2026 Pre-Season XC Previews: 3A Girls Teams Ranked

Class 3A 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. Barrington

Head Coach/Coaches: Deb Revolta / Dan Lowry, Emily Mohr

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

Key Returners: Mia Sirois (Sr.), Victoria Tarara (Jr.), Angelica Hil (Sr.), Ashleigh Forbes (So.), Hannah Forbes (So.), Cece Babel (So.), Paige Kusmerz (Jr.), Liva Ketkar (Sr.), Charlotte Luft (Sr.), Niharika Chatterjee (Jr.)

Key Additions: Sadie Van Ryn (Fr.)

Outlook: The Flying Fillies enter the 2026 season with a chance to cement themselves as one of the greatest teams in IHSA history. After winning three State trophies over the past three seasons, they are in position to capture their third State Championship in three years and could field one of the strongest lineups ever assembled in Illinois. Their ambitions extend beyond the IHSA State Meet, as this group has the talent to contend for a national podium finish at NXN if everything comes together. The team is anchored by what may be the greatest front trio in IHSA history, led by Mia Sirois. Sirois already owns the all time IHSA State Meet record after running 15:53 as a sophomore, a season that also saw her finish sixth at Nike Cross Nationals. She elevated her resume even further during the track season by running an all time Illinois record of 9:44 in the 3200 meters. With another year of development, there is no telling how fast Sirois can run this fall. It will be a bit until we see Sirois race for the first time with her dealing with some nagging injury issues. Victoria Tarara gives the Flying Fillies another elite front runner after finishing eighth at the State Meet last season. She backed that performance up with an outstanding spring, running 10:19 in the 3200 meters and placing third at the State Meet. Tarara enters the season as a legitimate contender to finish among the top five individuals in the state. Angelica Hil completes the remarkable front three. Hil enjoyed an exceptional track season, posting personal bests of 4:53 in the 1600 meters and 10:24 in the 3200 meters. Despite those incredible marks, Barrington's depth prevented her from racing the 3200 meters at the sectional meet. Instead, she qualified for the State Meet in the 1600 meters and helped the Flying Fillies place seventh in the 4x800 meter relay. Few teams in state history have ever featured a third runner with credentials like Hil's. Ashleigh Forbes gives Barrington yet another All State caliber athlete after finishing 23rd at the State Meet as a freshman. She followed that performance with an outstanding track season, lowering her personal best to 10:57 in the 3200 meters while helping the Flying Fillies earn All State honors in the 4x800 meter relay. The biggest question for this team is finding the right fifth runner to complement its outstanding front four. Cece Babel returns after an excellent freshman campaign that included a 79th place finish at the State Meet. Hannah Forbes is another strong candidate after placing 121st at the State Meet and running 11:28 in the 3200 meters during the track season. Freshman Sadie Van Ryn also enters the conversation after an outstanding middle school career that included All State honors in the IESA 800 meters with a personal best of 2:23 and a 5:27 personal best in the 1600 meters. Coach Revolta has a long history of developing talented freshmen into All State performers, and Van Ryn could be the next in line. With four proven front runners, exceptional depth, and one of the most accomplished coaching staffs in the state, the Flying Fillies have the talent to dominate Illinois once again. If they can develop a fifth runner capable of consistently competing in the mid 17 minute range, they will not only be favorites for another IHSA State Championship but also legitimate contenders for a trophy at Nike Cross Nationals. Coach Revolta stated, “Our biggest strengths are that our 2-5 runners should be able to run together and of course having a low number with Mia helps too. The team's goals are pretty much the same as last year.  We want to continually build and get faster as the season progresses so that we are ready to compete against the best teams in the state come late October and early November.”

2. Mt. Prospect (Prospect)

Head Coach/Coaches: Pete Wintermute / Ryan Hopper, Ian Arms, Brittany Damerjian, Sarah Harden

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

Key Returners: Adelaide Galla (So.), Brooklyn Stocking (So.), Caitlin Resac (So.), Allison Kalkwarf (Jr.), Juliana Mihalopoulos (So.), Samantha Lobacz (Jr.), Ashley Skelton (So.), Amalia Scorza (Sr.), Erin Collins (So.), Kaitlin Miazga (Jr.), Ella Samlan (Sr.)

Key Additions: Amelia Kronforst (Fr.), Kaylee Leone (Fr.)

Outlook: The Knights are in the midst of one of the most impressive dynasties in IHSA history under Coach Wintermute, and they enter 2026 with another team capable of competing for a State Championship. While Barrington may enter the season as the favorite, the gap between the two programs is much smaller than many people believe. The Knights possess remarkable depth, with several athletes capable of earning All State honors and an abundance of talent competing for varsity spots. Samantha Lobacz enters the season as the projected front runner after narrowly missing the varsity lineup at the State Meet last fall. She responded with a phenomenal track season, qualifying for the State Meet in the 3200 meters while posting personal bests of 5:04 in the 1600 meters and 10:45 in the 3200 meters. Lobacz has developed into a legitimate All State contender and gives the Knights another elite low stick. Adelaide Galla returns after earning All State honors with a 24th place finish as a freshman. A stress fracture sidelined her throughout the track season, but if she returns to full health, she has already proven she can compete among the best runners in the state. Kaitlin Miazga is another runner who did not crack the varsity lineup last fall but has positioned herself to become a major contributor. She qualified for the State Meet in the 3200 meters during the spring and lowered her personal best to 10:58. Like Lobacz, Miazga has the potential to earn All State honors this season. Allison Kalkwarf also enjoyed an outstanding track season, running personal bests of 2:16 in the 800 meters and 5:04 in the 1600 meters. She finished 64th at the Cross Country State Meet last fall, helped the Knights place fourth in the 4x800 meter relay, and qualified individually for the State Meet in the 1600 meters. Caitlin Resac continued her rapid development after placing 50th at the State Meet as a freshman. She lowered her personal bests to 5:05 in the 1600 meters and 11:16 in the 3200 meters while earning All State honors in the 4x800 meter relay and qualifying individually for the State Meet in the 800 meters. Brooklyn Stocking is another athlete capable of making a major impact after finishing as the team's third runner at the State Meet with a 49th place finish as a freshman. She chose to play softball instead of competing during the track season, making her one of the more intriguing returners in the classification. Juliana Mihalopoulos also returns after serving as the Knights' seventh runner at the State Meet as a freshman. She ran 18:08 to place 118th and gained valuable experience by competing in the preliminary round of the 4x800 meter relay at the State Track Meet. She could develop into another important scorer as the season progresses. Freshman Amelia Kronforst adds even more depth to an already loaded roster. One of the top middle school runners in Illinois, Kronforst owns personal bests of 5:14 in the 1600 meters and 11:41 in the 2 Mile. She finished sixth at the IESA State Cross Country Meet and placed fourth in the 1600 meters at the IESA State Track Meet. With a strong summer of training, she has the talent to immediately compete for a varsity spot and could even work her way into the All State conversation. Few teams in IHSA history have possessed the depth that the Knights bring into 2026. With multiple All State caliber runners, exceptional competition for varsity spots, and one of the state's premier coaching staffs, they have all the ingredients to challenge Barrington for the State Championship and continue one of the greatest runs in Illinois cross country history. Coach Wintermute stated, “We are a deeper team than last year and our young squad of freshmen from a year older and are now sophomores ready to make their mark. We should be able to have a tight split.  We should also be deep enough to run a variety of athletes on the varsity level and give them a chance to impact our team scoring.”

3. Arlington Heights (Hersey)

Head Coach/Coaches: Mikayla Olsen

Last Year’s Finish: 4th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Graceleen Mabry (So.), Alexa Izenstark (Sr.), JoJo Messer (Jr.), Clara Vincent (So.), Alexandra Kopacz (Sr.), Sofia Donner (Sr.), Martyna Makowski (Sr.), Ava McQuade (Sr.), Sarah Sandoval (So.), Josie Petrelis (Jr.)

Key Additions: Madeline Serur (Fr.), Gianna Suvada (Fr.)

Outlook: The Huskies have been knocking on the door of their first State trophy since 1990 over the past several seasons, and 2026 may finally be the year they break through. With one of the strongest lineups in Class 3A, a proven front runner, and one of the nation's top incoming freshmen, the Huskies have all the pieces necessary to contend for a spot on the podium. Graceleen Mabry returns as the team's leader after an outstanding freshman campaign that earned her All State honors with a 14th place finish at the Cross Country State Meet. She followed that performance with an exceptional track season, qualifying for the Class 3A State Meet in both the 1600 meters and the 3200 meters while posting personal bests of 5:07 in the 1600 meters, 10:46 in the 3200 meters, and 17:03 for 3 Miles. Mabry enters the season as a legitimate contender for a Top 10 finish at the State Meet. Alexa Izenstark gives the Huskies another experienced front runner as she enters her senior season. She has narrowly missed All State honors several times during her career, including a 32nd place finish at last year's State Meet. She also enjoyed a strong track season, lowering her personal best to 11:15 in the 3200 meters, and appears poised to make another run at an All State medal. Alexandra Kopacz also took a major step forward during the track season. She lowered her personal best to 5:06 in the 1600 meters while qualifying for the State Meet in both the 1600 meters and the 4x800 meter relay. She should once again be an important scorer for the Huskies. Freshman Madeline Serur arrives as one of the most decorated middle school runners in the country. Serur won IESA State Championships in cross country, the 800 meters, the 1600 meters, and the sprint medley relay while posting remarkable personal bests of 2:16 in the 800 meters, 5:06 in the 1600 meters, and 11:26 in the 2 Mile. She also earned All American honors at the USATF National Cross Country Championships. She has the talent to make an immediate impact and could contend for All State honors in her first high school season. JoJo Messer returns after serving as the Huskies' third runner last fall and finishing 39th at the State Meet. Although she endured a difficult track season, a return to the form she displayed during cross country would significantly strengthen this lineup. Clara Vincent gives the Huskies yet another outstanding scoring option after placing 66th at the State Meet as a freshman. She qualified for the State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay during the spring while lowering her personal bests to 5:18 in the 1600 meters and 11:26 in the 3200 meters. In a swerve, freshman Gianna Suvada made the switch to attending Hersey instead of St. Viator last Friday. Suvada put together an outstanding middle school career, highlighted by a second place finish at the IESA State Cross Country Meet, a sixth place finish in the 800 meters, and a fourth place finish in the 1600 meters at the IESA State Track Meet. She enters high school with impressive personal bests of 2:24 in the 800 meters, 5:09 in the 1600 meters, and 11:46 in the 2 Mile, giving her the potential to make an immediate impact. The Huskies possess one of the deepest and most talented rosters in Class 3A. If their experienced runners return to the level they displayed last fall and their outstanding freshman class makes an immediate impact, this team has every opportunity to capture its first State trophy in more than three decades.

