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| Preseason Top 50 Teams Indiana Runner presents the Top 50 girls teams going into the 2009 cross country season By Colin Altevogt Girls Coordinator 50. Michigan City Wolves
New Prairie Semistate #11
New Prairie Regional #5
2008 Results
Chesterton Sectional: 4th place (117 points)
New Prairie Regional: 5th place (137 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 11th place (289 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Kristina Parrish (10) - 20:36 (49th place)
Aislinn Kinney (11) - 21:16 (81st place)
Kellsie Emerick (11) - 21:25 (93rd place)
Lindsay Smith (10) - 22:08 (113th place)
Holly Higdon (10) - 22:43 (127th place)
Outlook: The Wolves also lose their frontrunner to graduation but field a solid returning team. Michigan City has a young projected line-up, but the inexperienced team ran one of its best races of the season last year at the semistate meet. Though a state meet trip looks unlikely at this point--things will certainly look much different by October--the Wolves could be gaining valuable experience for the future.
49. Bedford North Lawrence Stars
Brown County Semistate #7
2008 Results
Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 1st place (47 points)
Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 2nd place (110 points)
Brown County Semistate: 8th place (290 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brown County Semistate)
Hanna Guthrie (10) - 20:52 (50th place)
Molly McDonald (11) - 21:33 (83rd place)
Morgan Bartlett (11) - 22:15 (105th place)
Courtney Crane (10) - 22:18 (106th place)
Megan Cox (12) - 22:33 (120th place)
Outlook: The Stars return a squad capable of making some noise in southern Indiana. BNL was 64 points away from qualifying for the state finals last year, and this season's team may be one good newcomer away from making the trip in 2009. The Stars do not have any individual standouts and will need to band together as a team to make a run for Terre Haute.
48. Southport Cardinals
Franklin Central Semistate #18
2008 Results
Ben Davis Sectional: 2nd place (71 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 4th place (121 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 15th place (443 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Nicolette Crouch (12) - 20:17 (64th place)
Emily Odle (11) - 20:56 (96th place)
Allison Zorman (12) - 21:26 (112th place)
Ashleigh Laymon (11) - 21:36 (118th place)
Emilee Vessel (11) - 22:17 (131st place)
Outlook: The Cardinals return an experienced group that has been to the past couple of semistate meets. Southport should see great competition all year long based on its location on the south side of Indianapolis and membership in Conference Indiana. Though a far cry from the top teams in the semistate, the Cards should be competitive in their sectional and regional meets.
47. Center Grove Trojans
Franklin Central Semistate #17
2008 Results
Edinburgh Sectional: 2nd place (41 points)
Greensburg Regional: 1st place (35 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 8th place (242 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Emma Raker (10) - 20:16 (63rd place)
Nicole Kruezman (12) - 20:17 (66th place)
Emily Qualls (11) - 21:41 (121st place)
Hannah White (11) - 21:57 (123rd place)
Sammie Bolen (10) - 22:03 (126th place)
Outlook: The Trojans take a major hit following the graduation of state champion Sarah Higgens and All-Stater Shelbi Burnett. The tandem had leg CG to three state finals in four years, including a fourth place podium appearance in 2006. The Trojans should still find themselves in the semistate meet but most likely in the unfamiliar position of not advancing.
46. Lawrence Central Bears
Franklin Central Semistate #16
Brebeuf Regional #9
2008 Results
Brebeuf Sectional: 5th place (110 points)
Brebeuf Regional: 10th place (242 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brebeuf Regional)
Erica Carlson (11) - 19:32 (23rd place)
Karis Johnson (9) - 19:30 (35th place)
Danica Wylin (12) - 21:04 (63rd place)
Allison Dunagin (10) - 21:43 (68th place)
Jacquelyn Gray (11) - 21:58 (70th place)
Ashley Potts (12) - 22:40 (71st place)
Outlook: The Bears are victim of the recent realignment, having been placed in the most competitive regional in Indiana. Regardless, the LC program is on the upswing and may field the best team in Lawrence township for the first time in a long time. Unfortunately, the Bears will need quite a bit of help or drastic improvement to even be in attendance at the semistate.
45. Fort Wayne Snider Panthers
New Haven Semistate #14
West Noble Regional #6
2008 Results
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 3rd place (87 points)
West Noble Regional: 6th place (136 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from West Noble Regional)
Jordyn Rogers (10) - 19:35 (9th place)
Molly Maciejewski (10) - 20:45 (28th place)
Jenny Colone (11) - 21:09 (40th place)
Natalie Trout (11) - 21:16 (42nd place)
Elizabeth Koester (11) - 22:03 (53rd place)
Outlook: The Panthers were the victim at the second most competitive regional in the state last year after finishing sixth at West Noble. THE R. Nelson Snider High School was a young team last year and it showed at times. If the Panthers can get improvement from its young core of runners, they could be a longshot to advance out of the semistate. To do so, however, they will need to get out of the regional first.
44. Indianapolis Cathedral Irish
Franklin Central Semistate #15
Brebeuf Regional #8
2008 Results
Brebeuf Sectional: 3rd place (66 points)
Brebeuf Regional: 6th place (138 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brebeuf Regional)
Katie Cleary (12) - 19:32 (22nd place)
Paige Mason (12) - 19:53 (36th place)
Molly Lawless (12) - 19:53 (37th place)
Outlook: The Irish are one of the hardest teams to get a hold off in the preseason rankings. While Cathedral brings back only three of last year's tournament line-up, all broke 20 minutes at the regional. These three seniors should pave the way for a good season, but like many other teams in the top 50, the Irish are at a distinct geographical disadvantage. With only three returning varsity runners, Cathedral will obviously need to reload from the junior varsity or junior high rankgs.
