2015 DyeStat IL XC Season Previews – 3A Boys Teams

Published by  DyeStatIL   Today, 4:43pm

60 seconds and a left turn could drive Sandburg to the state championship in 2015

 

By Michael Newman

mike@dyestat.com

 

 

If anyone is familiar with the layout of Detweiller Park, home of the IHSA State Cross Country Meet, you know that the first turn on the course can get you closer to your dream of a state championship or it can wipe it out just like that. If you have ever run on the course and you have started in one of the inside boxes, your coach has told you to make sure you get to the outside before you make that left turn. You have only run close to 500 meters. If you are stuck on the inside, your race is pretty much done. And you still have 2 ¾ miles to go.

 

Sandburg entered the state meet last year as the favorite. The week before at the Marist Sectional, they destroyed the competition which included the top four teams in the state including defending state champion Hinsdale Central. Their confidence level was on high as they took to the startling line in the afternoon.

 

The Eagles were assigned to Box 8. The box is on the inside. If you go straight, you are sunk. Otherwise, you have over 60 seconds to veer to the right along the bushes that surround that first turn. 

 

The gun went off and Sandburg did not get to the right. They approached the first curve slowing down. This was the first time in the season that they were not in control of the race. Detweiller Park was in control of them. “That 60 seconds was the only time that we were not Sandburg,” Sandburg Coach John O’Malley said after the race. “That was uncharacteristically not us in how we had raced all year.”

 

They tried to play catchup for the remaining 14 minutes but they just could not get Hinsdale Central.

 

“For a while, I am sure he boys did think a lot about that opening at the state meet last year. We let the inside line take advantage of us. It’s really hard to win like that. It makes less of an impact in the team spots back further but it really hurts when you are trying to win. As I’ve told the boys many times, that opening was 100% my fault,” O’Malley said. “Knowing the sectional we were in, I was well aware that winning the sectional could easily put us in a threat-orientated state of mind rather than a gain-orientated. Their hesitancy early was an indicator of bad coaching. But that’s the beauty of the sport. Hinsdale Central raced their hearts out and came off a couple of bad weeks and put together their best race. We hesitated and lost.”

 

That moment could have defined their season. Instead it refined them. They went back racing the following Sunday at the NXN Midwest Regionals in Terre Haute. They returned to the same type of pack they had been running all season. The same kind of attitude within the pack was there. In their eyes you could tell that no one was going to beat them. They won the regional comfortably qualifying them for the national meet in Portland. They ran a 25 second split on five but their pack was too far back. They finished 15^th in the finals. It pushed them during the track season where they won the 3A 3200 Meter Relay at the state finals at the end of May.

 

It was another lesson learned. This past summer, they traveled to Colorado to train with so of the other ranked schools across the country. ““Our training has been going well,” said one of Sandburg’s top seven Max Leinhardt. “We took a trip to Colorado this summer to train with some of the best in the nation and it was a wake-up call to say the least. We learned a lot there not only about running but about ourselves.”

 

“I'd say this summer has been tough and we are training harder than ever before,” added David Gleisner who will be challenging for a top seven spot this fall. “I think our hunger is renewed after our trip to Colorado”

 

That hunger will sit with them in every practice that they are in, every starting line they step to at a meet. IT’s a chip on their shoulder reminding them of not in ever letting an opportunity slipping away.

 

This could be one of the most competitive seasons that the 3A Boys classification has seen. There are eight schools at the moment that have legitimate chances to win the state championship. Two time defending state champion Hinsdale Central has that hunger of people telling them that they lost too many to graduation and they won’t be able to compete. Hunger will drive Neuqua Valley and Lyons Township telling them that they have come close but have left Detweiller without the top prize over the past few seasons. Hunger will drive York telling them that their program is washed up and their time at the top is over. Oak Park-River Forest, Lake Zurich, and Huntley will have the hunger of never being their ready to taste what a state championship could be like.

 

““We are back and hungry, but know it’s not going to be a walk in the park,” said one of Sandburg senior leaders Sean Torpy. “There are some very tough individuals and teams returning who are going to be challenging to beat. We are going to have to work very hard to accomplish the goals we set out for”

 

Here is a look at the top 25 teams as we see them heading into this season. There will be a list following them of the next teams to watch in alphabetical order. Then there will be a list of schools to watch this season.

 

 

1 Orland Park Sandburg

Coach – John O’Malley

2014 Finish – 2^nd – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Tom Brennan SR (31, 14:54), Chris Torpy SR (38, 15:00), Sean Torpy SR (42, 15:02), Martin Skucas JR (45, 15:05), Max Leinhardt SR (53, 15:08), Brandon Lukas SR (59, 15:11), Dan Laskero SR, Dylan Jacobs SO, David Gleisner SR, Paul Sieczkowski SR,  Miles Draskovic SR, Lou Cavalier SR, Anthony Lifonti SR, Nick Gonsch SO, Danny Papon JR, Pat Foster SR, Brennan Duffy SO, John Wagner SR.

 

Outlook – Ever since the Richard Spring Invitational last September, Sandburg has been the team to beat in 3A. At the start of this season, that statement is still true. Six runners are back from that state team for Coach John O’Malley. “Summer training was a little more challenging and less cohesive than last year simply because we had several guys extend their track seasons. I gave them a short break but by the time they returned they were several weeks back from some of the others,” O’Malley said. “We’ve been working really hard for the past month and a half. Training stimuli are starting to blend in harmony a little more now than earlier in the summer since we’ve gotten to a point where each of our runners can emphasize several different training stresses. However, I’d have to say that we have a ton of work to do. The boys are just really getting to the point where I’d call them fit. We can now turn our attention more to becoming racers.”

 

Five of the six returnees are seniors. Hungry seniors knowing this is their final chance. Chris & Sean Torpy and Tom Brennan are the leaders up front for this team. The #1 spot is interchangeable between the trio.  Any one of them can step up when the time counts. Brennan was the front man in the last three IHSA races of the year with both Torpy’s close behind. Seniors Max Leinhardt and Brandon Lukas along with junior Martin Skukas form the next pack. All last year ran close to each other. The 4-5-6 spots are also interchangeable. Dan Laskero and David Gleisner will battle for a top seven position. Dylan Jacobs and Paul Sieczkowski had great summers of training and will also be in the top seven discussion. Who is in the top seven? “I have no clue and no interest in who will be our top 7,” added O’Malley. “We’re very focused on maximizing every runner’s potential and the runners are focused on getting better every day, every minute, until their season is over, almost like a horse with blinders.”