4. Chicago (Lane)

Head Coach/Coaches: Kris Roof / Laura McKnight, Aaron Lai, Tatiana Moten, Nicholas Skorin

Last Year’s Finish: 9th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Sienna O’Malley (So.), Ainsley Carter (Sr.), Amy Herzog (Jr.), Guadalupe Lopez (So.), Samantha Borg-Breen (Jr.), Antonia Leary (Jr.), Emma Siegrist (So.), Hailey Skowlund (Jr.), Gabrielle Stalley (Sr.), Kaila Burns (Jr.), Gillian Katz (Sr.), Josephine Zupko (Jr.), Emma Wojcik (Jr.), Hailey Skowlund (Jr.), Kate Siffring (Sr.)

Key Additions: Isabella Chapin (Jr.), Emily Melo (Fr.), Alexandra Vahl (Fr.)

Unexpected Losses: Annie Glenn (Jr.)

Outlook: The Champions are coming off the greatest season in program history after earning their first ever Top 10 finish at the State Meet in 2025. With their entire top six returning and several major additions joining the roster, there is little doubt this is the strongest team the program has ever fielded. Following an outstanding track season, the Champions enter 2026 as legitimate State trophy contenders. The team will be led by Ainsley Carter, who enjoyed one of the biggest breakout seasons in Illinois this past spring. Carter posted outstanding personal bests of 2:15 in the 800 meters, 4:53 in the 1600 meters, and 10:51 in the 3200 meters while earning All State honors in both the 1600 meters and the 4x800 meter relay. She enters the cross country season as one of the favorites to finish on the State Meet podium. Sienna O'Malley gives the Champions another front runner capable of competing for All State honors. Before an injury cut short her freshman cross country season, O'Malley looked every bit like a top 25 runner in the classification before ultimately finishing 47th at the State Meet. She returned with an outstanding track season, lowering her personal best to 5:05 in the 1600 meters while qualifying for the Class 3A State Meet. One of the biggest additions in the state comes in the form of Isabella Chapin, who has decided to compete in cross country this fall. Chapin qualified for the State Track Meet in the 3200 meters and owns exceptional personal bests of 5:10 in the 1600 meters and 11:07 in the 3200 meters. Despite this being her first cross country season, she has the talent to immediately contend for All State honors. Samantha Borg Breen also made tremendous progress during the track season after finishing 106th at the State Meet last fall. She lowered her personal bests to 2:19 in the 800 meters and 5:08 in the 1600 meters while contributing to the Champions' State qualifying 4x800 meter relay during the preliminary round. Amy Herzog returns after serving as the team's third runner during last year's historic season. Herzog finished 67th at the State Meet before helping the Champions place third in the 4x800 meter relay during track. She also qualified for the State Meet in the 4x400 meter relay, ran 5:10 in the 1600 meters, and split an impressive 2:15 on the 4x800 relay. Guadalupe Lopez gives the Champions another proven scorer after placing 89th at the State Meet in 2025. She adds valuable experience and depth to an already loaded varsity lineup. Antonina Leary is another athlete capable of cracking the scoring seven after an outstanding spring. She posted personal bests of 2:16 in the 800 meters and 5:15 in the 1600 meters while earning All State honors in the 4x800 meter relay and qualifying for the State Meet in the 4x400 meter relay. Freshman Emily Melo also deserves attention as a potential contributor. One of the top incoming freshmen in the state, Melo enters high school with personal bests of 2:24 in the 800 meters and 5:14 in the 1600 meters and has the talent to compete for varsity spots immediately. The Champions possess elite talent at the front of their lineup, exceptional depth throughout the roster, and multiple athletes capable of developing into All State performers. With every major contributor returning from last year's breakthrough team and several high impact additions joining the program, this group has all the ingredients to build on its historic 2025 season and contend for the first State trophy in school history. Coach McKnight stated, “Lane enters this season with a lot of momentum after finishing 9th at the IHSA State Meet last fall and following that with an outstanding track season. We had one of our most consistent summers of training, regularly seeing 40-50 girls at optional practices, with more athletes logging mileage and training consistently than in previous years. We return a deep and experienced group led by CPL champion Ainsley Carter, along with Sienna O’Malley, Samantha Borg-Breen, Amy Herzog, Nina Leary, Guadalupe Lopez, Kaila Burns and others, while adding talented newcomers including Emily Melo and Bella Chapin, who will be competing for varsity positions immediately. Our Myrtle & Gold 3200m time trial demonstrated that depth, with 8 girls at 12:00 or faster. The program has continued to take steps forward every year, and after winning our first Regional title last season, we would love to compete for a Sectional championship, improve significantly on our State finish, and then prove ourselves at NXR. What excites me most is that this group combines talented front-runners with tremendous depth and a pack that knows how to work together and move through the field. We aren't putting a ceiling on what they can accomplish this fall.”

5. Glen Ellyn (Glenbard West)

Head Coach/Coaches: Paul Hass / Mark Staron, Kelly Hass

Last Year’s Finish: 10th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Shayne Dietzen (Jr.), Lauren Bennett (Sr.), Katie King (Jr.), Alyssa Novak (Jr.), Addie Nordman (Sr.), Nora Janninck (Sr.), Ava Chase (Sr.), Maya Slowikowski (Sr.)

Key Additions: Molly Mocko (Fr.)

Outlook: The Hilltoppers once again return one of the strongest teams in Class 3A and enter the 2026 season with legitimate State trophy aspirations. With an outstanding blend of experienced returners and one of the most accomplished freshmen Illinois has ever seen, this could be the team that delivers Glenbard West its first State trophy since 2014. The biggest storyline surrounds freshman Molly Mocko, who enters high school with as much hype as any runner in recent memory. Mocko concluded one of the greatest middle school careers in Illinois history as a nine time IESA State Champion while posting phenomenal personal bests of 2:14 in the 800 meters, 4:50 in the 1600 meters, and 10:24 in the 3200 meters. She also claimed the USATF National Cross Country Championship last fall. With her combination of speed, strength, and championship experience, Mocko has all the tools to finish among the Top 10 runners in the state as a freshman. Shayne Dietzen gives the Hilltoppers another proven front runner after an outstanding sophomore season. Dietzen finished 35th at the State Meet last fall before enjoying an exceptional spring that included personal bests of 2:16 in the 800 meters and 5:09 in the 1600 meters. She also helped Glenbard West earn a State runner-up finish in the 4x800 meter relay and qualified individually for the State Meet in the 1600 meters. Katie King made one of the biggest jumps on the roster during the track season. She lowered her personal bests to 2:17 in the 800 meters and 5:05 in the 1600 meters while playing a key role on the Hilltoppers' State runner-up 4x800 meter relay. Her improvement gives the team another athlete capable of making a major impact this fall. Alyssa Novak also enjoyed a breakout spring, posting personal bests of 5:16 in the 1600 meters and 11:12 in the 3200 meters. Novak and King served as the Hilltoppers' fourth and fifth runners last fall, but both appear ready to move much closer to the front of the lineup in 2026. Lauren Bennett returns after serving as the team's third runner during last year's State Meet, where she finished 81st overall. The depth of this roster is evident in the possibility that Bennett could slide into the fifth scoring position this season. If that happens, the Hilltoppers will boast one of the deepest lineups in the state. Nora Janninck is another athlete capable of contributing throughout the season. She played a key role on Glenbard West's State runner-up 4x800 meter relay, splitting an impressive 2:16 and giving the Hilltoppers yet another high-level option for their varsity lineup. The Hilltoppers have assembled one of the deepest and most talented teams in Class 3A. With an elite freshman leading the way, multiple proven State performers, and tremendous depth throughout the roster, Glenbard West has every opportunity to contend for its first State trophy in more than a decade and challenge the very best teams in Illinois this fall. Coach Hass stated. “We have several talented girls from last year who committed to running with us in summer and are determined to fulfill their potential. However, we lost last year’s number one runner to graduation, Alexa Novak (15th in 2025 XC); she will not be easily replaced not only because of her talent, but also because of her leadership and personality. However, the girls are prepared to improve upon their performance from last year and it’s likely that a new front-runner will emerge for our team. Regardless, initially we would like to have 4-5 girls running as a pack with the goal of maintaining a split close to :60 or less. Incoming freshman Molly Mocko may very well be a part of that pack as she acclimates to high school and three-mile race distances. If we have a front-runner and can place five girls within sixty seconds of each other by the end of the season, we should be a very competitive team this fall.”

