere North to make some noise this fall. Leading the way is junior Judah Binger, one of the top returning distance runners in Illinois. Binger put together an outstanding sophomore campaign, posting personal bests of 4:13 in the 1600 meters, 9:23 in the 3200 meters, and 14:37 for three miles. He earned All-State honors in Class 3A during the track season in the 1600 meters and followed that with an All-State finish in Class 2A cross country. With his combination of speed, strength, and championship experience, Binger enters the season as one of the favorites to finish among the top runners in the classification and gives the Blue Thunder an elite low stick. Martin Hernandez provides Belvidere North with another outstanding front-line runner and may be one of the more underrated athletes in Class 2A. Hernandez ran an impressive 15:15 at last year's State Meet before continuing his steady progression during the track season, lowering his personal bests to 4:29 in the 1600 meters and 2:00 in the 800 meters. He has the talent to emerge as an All-State contender this fall and gives the Blue Thunder a strong second scorer behind Binger. Sophomore Devin Svarc rounds out what could become one of the better front threes in the classification. Svarc enjoyed an excellent freshman season, running 16:00 during cross country before making significant improvements on the track with personal bests of 4:40 in the 1600 meters and 10:02 in the 3200 meters. Given the progress he displayed during the spring, Svarc appears poised for a major breakthrough this fall and could even challenge Hernandez for the number-two position by the end of the season. The biggest challenge for Belvidere North will be solidifying its final two scoring positions. Henrik Piske returns with valuable State Meet experience after competing on the varsity squad as a sophomore and enters the season as one of the leading candidates for a scoring spot. Xavier Torres also appears ready to contribute after an excellent track season that showed considerably more potential than his current cross country personal best would suggest. His continued improvement makes him one of the more intriguing runners on the roster and a strong candidate to earn a varsity position. The Blue Thunder also welcome two talented freshmen who could make an immediate impact. John Noble enters high school after posting personal bests of 5:00 in the 1600 meters and 11:17 in the two miles during middle school. His endurance suggests he could transition well to the three-mile distance. Jesus Avila brings impressive middle-distance speed after running 2:10 in the 800 meters and 5:02 in the 1600 meters as an eighth grader. If he adapts well to longer races, he could also become a valuable contributor before the postseason. Belvidere North's ceiling will ultimately be determined by the development of its depth. The Blue Thunder already possess one of the stronger front trios in Class 2A, but the battle among Piske, Torres, Noble, and Avila for the final varsity positions could determine just how high this team climbs in November. With an elite front runner, an improving supporting cast, and several promising young athletes competing for key roles, Belvidere North appears well positioned to continue its upward trajectory. If the back half of the lineup develops as expected, the Blue Thunder have all the ingredients necessary to challenge for a Top 15 finish at the State Meet.

18. Crystal Lake (Central)

Coaches: Judd Shutt

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

Key Returners: Ethan McMahon (Sr.), Chase Teresi (Sr.), Daniel Polston (So.), Finn Godlewski (Sr.), Oliver Lavaty (Sr.), Will Komarnicki (So.), Brennan Reinhard (Sr.), Greyson Dobbels (Sr.), Jackson Orvis (So.)