 

Sandburg have 10 runners that are returning that ran 10 minutes or faster on the track last spring for 3200 meters. They are the deepest team in the state. It is good to have that kind of depth. It breeds competition in practice and improves the team. This squad is senior oriented with the heavy goal of a state championship. I know they are focusing on one practice at a time, one meet at a time. But it is the thought of last fall and the thought of this November that drives this team. Sandburg’s split at their conference meet on five was 14 seconds. At sectionals, it was only nine seconds. It was 11 seconds even at the state meet. The problem was that their pack was too far back to catch Hinsdale Central who showed the strategy of defeating the Eagles. I am sure this team will not let that happen again.

 

“I’ll bet on those boys any day of the week. And I told them as much after state. And as you observed, they went out and showed their character the next week. I believe that is the character that will make us better this year. We have to come back from disappointment and find our best versions of ourselves,” concluded O’Malley. “You have to be a strong person before you can be a strong runner. The boys are both. I am so much faith in them. So I have no idea what we’ll be able to accomplish this year. There are so many good teams. Hinsdale Central, York, Neuqua Valley and Lyons will all be better than they were a year ago and each of those teams placed in the top 6. I know we’ll be better than we were last year. That’s the real expectation. I know that improving themselves and focusing on the Pillars of Sandburg Cross Country is all they’ll think about until they cross their last finish line.”

 

2 Naperville Neuqua Valley

Coach – Paul Vandersteen

2014 Finish – 4^th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Connor Horn SR (7, 14:36), Dominic Dina SR (81, 15:18), Austin Kinne SR (107, 15:27), Caleb Ferguson SR (120, 15:30), Aidan Livingston SR (162, 15:48), Jake McEneaney JR, Matt Milostan JR, Pat Wolak SR, Danny Winek SO, Ryan Kennedy SO, Vishay Singh SR, Shiva Singh SR, Josh Patel JR, Jackson Jett JR, Nick Green JR, Scott Anderson JR, Arnand Haran SR, Wylie Anderson SR, William Ackerman SR, Zach Kinne FR, Chris Keeley FR

 

Outlook – Just as the thoughts of the state meet have driven, it will do the same with Neuqua Valley this fall. The Wildcats missed a trophy and a spot on the podium by only 1 point. Neuqua Valley is perhaps just as deep as Sandburg. It was not a typical Neuqua team last year. They did have a good pack of three runners towards the front and then a drop off between 4 and 5. Watch for Coach Paul Vandersteen and his staff to work on the pack dynamics in 2015.

“I know I sound like a broken record, but our training went very well this summer,” Vandersteen said. “Upon reflection, probably the hardest working group of young men I have coached in my 18 years at Neuqua Valley.” Connor Horn fully recovered last year from the injury that kept him out of his sophomore campaign. Horn finished 7^th in last year’s state meet. He had a great track season emerging into one of the top athletes in 3A this fall. He will be the clear #1 for this team. There could be a 25-30 split between Horn and the 2-7 runners. The split on their 2-5 should be ultra-tight. Jake McEneaney would have been in the top five last year but a hip injury at their conference meet took him out. He also ran 9:27.57 last spring before he was forced out of the rest of the year due to pneumonia. Keeping him healthy could be a goal for this team this season. He could be the leader of that pack. Their 2-7 spots are extremely interchangeable. State returnees Dominic Dina, Austin Kinne, Caleb Ferguson, and Aidan Livingston along with Danny Winek, Matt Milostan, and Pat Wolak are all capable of stepping into one of the top seven spots. “I think it might take 15:15-15:20 to make our top 12,” added Vandersteen.

 

Neuqua Valley will be a force again on top of 3A with Horn in the front and then their pack. If McEneaney can stay healthy, either he of Dina could be close to all state. If they have the tightness of the pack with them, this could be a tough team to beat. The Wildcats also changed up their schedule leaving the First to the Finish Invitational adding the Richard Spring Invitational the following week. “I am a big believer in making changes to our schedule and training every couple of years.  The big reason we switched to Richard Spring is because of the timing company,” Vandersteen said. “Adam White, the owner of the timing company, was on the Peoria Notre Dame team when I was an assistant coach there many moons ago.  He and Henz do an amazing job and I think they make a huge difference in the management of the meet.  The other reason was to give our guys a couple weeks of training after Hornet-Red Devil.  It also gives us a chance to compete against Sandburg and York, two different top tier teams we don’t see at Hornet-Red Devil.  We are splitting our squad the first weekend of October so we can run on the Detweiller course again.”

 

3 Elmhurst York

Coach – Joe Newton

2014 Finish – 6^th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Charlie Kern SO (8, 14:36), Max Denning SR (73, 15:17), Liam Hill JR (90, 15:21), Jon May SR (97, 15:23), Devin Davies SR (109, 15:28), Tom Devereux SR (168, 15:50), Robert Tomaska SR, Jackson Bode SO, Jack Gornick JR, Creighton Wolff JR, Sam McGregor SO, Mark Morgan SO, Brendan Chattin SO, Tim Stevenson SO, Eddie Pedote JR, Justin Dale SR, John Fleshood SR, Alec Deuter SR, Nick Berger SR.

 

Outlook – I received questions last spring and this summer on whether Joe Newton would return to coach the York cross country team. “I’m here because I want to be here and coach,” he told his team on the first day of practice. “I’m going to coach the hell out of you this fall.”

 

Newton has coached York to 28 state championships and will be looking for 29 this fall. Perhaps one of his best coaching performances happened last fall. York was up and down all season with a group that only had one senior in the top seven. The week before at the Lake Park Regional, they won the team championship. At the Niles West Sectional the following week, the Dukes barely got out tying for fifth. Most people though that there was no way that York could place in the top ten at the state meet. They finished sixth. Now with six runners back from that state team, they are hungry to get back on the podium to get #29.

