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IHSA AAA Boys Top 25 Teams
Michael Newman
2009 Dyestat Ilinois
Boys Cross Country AAA Team Preview
Top 25 Teams
 | The 2008 York Dukes winning the IHSA Niles West Sectional
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1. Elmhurst York
2008 Finish : 2nd AAA State Meet
Coach: Joe Newton
Returnees:
Adam Cecil SR (29, 15:04), Andrew Smith SR (32, 15:07), Jack Driggs JR (40, 15:13)
Kusphal Sangha SR, Ron Hedman JR, Tom Hedman JR, Matt Schacht SR, Nick Gornick JR, Matt Simo JR, Matt Helm JR, Eddie Sack SR,
Ryan Cassidy SR, Matt Doherty SR, Tim Cooney JR, Dylan Ladd JR, Danny Milling SR
One point separated York from capturing another state championship last fall. The Dukes rebounded and ended up placing 2nd at Nationals,
1 place ahead of Naperville North, which nipped them at state. All state runners Steve Sulkin and Jordan Hebert have graduated, but there is
excitement in the air in Elmhurst. Joe Newton returns 3 runners from last year’s state meet team that is hungry to finish the job left over
from last season. With that, York is picked #1 in Dyestat Illinois’ Class AAA Pre-Season Ratings.
“We’re going back to old fashioned York running,” Coach Newton said. “A tight pack where one guy can touch the other’s back.” Junior Jack
Driggs will be one of the main men in that pack. Driggs was only moved up to the Varsity during the state series last fall, but his track season
is what fans are talking about. He ran a 4:14 mile at the Midwest Distance Gala ranked him with the 2nd fastest sophomore mile in the nation.
Senior Andrew Smith, who has been running stride by stride with Driggs all summer could be the York surprise runner similar to the way
Jordan Hebert was last fall. The key to York’s success this fall could fall on how well Senior Adam Cecil runs. Cecil had an injury riddled season
last year. “After the track season, we told Adam not to run for a month,” said Assistant Coach Jim Hedman. “After resting, he has come back
stronger and looks like the Cecil of old.” Cecil has the talent to surprise many in Illinois this fall.
Also watch for Senior Matt Schacht to be a key for Newton. Early last season, Schacht ran 15:12 at the Peoria Notre Dame Invite, but was
befallen with injuries. He is healthy and could run for all-state honors. Senior Kusphal Sanga, Juniors Nick Gornick, and Tom and Ron Hedman
form a tough nucleus. “The team is focused, they have a goal,” said Hedman. It’s the first summer in a long time that the Dukes have come
out of it injury free and are ready to take on all-comers. They may have the goal to run like the York teams of old, but by the time the dust is
settled, this could be the best York team of them all, including that one from 10 years ago.
2. Naperville Neuqua Valley
2008 Finish: 4th AAA State Meet
Coach Paul Vandersteen
Returnees:
Aaron Beattie SR (30, 15:04), Luke Verbus SR (56, 15:19)
Carlton Folster SR, Billy Klimczak SR, Jordan Lagomarcino SR, David Wing SR, Josh Antonsen JR, Jaffar Mahmoud SR,
Alexander Kovsonos SR, Hirsh Gaikwad JR, Michael Gorell SR, Andrew Gibson SR, Matthew Coyne JR, Joel Lynn JR, Matthew Hill JR,
Vincenzo DelPozzo JR, Taylor Soltys SO, Mark Derrick SO.
If you have ever been to Cedar Point in Ohio, you know that it is the capital of roller coasters. That can describe how the season went for
Paul Vandersteen and his squad. But it helps when you have the talent. When one runner went down, another would pick them up. 4 runners
graduate from last year’s team led by Danny Pawola. Add the fact that Vandersteen lost promising Junior Harsha Torke who moved to Florida.
“He trained with us all summer,” said Vandersteen. “He is in great shape and his new school in Florida will receive a great runner and even a
better person.” With only two returning, you would think this would be a rebuilding season. On the contrary, Neuqua will be reloading and
will be in the hunt for their 2nd state championship in 3 years.
Senior Aaron Beattie will be the main cog to the machine in Naperville this fall. Beattie was hampered with injuries most of last fall, but came
back with a strong state performance. After a good track season where he ran under 9:20 for 3200 meters, Beattie has put himself in
position to be one of the best in Illinois this fall. After that, Coach Vandersteen will be able to choose up to 10 runners to fill the remaining
6 spots. Senior Luke Verbus will be looked upon to lead this pack. Seniors Carlton Folster, Billy Klimczak, David Wing, Jordan Lagomarcino,
Jaffar Mahmoud, and Junior Josh Antonsen could comprise of the rest of the pack. There is no fall off in talent from this pack which could
make them very dangerous.