43. South Adams Starfires
New Haven Semistate #13
Marion Regional #5
2008 Results
Bellmont Sectional: 2nd place (49 points)
Marion Regional: 3rd place (78 points)
New Haven Semistate: 14th place (305 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Allison Beitler (12) - 19:52 (43rd place)
Hannah Moore (10) - 20:02 (53rd place)
Sawyer Shane (11) - 20:12 (64th place)
Adriana Teeter (10) - 22:19 (136th place)
Jenna Smith (10) - 22:44 (147th place)
Outlook: The Starfires have a very solid top three returning. Moore is most often the number one runner, having run as fast as 19:24 in the regional meet last season. If Moore can turn into a solid frontrunner her sophomore year and South Adams can find a couple more to form a pack with Beitler and Shane, the 'Fires could move into the top tier of teams at New Haven looking to advance to the state finals.
42. Hamilton Southeastern Royals
Franklin Central Semistate #14
Brebeuf Regional #7
Carmel Sectional #5
2008 Results
Carmel Sectional: 4th place (109 points)
Brebeuf Regional: 8th place (189 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brebeuf Regional)
Brook Morgan (10) - 18:43 (8th place)
Jessica Postlewaite (12) - 19:24 (17th place)
Liz Vanoostenbur (10) - 21:20 (64th place)
Taylor Fontan (10) - 21:44 (69th place)
Maddie Green (11) - 22:40 (72nd place)
Outlook: The Royals have two outstanding runners in Morgan and Postlewaite. The pair should advance by placing in the top 15 at the regional and run together in the semistate. Beyond that, there must be improved depth for the team to make a run past the first week of the tournament. HSE had some good 800 runners this track season that could contribute if they run cross country.
41. South Bend St. Joseph's Indians
New Haven Semistate #12
2008 Results
South Bend Riley Sectional: 4th place (85 points)
Elkhart Central Regional: 3rd place (115 points)
New Haven Semistate: 13th place (298 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Darby Mountford (10) - 18:53 (12th place)
Ellen Roof (11) - 20:45 (96th place)
Maria Murphy (11) - 20:56 (101st place)
Margaret Schmid (10) - 21:48 (122nd place)
Mary Catherine McDonald (12) - 22:07 (129th place)
Outlook: The Indians bring back five from last year's semistate team. With moderate improvements, St. Joe's has a great chance to finish in the top ten at the semistate meet but would need to bring in some help to make a run at advancing. Sophomore Darby Mountford looks game to advance as an individual to another state finals after finishing a very impressive 32nd last year. 40. Avon Orioles
Franklin Central Semistate #13
2008 Results
South Putnam Sectional: 2nd place (71 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 3rd place (105 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 14th place (359 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Maya Nagy (11) - 18:59 (15th place)
Jesse McNealy (10) - 20:47 (88th place)
Leiona Noah (12) - 20:49 (91st place)
Taylor Smith (10) - 21:02 (98th place)
Katherine Kirchhoff (11) - 21:23 (111st place)
Outlook: The Orioles return their top five from last year's semistate team and will be looking to move up. Junior Maya Nagy grabbed the coveted 15th place finish at the semistate meet and just missed getting a callback in the 3200 during track season so expect her to be a solid frontrunner. Avon has a potential top ten team on the semistate level but doesn't appear to be on the top tier just yet.
39. Edgewood Mustangs
Brown County Semistate #6
2008 Results
Brown County Sectional: 3rd place (82 points)
Brown County Regional: 4th place (101 points)
Brown County Semistate: 6th place (237 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 24th place (670 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brown County Semistate)
Rebecca Jacobs (12) - 20:13 (20th place)
Leah Fiegle (12) - 20:59 (57th place)
Holly Wampler (11) - 21:20 (74th place)
Kayla Hackman (12) - 21:27 (80th place)
Reanna Headdy (12) - 21:29 (82nd place)
Caitlin Grannan (12) - 22:49 (127th place)
Outlook: The Mustangs bring back all of its state finals team (Moriah Evans ran in Terre Haute but not Brown County). With a team full of seniors, Edgewood should be looking to make a repeat trip to the state meet. At this point, that appears likely. Rebecca Jacobs was solid last cross country season as the Mustangs' number one and also had a very good spring, advancing from the regional in the 1600 and 3200 in a competitive area.
38. Bellmont Braves
New Haven Semistate #11
Marion Regional #4
2008 Results
Bellmont Sectional: 3rd place (75 points)
Marion Regonal: 5th place (140 points)
New Haven Semistate: 15th place (319 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Jordan DeLong (12) - 19:48 (41st place)
Allison Gutierrez (10) - 20:05 (58th place)
Jessica Brewer (11) - 20:13 (65th place)
Kayla Pilkington (12) - 21:22 (112th place)
Brittany Thatcher (11) - 21:50 (125th place)
Chelsea Gallogy (12) - 22:48 (148th place)
Outlook: Like South Adams, who the Braves will see all through the tournament, Bellmont has a very solid top three. After that, there is a fall off, but not one that would kill Bellmont's chances. Steady improvement at all positions and perhaps a new, talented freshman could put Bellmont among the contenders. Jessica Brewer had a good track season over 800 meters, advancing to the state meet.
37. Chesterton Trojans
New Prairie Semistate #11
New Prairie Regional #4
2008 Results
Chesterton Sectional: 3rd place (97 points)
New Prairie Regional: 4th place (127 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 9th place (260 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Milana Socha (12) - 20:34 (48th place)
Shannon Harvey (12) - 20:55 (61st place)
Kim St. Pierre (11) - 21:04 (68th place)
Samantha Wilbur (11) - 21:12 (78th place)
Outlook: The Trojans return four of their top five from last year's ninth place semistate team. One of the proud traditions from up in the Region, Chesterton is only one year removed from a trip to the state finals with many of the current team members. Obviously an end to the year-long drought would require some depth improvement, as it takes five to score.