Outlook: In an era where many of the top teams are built around one or two elite low-stick runners, Crystal Lake Central continues to prove that championship-caliber pack running can still be incredibly effective. The Tigers don't enter the season with a clear front runner, but what they do possess is one of the tightest projected scoring packs in Class 2A. If that pack can continue to improve together, Crystal Lake Central has all the pieces to surprise teams once again and make a serious push toward a Top 15 finish. Ethan McMahon returns as the Tigers' top returning runner after putting together an excellent cross country season a year ago. McMahon ran 15:35 at the Lakes Sunset Invite before unfortunately suffering a stress fracture near the end of the season that prevented him from competing at the State Meet. With a healthy offseason behind him, he should once again be one of the leaders of Crystal Lake Central's pack and has the potential to return to, or even surpass, that personal best. Chase Teresi enjoyed perhaps the strongest track season of anyone on the roster and appears poised for a breakout fall. Teresi lowered his 3200-meter personal best to an impressive 9:53, an especially noteworthy performance considering his 1600-meter best currently sits at 4:48. His strength clearly favors the longer distances, making him an ideal fit for cross country and a runner who could take a significant step forward this season. Sophomore Daniel Polston emerged as one of the biggest surprises on last year's team after running 15:52 during an outstanding freshman campaign. He continued that momentum throughout the spring, lowering his personal bests to 4:52 in the 1600 meters and 10:04 in the 3200 meters. Like Teresi, Polston's performances suggest he is particularly well suited for longer races, and another year within Crystal Lake Central's development system could lead to another major breakthrough. Finn Godlewski also returns after contributing to last year's State Meet lineup. Godlewski matched Polston's 15:52 personal best during the cross country season and followed it up with another productive track campaign. His strengths, much like several of his teammates, lean toward endurance rather than raw speed, making him another dependable scorer capable of helping keep the Tigers' pack tightly grouped. Oliver Lavaty rounds out the projected scoring five and may be the biggest X-factor on the roster. Injuries limited much of his preparation leading into last cross country season, yet he still managed to run an impressive 15:53 despite spending much of the fall working back into racing shape. Injuries again interrupted portions of his track season, but his sophomore personal best of 2:01 in the 800 meters demonstrates the natural speed he possesses. If Lavaty can stay healthy throughout the summer and into the fall, he has the potential to become an outstanding fifth runner for the Tigers. What makes Crystal Lake Central unique is its commitment to pack running. Rather than relying on one elite low stick, the Tigers have built their success around five runners capable of crossing the line within a remarkably small gap. That formula has served the program well in recent years, and it could once again make them one of the more dangerous teams in Class 2A. If the entire pack can lower its average by another 20 to 30 seconds this fall, Crystal Lake Central has the potential to outperform expectations once again. With outstanding balance throughout the lineup, proven development, and one of the tightest projected scoring packs in the classification, the Tigers are well positioned to challenge for another Top 15 finish and could surprise even more teams by the end of the season.

19. Normal (University)

Coaches: Lester Hampton

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

Key Returners: Andrew Aldeman (Jr.), Greyson Ince (So.), Aaden Richards (Sr.), Lucas Layman (Jr.), Jacob Bauchmoyer (Sr.), Keaton North (Jr.), JW Black (Jr.), Kingston Nevarez (So.), Austin Hartman (Sr.), Max Vanallen (So.)

Outlook: Normal University arrived at the State Meet last fall with one of the youngest lineups in Class 2A, gaining valuable championship experience that should pay dividends in 2026. With nearly the entire core returning and another year of development under their belts, the Pioneers appear poised to climb the team standings. Their depth is one of the best in the classification, and if they can tighten the gap behind their front runner, Normal University has the potential to emerge as a legitimate Top 15 team. Leading the way is junior Andrew Aldeman, one of the premier middle-distance runners in Class 2A. Aldeman enjoyed a tremendous track season, running 1:53 in the 800 meters and 4:13 in the 1600 meters while also quietly lowering his 3200-meter personal best to an impressive 9:26. Although he finished 46th at last year's State Cross Country Meet after running 15:11, his track improvements suggest he is ready for a major breakthrough this fall. Aldeman has all the tools to become one of the better low sticks in the classification and should lead the Pioneers throughout the season. Behind Aldeman, the battle for the remaining scoring positions features one of the deepest groups in Class 2A. Sophomore Greyson Ince may be the favorite to emerge as the team's number-two runner after an outstanding freshman campaign. Ince ran 15:52 during cross country before lowering his 1600-meter personal best to 4:39 during the spring. Few freshmen in the classification showed as much promise, and another strong summer of training could position him for a breakout season. Aaden Richards provides another experienced option after helping Normal University's 4x800-meter relay reach the State Finals this spring. Richards made significant strides in the 800 meters, lowering his personal best to 2:03, while already owning a solid 15:54 three-mile personal best from his sophomore cross country season. If he returns to that level on the grass, he will once again be a valuable scorer. Jacob Bauchmoyer brings perhaps the strongest cross country résumé among the supporting cast. Bauchmoyer owns a personal best of 15:46 from his sophomore season and has consistently performed in the low-16-minute range throughout his career. That reliability makes him another important piece in the Pioneers' tightly packed lineup. Lucas Layman also appears ready to take another step forward after a productive spring. Layman returned to the 800 meters for the first time since middle school and responded with an impressive personal best of 2:01, demonstrating significant gains in his speed. Combined with his 16:00 three-mile personal best and steady year-to-year improvement, Layman has the potential to become another dependable varsity scorer. The Pioneers also have impressive depth behind their projected scoring five. Keaton North and JW Black both showed tremendous promise as freshmen and will be battling for varsity positions throughout the season. Having multiple athletes capable of stepping into scoring roles gives Normal University one of the deepest rosters in the classification and provides valuable insurance throughout a long season. Depth will not be the issue for the Pioneers. Instead, the key will be how close they can bring their pack to Aldeman. If Ince, Richards, Bauchmoyer, Layman, and the rest of the supporting cast continue progressing while shrinking the gap to their front runner, Normal University could take a significant leap up the team standings. After gaining invaluable experience with such a young roster last fall, the Pioneers appear primed for a breakthrough season. With one of Class 2A's top front runners and exceptional depth throughout the lineup, Normal University has all the ingredients to improve upon last year's State Meet finish and establish itself as one of the stronger teams in the classification.