There is determination in this team. “I do know that we are more committed and more team-oriented than last year,” said Vandersteen. “This
team has bought into working together and trusting their teammates, self, and coaches.” One key will be the gap between Beattie and the pack.
If this gap can be kept between 30 and 40 seconds, this team will be in the hunt for a trophy.
 | Nico Composto leads Loyola
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3. Wilmette Loyola Academy
2008 Finish: 12th AAA State Meet
Coach: Dan Seeberg
Returnees:
Nico Composto SR (6, 14:32), Mark Donohue SR (26, 15:03), Jack Seeberg SR (51, 15:17), Patrick Smith SR (179, 16:19),
Mac Ford JR (200, 16:36), Andrew Fausone JR, Ryan Oberlin SR, Clark Gapen SR, Matt Sullivan JR, William Hague SO, Joe Sommers SO,
Kyle Brady SR, Kevin Donohue SO, Sean Kelly JR, Matt Torres SO, Bryon Morales SO.
Last season was a learning experience for the Ramblers. Their 12th place finish at last fall’s state meet was but a stepping stone on what
could happen for Loyola this fall. Coach Dan Seeberg returns 5 runners from a team that will look towards being in the trophy hunt come
November.
Senior Nico Composto will be the lead man for this team. Along with being the #1 returnee in AAA this season, Compsoto put up impressive
times during track. Seniors Jack Seeberg and Mark Donohue will also comprise of a front pack that some consider the best trio in the State.
“They look very strong after a good track season and a good summer of training,” said Coach Seeberg. One runner who will surprise will be
Senior Patrick Smith, who has improved dramatically from the fall running in the 9:40’s for the 3200 in track. After that is where there could
be a cause of concern for Loyola. There currently is a gap between Smith and the battle for the 5th man between Juniors Mac Ford, Andrew
Fausone, and Senior Ryan Oberlin. One of these guys will need to step up and get close for the Ramblers to be successful.
This team will be the class of the Chicago Catholic League in 2009. The question will be the 5th, 6th and 7th man for Coach Seeberg. If this
can be addressed by the time Regionals come around, Loyola will be a tough squad to contend with.
4. LaGrange Lyons Township
2008 Finish: 5th AAA State Meet
Coach: Michael Danner
Returnees:
Sam Telfer JR (22, 14:58), Robbie Kucera SR (90, 15:32), Mike Moore SR (102, 15:39), Robby Keeler SR (196, 16:32)
Andrew Allabastro SR, Stuart Newstat SR, Mark Holt JR, Michael Kokoris JR, Tim Pollard JR, Victor Sorolovski SR.
Don’t overlook this team. Even though Team leaders Jack Hostetler, Mike Janusek, and Alex Lyons have graduated, Coach Mike Danner has a
good talent pool to choose from his top 7. The Lions return 4 from a squad that looks to improve on last season’s 5th place finish.
Junior Sam Telfer was a surprise to some last fall when he earned all-state honors. Don’t be surprised if he is in the hunt for a much higher
finish this season. After that, Danner will rely on a tight pack, which has been a trademark of this team the last couple of years. Senior Robbie
Kucera concentrated on track last spring instead of baseball and ran 9:45 for 3200 meters. With a good summer, Kucera could be a surprise
for Danner. After getting injured after their 1st indoor meet last winter, Senior Robby Keeler is healthy and hopes to return to form that had
him running 14:52 his sophomore season. Watch for Stu Newstat, who along with Telfer, have improved the most this summer according to
Danner.
With a strong nucleus of Seniors to support Telfer, this team could go far this fall. “Our expectations are to be competitive within the conference
(West Suburban Silver) and to improve on our state finish,” said Danner. If the Lions can stay within 40 seconds of each other, they may
return from Peoria with a trophy.
5. Normal Community West
2008 Finish: 7th AAA Normal West Sectional
Coach: Steve Destri
Returnees:
Drew Kerscheiter JR, Austin Baer SR, Bryce Basting JR, Wade Rupard SR, Hayden Ringer SR, Eric Gordon SO, Roman Endrizzi JR,
Adam Wiebenga SR, Caleb Wiebenga SO, Tyler Becker SO, Blake Tarmann SO.
Newcomers: Payton Scheurmann FR, Taylor Hallart FR.
Last fall, Normal West was on their way to the school’s best season ever and hit a bump in the course…#1 runner Drew Kerscheiter came down
with an injury that forced him ineffective in Regionals and Sectionals. Without him, Steve Destri’s crew was left on the sidelines wondering what
would have been in the state meet. This season should be different as all runners for a team that could be the class of the South.
Some will question why this school is rated so high. They do have the talent and more importantly the drive. Junior Drew Kerscheiter had a strong
track season and will be counted on to be the go to guy. “He lived to train (over the summer),” said Destri. “He has his goals set at the top 10 at the
State Meet. Senior Austin Baer, an improved Junior Bryce Basting, and Seniors Wade Rupard and Hayden Ringer bring forth a strong nucleus for Destri.