6. Lake Zurich

Head Coach/Coaches: Travis Shepherd / Jeff Morello

Last Year’s Finish: 5th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Chloe Wettstein (So.), Avery Muhr (Sr.), Patricia Johnson (Jr.), Celia Blaylock (Sr.), Abigail Kocher (So.), Riley Pitchford (Sr.), Anja Wiersum (Sr.), Karolina Borg (Jr.)

Key Additions: Riley Muhr (Fr.), Elliana Sanchez (Fr.), Colette Deignan (Fr.), Sarah Vance (Fr.), Zoey Waksmundzki (Fr.)

Outlook: The Bears enter the 2026 season under new leadership as former Lakes Community head coach Travis Shepherd takes over the program. Shepherd brings an impressive resume, having guided Lakes to a Class 2A State runner-up finish in 2022 after previously helping the Eagles earn another runner-up trophy as an assistant coach in 2019. Now at the helm of one of Class 3A's premier programs, he will look to add his first State trophy at the 3A level. The Bears will likely be led by senior Avery Muhr, a returning All Stater after finishing 21st at the State Meet last fall. Although injuries have interrupted portions of the last calendar year, Muhr still enjoyed a solid track season, helping the Bears place fifth in the 4x800 meter relay at the State Meet while splitting 2:19. If she can remain healthy throughout the fall, she gives the Bears a proven front runner capable of leading the team deep into the postseason. Sophomore Chloe Wettstein is another athlete with tremendous upside. She put together an outstanding freshman cross country season before low ferritin levels affected her late in the year, causing her to narrowly miss All State honors with a 27th place finish. She also endured a difficult track season, but a return to full health could make her one of the biggest runners in the state. Celia Blaylock showed flashes of All State potential throughout last fall, including a Top 100 finish at NXR Midwest. She followed that up with an excellent track season, helping the Bears place fifth in the 4x800 meter relay and earn All State honors in the 4x400 meter relay. Blaylock has all the tools to emerge as another All State contender this season. Patricia Johnson returns after finishing 56th at the State Meet in 2025, where she served as the Bears' third runner. Her experience and consistency make her another key piece of one of the deepest lineups in Class 3A. Abigail Kocher is expected to round out the scoring after an excellent spring. She helped the Bears earn a fifth place finish in the 4x800 meter relay while lowering her personal best to 5:12 in the 1600 meters. Kocher also finished 78th at the State Meet last fall and appears ready for another strong cross country campaign. With a proven coaching staff, multiple returning All State caliber runners, and nearly every key contributor back from last year's lineup, the Bears have all the ingredients to contend for a State trophy. If their top athletes stay healthy and continue the progression they have shown over the past year, this team has the talent to be one of the very best in Class 3A throughout the season. Coach Shephard stated, “Coming off a historic campaign that featured a 5th-place finish at the 3A State Meet and an All-State performance from our 4x8 squad, LZGXC enters the fall with elevated expectations. We return our entire front five—Abigail Korcher, Avery Muhr, Celia Blaylock, Chloe Wettstein, and Patricia Johnson—giving us proven front-running strength and big-race experience. Our senior leadership, anchored by Anja Wiersum, Avery Muhr, Celia Blaylock, and Riley Pitchford, established a culture of accountability all summer through athlete-led training sessions. That foundation allowed for a seamless transition as we welcomed a talented freshman class of 10+ runners. Newcomers Colette Deignan, Riley Muhr, Elliana Sanchez, Sarah Vance, and Zoey Waksmundzki have already shown sparks of brilliance. If this group continues to work diligently, trusts their training, executes our race strategy, and runs for each other, not even the stars will be out of reach this November!”

7. New Lenox (Lincoln-Way Central)

Head Coach/Coaches: Ryan Stapinski / Brian Mulford, Becky Cherry, Cara Anderson

Last Year’s Finish: 12th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Mia Forystek (Sr.), Brea Counihan (Sr.), Keira Faxel (Jr.), Jillian Davies (Sr.), Ana Dal Ponte (Jr.), Grace Mathis (Jr.), Katie Petrosky (Sr.), Frances Maynard (Sr.)

Key Additions: Ava Zartler (Fr.), Ellie Hoff (Fr.), Laney Hoff (Fr.), Olivia Kinsella (Fr.)

Outlook: The Knights have quietly put together one of the strongest stretches in program history, and with a wealth of returning talent, they have the potential to contend for a State trophy if everything falls into place this fall. Their combination of proven front runners, outstanding track performances, and exceptional depth makes them one of the most dangerous teams in Class 3A entering 2026. The Knights will be led by Mia Forystek, who appears poised for a breakthrough cross country season. After narrowly missing All State honors with a 28th place finish at the State Meet last fall, Forystek exploded during the track season. She ran remarkable personal bests of 2:09 in the 800 meters and 4:49 in the 1600 meters while placing third in the 800 meters and sixth in the 1600 meters at the Class 3A State Meet. She enters the season as a legitimate contender for a Top 10 finish at the State Meet. Brea Counihan gives the Knights another proven front runner. After earning All State honors as a freshman in 2023, she narrowly missed returning to the podium last fall. Counihan responded with an outstanding track season, lowering her personal best to 11:02 in the 3200 meters while qualifying for the State Meet. She has all the tools to return to All State form this season. Grace Mathis also enjoyed a transformative spring, posting an impressive 11:14 in the 3200 meters. Her improvement during track gives the Knights another runner capable of making a significant jump on the cross country course. Jillian Davies returns after serving as the team's third runner in 2025, finishing 70th at the State Meet. Injuries limited her during the track season, but if she returns to full strength, she provides another experienced scorer for this lineup. Keira Faxel is another athlete capable of making a major impact. She helped the Knights place sixth in the State in the 4x800 meter relay and showed tremendous potential early in the cross country season, running 17:38 before injuries and setbacks prevented her from finishing the year the way she had hoped. A healthy season could make her one of the team's biggest difference makers. Katie Petrovsky is coming off a breakthrough track season of her own. She posted personal bests of 2:15 in the 800 meters and 5:13 in the 1600 meters while helping the Knights earn a sixth place finish in the 4x800 meter relay and qualifying individually for the State Meet in the 800 meters. Ana Dal Ponte adds even more depth after anchoring the Knights' sixth place 4x800 meter relay with an impressive 2:13 split at the State Meet. She enters the fall as one of several athletes capable of working her way into the scoring lineup. Freshman Ava Zartler rounds out an exceptionally deep roster. One of the top incoming freshmen in the state, Zartler enters high school after running 2:19 in the 800 meters and 5:19 in the 1600 meters while placing fourth and sixth, respectively, at the middle school state meet. She has the talent to develop into a varsity scorer before the postseason. Few teams in Class 3A can match the Knights' combination of front-end talent and depth. If their experienced runners stay healthy and their younger athletes continue to develop, this group has everything needed to challenge for a State trophy and continue the program's impressive rise. Coach Stapinski stated, “I believe we can build on last year’s best ever team finish at State for Lincoln-Way Central by following it up with a top 5 finish in State.  We have a great group that genuinely wants each girl around her to succeed.  We have a lot of depth and 33 runners working hard to improve and enjoy the experience.  It’s a special group and has been a really fun summer.”

8. Edwardsville

Head Coach/Coaches: George Patrylak / Nick Whiteside, Lexi Keller

Last Year’s Finish: 8th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Morgan Popelar (Jr.), MacKenna Kerpan (So.), Ella Thompson (Sr.), Willow Jackson (Jr.), Reagan Jumper (Jr.), Virginia Siejka (So.), Clara Johnson (So.), Ava Horsfall (Sr.), Cara Kielty (Jr.), Jillian Suhre (Jr.), Evie Bristow (Jr.)

Key Additions: Emery Lawson (Fr.), Audrey Floyd (Fr.), Abby Godard (Fr.), Kennedy Jumper (Fr.), Zoe Scroggins (Fr.), Annabella Sirko (Fr.)

Outlook: The Tigers have finished eighth at the Class 3A State Meet in each of the past two seasons and, fittingly, enter 2026 ranked eighth once again. While they have established themselves as one of the state's most consistent programs, this year's squad has the potential to climb even higher if its talented front pack continues to develop. With a strong returning core and an impressive freshman class waiting in the wings, the Tigers are once again positioned to contend for a State trophy. The team will be led by the outstanding trio of Morgan Popelar, MacKenna Kerpan, and Ella Thompson. Popelar emerged as the Tigers' second runner last fall after finishing 37th at the State Meet. She carried that momentum into the track season, qualifying for the Class 3A State Meet in the 3200 meters while lowering her personal best to 10:57. She enters the fall as a legitimate All State contender. Kerpan also enjoyed an exceptional spring, qualifying for the State Meet in the 3200 meters after running 11:01. Like Popelar, she has positioned herself to contend for an All State finish this cross country season and gives the Tigers another outstanding front runner. Thompson was the team's top runner throughout the 2025 cross country season but focused on soccer during the spring while her teammates continued to improve on the track. Even so, she has already proven herself as one of the top runners in the state and has every opportunity to rejoin Popelar and Kerpan at the front of the lineup by championship season. Reagan Jumper is expected to once again be a key scorer after finishing 85th at the State Meet as a sophomore. She did not compete during the track season, so her progression throughout the fall will be an important storyline for the Tigers. The fifth scoring position appears to be led by Willow Jackson entering the season. Jackson finished 151st at the State Meet last fall before putting together an excellent track campaign, posting personal bests of 2:19 in the 800 meters, 5:24 in the 1600 meters, and 11:35 in the 3200 meters. She also helped the Tigers qualify for the State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay, giving the team another experienced contributor. The Tigers also welcome a talented freshman class that could strengthen the lineup as the season progresses. Audrey Floyd is one newcomer to watch and has the talent to work her way into the scoring five before the postseason. With three potential All State caliber front runners, experienced depth throughout the varsity lineup, and an outstanding freshman class ready to contribute, the Tigers have all the pieces necessary to challenge for a third consecutive Top 10 finish and could very well improve upon their eighth place finishes from the past two seasons. Coach Patrylak stated, “After back-to-back 8^th place finishes at State, we want to improve this year.  The problem is that a lot of those teams that finished ahead of us are also returning a lot!  Our goal is to finish in the top five, but the girls really want to bring home some individual and team hardware this year. From the first meet of the year, I want us to be ahead of where we were the previous year.  I also don't want us to be our best early on.  I want to continue to improve and build as a team.  Our first true indications of where we truly are as a team will be Palatine and Peoria High.”