20. Chicago (Latin)

Coaches: Dan Daly

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

Key Returners: Nico Rastatter (Jr.), Gavin Moffat (So.), Micah Weiss (Jr.), Ojas Gupta (So.), Finn Parr (Sr.), William Wegener (Jr.) 

Key Additions: Maximilian Howard (Fr.)

Outlook: Few teams in Class 2A enter the season with a wider range of possible outcomes than Chicago Latin. The Romans have enough front-end firepower to contend for a Top 10 finish at the State Meet, but questions surrounding health, depth, and consistency make them one of the most difficult teams to project. If everything falls into place, Latin has the talent to surprise a lot of people this fall. Leading the way is senior Nico Rastatter, who has quietly developed into one of the top distance runners in Class 2A. Rastatter earned a 14:58 personal best at last year's State Meet before carrying that momentum into the track season, where he lowered his personal bests to 4:27 in the 1600 meters and 9:35 in the 3200 meters. His combination of championship experience and continued improvement makes him one of the stronger returning front runners in the classification and a legitimate All-State contender. Joining Rastatter is sophomore Gavin Moffat, one of the brightest young stars in Illinois. Moffat enjoyed a sensational freshman track season, lowering his personal best to 4:22 in the 1600 meters to become one of the fastest freshmen in the entire state. His rapid development gives Latin another runner capable of competing for All-State honors, and together he and Rastatter provide the Romans with one of the strongest one-two combinations in Class 2A. The biggest X-factor on this roster is Micah Weiss. At his best, Weiss has already proven he can compete with the elite runners in the state. As a freshman, he posted outstanding personal bests of 4:17 in the 1600 meters and 1:58 in the 800 meters while running 15:03 for three miles and narrowly missing the All-State podium. Unfortunately, injuries and health issues limited nearly all of his sophomore campaign. He competed only once during cross country, running 16:06 at the State Meet, and appeared in just three track races during the spring. If Weiss returns healthy this fall, he has the talent to run alongside or even ahead of Rastatter and Moffat, dramatically raising Latin's ceiling. Ojas Gupta provides another experienced option after running 16:00 during last year's cross country season. Gupta's spring, however, was limited as he competed only once during the track season, leaving some uncertainty surrounding his health entering the fall. If he returns at full strength, he gives the Romans another dependable scorer and significantly strengthens the middle of their lineup. Freshman Maximillian Howard currently projects to round out the scoring five. Howard enters high school following an impressive middle school career that included personal bests of 11:14 for two miles and 2:21 in the 800 meters. His development over the course of the season could prove critical, as Latin will be counting on him to transition successfully to the three-mile distance and contribute immediately at the varsity level. The biggest concern for the Romans is depth. While their projected top five possesses considerable talent, there are significant question marks surrounding health and experience throughout the lineup. An injury to any of their key contributors could dramatically alter the team's outlook, making staying healthy one of the most important factors in their season. Despite those uncertainties, few teams outside the very top of the rankings possess as much upside as Chicago Latin. A healthy Weiss, continued progression from Moffat, and another strong season from Rastatter would give the Romans three runners capable of finishing near the front of the State Meet. If Gupta returns to form and Howard develops quickly, Latin has the talent to exceed expectations and establish itself as one of the more dangerous teams in Class 2A by November.