 

“We have the makings of a great team this year,” said Newton. “We have to get back on the map. We’ve finished fifth and sixth the last two years. It is time to get back in the spotlight.” York has the talent to get back to the top. It starts with Charlie Kern. The sophomore did not start to run on the varsity level until the beginning of October. He has not left since. He won the regional title, finished second at the Niles West Sectional, and then finished 8^th at the state meet running the fastest ever for a freshman on the Detweiller Park course. After a good season of track and summer running, he will be in the hunt for the individual state championship.

 

The pack behind Kern is senior led. Max Denning had a good track season which translated to a great summer. He has the potential to run in the top 25. The team went back to an “Old Time York pack” this summer with close to eight runners in the group with Kern and Denning. Seniors Devin Davies, Jon May, Tom Devereux, and Robert Tomaska along with underclassmen Liam Hill, Jackson Bode, and Sam McGregor will form a tight pack. They will need a 10 second split from 2-5 to challenge for a state championship.

 

“Talk is cheap, doing your talking on the track,” Newton told his team on the first day. There has not been much talk from the Dukes over the past two seasons on the course. If there is any team that has a chip on their shoulder, it is this one. They have the focus of a champion in August, but will that carry over into a tough WSC-Silver Conference and then on to the state series. The Dukes would like to do some talking in Peoria this November. Their talking could be loud by running good to get back to winning the 3A state championship at Detweiller Park.

 

4 Hinsdale Central

Coach – Jim Westphal

2014 Finish – 3A State Champion

 

Runners to Watch – Blake Evertsen JR (12, 14:40), Chris Brenk SR (25, 14:50), Ethan Planson JR (142, 15:39), Jacob Belgrad JR, Nathan Hill SR, Andrew Irvine SR, Ryan Doorhy JR, John Bynan JR, Ben Schneiders JR, Emmett Grundberg JR, Neil Cumberland SO, Adam Jabar SO, Steven Zaher SO, Sean O’Connell SO, Michael Gates SR, Yuji Cusick SR.

 

Outlook – I have been asked by a couple of people if Hinsdale Central could challenge again for their third straight 3A state championship. The biggest comment that I heard was they only have three runners back from the state team. You can’t look at the surface at this squad. You have to go a little deeper. If you looked at their runners that did not get the opportunity to compete in the state series, Coach Jim Westphal has 11 runners coming back that have run 10:10 or faster in the 3200. That is one of the reasons why they will be contending for another state championship this season.

 

“We have group of returning Varsity athletes with a mix of new athletes that we hope to make an impact at the Varsity level,” Westphal said. “Overall, training went well this summer. We had a few dings with a couple of our athletes but they are on their way back to health and good training.” The team has a strong front two led by Blake Evertsen and Chris Brenk. Evertsen made a step forward starting last fall with his 12^th place state finish and last spring running 9:14 for 3200 Meters. Brenk was injured towards the end of last season, but he still ended up as team’s third runner finishing 25^th. Both runners should be in the top 10 this fall. Ethan Planson stepped up last fall and was the team’s 7^th man at state. The sophomore ran 9:51 last track season. We could see big improvement from him over the next few months. Nathan Hill had a great track season after an injury slowed him down causing him to miss the second of last year’s cross country season. Michael Gates, Andrew Irvine, Sean O’Connell, Neil Cumberland, and Yuji Cusick all have the talent to run in the top seven.

 

We could see the same formula from Hinsdale again this year with three runners capable of earning all-state accolades with a pack close behind them. The first few meets will give us an indication of what kind of team Central has. Their schedule has changed this year removing Locktoberfest and adding the Palatine Invitational and the Naperville Twilight Invitational.

 

“Our goal is rather simple,” concluded Westphal. “Be a better team in 2015 than we were in 2014. There are so many good teams who are really hungry. I believe this will be a really, really deep year. Similar to the girls 3A last fall where the top 5 teams were the best Illinois teams and performances ever. We are going to focus only on what we can control; consistent training, consistent performances meet to meet, and staying healthy. Our seniors are extremely motivated and excited and are focusing on the process rather than the end product at this time. It should be a fun season.”

 

5 LaGrange Lyons Township

Coach – Michael Danner

2014 Finish – 3rd – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Connor Madell SR (15, 14:42), Vince Zona JR (35, 14:58), Matt Begeman SR (123, 15:30), Alex Pall JR, Tim McCarthy SR, Nolan Delaney SR, Andrew Best JR, Jack Salazar SR, Sam Scriba SR, John Hagan JR, Graham Hutchek JR, Roland Van Tassell JR, Rory McDermott JR, Dan Palmer JR, Andrew Tarasuk SO, Luke Van Koevering SO.

 

Outlook – The same questions and answers apply to Lyons Township heading into this season. Even though they only return three from last year’s state team, there is a boat load of talent waiting for their opportunity to step up into the top seven for Coach Michael Danner. He has formed consistency of performance at state the last couple of years. They finished 3^rd in 2012, 4^th in 2013, and 3^rd last year. They are looking to take the next step up in 2015.

 

Connor Madell was all-state last year placing 15^th. He ran 4:14 and led off Lyons Townhip’s second place finish in the 3200 Relay. He is showing more and more confidence in his racing. Expect him to place 10^th or better this fall. He has already run 14:56 at Detweiller at Dark at the end of July. Vince Zona showed much improvement running 4:22 this spring. He was also a part of the 3200 relay state team. He finished 35^th last season. He could finish much higher this fall. Matt Begeman ran track for the first time last spring after competing in Lacrosse his first two spring seasons. The track work has benefitted him. He could be a surprise in the state. Sophomore Danny Kilrea and junior Danny Pall have improved the most over the summer according to Danner.

 

It seems that Lyons Township gets discounted early in the year thinking that there is no way that they could get a trophy. Well here the Lions are again in the same position looking at the same outcome. This fall they would like to climb a little higher. Madell and Zona give LT two all-state runners producing low points up front. The key is the pack and the distance back in the relation with Madell and Zona. Their split at state on five last year was only 36 seconds. I would not count out this team again this year. They will be battling for a trophy in November.