36. West Lafayette Red Devils
New Prairie Semistate #9
2008 Results
Harrison Sectional: 1st place (44 points)
Harrison Regional: 1st place (46 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 4th place (131 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 14th place (386 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Kaisa Goodman (11) - 18:50 (6th place)
Grace Harvey (10) - 21:01 (67th place)
Kelly Swift (10) - 21:11 (76th place)
Taylor Jones (11) - 21:13 (79th place)
Outlook: A very top heavy team last season, the Red Devils fielded perhaps the state's best trio and simply cleaned up at four and five. That will no long be an option as two of those three have graduated. Still, the Devils have a solid core returning to build a team around and could make another run at the state finals. Junior Kaisa Goodman, 13th at last year's state meet, should help out as a great frontrunner.
35. South Bend Riley Wildcats
New Haven Semistate #10
2008 Results
South Bend Riley Sectional: 1st place (47 points)
Elkhart Central Regional: 2nd place (109 points)
New Haven Semistate: 9th place (243 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Elizabeth Roush (11) - 18:59 (14th place)
Beth Werge (12) - 19:54 (45th place)
Mara Paluszweski (12) - 21:27 (115th place)
Paeton Wantuch (12) - 21:40 (119th place)
Caitlin Carroll (12) - 22:25 (140th place)
Outlook: Thought to be a contender early in the season, the Wildcats just didn't run as well as needed on the day of the semistate. This year's version certainly takes some lumps from graduation, but the top two return, including individual state qualifier Elizabeth Roush. The depth will definitely need to improve, but if the 'Cats can find some pieces behind Roush and Werge, they could be in contention for a state finals trip.
34. Terre Haute North Patriots
Brown County Semistate #5
2008 Results
Terre Haute North Sectional: 1st place (28 points)
Brown County Regional: 3rd place (77 points)
Brown County Semistate: 5th place (169 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 22nd place (507 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brown County Semistate)
Emily Cotterman (10) - 19:25 (3rd place)
Lindy Jones (12) - 20:31 (36th place)
Tayler Jackson (11) - 20:53 (55th place)
Andie Clark (10) - 21:38 (85th place)
Katie Shew (12) - 22:00 (101st place)
Taylor Norman (10) - 22:21 (109th place)
Outlook: State finals appearances have become a habit in the fall for the Patriots. North has made the trip the past five years. Don't expect this season to be too different. The Pats bring back six of last year's top seven that ran in the state finals. Last year's number two runner Lindy Jones also qualified for the state finals in the 3200 this spring and could be ready to turn the corner as an individual.
33. Bloomington North Cougars
Brown County Semistate #5
2008 Results
Brown County Sectional: 2nd place (70 points)
Brown County Regional: 2nd place (66 points)
Brown County Semistate: 2nd place (122 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brown County Semistate)
Zoe Withered (12) - 19:31 (5th place)
Sarah Worthmen (10) - 20:30 (34th place)
Mollie Connor (11) - 20:38 (42nd place)
Holly Biggs (11) - 21:20 (75th place)
Caitlin Strobel (11) - 22:22 (112nd place)
Aileen Driscoll (12) - 22:26 (115th place)
Outlook: Another of Indiana's best cross country traditions, the Cougars have been to the past three state finals and are just two years removed from a podium appearance. The graduation of last year's top runner, Maggie Wagner, will undoubtedly hurt but not cripple North. The Cougars are still among the class of the southern semistate and shouldn't have much problem fielding a competitive team in that area. Expected frontrunner Zoe Withered had a good spring, qualifying for the state finals in the 1600.
32. Homestead Spartans
New Haven Semistate #9
Marion Regional #3
2008 Results
Bellmont Sectional: 1st place (36 points)
Marion Regional: 2nd place (67 points)
New Haven Semistate: 8th place (231 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Haley Havert (10) - 20:05 (56th place)
Sara Hoppe (12) - 20:07 (60th place)
Lauren Purlee (10) - 20:18 (71st place)
Kayla Lubkert (10) - 20:36 (85th place)
Kathryn Grahm (12) - 20:54 (99th place)
Outlook: The Spartans return most of last year's team but will certainly miss the frontrunning of Meghan Terrell. Homestead's pack should make the Spartans a very competitive team in the northeast, but unless they develop a frontrunner the lack of one could ultimately be their demise. Havert and Hoppe both had good track seasons, breaking 12 minutes for 3200 meters.
31. New Palestine Dragons
Franklin Central Semistate #12
2008 Results
New Palestine Sectional: 3rd place (69 points)
Rushville Regional: 3rd place (93 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 12th place (338 points
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Courtney Edon (11) - 19:09 (19th place)
Elisabeth Staab (12) - 20:11 (58th place)
Kinzie Alter (12) - 20:52 (93rd place)
Caitlynn Edon (11) - 21:07 (102nd place)
Lauren Sams (11) - 21:22 (109th place)
Erin Komornik (12) - 21:30 (115th place)
Jennifer Wolf (12) - 22:24 (133rd place)
Outlook: The Dragons bring back all of last year's semistate team and should be very competitive this season. With junior Courtney Edon up front, New Pal will have the necessary frontrunning to perhaps make a run for the state finals. A good amount of improvement or a good newcomer or two would really boost the Dragons' chances to make a team appearance in Terre Haute.