9. Minooka

Head Coach/Coaches: Kevin Gummerson / Matt Clark, Jessica Hopkins, Leslie Hencinski, Ashley Tutt, Matt Thomas, Dan Schalk

Last Year’s Finish: 16th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Natalie Nahs (Sr.), Leah Kleckauskas (Sr.), Ellie Porath (So.), Clara Getsoian (Jr.), Paige Joachim (Sr.), Carolina Jorge (Jr.), Chelsi Heyob (So.), Meara McTighe (So.), Sydney Tamez (Sr.)

Key Additions: Autumn Blair (Fr.)

Outlook: The Indians have been one of the most consistent programs in Illinois, qualifying for each of the last 17 State Meets while recording 10 Top 10 finishes over the past 12 seasons. That tradition of excellence appears poised to continue in 2026 as another talented and experienced roster returns with the potential to once again contend for a State trophy. The Indians will be led by returning All Stater Natalie Nahs, who finished 18th at the State Meet in 2025. She followed up her outstanding cross country season with an exceptional spring, posting personal bests of 2:11 in the 800 meters and 5:06 in the 1600 meters. Nahs finished sixth in the Class 3A 800 meters and also qualified for the State Meet in the 4x400 meter relay, solidifying herself as one of the premier runners in the classification. Paige Joachim emerged as one of the state's biggest breakout performers during the track season and now enters the fall as a legitimate All State contender. She qualified for the State Meet in both the 1600 meters and the 4x400 meter relay while lowering her personal bests to 2:16 in the 800 meters and 5:01 in the 1600 meters. Her improvement gives the Indians another elite front runner. Clara Getsoian also enjoyed an outstanding spring and is expected to be a key scorer once again. She qualified for the State Meet in the 1600 meters and the 4x800 meter relay while posting personal bests of 2:20 in the 800 meters, 5:10 in the 1600 meters, and 11:23 in the 3200 meters. Leah Kleckauskas is one of the most intriguing athletes on the roster. After running 17:58 as a junior, health issues limited her throughout the track season. If she returns to full strength this fall, she has the potential to become a major contributor and strengthen an already impressive lineup. Ellie Porath returns after serving as the team's second runner as a freshman, finishing 103rd at the State Meet. She continued her development during the spring by lowering her personal best to 5:16 in the 1600 meters while helping the Indians qualify for the State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay. With an experienced All State leader, multiple runners capable of earning individual medals, and one of the strongest traditions in Illinois cross country, the Indians have all the pieces necessary to extend their remarkable State Meet qualifying streak to 18 consecutive seasons. If their front pack continues the progression shown during the track season and their depth remains strong, Minooka should once again find itself among the top teams in Class 3A. Coach Gummerson stated, “We had a really good summer. We were not full strength in June and early July as we had some athletes finishing up their track seasons, so it has been good to get everybody back together training as a group. It is great to have Natalie, and Paige had an absolutely outstanding track season. When you combine that with the summer that she had, she is ready to see how she stacks up over 3 miles. I like the teams that I have to keep an eye

on because they are fired up and ready to take on more and this group has that mentality. It is clear the state of Illinois is loaded this year, so time will tell how we stack up. However, this group is determined to be down in Peoria this year and put together our best race down there.”

10. Winnetka (New Trier)

Head Coach/Coaches: John Burnside

Last Year’s Finish: 11th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Miriam Eynon (So.), Kayla Ritchie (Sr.), Jillian Crane (So.), Alexis Andrus (Jr.), Margaret Canmann (Sr.), Ford Sullivan (Jr.), Grace Murphy (Sr.), Nora Brooks (Sr.), Emma Denfeld (So.)

Outlook: The Trevians return six members from last year's team that finished 11th at the Class 3A State Meet and once again have the talent to challenge for a Top 10 finish. With a proven All Stater leading the way and several runners coming off outstanding track seasons, New Trier enters 2026 as one of the deepest teams in the classification. Miriam Eynon is expected to once again lead the Trevians after earning All State honors with a 16th place finish at the State Meet last fall. Rather than competing during the track season, Eynon elected to play soccer, making her one of the more intriguing athletes entering the cross country season. If she quickly reacclimates to running, she has already shown she can compete with the state's best. Kayla Ritchie returns as the likely number two runner after finishing 75th at the State Meet in 2025. She enjoyed an outstanding track season, qualifying for the State Meet as part of the Trevians' 4x800 meter relay while posting personal bests of 5:12 in the 1600 meters and 11:04 in the 3200 meters. Ritchie has developed into a legitimate All State candidate heading into the fall. Jillian Crane also took a significant step forward during the spring. She lowered her personal bests to 5:18 in the 1600 meters and 11:10 in the 3200 meters while qualifying individually for the State Meet in the 3200 meters. Crane gives the Trevians another dependable scorer with the potential to continue climbing the rankings. Alexis Andrus returns after placing 104th at the State Meet last season and helping New Trier qualify for the State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay. Her experience provides another valuable piece to the Trevians' scoring lineup. The fifth scoring position will likely come down to Margaret Canmann or Ford Sullivan. Both gained valuable State Meet experience last fall and have the ability to develop into sub-18:00 runners this season. If one or both can make that jump, New Trier's depth will once again make it one of the strongest teams in Class 3A. With an experienced All Stater at the front, multiple runners capable of competing for All State honors, and excellent depth throughout the lineup, the Trevians have all the ingredients to improve upon last year's State Meet finish and challenge for a place among the top teams in Illinois once again.

11. St. Charles North

Head Coach/Coaches: Shari Hayes

Last Year’s Finish: 13th @ IHSA 3A Lake Park Sectional

Key Returners: Kara Glenn (Jr.), Julia Rodney (Sr.), Gwen Hobson (Sr.), Alyssa Oblak (Sr.), Brooklyn Thompson (Jr.), Juliana Gonzalez (Sr.), Eden Custer (So.), Isabella McGill (Sr.), Liliana Zimmerman (So.)

Outlook: The North Stars have not qualified for the State Meet as a team since 2021, but they appear poised to end that drought in 2026. After an incredible track season and the return of several elite athletes, St. Charles North has assembled one of the most talented lineups in Class 3A. If the North Stars can develop a reliable fifth scorer, they have the potential to contend not only for a State Meet berth but also for a State trophy. The team will be led by Kara Glenn, who is coming off one of the greatest State Track Meet performances ever produced by an Illinois distance runner. Many had Glenn pegged as the favorite to win the Class 3A cross country State Championship last fall before a stress fracture ended her season prematurely. She returned with a vengeance during the spring, finishing second in the 3200 meters while capturing State Championships in the 800 meters, the 1600 meters, and the 4x800 meter relay, where the North Stars set a new IHSA State Record. Glenn enters the fall with remarkable personal bests of 2:05 in the 800 meters, 4:41 in the 1600 meters, and 10:11 in the 3200 meters, making her one of the favorites for the individual State title. Gwen Hobson is the lone returning State qualifier from last year's cross country team and provides the North Stars with another elite front runner. Hobson earned All State honors with a 13th place finish at the State Meet before enjoying an outstanding track season. She posted personal bests of 2:15 in the 800 meters and 4:59 in the 1600 meters while qualifying individually for the State Meet in the 1600 meters and helping the North Stars capture the State title in the record setting 4x800 meter relay. Julia Rodney gives St. Charles North another athlete capable of competing near the front of the field. Rodney missed the entire 2025 cross country season because of injury but returned in spectacular fashion during track. She earned All State honors in the 800 meters, helped the North Stars set the State Record in the 4x800 meter relay, and owns exceptional personal bests of 2:11 in the 800 meters and 4:56 in the 1600 meters. A healthy Rodney dramatically raises this team's ceiling. Alyssa Oblak is expected to anchor the second half of the lineup after running 18:15 during last year's cross country season. She continued her development in the spring, lowering her personal bests to 5:23 in the 1600 meters and 11:30 in the 3200 meters, giving the North Stars another proven scorer. The biggest question surrounding this team will be finding a dependable fifth runner. If the North Stars can develop another athlete capable of staying close to Oblak throughout the season, they have enough firepower at the front of the lineup to contend for a State trophy. With one of the premier low sticks in Illinois, three All State caliber runners, and tremendous momentum from the track season, St. Charles North has all the ingredients to become one of the biggest stories of the 2026 cross country season.

12. Chicago (St. Ignatius)

Head Coach/Coaches: Matt Haffner / Giovanni Sira, Mahalia Gilot, Christine Mayeaux

Last Year’s Finish: 6th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Allison Shutler (Jr.), Elle Sheaffer (Sr.), Greta Sheaffer (Jr.), Gabriela Wrobel (Jr.), Abbey Ray (So.), Ella Kueker (Jr.), Fiona Connelly (Jr.), Olivia Brophy (Jr.), Aurora Steinhofer (Jr.), Molly Malloy (So.)