 

6 Lake Zurich

Coach – JB Hanson

2014 Finish – 16^th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Matt Pereira JR (3, 14:22), Kyle Griffith JR (117, 15:29), Patrick Burns SO (121, 15:30), Brian Griffith JR (141, 15:38), Matt Milner SR, Nate Quinn SR, Eric Metzger SO, Kyle Fitzgerald JR, Drake Heisterkamp SO, Drew Witt SR, Patrick True SO, Brian McNair JR, Kevin Auster SO, Tyler Pandum JR, Jack Pogals JR, Tyler Snick JR., Sam Guinta FR.

 

Outlook – With three sophomores and a freshman in their top seven when they took the starting line at Detweiller Park last November, the Bears showed their youth placing 16^th. Most people after state last fall said that Lake Zurich was possibly a year away. That year is now for JB Hansen and for the four runners that took to the starting line.

 

The big question that has swirled around Lake Zurich is the status of the 3A #1 returnee Matt Pereira. He missed most of his winter training and into outdoor season when he slipped on the ice hurting his knee. He returned outdoors helping Lake Zurich capture all-state honors in the 3200 relay. In that time, Pereira was struggling with breathing issues and illness. He had nasal surgery in June to help with his breathing issues and allergies. He had a good summer of training and is almost back to where he was last November. 

 

The key to this team I believe is Brian Griffith. The junior had a breakout track season running 1:55, 4:21, and 9:25. He was also a part of his team’s 3200 relay. This summer he took it to another level. “He has set many of our program training records this summer,” Hanson added. “He is that good.” Even though Griffith was their sixth runner last state meet placing 141^st, he could finish in the top 15 this season. Brian’s brother Kyle and sophomore Patrick Burns also had good summers and will give Zurich a solid 3-4 group. Finding a fifth man could be an issue. Matt Miner could be a choice but he is nursing his third stress fracture in the last year. Kyle Fitzgerald or a solid sophomore group led by Eric Metzger could step up to that spot. Their first major test will be at the Richard Spring Invitational against the state’s best on September 19.

 

“I feel good about the work our kids have put in. This is a special group as they are fun, talented, and love to work,” Hanson said. If this team finds a fifth man, they could be extremely tough in the state series. Brian Griffith”s improvement has been dramatic. With Pereira also, there is the possibility of having two runners in the front and possibly giving the Bears single digit numbers in the first two spots. This team could be one of the nation’s best in 2016. This team also will be in contention for a state trophy this fall.

 

7 Huntley

Coach – Matt Kaplan

2014 Finish – 19^th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Keagan Smith SR (9, 14:37), Seth Conroy SR (68, 15:16), Mike Grocholski SR (69, 15:17), Joey Ozsauto SO (191, 16:07), Zach Hollman SR (207, 16:28), Matt Kapolnek JR (213, 16:41), Matt Connatte SR, Jacob Riese JR, Rafael Rivera JR, Tyler Watkins SR, Mitch Johnson JR, Jake Vickers JR, Rasheed Ahmad SO, Zach Spencer SO, Christian Apilan JR, Jadon Conroy FR.

 

Outlook – Huntley took the next step forward when they just qualified for state placing 5^th at the St. Charles East Sectional. Their 19^th place finish was not what they were looking for, but it will give them great experience heading into this season. Six runners are back from that team with high expectations.

 

“I'm very pleased with this group. Our returning runners from last year's state team have done an amazing job,” Matt Kaplan said. “Our top five has spent the entire summer together which makes me as their coach very proud. A team that trains together wins and loses together. This is honestly the first time our core pack of runners for the last couple seasons have been together this much in a summer.” This team has the talent to contend for a trophy. Keagan Smith is the key runner for the team. He was 7^th last year with his eyes on an individual championship. Kaplan believes that Mike Grocholski has the potential to do some great things. He finished 59^th last year, but could finish 30^th or better. The key for the team is the third senior in the group Seth Conroy. He has the potential to be all-state but needs to find consistency in his racing. He finished 4^th last fall at the St. Charles East Sectional running 14:54. Keagan Smith in that race ran 14:34. At state the next week, Smith ran 14:37 and Conroy ran 15:16. Conroy did have a good track season running 4:20 and 9:24 qualifying for state in the 3200. He has the talent to be all-state. 

 

Matt Kapolnek, Joey Ozsauto, and Zach Hollman will challenge for the other two scoring spots. Kaplan also believes that freshman Jadon Conroy could make the difference in the top seven by the time they get to the state series. Huntley will have a good pack up front with the possibility of maybe three all-state runners. The key will be the gap between four and five. Last year it averaged near 40 seconds. That split needs to come down. If the front three can stay up front and the split between three and four can stay down, it could be the difference of a team in trophy contention or a team that might just make it into the front ten. “The team has the potential to challenge for a state trophy. This group is very special,” added Kaplan. Last season I challenged them to make history and prove to themselves that our group was capable of competing at the 3A state race. Reaching that team goal and finishing 19th was a great experience. Many of the boys gained state meet experience. Having that core group back for this season is very exciting. Led by three seniors up front this group has the potential to shock themselves and even me on what they can achieve.  The trio of Smith, Conroy, and Grocholski will put our team in a great standing in any meet. Our expectation is to return to state but improve our team finish. To be a top ten team in the state is a great honor for any school and I believe our group has the ability to crack that top ten if everyone runs to their best on that day. Last year, we didn't run well the 1st month of the season but many of our guys were still trying to get into shape. I think our season start will be much better this time around and hopefully that will help us as we journey through the season. As a coach my expectations have remained the same. I want this group to learn each week and take away positives from their races in order to grow through the season. It's not where we start but where we finish that matters.”

 

8 Oak Park-River Forest

Coach – Chris Baldwin

2014 Finish – 10th – 3A Niles West Sectional

 

Runners to Watch – Irwin Loud JR (11, 14:39), Jack Monaghan SR, Kimathi Johnson SR, Eric Mulshine JR, Michael Politis JR, Martin Pimentel SR, Henry Harper SR, Nicholas Martire SR, Brendan Carew JR, Sean Lonergan SR, Chance Boyles JR, Matthew Vietzen SO, Peter Halloran SO.

 

Outlook – Already the fourth school in the top ten from the mighty WSC-Silver Conference. Assistant Chris Baldwin steps in as coach replacing long time Oak Park Coach Jose Sosa who retired. The Huskies return all of their seven back in what could be one of the big surprise teams in 3A this fall. With Baldwin stepping in, this team could have a different approach.