21. Crystal Lake (Prairie Ridge)

Coaches: Mark McPherson / Miles Burrows

Last Year’s Finish: 12th @ IHSA 2A Lake Villa (Lakes) Sectional

Key Returners: Thomas Henry (Sr.), Tyler Sjoblom (Jr.), Steven Randles (Sr.), Ethan Pascoe (So.), Logan Lancaster (So.), Benjamin Hayden (So.), Troy Laukert (Sr.), Zachary Cybart (Jr.), Max Firak (Jr.)

Outlook: Prairie Ridge enters the 2026 season with an intriguing blend of experienced veterans and a talented sophomore class that gives the Wolves plenty of upside. While they may not have the firepower of the state's elite teams, they possess enough depth and developing talent to make a serious push for a State Meet berth and could emerge as a Top 20 team by the end of the season if everything comes together. Leading the way is senior Thomas Henry, the top returning runner from last year's squad. Henry posted a personal best of 15:21 during the cross country season before shifting his focus to the 800 meters during the spring, where he lowered his personal best to 1:59.50. His continued progression over the past several seasons suggests he is capable of returning to that 15:21 mark or improving upon it and he provides Prairie Ridge with a dependable front runner. Joining Henry at the front of the lineup is sophomore Tyler Sjoblom, who enjoyed an outstanding debut season in distance running. Sjoblom wasted little time establishing himself as one of the team's top runners, posting personal bests of 15:34 for three miles and 9:45 in the 3200 meters during his freshman year. His rapid improvement gives the Wolves an excellent one-two combination, and he appears poised for another significant step forward this fall. Senior Steven Randles projects to be the team's third scorer and brings valuable experience to the lineup. Randles owns a personal best of 15:47 from his sophomore season and has shown flashes of that level throughout his career. If he can return to that form this fall, he will provide Prairie Ridge with another reliable scorer and help bridge the gap between the team's front runners and its emerging young talent. The battle for the remaining scoring positions features a talented sophomore trio led by Logan Lancaster. Lancaster ran 16:30 during last year's cross country season before making a major leap on the track, lowering his 3200-meter personal best to 10:15. Those improvements suggest he is well positioned to take another substantial step forward this fall and could develop into a low-16-minute runner. Ethan Pascoe should be right alongside Lancaster throughout the season. Pascoe ran 16:32 during his freshman cross country campaign before posting a 10:24 personal best in the 3200 meters. His biggest breakthrough, however, came in the 800 meters, where he split 2:03 on Prairie Ridge's 4x800-meter relay. His combination of speed and endurance should make him another valuable contributor for the Wolves. Benjamin Hayden rounds out the group of runners competing for the final varsity position. Hayden lowered his 1600-meter personal best to 4:51 during his freshman track season but currently owns a cross country personal best of 17:24. While he still has ground to make up, his track improvements suggest there is considerable upside, and he could work his way into the scoring lineup with continued development. Prairie Ridge's success this season will depend on how quickly its young runners continue to progress. Henry and Sjoblom provide a strong foundation at the front of the lineup, while Randles offers valuable experience. If Lancaster, Pascoe, and Hayden can continue translating their track improvements to the cross country course, the Wolves could become one of the more improved teams in Class 2A. A return trip to the State Meet is certainly within reach, and with another year of development from a promising sophomore class, Prairie Ridge has the talent to establish itself among the better teams in the classification by November.

22. Herrin

Coaches: James Elliot / Brad Blakely, Charli Elliot

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

Key Returners: Nolen Frost (Sr.), Miles Ellet (Jr.), Elliot Polley (Jr.), Nathan Jones (Jr.), Andrew Joliff (Jr.), Zane Bessen (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Max Mazanek (Fr.), Jacob Joliff (Fr.)