Key Additions: Berrit Shure (So.), Reese Massick (Fr.), Savannah Harper (Fr.)

Outlook: The Wolfpack are in the midst of the greatest stretch in program history. They have qualified for the State Meet in six consecutive seasons and have brought home two State trophies during that span while competing in Class 2A. Now in Class 3A, St. Ignatius has assembled another outstanding roster capable of extending that success. With one of the state's premier front runners, tremendous depth, and a potentially game-changing wildcard, the Wolfpack have the talent to contend for another State trophy. The Wolfpack will be led by junior Ali Shutler, who enters the season as one of the top individual contenders in Illinois. Shutler earned All State honors with a fourth-place finish at the 2025 State Meet before electing to skip the track season to focus on her long-term development. After a full year dedicated to preparing for cross country, she returns healthy and ready to challenge for the individual State Championship. The Sheaffer sisters give St. Ignatius one of the strongest sibling duos in the state. Elle Sheaffer finished 101st at the State Meet last fall before enjoying an outstanding track season. She qualified for the State Meet in both the 1600 meters and the 4x800 meter relay while lowering her personal best to 5:02 in the 1600 meters. Elle has positioned herself as a legitimate candidate to make the leap into All State contention this fall. Greta Sheaffer also continued her steady progression after finishing 90th at the State Meet in 2025. She posted impressive personal bests of 5:07 in the 1600 meters and 11:10 in the 3200 meters during the spring, giving the Wolfpack another dependable front runner capable of competing near the front of the field. Gabriela Wrobel returns after placing 116th at the State Meet last season and should once again provide valuable scoring depth. She continued to improve throughout the track season, lowering her personal best to 5:25 in the 1600 meters. Molly Malloy and Aurora Steinhofer both helped the Wolfpack qualify for the State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay and are strong candidates to round out the scoring lineup. Steinhofer is particularly intriguing after an outstanding freshman cross country season in which she ran 18:11 before injuries and setbacks limited her sophomore campaign. A healthy return would significantly strengthen the Wolfpack's depth. The biggest wildcard on this roster is Berrit Shure. One of the state's most accomplished middle school runners, Shure suffered a serious ankle injury near the end of eighth grade that prevented her from competing as a freshman. Now nearing a return, she brings remarkable credentials that include personal bests of 2:16 in the 800 meters, 5:05 in the 1600 meters, and 11:50 in the 2 Mile. She finished sixth at NXR Midwest as an eighth grader, placed third at the IESA State Cross Country Meet, and captured IESA State Championships in both the 400 meters and the 800 meters. It's unclear if Shure returns to full health this season, but she could be a scorer for this team if healthy. The Wolfpack have all the ingredients to continue the most successful era in program history. With an elite low stick, multiple runners capable of making the All State podium, outstanding depth, and the possibility of adding another high-level scorer in Shure, St. Ignatius has the talent to once again find itself in the hunt for a Top 10 finish.

13. Hinsdale Central

Head Coach/Coaches: Mark McCabe / Courtney Wallace, Maura Passagia

Last Year’s Finish: 7th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Ella Satre (Sr.), Morgan Kohn (Sr.), Ally Furey (Sr.), Lucy McCormick (Sr.), Marin Backus (Jr.), Kate Lowe (So.), Evelyn Skay (Sr.)

Key Additions: Rory Sullivan (Fr.)

Outlook: The Red Devilettes are coming off another outstanding season after placing seventh at the Class 3A State Meet in 2025. Hinsdale Central has established itself as one of the state's most consistent programs, qualifying for each of the last 13 State Meets, and will look to extend that remarkable streak to 14 consecutive appearances this fall. Returning five of their six State Meet runners, the Red Devilettes have the experience and talent to once again finish among the top teams in Illinois. Leading the way is returning All Stater Ella Satre, who capped off a tremendous junior season with a 12th-place finish at the State Meet. Satre followed that performance with another excellent spring, qualifying for the Class 3A State Meet in the 3200 meters while posting outstanding personal bests of 5:02 in the 1600 meters and 10:46 in the 3200 meters. She enters the season as one of the premier distance runners in the state and a strong candidate to earn another All State medal. Morgan Kohn provides the Red Devilettes with another proven front runner after finishing 34th at the State Meet in 2025. Her experience at the front of the lineup will be invaluable, and after narrowly missing All State honors last fall, she has the potential to move into the top 25 this season. Ally Furey appears poised for a breakout cross country campaign following an outstanding track season. She lowered her personal bests to 5:19 in the 1600 meters and 11:22 in the 3200 meters, performances that suggest she is ready to assume a much larger scoring role for Hinsdale Central this fall. Marin Backus returns after serving as the team's fourth runner during last year's State Meet run, where she placed 99th overall. She also qualified for the Class 3A State Meet in the 4x400 meter relay during the spring, adding valuable championship experience to the lineup. Lucy McCormick is expected to round out the scoring five after another strong track season that saw her lower her personal best to 5:22 in the 1600 meters. Her continued improvement gives the Red Devilettes a dependable fifth scorer. The biggest question for Hinsdale Central will be developing depth behind its top five runners. On paper, the Red Devilettes have one of the strongest scoring lineups in Class 3A, but building additional depth throughout the season will be important as they navigate injuries, championship racing, and the postseason. With two potential All State performers leading the way, an experienced supporting cast, and one of the most consistent traditions in Illinois cross country, the Red Devilettes have all the pieces necessary to extend their State Meet streak and once again contend for a Top 10 finish in Class 3A.

14. Naperville North

Head Coach/Coaches: Dan Iverson / Jen Weigand, Matt Sniadecki, Matt Blanco, Meghan Donovan

Last Year’s Finish: 15th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Chloe Piot (Sr.), Sophia Schulz (Sr.), Kathryn Rohr (Jr.), Georgia Karstens (Jr.), Elliana White (Sr.), Lorelai Garlough (Jr.), Alex Pobozny (Jr.), Clara Reckamp (Jr.), Kate Gallagher (Sr.)

Key Additions: Anna Buresh (Fr.), Charlie Crannell (Fr.), Paige Cupp (Fr.)

Outlook: The Huskies are the most decorated girls cross country program in IHSA history, having captured 16 State trophies since the turn of the century. Their remarkable streak of qualifying for every State Meet since 1998 is one of the longest active runs in Illinois, and they will look to extend it once again in 2026. With a talented and experienced lineup coming off an outstanding track season, the Huskies have the potential to return to the Top 10 by the end of the fall. Georgia Kartsens appears ready for a breakout cross country campaign after an excellent spring. She lowered her personal bests to 5:11 in the 1600 meters and 10:57 in the 3200 meters, performances that position her as a legitimate All State contender entering the season. If she carries that momentum onto the grass, she could emerge as one of the top front runners in Class 3A. Sophia Schulz also enjoyed a tremendous track season. She posted personal bests of 2:17 in the 800 meters and 5:02 in the 1600 meters while qualifying for the State Meet in both the 1600 meters and the 4x800 meter relay. Like Kartsens, Schulz has the talent to compete for an All State finish this fall. Chloe Piot returns after an outstanding cross country season that saw her finish 53rd at the State Meet in 2025. Although she did not have the track season she had hoped for, Piot has already proven she can perform at a high level on the grass and will be looking to return to that form this fall. Kathryn Rohr is another athlete coming off a strong spring after lowering her personal best to 5:13 in the 1600 meters. She should play a key scoring role as the Huskies continue to build one of the stronger lineups in the classification. Elliana White is projected to round out the scoring five after helping the Huskies qualify for the State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay. White also posted a personal best of 5:23 in the 1600 meters this spring, giving the Huskies another reliable contributor with postseason experience. With a pair of potential All State performers leading the lineup, a strong supporting cast, and one of the richest traditions in IHSA history, the Huskies have all the ingredients to continue their remarkable State Meet qualifying streak and make a serious push toward a Top 10 finish in Class 3A this season. Coach Iverson stated, “We have had a good summer of training, with solid numbers throughout. We have a large freshman class, of about 20, so we have a lot of room for that to develop. We also have a lot of people working hard to earn spots in our top seven that were vacated by graduation from last year. I do think we can be better than last year, but it will remain to be seen how much. This is a team willing to work hard and grow together. I think our strength will be in the ability to have our top five push each other to get better over the course of the season. We should have at least five that will be in contention to be our number one runner at any one point.”

15. Plainfield North

Head Coach/Coaches: Andy Derks / Roxanne Hall, Emilie Hatzl, Kyle Bender, Emily Brodko

Last Year’s Finish: 14th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Marlie Czarniewski (Sr.), Laurel Eager (So.), Olivia Eager (So.), Ayla Czarniewski (Sr.), Kate Beavers (So.), Ireland Hockman (Sr.), Megan Morris (Sr.), Presley Hartzold (Jr.), Audrey Maresca (So.), Peach Santini (Jr.), Aven Thomas (Jr.)

Key Additions: Serena Eggert (Fr.)