 

“Summer training went pretty well,” Baldwin said. “Our summer training was different from in the past, our team had individual plans with individual paces.” Baldwin does have the ace in the hole with junior Irwin Loud leading the way. Loud finished 11^th at last year’s state meet. His improvement during track takes him to the next elite level in the state or perhaps higher on the national scene.  The 9:06.74 to place second behind Jesse Reiser puts him in that position as one of the favorites to win the individual state crown. 

 

After Loud, Baldwin will need a tight 2-5 pack to complement his start runner. “We could have a different 2 through 6 each meet because they are that close together,” Baldwin added. “The biggest thing is keeping those guys healthy.” Jack Monaghan appears to be the top runner of that pack. He had a good track season and could take that up a notch. He was their #2 runner at the end of last year. Kimanthi Johnson, Eric Mulshine, Michael Politis, Martin Pimentel, and Henry Harper are pretty equal in talent and challenge for a top five spot.

 

There will be a substantial gap between Loud and the pack possibly close to 45 seconds. The key for the Huskies is to make sure that their 2-5 runners stay within 15 seconds of each other. All of that could put them in the top five at the state meet. “We compete in one of the hardest conferences in the state and we've taken 6th the past few years,” said Baldwin. “Our goal is to improve on that. If we are able to do that, we have a good shot to make it down state as a team.”

 

9 Park Ridge Maine South

Coach – Greg Nordahl

2014 Finish – 12^th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Brian Sodaro SR (62, 15:12), Ralph Patejunas SR (96, 15:23), Alex Ortwig JR (177, 15:56), Reese Jordan JR (199, 16:17), Brian Shanahan JR, Ray Sutschek SR, Zack Fishman SR, Vince Leonard SR, Glen Garino SR, Joe McCarrick SR, Joe Geigus SR, Joe Carpenter SR, Alex Wagner SO, Jake Mellema SO.

 

Outlook – Just like Oak Park could be a surprise among the state’s elite this fall, the same holds true for Maine South. The Hawks. The Hawks return four from last year’s state team looking to take another step forward. The big key is finding a fifth man to step into the top five.

 

“Summer training has gone very well. The athletes have demonstrated great commitment and have really shown the ability to be a strong team,” said Greg Nordahl. “Captains Sodaro and Sutschek have put together the Sunday long runs with the team and the top athletes have been there.” Brian Sodaro should be the #1 runner for the team. He finished 61^st last season running 15:12. He has the talent to finish 30^th or better at state. The surprise of this team has been junior Reese Jordan. He stepped up to the varsity level in the state series. He was the team’s seventh runner at state. Last fall was his first year in cross country after competing in football his freshman season. He stepped up in track running 4:29 in the 1600 and 9:27 in the 3200. He will challenge Sodaro for a front spot. All-state could be in his vision also. Great things are expected in his senior season by Ralph Patajunas. A god summer of training has put him in the top three. Brian Shanahan was the Hawks’ seventh runner in regionals. The junior ran 9:56 in track and could push for either 4^th or 5^th spots. What could move Maine South up higher or drop them out of the state meet is finding a fifth runner. Senior Ray Sutschek, Junior Alex Orwig, or Senior Zack Fishman could challenge for that spot. 

 

Finding a fifth runner is the big challenge for Nordahl. They have the three front runners within possibly 20 seconds of each other, then another 20 seconds for Shanahan, and then who knows. A 60 second split or higher could make it tough for Maine South to make it out of a rugged Lake Park Sectional. “Looking at our top four I see a team that has top 10 potential. But without that elusive fifth runner we may not achieve our goals. If we can get someone to step into that position (15:30ish) and we can stay relatively healthy we could be a very formidable squad. Our biggest challenge is the Roselle/Lake Park sectional race. This sectional is deeper than the Hinsdale sectional which falls off after 4-5 teams. If we place top five here we are a top ten shoe-in. It seems impossible to look to the state meet with this Goliath separating us from that goal,” added Nordahl. “We have placed 6th three times since 2010. When we do get out of that sectional we perform well at state. We have had many deserving teams that have missed qualifying by a few points – teams that would have qualified out of any other sectional. If we get that 5th runner we will make it to state and do well there.”

 

10 Winnetka New Trier

Coach – David Wisner

2014 Finish – 9^th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Jack Litowitz SR (139, 15:37), Ted Oh SR, Warren Blood JR, Josh Derrick SR, Zach Schreier SR, Jeremy Glickman SR, Will Taylor SR, Ben Rakestraw SR, Jared Meyer SR, Mason Brachmann JR, Henry Clabby SR, James Crimmins SR, David Snower SR, Jack Govert SR, Matt Roge JR, David Lee JR, Sean Gorney JR, Cooper Woolford JR (played golf in 2013 & 2014), Kiran Baakkonen SO, Miles Purcell SO, Alex Kogen SO, Patrick Norrick SO, Ben Citow SO

 

Outlook – Even though the Trevians only have one runner back from last year’s 9^th place state team, Coach David Wisner does have the talent to compete with Maine South for the CSL Championship and also a return trip to the state meet. “We had one of our best summers with regards to attendance, workouts, and overall team health,” Wisner said. “With only one athlete returning with state meet experience, it’s too early to determine where this team will ultimately finish at the state meet in November.  There are many talented runners in our program, but it will take time for them to adjust to varsity competition and to master the art of pack running.”

 

When New Trier is tough and contending for state trophies, they rely on tight pack running. This is a necessity for this year’s team especially with not that much of big meet experience. Jack Litowitz was their 7^th man at state, but 3^rd at the conference meet. Warren Blood and Ted Oh who along with Litowitz qualified for the state meet in track last spring, give New Trier that experience that they will need up front. There is a group of up to 10 runners that will challenge for the next four spots. Seniors Josh Derrick and Zach Scherier will be among the runners. Cooper Woolford ran 9:53 in the 3200 last spring showed talent to be in the top five. He could make a difference after a few meets this year. New Trier also has a strong sophomore class that could have a couple of that group in the top five by the time they get to the state series.