30. Harrison (West Lafayette) Raiders
New Prairie Semistate #8
2008 Results
Harrison Sectional: 2nd place (47 points)
Harrison Regional: 2nd place (60 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 10th place (274 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Laura Bess (10) - 20:12 (31st place)
Rachel Krauss (12) - 21:10 (74th place)
Cecy Linzey (11) - 21:18 (82nd place)
Maggie Ramos (12) - 21:20 (83rd place)
Rachel Ragland (12) - 21:26 (95th place)
Outlook: The Raiders bring back a healthy portion of last year's tenth place semistate team and will be looking to move up. Without a star frontrunner, Harrison will need to rely on the strength of its pack. With cross-town rival West Lafayette having one of the top cross country runners in Indiana, Harrison will be playing catch-up and will need its two through five runners to beat their counterparts if the Raiders are to win their first sectional and regional titles since 1992. For what it's worth, Bess did beat West Lafayette star Kaisa Goodman in the sectional and regional 1600 races in the spring.
29. Culver Academy Eagles
New Prairie Semistate #7
2008 Results
Culver Academy Sectional: 1st place (20 points)
Culver Academy Regional: 1st place (34 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 8th place (231 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Waverly Neer (11) - 19:14 (11th place)
Stephanie Burian (12) - 20:33 (46th place)
Kaye Sitterly (11) - 20:47 (57th place)
Carson Canonie (10) - 21:24 (92nd place)
Nina Simonini (11) - 22:03 (110th place)
Outlook: With frontrunner Waverly Neer favored by many to win the individual state championship this fall, the Eagles could be at the distinct advantage of scoring four runners in every race. Beyond the advantages of having one of the state's best, Culver brings back a good team that finished eighth in last year's semistate meet. If senior Willow Smith, who was 11th at the state finals in the 3200 but has never appeared in cross country results, runs on the team, then the Eagles are nearly a lock to advance. This ranking, however, doesn't reflect that possibility.
28. Munster Mustangs
New Prairie Semistate #6
2008 Results
Hammond Gavit Sectional: 2nd place (50 points)
Crown Point Regional: 3rd place (92 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 7th place (175 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Kyela Specht (11) - 19:59 (24th place)
Lyndsey Kunz (12) - 20:15 (33rd place)
Brigid Marriott (12) - 20:39 (50th place)
Colleen Boyle (12) - 20:57 (63rd place)
Ashley Burton (12) - 21:23 (90th place)
Allison Boyle (10) - 21:27 (97th place)
Outlook: The Mustangs were just 12 agonizing points away from a state finals trip last year. With a senior-laden team coming back, Munster should feel a lot of urgency this season. It's essentially now or never with this group. The Mustangs had a great track season in the 4x800 relay, placing sixth at the state finals. Often, that success can carry over into a better and more enthusiastic summer of training, culminating in a good fall.
27. Kankakee Valley Kougars
New Prairie Semistate #5
2008 Results
Rensselaer Central Sectional: 1st place (47 points)
New Prairie Regional: 3rd place (107 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 6th place (163 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 23rd place (553 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Kristin Fritts (11) - 19:46 (17th place)
Felicia Systma (10) - 20:15 (32nd place)
Kelsey Osborn (12) - 20:34 (47th place)
Lindsey Swim (10) - 20:44 (54th place)
Breanne Chevrette (11) - 20:45 (56th place)
Natalie Henning (11) - 22:34 (122nd place)
Jessica Coffer (12) - 22:41 (126th place)
Outlook: The Kougars return every runner from a team that improved from sixth in the regional in 2007 to sixth in the semistate in 2008. Frontrunner Kristin Fritts, who finished 13th at the semistate in '07 as an individual and 17th in '08, again look to lead the charge despite a disappointing track season. The Kougars don't have an abundance of depth and draw from a relatively smaller pool than most of their competitors so the margin of error if small for KV. Still, this was a state finalist team last season with everyone back now so there's no reason not to expect a repeat trip to Terre Haute.
26. Pike Red Devils
Franklin Central Semistate #11
2008 Results
Ben Davis Sectional: 1st place (52 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 2nd place (71 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 13th place (339 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Lydia Greene (10) - 19:28 (26th place)
Abigaile Hall (11) - 20:17 (65th place)
Jaclyn Lahr (11) - 20:19 (68th place)
Sophia Greene (10) - 20:33 (77th place)
Felicia Nguyen (11) - 23:24 (145 points)
Outlook: One of the up-and-coming programs in Indiana, Pike has improved in leaps and bounds over the past year. The Devils won a sectional championship last fall, ran very well at the cross country regional, then advanced all of its distance runners from a competitive Ben Davis sectional in track. Lydia Greene could challenge to advance to the state meet as an individual. The rest of the team, however, is realistically one talented incoming runner away from competing for its own berth to the state meet.
25. Madison Cubs
Brown County Semistate #3
2008 Results
Southwestern Sectional: 1st place (19 points)
Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 1st place (44 points)
Brown County Semistate: 4th place (169 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 20th place (472 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brown County Semistate)
Chelsea Stephan (11) - 20:02 (17th place)
Grace Lemen (10) - 20:22 (26th place)
Natalie Owens (12) - 20:53 (53rd place)
Elizabeth McCabe (11) - 21:41 (86th place)
Lindsey Simmons (12) - 21:55 (95th place)
Kelli Garvey (12) - 25:14 (155th place)
Outlook: The Cubs have been to the past two state finals and are quickly becoming one of the best programs in the south. Top runner Chelsea Stephan is back, as are six of her teammates from last year's team. With such a good portion of last season's squad back, Madison appears to be a lock for its third consecutive state finals appearance, at least for now.