Outlook: The Tigers enter the 2026 season with championship aspirations after another outstanding year in 2025. Although they finished 14th at the State Meet last fall, this year's team has the potential to be even stronger. The challenge is that Class 3A is deeper than ever, meaning Plainfield North finds itself ranked slightly lower in the preseason despite returning a more talented squad. If everything comes together, however, the Tigers have the pieces to climb the rankings and compete with the state's best. Leading the way once again is Marlie Czarniewski, one of the premier distance runners in Illinois. Czarniewski earned All State honors with a ninth-place finish at the 2025 State Meet before putting together an exceptional track season. She posted personal bests of 4:57 in the 1600 meters and 10:23 in the 3200 meters, finished fifth in the Class 3A 3200 meters, and qualified for the State Meet in the 1600 meters. Entering her senior season, she will once again be one of the favorites to finish among the state's top runners. Laurel Eager returns as the Tigers' dependable number two after placing 52nd at the State Meet last fall. Her consistency gives Plainfield North another experienced scorer capable of keeping the front pack together throughout the championship season. Ayla Czarniewski appears poised for a breakout campaign after an outstanding spring. She lowered her personal bests to 5:18 in the 1600 meters and 11:27 in the 3200 meters, performances that suggest she is ready to take over the number three role and become a major contributor this fall. Olivia Eager gained valuable experience as a freshman after finishing 115th at the State Meet in 2025. Although her track season did not unfold as planned, she has already proven she can compete at a high level on the grass and will be looking to return to that form this season. One of the more unique storylines in Class 3A belongs to the Tigers, who feature two sets of twins among their top runners. The Czarniewski sisters and the Eager sisters give Plainfield North a rare combination of chemistry and familiarity at the front of the lineup. Kate Beavers rounds out the projected scoring five after an excellent track season. She posted personal bests of 5:30 in the 1600 meters and 11:44 in the 3200 meters and appears ready to take on a larger role this fall. The Tigers are one of the best examples of just how deep Class 3A has become. On paper, this team may actually be stronger than the group that placed 14th at the State Meet a year ago, yet they begin the preseason ranked 15th because of the incredible strength throughout the classification. With an elite front runner, a strong supporting cast, and continued development from their young talent, Plainfield North has all the ingredients to outperform its preseason ranking and make a serious push toward the top of the Class 3A standings. Coach Derks stated, “This year's team comes into the season with incredibly high expectations. While we have had our best finishes in school history each of the past few seasons, we have not left the state meet feeling satisfied.  This group is ready to take our program to the next level. Marlie Czarniewski will be one of the top runners in the state, she works relentlessly hard and is a great leader.  The pack of girls behind her is much improved and ready to show what they can do.  Above all, this is a close team that truly has fun.  They are learning to enjoy doing hard things, and embrace the process of training with maturity. No matter what happens, this is going to be a fun ride and I'm proud of how they have not backed down from setting high goals.”

16. Chicago (DePaul)

Head Coach/Coaches: Stephanie Stecz / Marta Rhyner, Doug Arseneau, Peter Cashman

Last Year’s Finish: 18th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Emily Stecky (Sr.), Abigail Radich (Jr.), Ella Buciak (Sr.), Ryan Greeby (Jr.), Lilyana Mugnaini (Sr.), Alexis Palkon (So.), Maura Kelly, Grace Cashman, Grace Grohman

Key Additions: Chloe Milton (Fr.)

Outlook: The Rams have experienced remarkable growth as a program, moving from Class 1A to Class 3A in just four years while continuing to improve each season. Now firmly established in Illinois' largest classification, DePaul College Prep returns a talented core and adds one of the state's top incoming freshmen, giving the Rams the potential to challenge for one of the best finishes in program history. Leading the way is senior Emily Stecky, who narrowly missed All State honors with a 26th-place finish at the 2025 State Meet. Stecky followed up her outstanding cross country season with an excellent spring, placing fourth in the Class 3A 800 meters after running 2:10. She also qualified for the State Meet in the 1600 meters and the 4x400 meter relay. Entering her final cross country season, Stecky will be one of the leading contenders to earn her first Class 3A All State medal. One of the biggest additions to any team in the state comes in freshman Chloe Milton. Milton enters high school with tremendous credentials after running 5:06 for 1600 meters during middle school and finishing second at the HOKA Festival of Miles middle school mile. She was also a three-time IESA State runner-up to Molly Mocko, one of the greatest middle school distance runners in Illinois history. Milton has all the talent necessary to become an All Stater as a freshman and could make an immediate impact near the front of the Rams' lineup. Ella Buciak also appears poised for a breakout cross country season after an outstanding spring. She lowered her personal bests to 5:14 in the 1600 meters and 11:26 in the 3200 meters while helping the Rams qualify for the State Meet last fall. Buciak has the ability to move into the Top 100 at the State Meet and become an even bigger scoring piece this season. One of the biggest storylines for DePaul will be the return of Abigail Radich. Injuries kept her from competing at the State Cross Country Meet and sidelined her throughout the track season, but her talent has never been in question. After running 5:03 in the 1600 meters as a freshman, Radich has the potential to become one of the team's most valuable contributors if she returns to full health. Ryan Greeby rounds out a talented scoring group after an excellent track season. She qualified for the Class 3A State Meet in both the 800 meters and the 4x400 meter relay while posting a personal best of 2:17 in the 800 meters, one of the stronger marks among returning runners in the classification. Her continued development gives the Rams another reliable scoring option. With a proven All State contender leading the way, one of Illinois' premier freshmen joining the roster, and multiple runners capable of taking another step forward, DePaul College Prep has assembled the most talented team in program history. If the Rams stay healthy and continue the momentum they built during the track season, they have the talent to establish themselves as one of the top teams in Class 3A and make a serious push toward the State's top 10. Coach Stecz stated, “Coming off a consistent summer of building a strong base, integrating hills, and focusing on strength training, our girls team is locked in with ambitious goals for the season.  Our seniors have shown tremendous leadership, and the girls genuinely have had a fun summer of running in Chicago.  Investing in our team culture over the least few years has paid off, where now the goal-setting, intensity, and commitment originates from the girls.  Senior Emily Stecky will lead the team and is ready to make an impact as a top XC runner, breaking out from just specializing as an 800m track runner.  We expect freshman Chloe Milton to up front, too, making the transition from middle school to high school success.  We have a tight pack of Ella Buciak, Ryan Greeby, and Abby Radich who all are ready for breakout seasons.  And right with them, we have sophomores Maura Kelly and Alexis Palkon and seniors Grace Cashman, Lilyana Mugnaini, and Grace Grohman working hard to close the gap as varsity contenders.  And as always, we’re looking for the hidden gems who emerge as the season unfolds.  This will be the strongest, fastest team we’ve had.  We are confident in a top 10 finish at State.”

17. Downers Grove South

Head Coach/Coaches: Sarah Abuelhawa

Last Year’s Finish: 26th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Nia Ortega (Sr.), Gianna Lamb (Sr.), Nora Maier (Jr.), Rose Jones (Sr.), Ashlin Burke (So.), Matilda Silva (Sr.), Hannah Larkin (So.), Samantha Oberle (Sr.)

Key Additions: Brynn Bartkus (Fr.)

Outlook: A new era begins at Downers Grove South as longtime head coach Doug Plunkett retires and Sarah Abuelhawa takes over one of the state's most respected programs. The Mustangs were one of Illinois' premier teams during the late 2010s, and while they have been searching for a return to that level in recent years, the foundation is in place for this group to help restore the program to statewide prominence. With an outstanding one-two punch and a tightly packed supporting cast, Downers Grove South has the potential to make a significant move up the Class 3A standings. The Mustangs will be led by senior Nia Ortega, who enjoyed an outstanding 2025 season. Ortega finished 74th at the State Meet before carrying that momentum into the track season, where she qualified for the Class 3A State Meet in the 3200 meters. She posted impressive personal bests of 5:10 in the 1600 meters and 10:54 in the 3200 meters, establishing herself as one of the top returning runners in the classification. Joining Ortega at the front of the lineup is one of the most accomplished freshmen in Illinois, Brynn Bartkus. Bartkus captured the IESA Class 1A State Cross Country Championship before placing fifth at the Coaches Youth National Championships. Her track season was equally impressive, as she ran 4:59 in the 1600 meters and 10:07 for 3000 meters. She also claimed the AAU Junior Olympics National Championship in the 1500 meters while finishing runner-up in the 3000 meters. Bartkus enters high school with the talent and championship experience to make an immediate impact and could quickly establish herself among the top freshmen in the state. Downers Grove South should also feature a dependable pack behind its front two. Gianna Lamb, Nora Maier, and Rose Jones are all expected to play key scoring roles and will be instrumental to the team's success throughout the season. The biggest key for the Mustangs will be the strength of that supporting pack. If Lamb, Maier, and Jones can consistently stay within 10 seconds of one another, Downers Grove South will possess the depth necessary to challenge for a Top 15 finish and continue building momentum under its new coaching staff. The combination of proven senior leadership, one of the state's premier incoming freshmen, and a tightly grouped supporting cast makes the Mustangs one of the more intriguing teams in Class 3A. If everything comes together, this could be the season that marks the beginning of another successful era for Downers Grove South girls cross country.

18. South Elgin

Head Coach/Coaches: Jorie Bartholomew

Last Year’s Finish: 12th @ IHSA 3A Lake Park Sectional

Key Returners: Luna Pozos (So.), Irma Jimenez (So.), Kayleia Lindsey (So.), Caitlin Wennerstrom (Jr.), Melody Guzman (Jr.), Maya Vodenik (Sr.), Adeline Denny (So.), Elissa Quinones (So.)