 

Litowitz, Blood, and Oh could place in the top 25 in the invitationals that they compete in early in the year. It will then come down to the development of the rest of the pack. This could be a typical New Trier pack team that show its toughness by the time they get to October. If this team develops like any Wisner coached team does, the Trevians should be a top ten team at the state meet.

 

11 Chicago Whitney Young

Coach – Billy Poole-Harris

2014 Finish – 9th – 3A Niles West Sectional

 

Runners to Watch – Clayton Mendez SO (58, 15:10), Sam Wischnowsky SR, William Szkwarek JR, Kaduse Worku JR, Evan Radomski JR, Charles Sandberg SR, Ryan Wangman SR, Brandon Doklieu JR, Nick Baxter JR, Daniel Cleary JR, Marc Harvey JR, Augustine Barry JR, Ivan Bucio SR, Zack Sebak SR, Sam Rivera FR.

 

Outlook – Youth and inexperience showed up in the Dolphins’ sectional race when they placed ninth at the Niles West Sectional. With all of their top seven back from that team for Coach Billy Poole-Harris, expectations are high that this Chicago Public League school advances to Peoria in November.

 

“Training took a good turn this summer. The boys understand now that if you want a shot to go downstate you have to train over the summer,” Poole Harris said. “The boys were running at 7am and 8am at the school. They commuted 2 hours to run with each other. That I thought really brought the team closer together.” Sophomore Clayton Mendez stepped up early in the season as the #1 runner that continued into the state series. He qualified individually for state placing 58^th at state. That experience will pay off for him as he challenges for a top 25 finish. The group running that the team exhibited during the summer will need to continue in races this fall. Senior Sam Wischnewsky should step back into the #2 spot followed by Keduse Worku and Evan Radomski. Their split on five off of Mendez at the sectional race was 70 seconds. Their split from 3 to 5 was only four seconds. Worku and Radomski have the ability to run close to Wischnowsky. A tighter 2-5 split will pay off in getting Whitney Young to the state meet.

 

The Dolphins will challenge Jones College Prep for the Chicago Public League Championship. The team was tough during the season last year putting up some good results and times. It changed in their final two meets of the season. A dose of experience will pay off for this team in 2015. “I think that if we work hard and really work on our mental game we will have a special season,” added Poole-Harris. “It could be one that Whitney Young has not seen ever.”

 

12 Frankfort Lincoln-Way North

Coach – Jeff Purdom

2014 Finish – 25th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – John Chomiak SR (112, 15:29), Noah Healy JR (156, 15:45), Demetri Panici SR (182, 16:00), Mike Trost SO (186, 16:03), Mark Harris SR (201, 16:20), Ryan Belavich SR (217, 17:51), Chris Curtin SR, David Nino JR, Kyle Goodwin SR, Will Newman SR, Joe Scheutz JR, Sean Kilpatrick SR, Matt Jung SO, Kyle Becthold JR

 

Outlook – The Phoenix finally made it over the hump that separated them from the sectionals and state meet when they finished fourth at the Quincy Sectional. The new experience of the state meet that effect the wide-eyed group finishing 25^th at Detweiller Park. The enthusiasm of taking that step was great at first, but now they want something higher. North had a good track season giving this team momentum heading into the season. In the middle of August, Lincoln-Way School District 210 voted to close Lincoln-Way North down at the conclusion of the 2015-2016 school year. Six of last year’s top seven are ready to make this season a memorable one for them and the school.

 

“We had a very good summer.  We focused a lot on running as a pack.  I think it should really pay off this fall.  We had one non-running related injury, but otherwise guys were healthy and running well,” said Jeff Purdom. “We focused a little more on strength this summer as we built a strong base with lots of hills and tempo running.  The underclassmen really took a huge step in their commitment to improvement during the summer months.  I am really excited to see what our frosh/soph guys can do this fall.”

 

Their top three runners had great track seasons setting them up for a great fall. John Chomiak should be the #1 runner on this team. He PR’d with a 9:25 3200 last spring.  Noah Healy ran 4:23 for 1600 and will lead a tight pack behind Chomiak with Demetri Panici close by his side. Mark Harris, who was their 6^th runner at state last fall, had a great summer and could be in the top five. Kyle Bechtold has run track three years but not cross country. Purdom believes he will be in the top five. Mike Trost rounds out what will be a tough five runner pack. The key will be moving the pack up. Chomiak has showed improvement that could put him 40^th or better at state. The pack from 2-5 averaged near 20 seconds last year. The improvement of this team over the past 12 months has been good. If they can keep the gap at around 12-15 seconds on Chomiak and a 15 second split on the pack, who knows what could happen.

 

Emotion and closeness of this team will give this team a bonus especially with the reality that the school closing down. Emotion like that can take you a long way. “We have high expectations for this fall.  They got a taste of success last fall and spring, but want to take that next step on the state stage,” stated Purdom. “They made it last year, now they want to make noise on that stage.  Our state qualifying individual returners from track (Healy, Chomiak, Panici) have seen for themselves what the state series can look like, but also have shown the other guys on the team what is possible when they do things the right way.”

 

 

13 Plainfield South

Coach – Jason Crowe

2014 Finish – 7th – 3A Marist Sectional

 

Runners to Watch – John Partee SR, Hunter Dyer SR, Austin Brown SR, Andy Bhatia SR, Andrew Nunez JR, Donovan Harkins JR, Jake Willison SO, Jon Quinones SR, Franz Pangilinan SR, Nick Albright SR, Brad Lathrop SR, Alejandro Guzman SR, Andrew Halba SO, Christian Knowton FR, William Lathrop FR.

 

Outlook – Plainfield stepped into the top 25 rankings last season in mid-September and showed improvement as the season progressed. The problem was that they were in the Marist Sectional with the top four teams in the state. The Cougars still ran a good race but finished 7^th at that sectional. Four runners are back from that team for Coach Jason Crowe.

 

“With all of the guys we have returning, our turn out was excellent and we have increased our summer mileage,” Crowe said. “The team has responded very well.” Part of the success for South was their tight pack. It will be nice to have John Partee back who had a great spring in track which should translate nicely to this season. This team will miss projected #2 runner Colin Pickering who transferred to Bradley-Bourbonais. Seniors Andy Bhatia and Austin Brown will lead their pack. Hunter Dyer, Jake Willison, and Andrew Nunez should also be a part of the top five.