24. Columbia City Eagles
New Haven Semistate #8
Marion Regional #2
2008 Results
Marion Sectional: 2nd place (47 points)
Marion Regional: 4th place (90 points)
New Haven Semistate: 10th place (260 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Renee Menzie (11) - 19:26 (24th place)
Laken Lefever (11) - 19:38 (33rd place)
Haley Richter (12) - 20:38 (86th place)
Shelbi Simpkins (12) - 20:41 (91st place)
Mercedes Zello (10) - 21:12 (104th place)
Samantha Engle (11) - 21:47 (121st place)
Outlook: The Eagles always seem to be a middle-of-the-pack team in the northeast, but this could be a breakout season. With six of last year's seven returning, including the top four, Columbia City may be ready to break through to the state finals. The frontrunning duo of Menzie and Lefever should give the Eagles a great chance through two runners. After that, it would be up to CC to develop a pack that can contend with some of the Fort Wayne area's best.
23. North Central Panthers
Franklin Central Semistate #10
Brebeuf Regional #6
2008 Results
Brebeuf Sectional: 1st place (40 points)
Brebeuf Regional: 4th place (107 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 3rd place (109 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Marissa Stephens (10) - 19:34 (29th place)
Allison Rogers (10) - 20:02 (51st place)
Laura Stephens (12) - 20:37 (81st place)
Outlook: The Panthers certainly take some graduation hits from last year, losing three of their top four runners. Still, NC is a gigantic school so reloading shouldn't prove to be too difficult. Rogers had a good track season, running 5:23 for 1600 meters in the tournament, so she should pair up with Stephens to form a strong first two. After that, it's just a matter of developing some depth in an attempt to survive the tournament gauntlet.
22. Warren Central Warriors
Franklin Central Semistate #9
2008 Results
New Palestine Sectional: 2nd place (64 points)
Rushville Regional: 2nd place (55 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 11st place (306 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Kelly Hodges (11) - 20:06 (54th place)
Haley Baughman (10) - 20:12 (60th place)
Leah Woodbury (11) - 20:25 (70th place)
Jacklyn Howland (11) - 20:36 (79th place)
Rebekah Jones (12) - 20:42 (84th place)
Sarah Horn (11) - 21:06 (101st place)
Anna Rowe (12) - 21:16 (104th place)
Outlook: The Warriors bring back all of last year's team and should be very competitive, perhaps even fielding a potential state finalist team. Obviously, Warren is right in the middle of the most fiercely competitive area of the state for cross country. However, moderate improvement in all parts of its line-up could make this a very good team, perhaps one of the six best in the semistate. A lack of a frontrunner could really hurt Warren, however.
21. Indianapolis Chatard Trojans
Franklin Central Semistate #8
Brebeuf Regional #4
2008 Results
Brebeuf Sectional: 2nd place (49 points)
Brebeuf Regional: 5th place (135 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 10th place (255 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Mary Davis (10) - 18:37 (10th place)
Christine Kirby (12) - 19:48 (43rd place)
Nikki Kirschner (12) - 20:31 (75th place)
Anie Dietrick (10) - 20:42 (83rd place)
Outlook: The Trojans survived a rough regional by the skin of their teeth last year before going on to finish in the top ten at the semistate. All-Stater Mary Davis will lead the team again and should get help from senior Christine Kirby, who was the number two runner on Chatard's sixth place state finals team from 2007. Beyond that, the Trojans have more than half of their squad back from last year but will need to improve depth to be in contention for a state finals berth. 20. Fishers Tigers
Franklin Central Semistate #7
Brebeuf Regional #5
Carmel Sectional #4
2008 Results
Carmel Sectional: 5th place (113 points)
Brebeuf Regional: 7th place (172 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brebeuf Regional)
Makayla Schultheis (10) - 18:40 (7th place)
Emily Kuhn (11) - 19:33 (25th place)
Rachel Kling (10) - 20:06 (41st place)
Alexandria Thompson (11) - 20:23 (48th place)
Audrey Ramos (11) - 20:52 (58th place)
Erin Harnett (10) - 20:54 (59th place)
Outlook: The Tigers have a good group coming back, including its top six from last season. A good newcomer could really help Fishers chances and might make them a contender to advance to the state finals, provided the team can survive the regional round. Schultheis was an All-Stater last year and should provide the Tigers with some great frontrunning. Fishers also had a competitive 4x800 in the spring with runners whose names don't appear in any cross country results. If any of them decide to run this fall, that could provide some extra depth.
19. Fort Wayne Concordia Cadets
New Haven Semistate #7
West Noble Regional #5
2008 Results
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 4th place (96 points)
West Noble Regional: 3rd place (94 points)
New Haven Semistate: 7th place (211 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Anna Reibs (10) - 19:41 (35th place)
Lauren Borchelt (12) - 19:51 (42nd place)
Hannah Osborn (12) - 20:01 (52nd place)
Sophie Stickell (11) - 20:19 (73rd place)
Kayla Konow (11) - 20:42 (93rd place)
Cayla Pusey (11) - 21:14 (108th place)
Outlook: Before last season, the Cadets had been to the past seven state finals. This season, Concordia looks ready to make eight appearances in the last nine years. The Cadets don't have a true contrunning presence but return six of seven, including their top four, from a good pack running team. With Snider, Northrop and Carroll all ten miles from Concordia, the Cadets should get plenty of competition all season long.