This is a squad that has fallen through the cracks through some observers eyes this fall. But this is a team that I believe will open many eyes this
fall. They have a Top 10 runner in Kerscheiter, and a strong pack led by Baer. Without Kerscheiter at Sectionals, their 1-4 pack ran a 24 second
split. The gap between Kerscheiter and Baer needs to stay at 20 seconds. If this can be accomplished during the season, this team may be
in the hunt for a trophy.
6. Mt. Prospect-Prospect
2008 Finish: 6th AAA State Meet
Coach: Mike Stokes
Returnees:
Chris Spudic SR (49, 15:17), Albert Ciolek SR (97, 15:37), Matt Ashton JR (98, 15:38), Kellen Strobel JR (106, 15:41),
Vince Tagare SR (125, 15:48), Greg Netols JR (158, 16:03), Ken Halloran SR, Pat Ford SR, John Campos SO, Andre Luckman SR,
Sam Pedersen SR, Connor Fitzgerald SO, Alex Steffen JR, Brendan Ryan JR.
In the northwest suburb of Chicago named Mt. Prospect, word is buzzing about the boys and girls cross country programs at Prospect high school.
Expectations are high for Coach Mike Stokes’ squad this fall. Last season, it was a young team led by an all-stater Chris Hayek. Well, Hayek has
graduated but there is plenty of runners to take on the role of leadership on this team.
Senior Chris Spudic had a good spring in track running 9:32 for 3200 and qualifying for the state track meet. He may be one of the most unsung
runners in the Mid Suburban League. Senior Albert Ciolek came on strong at the end of last season and has the talent to stay with Spudic. Two
other seniors, Vince Talgare and Ken Halloran, give the team depth. Halloran had a breakout season in track; look for him to contribute this fall.
Juniors Matt Ashton, Kellen Strobel, and Greg Netols are all capable of being in the top 5, maybe even the first man. They may be the main
reason on why the Knights will be so successful this fall.
A lot of how good this Prospect team will be this fall will come down to two things: First, they have scary depth, but will they keep their 1-5 split
to around 30 seconds. Second, who will step up to be the first man. Chris Spudic should be the runner to step up, but will he be one of the elite
runners in the state? With their pack, if Prospect can get a runner in the top 25, this team could return after state with a trophy.
7. Carpentersville-Dundee Crown
2008 Finish: 9th AAA St Charles East Sectional
Coach: Tom Smith
Returnees:
Anthony Manfrin JR (210, 18:02), Jon Keable JR, Nathan Prom SR, Mike Wiechmann SR, Jon Clark SR, Jon Magnant SR,
Robert Medina JR, Kirk Hanselmann JR, Ryan Smith JR, Mike Rice JR, Will Goldberg JR, Jon Carrothers SR,
Chris Sailor SR, Dillon Muscat SO.
Coach Tom Smith returns 5 runners from a team that seemed to struggle towards the end of last season. “We were disappointed the way we
ended the season last year,” said Smith. “We lost one guy to an ankle injury in the conference meet, one to being sick the last two weeks, and one
to a tight hamstring--so we just didn't finish strong. The guys know they have to step it up from where they were as a group a year ago.”
It all starts with Junior Anthony Manfrin, who had an unforgettable sophomore year. That is now behind him and looks forward to challenging
the best in the state. “He is very gifted, very dedicated to his running, and has the opportunity to really lead this team,” said Smith. Seniors Nathan
Prom, Mike Wiechmann, Jon Clark, Jon Magnant, and Juniors Jon Keable and Robert Medina form a great supporting cast behind Manfrin.
This team will challenge defending conference champ Cary-Grove in the Fox Valley Conference. But if Manfrin is clicking and the pack behind him
can stay within 45 seconds, this team will be making some noise when the state series time comes around. The Chargers first big challenge will be
at the end of September at the Palatine Invite.
8. Oak Park-River Forest
2008 Finish: 8th AAA Niles West Sectional
Coach: Jose Sosa
Returnees:
Peter Hogensen JR, Jack Stapleton JR, Eunhwan Yoo JR, Clayton Kirk SR, Sam Fourman JR, Nicholas Reyes SO, Alex Bara SR,
Dan Wank SR, Grant Macmillian JR, Jason Hameister SO
Newcomers:
Malachy Schrobligen SO
This team may look to be young, but they have a load of talent that Coach Jose Sosa will work with. A team that ran must of its runners on the
Frosh/Soph level for most of the season, this Huskie squad may have enough talent to be in the top this fall. A couple of coaches that I will not
name have stated to watch for this team that they will be scared to face them. Expectations could be high on this team.