Outlook: Herrin graduated key contributors from last season's 12th-place State Meet team, but the Tigers have reloaded with one of the strongest incoming freshman classes in Southern Illinois. Combined with a pair of experienced veterans at the front of the lineup, Herrin has the pieces necessary to contend for another State Meet berth. The biggest question will be how quickly the freshmen adjust to the three-mile distance, but if they develop as expected, the Tigers should once again be in the mix come postseason time. Leading the way is senior Nolen Frost, the top returning runner from last year's State Meet squad. Although his current three-mile personal best of 15:34 came during his sophomore season, Frost continued to improve throughout the track season while focusing on the 800 meters. He split an impressive 1:59.7 on Herrin's seventh-place All-State 4x800-meter relay, demonstrating the speed that could translate into another strong cross country campaign. With his experience and leadership, Frost enters the season as one of the Tigers' most important pieces. Joining Frost up front is junior Miles Ellet, who appears poised for a breakout fall. Ellet was also a key member of Herrin's All-State 4x800-meter relay, contributing a strong 2:00 relay split. He enjoyed a tremendous track season individually, lowering his personal bests to 4:33 in the 1600 meters and 9:59 in the 3200 meters after significant improvements across both events. His three-mile personal best of 15:40 suggests he is already capable of competing alongside Frost, and the two could spend much of the season pushing one another for the top spot on the team. The race for the third scoring position currently appears to favor Elliot Polley. Polley ran 16:29 during last year's cross country season before making steady progress on the track, lowering his personal bests to 4:50 in the 1600 meters and 10:24 in the 3200 meters. Those performances indicate he should be capable of returning to, or improving upon, his cross country personal best this fall. The biggest boost to Herrin's lineup comes from an outstanding freshman class led by Max Mazanek. Mazanek enters high school after an excellent middle school career that included a 4:48 personal best in the 1600 meters and a runner-up finish at the SJHSAA State Cross Country Meet in the 3K. His combination of speed and proven cross country success gives him the potential to make an immediate impact at the varsity level. Joining him is fellow freshman Jacob Joliff, another highly accomplished middle school runner. Joliff posted a 4:50 personal best in the 1600 meters while finishing fourth at the SJHSAA State Cross Country Meet. Like Mazanek, he enters the program with an impressive foundation and appears ready to compete for a varsity scoring position immediately. Herrin's outlook will largely depend on how quickly Mazanek and Joliff adapt to the demands of high school cross country. Frost and Ellet provide a strong one-two punch with valuable championship experience, while Polley offers another dependable scorer. If the freshmen develop as expected, the Tigers could quickly assemble a balanced lineup capable of competing with many of the better teams in Class 2A. After graduating several key contributors, Herrin has done an impressive job replenishing its roster with young talent. The combination of experienced leadership and high-upside freshmen gives the Tigers every opportunity to return to the State Meet and continue the program's recent success.

23. Waterloo

Coaches: Larry Huffman

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

Key Returners: Luke Smith (Jr.), Tyler Devilder (Sr.), Liam Gilbert (Jr.), Wyatt Nolte (Sr.), Cannon Hensiek (So.), Rutger Lister (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Jonathan Stuart (Fr.), Mason Wilhelm (Fr.), Carter Stephens (Fr.)