18. DeKalb Barons
New Haven Semistate #6
West Noble Regional #4
2008 Results
West Noble Sectional: 1st place (29 points)
West Noble Regional: 5th place (110 points)
New Haven Semistate: 4th place (159 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 16th place (432 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Autumn Beachy (12) - 18:24 (1st place)
Lauren Beachy (10) - 19:58 (47th place)
Samantha Anderson (11) - 20:07 (59th place)
Carlena Magley (11) - 20:25 (80th place)
Jolena Hansberger (10) - 21:13 (107th place)
Outlook: The Barons rebounded from a sub-par regional performance last season to qualify for another state finals by placing fourth at the semistate. This year's squad should have similar hopes. Returning defending semistate champion Autumn Beachy will certainly help matters as DeKalb could score four runners at most big meets, a huge advantage. Beyond that, the Barons should have the depth and tradition to fuel another run toward Terre Haute.
17. Heritage Hills Patriots
Brown County Semistate #2
2008 Results
Jasper Sectional: 1st place (50 points)
Crawford County Regional: 1st place (56 points)
Brown County Semistate: 3rd place (156th place)
IHSAA State Finals: 17th place (443 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brown County Semistate)
Shaylyn Ayer (10) - 19:16 (2nd place)
Sofie Etienne (10) - 19:32 (6th place)
Lyndsi Woolems (12) - 21:03 (59th place)
Cecilia Oxford (11) - 21:07 (62nd place)
Heather Schaeffer (11) - 21:26 (77th place)
Kimberly Pund (12) - 23:01 (133rd place)
Outlook: The Patriots have their top six coming back from last year's team that was the south's best at the state finals. With Ayer and Etienne providing great frontrunning, Heritage Hills does not have great depth but probably won't need it to contend for the semistate championship. Junior Cecilia Oxford is coming off a good track season and could make some great improvements from her sophomore campaign.
16. Northridge Raiders
New Haven Semistate #5
2008 Results
Elkhart Central Sectional: 1st place (41 points)
Elkhart Central Regional: 1st place (58 points)
New Haven Semistate: 1st place (84 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 7th place (190 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Skylair Hilton (11) - 18:31 (3rd place)
Allie Pladson (12) - 19:07 (17th place)
Autumn Elliott (11) - 20:18 (70th place)
Leah Riffell (12) - 21:20 (109th place)
Outlook: After storming through the tournament last year, the Raiders found themselves in the wrong part of the bottleneck of teams after Carmel at the state finals. All-Stater Skylair Hilton is back, but Northridge is definitely going to be hurt by graduation. Nevertheless, the Raiders always seem to be at the front of the northeast semistate and among the top ten teams in Indiana. It will take some reloading this year, but expect to see the Raiders among the state's best again.
15. Brownsburg Bulldogs
Franklin Central Semistate #6
2008 Results
South Putnam : 1st place (20 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 1st place (40 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 7th place (234 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Sydney Lesko (10) - 19:31 (27th place)
Veronica Goduto (10) - 19:47 (42nd place)
Madelyn Webster (11) - 20:12 (59th place)
Kirsten Gaerke (11) - 20:51 (92nd place)
Samantha Rush (10) - 21:37 (119th place)
Outlook: Some newcomers last year propelled the Bulldogs to a surprisingly great season, culminating in a seventh place finish at the semistate. Brownsburg was not close to a top six finish but could certainly be this year. A couple graduating seniors will hurt, but the 'Dogs did have three runners run 19:36 or faster at the regional.
14. Crown Point Bulldogs
New Prairie Semistate #4
2008 Results
Crown Point Sectional: 1st place (22 points)
Crown Point Sectional: 2nd place (63 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 5th place (146 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 15th place (423 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Laicee Pierce (11) - 20:08 (30th place)
Morgan Kleinaman (12) - 20:20 (36th place)
Ksenia Pilarski (12) - 20:23 (41st place)
Elizabeth Schrader (11) - 20:43 (53rd place)
Lauren McCarroll (10) - 20:45 (55th place)
Madison Koch (10) - 20:58 (65th plae)
Outlook: Six of seven return from a Bulldog team that finished 15th at last year's state finals and could move into the top ten this season. Despite a poor semistate performance, junior Laicee Pierce is a potential frontrunner for the 'Dogs. Though this probably isn't a podium team, CP looks likely to make another trip to Terre Haute. Look for sophomore Lauren McCarroll to move her way up the line-up.
13. Bloomington South Panthers
Brown County Semistate #1
2008 Results
Brown County Sectional: 1st place (24 points)
Brown County Regional: 1st place (26 points)
Brown County Semistate: 1st place (64 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 19th place (453 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Brown County Semistate)
Nicole Lucas (11) - 19:11 (1st place)
Allie Hetrick (10) - 19:59 (16th place)
Taylor Wheeler (11) - 20:03 (18th place)
Brooke Bierhaus (11) - 20:07 (19th place)
Erin Brown (11) - 20:20 (23rd place)
Carly Derheimer (12) - 20:27 (32nd place)
Ashley Lewandowski (11) - 20:32 (37th place)
Outlook: An experienced group, most of the Panthers' runners have now been to two state finals. The reigning queens of the south, the Panthers head into this season favored to retain that title. Junior Nicole Lucas has emerged as a solid frontrunning threat for South. Behind her, the pack should certainly be good enough for a repeat trip to the state finals. This will be former South star Dani Prince's first year as the head coach.
12. West Noble Chargers
New Haven Semistate #4
West Noble Regional #3
2008 Results
West Noble Sectional: 2nd place (35 points)
West Noble Regional: 2nd place (76 points)
New Haven Semistate: 5th place (160 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 18th place (446 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Allissa Peterson (11) - 18:35 (6th place)
Rachel Peterson (11) - 19:07 (18th place)
Jennifer Jager (11) - 19:43 (37th place)
Kaleigh Debeck (10) - 20:16 (67th place)
Allison Musselman (11) - 20:25 (79th place)
Rachel Ball (10) - 20:44 (95th place)
Katy Mossburg (12) - 21:48 (123rd place)
Outlook: The Chargers have been to two consecutive state finals since the arrival of the Sisters Peterson. With everyone back from last season's team, 2009 looks to be more of the same. Allissa Peterson gives the Chargers good frontrunning and Rachel might be WN one of the best 1-2 punches in the semistate. Improvement at all positions from last season could land the Chargers in the top ten at Terre Haute.