A reason why this team is so highly rated is because of their performances during the track season. Running a 7:45 with all underclassmen will do
that. One runner to keep an eye on is Sophomore Malachy Schrobligen, who is running cross country for the first time. This super soph ran 9:31
last spring. It will be interesting to see how he adapts to cross country. He is a competitor, so he should not have a problem. The junior quartet of
Peter Hogensen, Jack Stapleton, Eunhwan Yoo, and Sam Fourman should be right with Schrobligen. Stapleton ran 9:31 last spring; Hogensen
and Yoo have varsity experience and should be up towards the front in the big invites.
The one thing that I will be watching with this team is their health. It is a young squad. A stretch of meets at the end of September, The Peoria
Notre Dame Invite , and dual meets against Lyons Township and then with York, will tell how good this team will be. It is a team with scary
talent that will be in the hunt for a trophy at State Series time.
9. Lake Zurich
2008 Finish: 13th AAA State Meet
Coach JB Hansen
Returnees:
Andrew Morrison SR (59, 15:20), Francisco Soto SR (83, 15:30), Paul Geimer SR (152, 15:59), Pat Juras SO (155, 16:00),
Jordan Pavlovich SR (159, 16:03), Victor Delatore JR, Ryan Moncrieff JR, John Smith SO, Shawn Picha JR, Andrew Lulis JR,
Greg Bielak SR, Joe Kim SR.
Coach JB Hansen returns 5 from a squad that placed 13th in the State Meet. “Our summer training has gone well for our varsity runners,”
said Hansen. Even without the graduation of all-stater Gerardo Perez, this team could improve on last season’s performance.
Senior Andrew Morrison has run in the shadows of Perez the last two seasons. Now he is the man that Hansen will look at to challenge towards
the top. “Andrew has been a pioneer in Lake Zurich Cross Country in terms of taking his training to a higher level,” said Hansen. He has the talent
to challenge for an all-state position. One runner to keep an eye on is Senior Francisco Soto, who had a breakout season in track in the 800m.
After Sophomore Pat Juras and Senior Paul Geimer, there could be up to 10 runners that will challenge for the 3 remaining top 7 positions.
This team will have a challenge in defending their North Suburban Crown against a deep Lake Forest team. It will be interesting to see how this
team progresses. If Morrison can challenge as 1 of the top 15 runners in the state, he may lead his team to a higher finish.
10. Wheaton-Warrenville South
2008 Finish: 7th AAA St Charles East Sectional
Coach: Great Havey
Returnees:
Aaron Peck SR (41, 15:13), Nick Casa SR, Keenan Havey JR, Ryan Frederickson SR, Matt Mazzoni SR, Quinn Farley SO,
Matt McAndrews SR, Colin Zimmermann SR, Robert Valentin SR, Christian Adams JR, Carl Anderson SO, Hayden Spall JR,
Conor Lynch SR, Derek Anderson SO, David Ourada SR, Kieran Meyer SR.
Here is another school that last season went through growing pains, but finished 7th in a strong St Charles East sectional. Greta Havey welcomes
back a deep team in which any of their first 12 will be capable of running in the top 5. “I am looking for many upperclassmen to be interchangeable
parts on a weekly basis,” said Havey.
Senior Aaron Peck is the only runner that has state experience on this Tiger team. But we can see him challenging in the top 20 come state meet
time. After that, Havey has a good selection to choose from. Nick Casa has the talent to run with Peck, but he will need to stay healthy.
Sophomore Quinn Farley came on towards the end of the cross season and will challenge Casa. Also watch for Junior Keenan Havey, and
Seniors Ryan Frederickson, Matt Mazzoni, Matt McAndrews, and Colin Zimmermann all to be in and out of the top 5 for Coach Havey. If this team
can stay healthy, they could make the next step to Peoria.
11. Wheaton North
2008 Finish: 6th AAA Niles West Sectional
Coach: Nate Roe
Returnees:
Logan Blair SR, Tom Jaderholm SR, Ryan Gorup SR, Nick Willems SR, Kevin Bohmer SR, Caleb Philbrick JR, Daniel Woldesellasie SR,
Sam Hoffman SO, Zach Johnson JR, Save Goltem JR, Alden Askin SO, Brett Guild JR.
Newcomers:
James Waterman SR, Jake Waterman SR.
It was considered a success. Coming into the 2008 season, Wheaton North started the season with none of their top 7 with varsity experience.
“All of us involved considered that finish a great accomplishment, even though it fell 40 pts shy of a state berth,” said Coach Nate Roe. “ The group
of then-juniors had no varsity experience at all.” 6 of that top 7 will be back and in the hunt for a team that will have high asperations.
The big news for this squad happened last spring. The emergence of brothers James and Jake Waterman in track opened many eyes in the state.