Outlook: Waterloo enters the 2026 season with one of the strongest front-running duos in Class 2A, giving the Bulldogs a legitimate chance to return to the State Meet. While there are still questions surrounding the back half of the lineup, Waterloo has the star power to compete with many of the top teams in the classification. If the younger runners develop quickly and the supporting cast closes the gap behind the leaders, the Bulldogs could be one of the more dangerous teams in the postseason. Leading the way is senior Luke Smith, one of the premier runners in Class 2A. Smith returns after earning All-State honors with a 14:41 performance at last year's State Meet and followed that up with an outstanding track season. He lowered his personal best to 1:51.98 in the 800 meters while helping Waterloo earn All-State honors in the 4x400-meter relay. His combination of elite speed and proven cross country success makes him one of the top low sticks in the classification and a runner capable of finishing near the front of the State Meet once again. Joining Smith is junior Tyler Devilder, who quietly put together one of the better breakthrough track seasons in the state. Devilder won the opening section of the undercard mile at Distance Night in Palatine before lowering his personal best to 4:18 in the 1600 meters at the sectional meet. He already owns a solid 15:07 three-mile personal best from last fall, and his track improvements suggest a significant drop is coming this cross country season. Devilder enters the fall with legitimate All-State aspirations and gives Waterloo one of the strongest one-two combinations in Class 2A. The biggest question for the Bulldogs comes after their front two. Liam Gilbert is the top returning candidate to fill the third scoring position after an injury-limited sophomore season in which he competed only three times during cross country. Gilbert owns a 16:17 personal best from his freshman year and also ran 4:48 in the 1600 meters that same season. If he returns healthy and regains that form, he provides Waterloo with another valuable scorer. Waterloo will also look to an impressive freshman class to strengthen its varsity lineup. Mason Wilhelm enters high school after an outstanding middle school career that included a seventh-place finish at the SJHSAA State Cross Country Meet with a 10:44 performance for 3K. He also posted a 4:54 personal best in the 1600 meters as an eighth grader and appears well positioned to compete for a varsity spot immediately. Jonathan Stuart gives the Bulldogs another talented freshman option. Stuart consistently raced alongside Wilhelm throughout middle school, running 10:49 at the SJHSAA State Cross Country Meet while lowering his 1600-meter personal best to 4:52. Like Wilhelm, he has the talent to contribute early and could become an important scorer as the season progresses. Waterloo's outlook will depend heavily on how quickly its younger runners mature. Smith and Devilder provide the Bulldogs with two legitimate front runners capable of scoring very low at championship meets, but the team's success will hinge on Gilbert, Wilhelm, Stuart, and the rest of the supporting cast developing into dependable varsity contributors. With one of the strongest one-two punches in Class 2A and a talented group of emerging runners behind them, Waterloo has the pieces necessary to earn another trip to the State Meet. If the back half of the lineup continues to improve throughout the fall, the Bulldogs could exceed expectations and become one of the more dangerous teams in the classification by postseason time.

24. Darien (Hinsdale South)

Coaches: James Dickerson / Steve Moore

Last Year’s Finish: 24th @ IHSA 2A State Championships

Key Returners: Mesfin Diedrich (So.), Santiago Lopez (So.), Javier Terrell (Sr.), John Pitsoulakis (So.), Eli Nigro (So.), Ryan Murphy (Sr.)

Key Newcomers: Yebby Diedrich (Fr.)

Outlook: Few teams in Class 2A possess as much long-term potential as Hinsdale South. The Hornets enter the 2026 season with one of the youngest varsity lineups in the state, as only one projected scorer is a senior. While they may still be a year or two away from reaching their full potential, the talent already assembled on this roster gives Hinsdale South a chance to compete for a Top 20 finish this fall. More importantly, this group appears positioned to become one of the premier programs in Class 2A over the next several seasons. Leading the returning group is sophomore Mesfin Diedrich, who enjoyed an outstanding freshman campaign. Diedrich ran 15:51 at last year's State Meet before carrying that momentum onto the track, where he lowered his personal bests to 4:42 in the 1600 meters and 10:16 in the 3200 meters. His continued development makes him one of the top young runners in the classification, and he should once again be one of the Hornets' top scorers this fall. Joining him is fellow sophomore Santiago Lopez, another runner who impressed throughout his freshman season. Lopez finished the year with a 16:03 personal best at the State Meet before posting nearly identical track credentials to Diedrich, running 4:45 in the 1600 meters and 10:17 in the 3200 meters. The two sophomores appear well matched and should spend much of the season working together near the front of Hinsdale South's lineup. Senior Javier Terrell provides valuable leadership as the lone projected senior in the scoring five. Terrell enjoyed an excellent track season, lowering his personal bests to 1:59.49 in the 800 meters, 4:38 in the 1600 meters, and 10:24 in the 3200 meters. Although his current three-mile personal best of 16:06 trails Diedrich and Lopez slightly, his improved speed gives him every opportunity to close that gap this fall and provide another dependable scorer. John Pitsoulakis adds additional depth after a promising freshman campaign. Although he did not compete during the outdoor track season, he lowered his indoor 1600-meter personal best to 4:56 and already owns a 16:22 three-mile personal best from last fall. A healthy return to racing should allow him to remain an important contributor for the Hornets. The biggest wildcard on the roster is incoming freshman Yebby Diedrich, one of the most accomplished middle school runners entering Class 2A this year. Diedrich finished runner-up at the IESA State Cross Country Meet after running 10:30 for two miles and backed that performance up with outstanding track marks of 4:37 in the 1600 meters and 2:06 in the 800 meters. His credentials suggest he has the talent to make an immediate varsity impact, and it would not be surprising to see him quickly challenge for the top spot on the team. The only remaining question is how rapidly he adjusts from middle school competition to the demands of the three-mile distance. The biggest strength of this roster is its youth. Nearly every key contributor is just beginning his high school career, giving the Hornets tremendous room for growth over the next several seasons. While this year's results will depend on how quickly those young runners continue to develop, the long-term outlook for the program is exceptionally bright. Even if Hinsdale South falls just short of the Top 20 this season, the foundation has clearly been established for sustained success. With an outstanding sophomore class, one of the top incoming freshmen in the state, and very little reliance on seniors, the Hornets are building a roster that could become one of the strongest in Class 2A over the next several years.