 

If Plainfield South ever gets out of the Hinsdale Central Sectional, this team has a good shot to qualify for state. Even at Hinsdale, their chances are pretty good. But they will need Partee towards the front in every race along with the pack within 20 seconds of each other. Their split on five last year was 25 seconds. That is possible from this group. “We are very excited to see what John Partee does this fall.  He will build off his 3rd place finish in the state in the 800 this spring,” Crowe said. “Our guys are very motivated to have a great season with Partee leading a strong pack.  Goals include qualifying for state (as a team) out of the Hinsdale Central sectional and winning our Southwest Prairie Conference championship.”

 

14 Chicago Jones College Prep

Coach – Andrew Adelmann

2014 Finish – 8^th – 3A Niles West Sectional

 

Runners to Watch – Jeremy Adams JR, Nick Merten SR, Ethan Barreto SR, Nico Moreno SR, Zach Benes JR, Arthur Santoro JR, Josh Gerenraich JR, Eric Wong JR, Joseph Bailey JR, Stephen Kruto SR, Alex Behle SR, Kevin Shannon SR, Stephen Chaud JR, David Ruiz SO, Christian Reyes SO, Jeremy Brown SO, Ruben Coronel SO, AJ Funtador FR

 

Outlook – Jones came close to qualify for state last year in the tough Niles West Sectional placing 8^th in that race. A good group is back for Coach Andrew Adelmann including three that ran in that sectional race. They should battle Whitney Young for the Chicago Public League title. 

 

“Our training this summer was pretty standard and what we expected.  A lot of guys put in some really hard work and did a great job of logging their miles,” Adelmann said. The relatively mild summer here in the City was also a nice reward after a tough winter.  I'm very proud of the guys that were out there grinding each day.” This team should exhibit a tight pack this year led by Nicholas Merten and Jeremy Adams who was the #2 runner for the team at sectional. Ethan Baretto, Zach Benes, Arturo Santoro, and Nico Moreno form what should be a solid top seven for Adelmann.

 

The talent is there for this team to make it to state. Their front runners will need to move more to the front in the big meets especially the sectional race. Last year, their pack started 43 seconds after the winning runner crossed the line. They should be able to get closer to the front. “My expectation is just for the guys to come together this year as a team to reach the potential that they have. I think if they do that, and enjoy what they are doing in the process, then we will be successful,” said Adelmann. “We go in to every season with the goal of running our best when it counts at the end of the year, but most importantly I just want our guys to become better versions of themselves by the end of the season.  If that doesn't happen, but we still run well, then we still haven't met our goal, and vice versa.”

 

15 Hoffman Estates

Coach – Brendan Mariano

2014 Finish – 24^th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Bryan Gamboa SR (135, 15:34), Matt Petersen SR (148, 15:42), Shreekar Patel SO (157, 15:45), Shiv Patel SO (180, 15:58), Jose Espinosa JR (189, 16:06), Alex Makrounis JR (206, 16:24), Jack Worman JR, Ryan Greenwalt JR, Nathan Otto SR, Matt Filipiec JR, Connor Riley SO, Nathan Lim JR.

 

Outlook – The Hawks will be the slight favorite in the Mid-Suburban League ahead of Buffalo Grove and Palatine. This team surprised some by qualifying for the state meet. Hoffman Estates finished 24^th at state. With their top five and six of the top seven back with state experience, hopes are for the Hawks to improve and take their talents to the next level.

 

It could be a tough year for Hoffman Estates if they follow the same track that they did over the summer. “In my opinion we had an inconsistent, underachieving outdoor track season and there were definitely reasons for that,” said Coach Brendan Mariano. “The same issues bled into the summer, and I don’t feel we had the summer needed to yield enough growth this coming season. To be honest, I have been far more impressed by JV and F/S athletes this summer, but none of those guys will impact the top 7.” The returning Varsity guys have made average to minimal gains, nothing that would impress me, you, or the rest of the state.”

 

The team had a 26 to 32 second average on the top five last year. The pack will need to move up to be more effective. Bryan Gamboa, Matt Peterson, and Shiv Patel in that front group. Ryan Greenwalt and Jack Worman will be among the athletes that could step up into the top five. This team has talent that has gone to the state meet. If they follow down the path that they are going on, it could be a tough season. Here are hopes that things change for the better.

 

16  McHenry

Coach – Jim Wheeler

2014 Finish – 11th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Daniel Tonyan SR (74, 15:17), Michael Hahndorf SR (75, 15:18), Tyler Lay SR (127, 15:32), Maki Mohr SO (129, 15:32), Jacob DeWitt JR (164, 15:49), Brandon Kannas SO, Andrew Pilat SO, Spencer Olea SR, Matthew Stefner SO, Cole Overbey JR, Jack Miller SR.

 

Outlook – Jim Wheeler returns as the coach for McHenry. Even though state champion Jesse Reiser has graduated, the group has the talent to perhaps make a return to state. Five runners from the 11^th place state team return for Wheeler. What could hurt the team early in the season is the status of projected #1 runner Michael Hahndorf. He suffered a stress fracture at the end of track season and is slowly coming back. He could be a difference make by the time the state series starts.

 

There is still a group that will form a good top five for Wheeler. Daniel Tonyan came on strong at the end of the year and jumped into the top five during the state series. Along with Tyler Lay and Maki Mohr, this group forms a tight 3 man pack. Jacob DeWitt should also step into the top five. He was the team’s sixth man at state. McHenry could be a team contending for a state qualifying berth once Hahndorf is 100%. The senior is capable of finishing in the top 25 at state. This team is not deep so health is a big watch point for the top seven. Their split could be close to 50-55 seconds off of a front running Hahndorf. “Our numbers are not as strong as we would like but if everyone stays healthy and we can find a 6th and 7th runner, we should be competitive again,” said Wheeler.

 

17 Wilmette Loyola Academy

Coach – Dan Seeberg

2014 Finish – 15th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Paolo Tiongson JR (87, 15:19), Patrick Reilly-Heyward SR (154, 15:44), Matthew Kadus JR (158, 15:45), Andrew Niewiarowski JR (167, 15:49), Devin deHueck JR, Daniel Pasco SR, William Shortal JR, Case Brennan JR, Jackson Bedward JR, Scott Berens SR, Jack Klemp SR, Connor Hoag SO, Aidan Sullivan SO, Owen Baker SO.