11. Fort Wayne Northrop Bruins
New Haven Semistate #3
West Noble Regional #2
2008 Results
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 2nd place (59 points)
West Noble Regional: 4th place (95 points)
New Haven Semistate: 2nd place (117 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 13th place (332 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Sydney Mansfield (10) - 18:35 (8th place)
Cara Fisher (11) - 19:32 (27th place)
Emma Mirwaldt (10) - 19:34 (30th place)
Allycia Gaffer (12) - 19:42 (36th place)
Emily Zent (12) - 20:05 (57th place)
Linh Luu (10) - 20:21 (76th place)
Sara Zimmerman (11) - 20:43 (94th place)
Outlook: The Bruins have everyone back from a team that peaked perfectly last season. Sydney Mansfield, 15th at the state finals as a freshman, gives Northrop a good frontrunning threat. The rest of her teammates provide solid depth. Being so close to Carroll, the Bruins may get beaten up a lot in the regular season and early sectional, but the constant competition may prove to be worth it in the end. This team may be one big improvement or one newcomer away from the podium. 10. Portage Indians
New Prairie Semistate #3
New Prairie Regional: #2
2008 Results
Chesterton Sectional: 2nd place (71 points)
New Prairie Regional: 2nd place (69 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 3rd place (102 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 12th place (327 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Terra Norman (10) - 18:55 (8th place)
Christine Del Turco (11) - 19:36 (15th place)
Abby Trader (10) - 20:00 (25th place)
Sierra King (10) - 20:21 (39th place)
Rachel Foreman (11) - 20:32 (45th place)
Paige Mulle (10) - 20:58 (66th place)
Ashley Sass (10) - 21:25 (94th place)
Outlook: The Indians had an incredibly young lineup last year of five freshman and two sophomores. With a group that is now young and experienced, Portage could be a darkhorse for the podium this year. Though the Indians probably lack an All-Stater, their depth will make them a very difficult team to beat in the northwest and throughout Indiana. Portage's mediocre track season makes it hard to call the Indians a potential podium team, but the two seasons are very different.
9. Columbus North Bull Dogs
Franklin Central Semistate #5
2008 Results
Edinburgh Sectional: 1st place (28 points)
Greensburg Regional: 2nd place (39 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 4th place (123 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 6th place (182 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Siri Retrum (12) - 18:25 (5th place)
Jessica Richardson (11) - 19:47 (40th place)
Macey Thornburg (10) - 19:56 (47th place)
Erin Shuffett (10) - 20:02 (52nd place)
Virginia Steilberg (12) - 20:10 (57th place)
Outlook: The Bull Dogs have finished seventh and sixth (by just five points) at the past two state finals. The returning group will be hurt by the graduation of Caitlin Burke and Jiliane Lakin but a solid group returns nonetheless. Frontrunner Siri Retrum often runs her best races when it counts most, having placed 15th and 11th at the past two state finals. Retrum's junior track season was much more successful than her sophomore year so she may be one of the five best in Indiana. Behind her, it's up to a pack of capable teammates to close the door quickly at two through five.
8. Huntington North Vikings
New Haven Semistate #2
Marion Regional #1
2008 Results
Marion Sectional: 1st place (31 points)
Marion Regional: 1st place (54 points)
New Haven Semistate: 6th place (188 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 10th place (299 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Natalie Spahr (11) - 19:30 (25th place)
Gretchen Spahr (11) - 19:45 (39th place)
Becca Goodman (11) - 20:00 (51st place)
Molly King (12) - 20:09 (61st place)
Cassie Hacker (10) - 20:20 (74th place)
Heidi Blocker (12) - 21:20 (110th place)
Olivia Eckert (11) - 21:45 (120th place)
Outlook: The Vikings ran lights out at last year's state finals and finished as the best of the rest following the huge jumble from second to ninth. With everyone back from that team, Huntington looks to be a potential podium team. The frontrunning must improve for that to happen, however. That could come from either of the Spahr sisters or Molly King, who ran 11:36 for 3200 meters this spring.
7. Franklin Central Flashes
Franklin Central Semistate #4
2008 Results
New Palestine Sectional: 1st place (24 points)
Rushville Regional: 1st place (23 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 5th place (131 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 3rd place (167 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Jasmine Al-Anzi (10) - 18:17 (2nd place)
Lizzie Adams (12) - 19:50 (44th place)
Nadia Al-Anzi (11) - 19:52 (45th place)
Dani Sullivan (12) - 19:55 (46th place)
Outlook: The Flashes had a storybook season last year, going from completely off the radar to third at the state finals. Like their conference rival Columbus North, Franklin Central returns an All-Stater but takes some graduation hits. After a stellar track season over 3200 meters, Dani Sullivan could pair up with Jasmine Al-Anzi to provide FC with the best 1-2 punch in Indiana. The rest of the team is certainly capable of getting the Flashes back on the podium, but they will need to go further down their depth chart to do so.