Outlook: The Storm opened the 2025 season looking like one of the biggest surprises in Class 3A, putting together several outstanding performances during the early portion of the schedule. As the season progressed, however, the team struggled to maintain that momentum and gradually slid back in the rankings. With nearly all of their top talent returning, South Elgin has the opportunity to make another run in 2026. The key will be finding a dependable fifth scorer to complement one of the stronger front packs in the classification. Luna Pozos returns with the fastest cross country personal best on the roster after running 17:14 at the Lakes Sunset Invitational. She has already proven she can compete with many of the top runners in Class 3A and will once again be expected to lead the Storm throughout the championship season. Right behind her is Irma Jimenez, who posted an impressive 17:17 at the Lakes Sunset Invitational last fall. Jimenez continued her development during the track season, running personal bests of 2:19 in the 800 meters and 5:18 in the 1600 meters. Her versatility and experience make her another dependable front runner. Caitlin Wennerstrom is coming off the strongest track season of anyone on the roster. She lowered her personal best to 5:08 in the 1600 meters, a performance that suggests she is ready to make a significant jump during cross country. If that improvement translates to the grass, Wennerstrom could become one of the team's biggest difference makers. Kayleia Lindsey also enjoyed an excellent spring, lowering her personal best to 5:15 in the 1600 meters. She gives the Storm another quality scorer and adds even more strength to what should be one of the better top-four groups in Class 3A. All four of those athletes played key roles on South Elgin's State qualifying 4x800 meter relay during the track season, highlighting both their talent and their ability to work together in championship competition. The biggest question surrounding the Storm is the fifth scoring position. Last year's fifth runner finished the season with a personal best of 19:36, leaving a significant gap behind the front four. If South Elgin can develop another runner capable of competing in the low 18-minute range, this team has the talent to challenge for a Top 15 finish and could surprise even more teams as the postseason approaches.

19. Park Ridge (Maine South)

Head Coach/Coaches: Jeff Downing / Kathleen Durkin

Last Year’s Finish: 22nd @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Tessie Bradley (Sr.), Emma Fuentes (Jr.), Bea Conroy (Jr.), Avery Udzielak (Jr.), Abby Seurnyck (Jr.), Audrey Frye (So.), Lilly Handley (Sr.), Isla Craig Naples (Sr.), Sophia Iniguez (Sr.), Claire Baumann (So.), Audrey Bielenda (So.), Tessa Goldklang (So.), Natalie Curry (So.), Ava Lowery (Jr.)

Outlook: The Hawks have quietly become one of the most consistent programs in Class 3A, qualifying for the State Meet in each of the past five seasons. They will look to extend that streak to six consecutive appearances in 2026 behind another experienced lineup led by one of the top distance runners in the classification. If the supporting cast continues to develop, Maine South has the talent to once again finish among the top teams in the state. Senior Tessie Bradley returns to lead the Hawks after earning All State honors with a 19th-place finish at the 2025 State Meet. Bradley followed up her outstanding cross country campaign with an exceptional track season, placing eighth in the Class 3A 3200 meters while lowering her personal bests to 5:04 in the 1600 meters and 10:37 in the 3200 meters. Those marks rank among the best returning performances in the classification and make Bradley a strong candidate to once again finish on the All State podium this fall. Bea Conroy appears ready to step into a larger role after an excellent spring. She lowered her personal best to 5:12 in the 1600 meters and gives the Hawks a dependable number two runner capable of continuing the team's strong tradition of developing front-end talent. Emma Fuentes also made significant strides during the track season, posting a personal best of 11:47 in the 3200 meters. Her improvement provides another valuable scoring piece and gives the Hawks additional strength through the middle of their lineup. The remainder of the scoring five is expected to come from a tightly grouped pack that includes Avery Udzielak, Audrey Frye, Abby Seurynck, and Lilly Handley. With several runners capable of filling those final scoring positions, Maine South has quality competition for varsity spots throughout the season. The development of that group will ultimately determine just how high the Hawks can climb in the Class 3A rankings. With an established All State leader, a strong supporting cast, and one of the most consistent programs in Illinois, the Hawks are well positioned to extend their State Meet qualifying streak and once again compete for a Top 10 finish in Class 3A. Coach Downing stated, “We always set our goals to be competitive in our conference (CSL:  Last year we finished in second behind New Trier) and compete hard to make the IHSA State meet.  We know that this will be a challenging set of goals for this season, and we are looking forward to seeing how it plays out this season.”

20. Wheaton Warrenville South

Head Coach/Coaches: Rob Harvey / Maddie Weeden, Piper Lindsay, Brian English

Last Year’s Finish: 9th @ IHSA 3A Lake Park Sectional

Key Returners: Adrienne Aderhold (Sr.), Clara Franken (Jr.), Arielle Friebel (Sr.), Kate Jeffers (Jr.), Addy Lindsay (Jr.), Addison Munie (So.), Shyla Paramsothy (Jr.), Kate Rodakowski (Sr.), Emma Yaun (So.), Izzy Yaun (So.), Addison Munie (So.)

Outlook: The Tigers were dealt one of the toughest postseason paths in Class 3A last fall, competing in the loaded Lake Park Sectional that featured many of the state's top teams. Despite missing out on a State Meet berth, Wheaton Warrenville South remains one of the premier programs in Illinois under longtime head coach Rob Harvey. With a strong returning core and several athletes coming off outstanding track seasons, the Tigers have the pieces to make a return trip to Detweiller Park in 2026. Leading the way is returning State qualifier Addy Lindsay, who finished an impressive 41st at the State Meet as a sophomore. Lindsay followed that performance by helping the Tigers qualify for the Class 3A State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay while posting a personal best of 5:14 in the 1600 meters. She enters the fall as one of the top front runners in the sectional and gives the Tigers a proven leader. Kate Jeffers should once again be a key scorer after helping the Tigers qualify for the State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay. She enjoyed an excellent spring, lowering her personal best to 11:24 in the 3200 meters, and has the strength to become one of the team's most reliable contributors this fall. Clara Franken also played a vital role on the Tigers' State qualifying 4x800 meter relay and took a major step forward during the track season. She lowered her personal best to 5:13 in the 1600 meters and appears ready to assume a larger scoring role in cross country. The final scoring positions will likely be determined by a competitive group that includes Emma Yaun, Shyla Paramsothy, Natalie Houcek, and Addison Munie. Developing depth behind the front three will be the biggest key to the Tigers' success this season. If two runners from that group can stay within roughly 20 seconds of Franken throughout the postseason, Wheaton Warrenville South will have the balance needed to contend for a State Meet berth and could find itself pushing toward a Top 15 finish at Detweiller. With a proven front runner, an experienced supporting cast, and one of the most successful coaching staffs in the state, the Tigers have all the ingredients to bounce back from last year's difficult sectional draw and reestablish themselves among the top teams in Class 3A. Coach Harvey stated, “We had a very successful 2025 cross country season. Unfortunately, we missed qualifying for the state championships. We were a very young team who gained a lot of experience. Our track & field season was filled with personal bests and a finalist in the 4 x 800 meter relay. Our summer has been great with a young and hungry group. Much of our summer was spent on focusing on getting stronger and building our aerobic strength. With the graduation of some great seniors, we have also focused on developing our team's upperclass leadership. We had an overwhelming turnout for our summer camps with nearly 60 middle school and high school girls participating. As with every season, we will have a long-term season approach using every workout and race to build momentum. Our season schedule has been modified adding a few more chances to race. We will need every competitive opportunity and workout to reach our full potential. We have a great senior class...positive leadership should not be an issue for us. They have all stepped up to welcome our underclass athletes into the program.”

21. Elmhurst (York)

Head Coach/Coaches: Lauren DeAngelis / Becca Keenan, Jimmy Kolb, Emily Scott

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

Key Returners: Karlin Janowski (Jr.), Amelia Crotty (Jr.), Stella Rosso (Sr.), Julia Weseloh (Sr.), Dehlia Bernardi (Jr.), Citali Zamora-Garcia (So.), Allison Buhrfriend (Jr.), Kyla O’Halloran (Jr.), Katie Cifelli (Sr.)

Key Additions: Eleanor Berry (Fr.)

Outlook: The Lady Dukes have been the gold standard of Illinois girls cross country over the past five seasons, capturing five State trophies and two State Championships during that remarkable run. While this year's roster may not possess the same depth as some of York's recent championship teams, the program remains loaded with talent at the front of the lineup. This appears to be more of a reloading season than a rebuilding one, with the Lady Dukes looking to remain among the state's top programs while laying the foundation for another trophy run in the near future. Leading the way is reigning Class 3A State Champion Karlin Janowski, who returns after one of the finest seasons in the state a year ago. Janowski followed up her championship cross country campaign with another outstanding spring, placing fourth in the Class 3A 3200 meters while also qualifying for the State Meet in the 1600 meters. She enters the season with exceptional personal bests of 4:57 in the 1600 meters, 10:24 in the 3200 meters, and 16:10 for three miles, making her one of the favorites to defend her State title this fall. Amelia Crotty returns after finishing 114th at the State Meet last season and will be counted on to take on a much larger scoring role. Crotty ran 18:05 at the State Meet in 2025 and continued her development during the track season by helping York qualify for the Class 3A State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay. Stella Rosso also appears ready for an expanded role after an excellent spring campaign. Rosso lowered her personal best to 11:33 in the 3200 meters and gained valuable experience competing as part of the Lady Dukes' State Meet lineup. Her continued improvement will be critical to York's success. Dehlia Bernardi is another key piece of the lineup after an outstanding track season. She posted a personal best of 2:21 in the 800 meters while qualifying for the State Meet in both the 4x400 meter relay and the 4x800 meter relay. Her speed and versatility should make her an important scorer throughout the fall. The biggest question for the Lady Dukes will be developing a dependable fifth runner. York's front four have the talent to compete with nearly anyone in Class 3A, but closing the gap behind them will determine just how high this team can finish in November. If another athlete can emerge and consistently run under 18:30, the Lady Dukes have the potential to work their way into the Top 15 and continue the tradition of excellence that has defined the program for more than a half a decade. Even in what could be considered a transition year by York's lofty standards, the Lady Dukes remain a dangerous team. With the defending State Champion leading the way and several talented returners ready for larger roles, York has every opportunity to remain among the elite programs in Class 3A while building toward another championship-caliber future. Coach DeAngelis stated, “We have had a strong, consistent summer building our team's confidence and focusing on this squad's journey.  We are stacking days and focusing on the small things that build a strong foundation.  This team is extremely close, supportive, and ready to step into the leadership roles left by our graduating seniors.  Many of the girls have had strong progressions in their training and are ready to step up for the York Dukes.  Returning state champion Karlin Janowski looks extremely strong and is eager to race, as she thrives in competition.”