With a summer of training, how will this duo adapt to the training? “ They seem to have adapted well thus far and really love being part of the
team,” stated Roe. “ We’ll see what the season brings for them.” After the Waterman’s, there is a group of runners that will be close to these two. A
strong senior group led by Logan Blair and Tom Jaderholm are interchangeable talent wise. Watch for Daniel Woldesellasie, who’s had a great
summer of training, could be part of the mix.
I think this is a team that has slipped through the cracks. It will take a little while for the Watermans to get used to Cross Country running. But this
is a team that will be tough in October and will contend for the DuPage Valley Conference…and will be tough in the state series.
12. Lombard Glenbard East
2008 Finish: 10th AAA Niles West Sectional
Coach: Jack Brady
Returnees:
Nate Young SR (20, 14:57), Nathan Peterson JR, Bill Booth SO, Brad Magnetta SR, Jim Peters SR, Mike Dexl JR, Denys Booth SR,
Marcus Hostettler SR, Mike Karas SR, Jason Sippel SR.
Newcomers:
Mike Fahey SO.
I was standing behind the awards area after state meet and noticed Glenbard East Coach Jack Brady smiling watching his athlete Nate Young
pick up his medal for 20th place. “Next year we will be pretty good,” said Brady. All 7 return from a squad that placed 10th last fall at Niles West.
This team will need to have Senior Nate Young back. After having a disappointing track season, Young has responded by having a great summer
and is determined to be towards the front. Junior Nathan Peterson had a breakout season in track, running 9:35 for 3200 meters, and should be
close to Young. After that, the pack of Senior Jim Peters, Brad Magnetta, and Sophomore Bill Booth will need to be within 30 seconds of Young
and Peterson for this team to be successful. Also watch for Sophomore Mike Fahey, who ran 2:00 in track last spring. It will be interesting to see
how he adapts to the longer distance.
This squad will challenge for the DuPage Valley Conference and will be in the hunt to qualify for state. To be successful, this team will need to
keep their split to 50 seconds for 5 men.
13. Cary-Grove
2008 Finish: 15th AAA State Meet
Coach: Layne Holter
Returnees:
Eddy Gibbons SR (100, 15:39), Matt Klein SR (104, 15:39), Phil Fairleigh SR (108, 15:43), Ryan Gustafson SR (192, 16:29)
Jason Maxwell SR, Will Jirnebro JR, Tyler Petersen JR, Scott Sigsworth JR, Dustin Fullerton SO, Ryan Peterson JR.
4 runners return for Coach Layne Colter from a team that placed 15th at the 2008 State Meet. “We had a good summer of training and are looking
forward to racing again,” said Holter. The key man for this team will be Senior Phil Fairleigh. Finishing 108th last season not running his
best race, Fairleigh responded in the spring by running a sizzling 9:04 at the end of April. He ran into some misfortune at the state track meet, and
will be ready to compete this fall. Fellow seniors Eddy Gibbons, Matt Klein, and Ryan Gustafson could come out from the shadows of Fairleigh
and standout on the state scene. The question will be who will step up in the 5-7 positions: watch for Senior Jason Maxwell, and Juniors Will
Jirnebro and Tyler Peterson should contend there.
Fairleigh should be in contention for one of the top five spots in the state meet in November. The improvement of the other 3 returnees should
have Cary Grove in contention for the Fox Valley Conference and in the state series. “We expect to return to the state meet and make a push
for the best team finish in school history,” said Holter. At the end of September, this team will run at Palatine and Peoria on consecutive weekends.
It will give everyone an idea how good this team is.
14. Lake Forest
2008 Finish: 17th AAA State Meet
Coach: Nathan Sweet
Returnees:
Henry Mynatt SR (69, 15:26), Zachary Silber SR (110, 15:43), Andrew Farver SR (133, 15:51), Colin Briskman SR (156, 16:01),
Jonathan Briskman SR (187, 16:24), Brian Barker SR, Alexander Acker SO, Ryan Crilly SR, Joesph Scarem JR,
William Oakley SO, Zachary Seikel JR.
Lake Forest returns five runners from a team that would like to improve on last year’s state meet performance. “We had some unfortunate late
season injuries last year that cost us to lose confidence in our abilities,” said Coach Nate Sweet. “ We are going to more cautious with our racing
this year.” Senior Henry Mynatt had a great season in track improving his PR in the 3200 by close to 30 seconds. He had a great summer of
training and will be in the hunt for the top 25 this fall. A senior dominated squad, watch for Colin Briskman, Jonathan Brisman, Zach Silber, and
Andrew Farber all to be close to Mynatt.
With the injuries that this team suffered around conference meet last year, this team is hungry to improve. We should see how this team is at the
Peoria Woodruff Invite. It will challenge Lake Zurich in the North Suburban Conference and I can see them definitely improving on last season’s finish.