6. Westfield Shamrocks
Franklin Central Semistate #3
Brebeuf Regional #3
Carmel Sectional #3
2008 Results
Carmel Sectional: 3rd place (81 points)
Brebeuf Regional: 3rd place (101 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 6th place (132 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Bre'anna Smith (12) - 19:10 (20th place)
Jessica Burton (11) - 19:45 (37th place)
Dana Christie (12) - 19:47 (41st place)
Alex Holland (12) - 19:58 (48th place)
Mackenzie Simons (11) - 20:08 (55th place)
Laura Cronin (11) - 20:32 (76th place)
Outlook: The Shamrocks were at it again last year. After losing three of its top four runners from the 2007 state champion team, Westfield reached down into its depth chart and finished on the podium once again. The 'Rocks lose last year's number one but bring back everyone else after that. After a run over the past five years that has included three state titles and five podium appearances, it would be tough to put anything past Westfield this year. For the first time in a while, the 'Rocks don't have an apparent All-Stater, but the pack should be good enough to challenge for a sixth straight top five finish. 5. Carroll Chargers
New Haven Semistate #1
West Noble Regional #1
2008 Results
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 1st place (49 points)
West Noble Regional: 1st place (43 points)
New Haven Semistate: 3rd place (124 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 9th place (202 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Haven Semistate)
Brianna Johnson (11) - 19:09 (19th place)
Kaylee McClanahan (12) - 19:14 (21st place)
Jordan Mornout (12) - 20:00 (50th place)
Janelle Gordy (11) - 20:18 (72nd place)
Outlook: The Chargers battled through illness and injury last year and never could seem to put it all together on the same day. Regardless, Carroll returns a loaded lineup. Brianna Johnson has twice received individual medals at the state finals. Teammate Kaylee McClanahan was nearly an All-Stater as well last fall and followed that up with a great spring. Those two should pose a formidable 1-2, perhaps the best in the state. After that, it's up to a very deep team to back them up at three, four and five. 4. Noblesville Millers
Franklin Central Semistate #2
Brebeuf Regional #2
Carmel Sectional #2
2008 Results
Carmel Sectional: 2nd place (81 points)
Brebeuf Regional: 2nd place (80 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 2nd place (119 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 8th place (201 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Helen Willman (10) - 18:57 (14th place)
Tiffany Cange (12) - 19:07 (18th place)
Jalynne Foley (12) - 19:27 (25th place)
Alex Kacer (12) - 19:59 (50th place)
Meg Bowles (12) - 20:18 (67th place)
Outlook: The Millers were improving with each round of the tournament before faltering a bit at the state meet and finishing near the back of the bottleneck. With its top three back from last season and five of seven, Noblesville is again a podium hopeful. Sophomore Helen Willman, a highly-touted freshman last season, should improve on her performances and be among the state's elite. After a decent track season, it appears that Meg Bowles could be on the mend and looking to make a difference in her senior year.
3. Lake Central Indians
New Prairie Semistate #2
2008 Results
Hammond Gavit Sectional: 1st place (15 points)
Crown Point Regional: 1st place (24 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 1st place (51 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 2nd place (160 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Dana Payonk (12) - 18:17 (1st place)
Megan Plenus (12) - 19:45 (16th place)
Anna Kacius (11) - 19:53 (20th place)
Shelby Carroll (10) - 19:57 (21st place)
Sarah Zajac (11) - 20:57 (64th place)
Outlook: The Indians have finished second at the last two state finals and should be looking to close out the careers of Dana Payonk and Megan Plenus with a championship. LC has been the best in the northwest for a while now. Payonk figures to be among the favorites for the state title and Plenus, who was hampered with some injures last season, shouldn't be too far behind. Depth has never been an issue for the Indians. Last season, their sixth runner was 21st at the semistate meet.
2. Valparaiso Vikings
New Prairie Semistate #1
New Prairie Regional #1
2008 Results
Chesterton Sectional: 1st place (33 points)
New Prairie Regional: 1st place (28 points)
New Prairie Semistate: 2nd place (64 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 4th place (172 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from New Prairie Semistate)
Katelyn Devries (10) - 19:02 (9th place)
Kathryn Sommer (12) - 19:26 (14th place)
Jillian Ranegar (12) - 20:03 (27th place)
Tricia Joll (10) - 20:06 (28th place)
Lauren Bigger (10) - 20:25 (42nd place)
Cassandra Kirk (12) - 20:42 (52nd place)
Outlook: If the preseason rankings are a good indicator, this year's state championship should be a battle between the two traditions in Indiana. The Vikings lose All-Stater Megan Ranegar but have everyone else back, eyeing the school's sixth state title. Word has it that Katelyn Devries was a bit hobbled by season's end. If she can stay healthy and Kathryn Sommer and Lauren Bigger can improve on good track seasons, it may be hard for anyone to outdo the Vikes.
1. Carmel Greyhounds
Franklin Central Semistate #1
Brebeuf Regional #1
Carmel Sectional #1
2008 Results
Carmel Sectional: 1st place (20 points)
Brebeuf Regional: 1st place (35 points)
Franklin Central Semistate: 1st place (44 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 1st place (55 points)
2009 Returners (based on results from Franklin Central Semistate)
Renee Wellman (10) - 18:22 (4th place)
Alex Chitwood (11) - 18:36 (9th place)
Sara Bennett (10) - 19:04 (17th place)
Lauren Kahre (10) - 19:41 (34th place)
Katie Doron (12) - 19:46 (38th place)
Outlook: The defending champs bring back five of last year's seven, and one can reasonably assume a very talented junior varsity as well. Sophomore Renee Wellman was the best freshman in the state last fall and could certainly be a contender for the individual title this season. Alex Chitwood, who anchored a come-from-behind state title in the 4x800 relay and finished All-State in cross country, shouldn't be too far behind. This year's 'Hounds certainly aren't unbeatable, as last season's version proved to be, but it will take a mammoth effort to dethrone the champs. | |
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