25. Lemont

Coaches: Brandon Hii / Lilianna Insignares Diaz

Last Year’s Finish: 8th @ IHSA 2A Geneseo Sectional

Key Returners: Gavin Nally (So.), Scott Biedess (Sr.), Gavin Abad (Sr.), David Wojciak (So.), Jacob Czerwiec (Sr.), Connor Wiles (Sr.), Jaden Rhone (So.), Ahmed Suleiman (Jr.), John Yakovenko (So.), Matthew Edison (So.)

Key Newcomers: Vaughn Rutan (Fr.)

Outlook: Lemont enters the 2026 season with renewed optimism after the emergence of one of the top young distance runners in Class 2A. The Indians have the pieces to contend for a State Meet berth, and while there is still work to be done with the depth of the lineup, the overall trajectory of the program is trending upward. A talented sophomore class, experienced veterans, and an intriguing freshman addition give Lemont plenty of reasons for excitement this fall. The leader of the group is sophomore Gavin Nally, who enjoyed a breakout freshman campaign and now enters the season as one of the top young runners in the classification. Nally made tremendous strides during the track season, lowering his 1600-meter personal best from 4:46 in middle school to an outstanding 4:25 while also running 9:59 in his only 3200-meter race of the spring. His cross country personal best of 15:53 from last fall appears primed to fall significantly this season, and he has developed into a legitimate All-State candidate. If his progression continues at its current pace, Nally gives Lemont one of the strongest front runners among the teams chasing a State Meet berth. Behind Nally is a deep group of runners capable of filling the remaining scoring positions. Scott Biedess returns after posting a 15:52 personal best during last year's cross country season, making him the team's top returning runner from the State Meet. Biedess and Nally battled one another throughout much of last fall, and he once again projects to be an important contributor in the varsity lineup. Senior Gavin Abad brings valuable experience and impressive middle-distance speed to the roster. Abad focused primarily on the shorter events during the track season, lowering his personal bests to 51.18 in the 400 meters and 1:58.53 in the 800 meters. He already owns a sub-16-minute three-mile personal best from his sophomore season, and if he returns to that level or better he will provide another valuable scorer for the Indians. Sophomore David Wojciak appears poised for one of the biggest improvements on the roster. After running 16:51 during his freshman cross country season, Wojciak made tremendous progress on the track by lowering his 3200-meter personal best to 10:07. Those improvements suggest he could take a significant step forward this fall and become a key contributor for Lemont. Jacob Czerwiec provides another dependable option after consistently performing in the low-16-minute range over the past two cross country seasons. His reliability gives the Indians another experienced runner capable of contributing throughout the championship portion of the season. Freshman Vaughn Rutan also enters the picture as a potential varsity contributor. Rutan enjoyed an excellent middle school career, posting personal bests of 4:54 in the 1600 meters and 11:04 for two miles during cross country. If he adapts quickly to the three-mile distance, he could challenge for one of the final scoring positions before the postseason. The biggest challenge for Lemont will be tightening its pack behind Nally. The Indians have several athletes capable of competing for varsity spots, but transforming that depth into a consistent group of sub-16-minute runners will determine just how high they can climb in the team standings. With a rising star leading the way and several experienced runners capable of supporting him, Lemont has all the ingredients to contend for a State Meet berth. If the supporting cast continues to develop and the pack closes the gap to Nally, the Indians could find themselves challenging for a Top 20 finish and continuing the program's upward momentum.