15. Roselle Lake Park
2008 Finish: 20th AAA State Meet
Coach: Lance Murphy
Returnees:
Luke Nally SR (52, 15:18), Ryan Jorgensen SR (71, 15:27), Steve Krauss SR (88, 15:32), John Oldenberg JR (168, 16:12),
Trevor Murphy SR (191, 16:28), Abraham Pedraza JR (206, 17:05), Tim Layer SR (206, 17:05), Patrick Dempsey SR, Tim Fergus SR,
Chris Johnson JR, Maxx Milatia JR, Joe Corniano JR.
Newcomers:
William Morrison JR. (out for XC from soccer).
A team that could be underrated for the preseason, but will be dangerous at the end of September. Coach Lance Murphy returns all of his
runners from last year’s team that placed 20th. Murphy has 3 runners that can distinguish themselves as a #1 man. Seniors Steve Krauss,
Luke Nally, and Ryan Jorgensen all have the talent to race against the other team’s best, in fact a possibility of all state. The issue that
troubled the Lancers last fall and could be an issue again is the gap between the first 3 and the other 4. William Morrison, out for his first
season of cross country after playing soccer, is a runner to watch to crack into the top 5 according to Murphy. If the gap is narrowed between
the two packs, this team could challenge for a state trophy. “Last year our goal was to get to state,” said Murphy.” This year we return every
runner from that team and would like to finish in the top five.”
16. Edwardsville
2008 Finish: 7th AAA State Meet
Coach: George Patrylak
Returnees:
Garrett Sweatt SO (39, 15:12), Dan Mazar JR (55, 15:18), Chris Taglieri SR (103, 15:39), Brenden Cooligan SO (197, 16:34)
Cadem Cromsey SO, Daemon Morgan JR, Tony Thompson SR.
Newcomers:
Chad Maxwell FR.
4 runners return for Coach George Patrylak and Edwardsville, but it could have been only 3. “Daniel Mazar thought he might transfer to a Missouri
school, but recently found out he will be staying at Edwardsville,” said Patrylak. With Mazar back, Edwardsville will be back in the hunt for Southern
Illinois supremacy. Sophomore Garrett Sweatt is a definite candidate for top 25 individually and will lead the Tigers. With the possibility of moving
Mazar did not spend much time with the team, but he is in good shape and will be stronger as the season goes on. The real surprise for this
team could be Senior Chris Taglieri, who’s had a great summer of training. Freshman Chad Maxwell and Sophomore Brenden Cooligan should fill
out the top 5.
This is a young team, but a team with a lot of big meet experience. Garrett Sweatt will challenge the big guys…watch for Mazar to be by his side
later in the season. “If we have the same progression as usual, we should have three runners in the top fifty at state,” said Patrylak. “How far up or
how many can be all-state will be the question.” The progression of Maxwell and Cooligan will be the key of high Edwardsville will finish at the end
of the season.
17. Arlington Heights Hersey
2008 Finish: 12th AAA Schaumburg Sectional
Coach: Tim Phillips
Returnees:
Matt Cwiok SR, Ryan O’Donnell JR, Sam Zielke SR, Brian Havel JR, Garrett Vick SR, Steve Tubergan SR, Chris Coletto SO,
Carmen Malorano SR, Pat Derrig SR, Jordan Connor JR, Nick McGee JR, Matt Cortse JR.
Coach Tim Phillips welcomes back a good group that will hope to improve on last season’s sectional performance. It could be a 1st man by
committee for Hersey this fall. Senior Matt Cwiok has the most experience from this group and could be one of the better runners
in the Mid Suburban League. Phillips should have a strong pack behind or close to Cwiok comprised of Senior Sam Zielke, Junior Ryan
O’Donnell, Junior Brian Havel, Senior Garrett Vick, Senior Steve Tubergan, and Sophomore Chris Coletto.
18. Palatine
2008 Finish: 10th AAA State Meet
Coach: Chris Quick
Returnees:
Chano Bernardo SR (21, 14:58), Alec Bollman SR (54, 15:18), Jeff Larson SR (162, 16:06), Justin Smith SR, Eric Bathke JR,
Ryan McGough JR, Timothy Johnson SO, Andrew Laskowske JR, Erich Kuerschner JR, Kendall Cox JR, Reuben Frey JR,
Ryan Wojdyla SR, Tim Meinecke SO, Brian Sund SR, Anthony Gregorio SO.
Every year, Palatine seems to only have a couple of runners returning. Every season Palatine is in contention for a trophy. That’s a
testament of how good of a program this school has. Coach Chris Quick welcomes back 3 from a team that placed 10th last fall.
“Last year's 10th place state race was disappointing for everyone involved, and the guys and coaches have dedicated themselves to making sure
that things turn out better this year,” said Quick.