22. Batavia

Head Coach/Coaches: Chad Hillman

Last Year’s Finish: 13th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Avery Hacker (Sr.), Gwendolyn Krodel (Sr.), Claire Deppe (Sr.), Halle Hillman (Jr.), Sara Wolfe (Jr.), Reese Kynsak (So.)

Key Additions: Eme Helfer (Fr.), Devyn Korn (Fr.), Elliana Sage (Fr.)

Outlook: The Bulldogs enter the 2026 season determined to rebound after a 2025 campaign that fell short of the program's expectations. With one of the premier front runners in Illinois leading the way and a talented supporting cast that blends experienced returners with outstanding freshmen, Batavia has all the pieces to make a significant jump this fall. If the younger athletes develop quickly, the Bulldogs could once again find themselves among the top teams in Class 3A. Leading the way is Avery Hacker, who returns after an outstanding junior season that culminated in a runner-up finish at the Class 3A State Meet. Hacker backed up that performance with another exceptional spring, posting personal bests of 5:02 in the 1600 meters and 10:28 in the 3200 meters. She finished seventh at the State Meet in the 3200 meters while also qualifying in the 1600 meters. Few teams in Illinois can match the strength of Batavia's low stick, as Hacker enters the season as one of the favorites to compete for the individual State Championship. Gwendolyn Krodel gives the Bulldogs another proven scorer after finishing 62nd at the State Meet last fall. She enjoyed an excellent track season, qualifying for the State Meet in both the 1600 meters and the 4x800 meter relay while lowering her personal bests to 5:08 in the 1600 meters and 11:14 in the 3200 meters. Krodel appears poised to take another step forward and could find herself in the All State conversation by November. Claire Deppe returns after contributing to Batavia's State Meet lineup last fall and helping the Bulldogs qualify for the Class 3A State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay this spring. Her experience in championship competition makes her an important piece of the lineup as Batavia looks to climb back up the standings. The biggest storyline behind the veterans will be the arrival of two outstanding freshmen. Eme Helfer enters high school after running 12:00 for two miles during middle school, while Devyn Korn posted an impressive 12:11. Both have the talent to make an immediate impact and could develop into mid-18-minute runners during their freshman seasons. If they adapt quickly to the high school distance, they could dramatically raise the Bulldogs' ceiling. Batavia possesses one of the top individual runners in the state, a proven second scorer, and a pair of freshmen with tremendous upside. If the Bulldogs receive the production they expect from their young talent, they have every opportunity to bounce back from last season and reestablish themselves as one of the premier teams in Class 3A.

23. Frankfort (Lincoln-Way East)

Head Coach/Coaches: Wendy Hegarty

Last Year’s Finish: 21st @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Aubrey Clark (So.), Eliana Kaitei (Jr.), Kate Roberts (Sr.), Gracelyn Olson (Jr.), Emily Creech (Sr.), Olivia Launius (Sr.), Emily Flores (Jr.), Alice Lowry (So.)

Key Additions: Leighton Lohrens (Fr.), Lexie Swiech (Fr.)

Outlook: The Griffins have quietly become one of the most consistent programs in Class 3A, qualifying for the State Meet in each of the past three seasons. They will look to extend that streak to four consecutive appearances in 2026 behind a talented young roster that features proven State Meet performers and an impressive freshman class. If the younger runners develop throughout the season, Lincoln-Way East has the potential to once again be a factor in the postseason. Sophomore Aubrey Clark returns as the team's unquestioned leader after an outstanding freshman campaign. Clark ran 17:34 at the State Meet to finish 48th overall, establishing herself as one of the top young runners in the classification. She followed that performance with a solid track season, posting a personal best of 5:10 in the 1600 meters. With another year of development, Clark has the potential to move into All State contention. Eliana Kaitei gives the Griffins another experienced front runner after finishing 76th at the State Meet in 2025. Although her track season did not unfold the way she had hoped, Kaitei has already proven she can compete at a high level on the cross country course and will be looking to return to that form this fall. Kate Roberts returns after serving as the team's third runner last season. She continued her development during the spring by helping the Griffins qualify for the Class 3A State Meet in the 4x800 meter relay while lowering her personal best to 5:21 in the 1600 meters. Roberts should once again play an important scoring role. Gracelyn Olson also appears ready to contribute after an encouraging track season that saw her run 5:29 in the 1600 meters. Her continued improvement gives Lincoln-Way East another dependable option in the varsity lineup. The Griffins also welcome a talented freshman class that could make an immediate impact. Leighton Lohrens enters high school after running 5:28 in the 1600 meters during middle school, a performance that earned her 13th place at the IESA State Meet. Lexie Swiech is another exciting newcomer after posting an impressive 12:10 for two miles during her middle school career. Both freshmen have the talent to develop into varsity scorers before the postseason. With a strong sophomore leader, experienced returners, and two promising freshmen joining the roster, the Griffins have the pieces necessary to continue their recent success. If the young talent develops as expected, Lincoln-Way East should once again be in the hunt for a State Meet berth and has the potential to climb even higher as the season progresses.

24. Schaumburg

Head Coach/Coaches: Caitlin Roberts

Last Year’s Finish: 8th @ IHSA 3A Hoffman Estates Sectional

Key Returners: Dilana Kowaczek (Sr.), Iya Repple (Sr.), Emma Walz (Sr.), Claire Swiderski (Sr.), Chloe Pisto (Sr.), Violet Jensen (So.), Nelly Konkel (Jr.), Megan Lewandowski (Jr.)

Outlook: The Saxons narrowly missed returning to the Class 3A State Meet as a team in 2025, but they have the pieces in place to make another strong push this fall. Built around a pair of returning State qualifiers and one of the tighter supporting packs in the classification, Schaumburg has the depth needed to contend for a return trip to Detweiller Park. The biggest factor will be how well the team can compress its scoring spread from front to back. Leading the way are returning individual State qualifiers Iye Repple and Dilana Kowaczek. Both proved last fall that they can compete against the best runners in the state, giving the Saxons an experienced and dependable front duo. Repple also enjoyed a strong track season, qualifying for the Class 3A State Meet in the 800 meters and adding another level of speed to her already impressive distance credentials. Behind them is one of the most evenly matched groups in Class 3A. Emma Walz, Chloe Pisto, and Claire Swiderski each took significant steps forward during the track season, running 11:48, 11:49, and 11:54, respectively, in the 3200 meters. With so little separating the trio, Schaumburg has the potential to develop outstanding pack running throughout the season. The formula for success is straightforward for the Saxons. If they can keep their one-through-five split under 30 seconds while allowing their front two to continue competing near the front of races, they will have a strong opportunity to return to the State Meet. With experienced leadership, a talented supporting cast, and one of the tighter packs in the classification, Schaumburg has the ingredients to bounce back and reestablish itself among the top teams in Class 3A.

25. Downers Grove North

Head Coach/Coaches: Tim McDonald / Matt Maletich, Bob Calder

Last Year’s Finish: 25th @ IHSA 3A State Championships

Key Returners: Macy Ermitage (Jr.), Gianna Modica (Sr.), Mairead Courtney (Sr.), Sophia Schlueter (Sr.), Evan Vlasic (Sr.), Olivia Morris (So.), Emma Mraz (So.)

Unexpected Losses: Nora Goode (Jr.)

Outlook: The Trojans are coming off one of the most successful stretches in program history after capturing State trophies in both 2023 and 2024. While this year's squad enters more of a retooling phase following the graduation of several key contributors, Downers Grove North still has one of the premier front runners in Illinois and enough emerging talent to remain a dangerous team throughout the season. The biggest question will be whether the supporting cast can develop quickly enough to keep the Trojans in the State Meet conversation. Leading the way is Macy Ermitage, who enters the season as one of the elite runners in Class 3A. Ermitage earned All State honors with a third-place finish at the 2025 State Meet before continuing her outstanding year on the track. She qualified for the Class 3A State Meet in the 3200 meters while posting exceptional personal bests of 4:52 in the 1600 meters and 10:39 in the 3200 meters. With credentials like that, Ermitage gives the Trojans one of the strongest low sticks in the entire state and should once again contend for a place on the State Meet podium. Sophia Schlueter is expected to step into the number two role after a strong spring season. She lowered her personal best to 5:21 in the 1600 meters and has the potential to make another significant jump during cross country. Her continued development will be critical to the Trojans' success. Gianna Modica also enjoyed a breakthrough track season. She qualified for the Class 3A State Meet in the 800 meters after running a personal best of 2:19, giving Downers Grove North another talented athlete capable of making an impact this fall. The biggest key for the Trojans will be building depth behind their top three runners. If they can develop two additional scorers capable of staying close to Schlueter and Modica, Downers Grove North has the talent to remain competitive despite entering a transitional season. With Ermitage leading the way and several younger athletes ready for expanded roles, the Trojans remain an intriguing team that could exceed expectations as the season progresses. Coach McDonald stated, “We have had a strong summer of training and we are excited to get the season started!  We have 6 girls returning from the team that ran at the state meet last year.  Our goal is to improve over the course of the season and hopefully improve on last year’s finish.”