It seems that Senior Chano Bernardo has been at Palatine forever. Placing 21st last fall, Bernardo had an OK track season, and will be one of
premeire runners in the state. Senior Alec Bollman had a great track season, culminating with an all-state performance in the 1600. He is
running with extreme confidence and will be running stride by stride with Bernardo. Senior Jeff Larson was the fifth man last fall for the Pirates, and
he could surprise people this season. After that, any one of 10 runners could fill the remaining 4 spots. One sophomore, Anthony Gregorio, could
be the next Palatine star according to Quick.
There is not a lot of flash and sizzle with this team, but every year Quick gets his team to state. This year is no exception. “We don't look like much
on paper, but we look solid in person,” said Quick. “ Some of our normal markers of summer fitness put this group right up with the other four
trophy teams we have had in the last six years.” This team will contend with Prospect, Barrington, and Hersey in the Mid Suburban League and
again be in the hunt for a state trophy.”
19. St. Charles North
2008 Finish: 8th AAA State Meet
Coach: Steve Imig
Returnees:
Kyle Zankowski SR (60, 15:20), Brad Wheeler SR (109, 15:43), Will Novarolsky SR (111, 15:44), Kyle Kuczynski SR (153, 15:59)
Ryan Senci JR, Peter Johnson SR, Billy Clink SO, Declan Duggan SO, Clayton Schmitt SO, Beau Blakely SR, Grant Markowicz SO,
Kevin Moore JR, Matt Davis SO, John Georgeson SR, David Johnson SR.
Four runners return for Coach Steve Imig from last year’s 8th place team. This team appears to be one that will have a solid pack. The question
will be for the North Stars who will step up. Senior Kyle Zankowski could be the main man after having a good season last
fall. Senior Brad Wheeler was inconsistent last fall due to injuries. He is healthy and could be the guy to push Zankowski. One runner to watch is
Junior Ryan Senci, who went under 10:00 last spring. There is a talented sophomore squad, headed by Billy Clink and Declan Duggan
that could be contributing to the top 7 by mid season. This team will have a tight pack this year. If they can keep to within 48 seconds of
each other, this team could be very tough.
20. Darien Hinsdale South
2008 Finish: 18th AAA State Meet
Coach: Dave Jackson
Returnees:
Donald DeSalvo JR (45, 15:15), Matthew DeSalvo JR (87, 15:31), Andrew Lonnergan SR (178, 16:19), Eric Guth SR (199, 16:36),
Eric Longoria JR (204, 16:43), Nouman Ali SR, Jack Arendt JR, Ryan Hawken JR, Michael Koltis SR, Tim Benedict JR, Mike Schmitt SR.
Newcomers:
Sebastian Pique FR.
A team that could make back to back State Meet appearances. All State Runner Max Rodrigues has graduated, but Coach Dave Jackson
has some talent to work with. Brothers Donald and Matthew DeSalvo will be the top runners for the Hornets. Freshman Sebastian Pique, the IESA
State Champ last season joins the squad and could make an immediate impact. After these first three, there are a number of runners who
could step up. These runners include Senior Andrew Lonnergan, Senior Nouman Ali, Senior Eric Guth, and Junior Eric Longoria. There could be a
gap between the DeSalvo brothers and Pique and then the 4 to 7 runners. Watch for this gap to diminish by the time the state series arrives.
This squad will contend for the West Suburban Gold title, but will have to address their split if they want to make it downstate.
21. Barrington
2008 Finish: 13th AAA Schaumburg Sectional
Coach: Ty Gorman
Returnees:
Chris Cogswell SR, Kyle Dockery JR, Nolan Wojtowicz SO, Scott Kimes SR, Daniel Durband JR, Andrew Foley JR, Ryan Graves JR,
Tim McAuliff JR, Billy Raseman SR, Jordan Wills SR, Adam Maxfield SR, Ryan Tsaio JR.
A young team that had growing pains all last season could blossom and challenge in the Mid Suburban League this fall. Coach Ty Gorman
welcomes back a strong nucleus that will surprise some people. Senior Chris Cogswell, who ran 4:23 last spring in track, and Senior Scott
Kimes will be looked upon to lead the Broncos. “We hope once again to be competitive in the MSL,” said Gorman. “We had a down year
last year and the guys are very determined to challenge some people within the conference.”
This squad will have to rely on a tight pack to succeed. Juniors Kyle Dockery, Ryan Graves, and Andrew Foley have been strong in their
summer mileage and will make a difference. The key to his team may be Nolan Wojtowicz, a sophomore who ran 10:05 in track last spring.
If he can become a part of this top 5, Barrington may be making some noise come state series time.
22. Geneva
2008 Finish: 3rd AAA State Meet
Coach: Bob Thomason
Returnees:
Kevin McDowell JR (14, 14:47), Kevin Sparks SR (48, 15:16), Justin Rodriguez SR (142, 15:56)
Connor Bartel JR, Ryan Ahern JR, Eric Blake SR, Zach Heur SO, Dylan Crawshaw SR, Alex Ostgaard JR,
Ryan Fromm SO, Robert Schuman SO.
Geneva ran a fantastic state race last fall with 4 runners achieving all-state honors and the team ending up in 3rd. This season could
prove to be interesting for Coach Bob Thomson. All state runner Kevin McDowell qualified for the World Triathlon Championships
in September and will not run with the team early on. However, McDowell confirmed he will be running cross country this fall, when he
will should be another question. After McDowell, Geneva has some solid runners to turn to. Senior Kevin Sparks has the possibility
of cracking the top 25 this fall. Senior Justin Rodriguez, Senior Eric Blake, and Juniors Connor Bartel and Ryan Ahern provide a good
supporting cast for Thomson. The Vikings could be in the mix for a qualifying spot at the state meet without McDowell. With him, they could
be a top 10 team.
23. Palatine Fremd
2008 Finish: 6th AAA Hoffman Estates Regional
Coach: Mike Bruce
Returnees:
Aaron Ferst SR (34, 15:09), Spiros Angelakos SR, Daniel Ricketts SR, Yutaro Okuda SR, Matthew Smaga JR,
Phillip Cano SR, Jackson Winter SO, Douglas Mayer SR, Daniel Smurlo SR, David Vorick JR, Ryan Dinchler JR, Kevin D’Souza JR.
A team that will surprise in the Mid Suburban League. Coach Mike Bruce has a good cast of runners returning. One that will contend for
a possible top 15 finish is Senior Aaron Ferst, who could be in the top 15 at the end of the year. Seniors Spiros Angelakos and Daniel
Ricketts form a nice supporting group behind Ferst. With Ferst being towards the front and a pack staying within 40 seconds of him,
this team will get out of regionals….and maybe beyond that.
24. Naperville North
2008 Finish: 1st AAA State Meet
Coach: David Racey
Returnees:
Tyler Jermann SR (16, 14:49), Bob Guthrie SR (43, 15:13), Charlie McKeown JR (167, 16:09), Karsten Jurkiewicz SO (169, 16:12)
Ben Becker SR, Chris Woodward SR, Dan Emrie SO, Brian Hibsch JR, Vinny Chapette SO, Tom Podczerwinski JR,
Eric Spieglar SO, Alex Fleming JR.
2008 was a season of dreams for Naperville North…winning their first state championship and placing 3rd in the Nike XC Nationals.
4 runners return from that squad and look to return back to Peoria. “Summer training has been great,” said Coach David Racey. “ The core varsity
group has been as dedicated as any I have ever had.”
Tyler Jermann has developed into a contender for the state individual championship. He had a great track season and that should propel him
to higher places this fall. Senior Bob Guthrie did not have the best state meet last fall…he actually had a migrane in which he placed in 43rd.
He has the talent to place in the top 20 this season. After that, it will be a matter of who will step up. “The group looks good. I am not sure we will
really know until we run at the Lockport Invite on Sept. 26 how good,” said Racey. “ The returners have all stepped up and look better at the end of
the summer than they did at the end of last year’s xc season.”
Naperville North is a team of questions this year. But with the past history of Coach Racey, he will have his runners ready to compete when it
counts in October. This team could be dangerous at that time.
25. Winnetka New Trier
2008 Finish: 6th AAA Schaumburg Sectional
Coach: David Wisner
Returnees:
Tommy King JR, Noah Graboys SR, Eric Zuckerman SR, Luke Hutchings-Goetz SR, Isa Qasim JR, Michael Quirke JR, Will Edwards-Mizel SR,
Bennett Wakenight JR, Danny Noren JR, Jared Africk SR, Drew Wilcox JR.
In nearly four years of coaching at New Trier, Coach David Wisner stated that this was the first summer that all of his runners were training
together. With that being said, the Trevians will look to improve on a 6th place finish at the Schaumburg Sectional. The first two runners could
be either Senior Noah Graboys or Junior Tommy King. Graboys spent last summer in Nepal where he contracted a stomach ailment that
hampered his running all season. He is healthy now and will look to be towards the front. King had a breakout season in track, running 4:21 in
the 1600 and running a 1:56 for the New Trier 4 x 8 relay. He is running with a lot of confidence, which should push him towards the next level this fall.
After those first two, Wisner has an experienced group to choose from. Eric Zuckerman has the most experience of that group and should be a
solid 3rd man. New Trier should be in contention for the Central Suburban League Championship. If the pack develops, this team could be
racing in Peoria in November. |
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