 

Outlook – Last year’s 15^th place team returns four from their seven. The main thing for Loyola coach is to have is team healthy heading into the season. As of right now, they are without projected #2 runner Patrick Reilly-Hayward who has a stress fracture in his femur. “We have a solid top five returning, but we need to build depth by the time the real counting starts in mid-October,” Seeberg said. “Our challenge this year will be to stay healthy and to keep developing the back end.  The guys are willing to work.  We just have to be patient.  The injury to Reilly-Hayward presents a serious setback, but provides an opportunity for others to step up.  We are hoping to have him back in mid-September, but that isn't certain.  As of now he can't do any cross training other than swimming.”

 

Paolo Tiongson was the third runner on the team at state last year but should step up to the #1 man. Matthew Kadus and Andrew Niewiarowski ran at state last year and will step into the top five. Junior Devin DeHueck is another candidate for the top five. He plays Lacrosse during the summer so it may take him a little bit to get back into cross country shape. Danny Pasco and Scott Berens will also challenge. Without Reilly Heyward early in this season, Seeberg will need some of his younger runners step up.

 

“Each season the implicit goals are to compete hard for the CCL title and then to grab a top-five at sectional and a date at Detweiler in November,” added Seeberg. “We have had consistent success accomplishing both for a good stretch, and we are proud of that. However, we have spoken of neither of those goals to the team. Instead, we have asked each runner to focus on being a good teammate and on making today the only day of the season that matters.  If each stays accountable to those two challenges, we will be a good team.”

 

18 Downers Grove North

Coach – John Sipple 

2014 Finish – 13^th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – Alec Danner JR (50, 15:06), Robert Prescott SR (172, 15:53), Tristan Jahn JR (205, 16:22), Bruce Tamlin SO, Drew Pyburn JR, Jacob Ridderhoff SO, Nick Chudzik SO, Brad Wilcoxen SR, Ryan Birkmeier SO, Don Knapp JR, Sam McCool SO, Reilly Britt SO, Andrew Marek JR, Jack Barkei JR, Matt Moravec FR, Devun Pontelli FR, Jack Roberts FR.

 

Outlook – This could be a rebuilding year for the Trojans with three back from last year’s state team along with all-state runner Ryan Clevenger graduating. Maybe we should say rebuilding. Coach John Sipple has a young team that will struggle in the WSC-Silver but could be good enough by October to challenge for a state berth.

 

“Things went fairly well this summer,” Sipple said. “We had a few hiccups along the way with a couple little injuries and sicknesses, but overall the majority of the training was solid.” Alec Danner was a solid #2 runner as a sophomore for North last year and should run near 14:50 and possibly in the top 25 at state. The big plus for Sipple is the emergence of senior Rob Prescott. He ran 15:53 as the team’s 5^th man at state. He has showed improvement this summer. At Det at Dark at the end of July, he lowered his PR on that course to 15:19. He gives Sipple a solid 1-2 with Danner. Development of their top seven will be a key for the team early this year. Tristan Jahn, Bruce Tamlin, Drew Pyburn, and Jacob Riddelhoff will be some of the runners challenging for a top 7 spot.

 

Prescott is projected as the only senior in the top seven. The Trojans will exhibit some growing pains in races early in the year, but could be tough by mid-October. Do not be surprise if this team makes it back to state this year. It could be a preview for what is in store in 2016.  

 

19 Naperville Central

Coach – David Ashton

2014 Finish – 17th – 3A State Meet

 

Runners to Watch – John Manos SR (94, 15:23), Tommy Chavez JR (134, 15:34), Josh Toby SR (203, 16:21), Declan Jensen SR, Tyler Hampton SR, Mark Kouchoukos SR, John Labore SR, Neil Mueller JR, Kenton Nash JR, Will Cornish JR, Cullen Piper SR, Nicholas Babb JR, Joey Marcet JR, Adam Balutkowski SO, Luke Labore SO.

 

Outlook – The Redhawks on paper would have been challenging for a top ten spot at the beginning of the season. With #1 runner Geoffrey McCullough moving out of state, Coach David Ashton will look for someone to step into the top spot. Three runners are back from last year’s 17^th place state team.

 

Junior Tommy Chavez could step into the top spot. He ran 9:41 on the track last spring and should improve on his 134^th state finish. John Manos ran 15:23 at state and should be along close to Chavez. “Training was going well as we wrapped up our summer camp.  Our final summer camp time trial (3200) went very well as we saw guys from every ability level step up. We also saw a couple freshmen make a real impact for the first time as they begin to figure things out,” said Ashton. “For many guys, our mileage has increased somewhat over last summer and we added a strength camp as well.  We are also making a concerted effort to bring our young guys along more slowly and keep everyone healthy by recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach is not something we feel is in everyone's best interest. Overall, though, we are moving closer to a quality over quantity approach and trying to emphasize the importance of recovery in multiple facets while still touching the various training gears on a regular basis.” 

 

There is a talented group behind Manos and Chavez that will give the Redhawks a strong top seven. Look for Josh Toby, Declan Jensen, and Tyler Hampton to be among the runners challenging for a top five spot. “Our program is at a point where we expect to make State every year; however, we aim to become a perennial top 10 type of program.  We don't want to make any specific predictions for the season; we just want to continue to elevate our program in all aspects.  If we are to reach the next level in terms of performance, we are looking for at least 1-2 guys to take a slightly bigger step than expected,” Ashton said. “Beyond our expected top 3, there are many others who are very capable.  We expect our top 7 to vary from week to week, because, although we may lack true front-runners at big-time meets, we expect to have pretty good depth.  This has been trending in the right direction for the past 3 years as we build our program and culture.  We will also expecting to have an even larger roster than in the past.” 

 

20 Aurora Waubonsie Valley

Coach – Kevin Rafferty

2014 Finish – 7^th – 3A West Chicago Regional

 

Runners to Watch – Justin Caton SR, Justin Colvin SR, Riley Miller SR, Riley Blackmore SR, Amrish Selvam SR, Trevor Bon SR, Wes York SO, Matt Klaus JR, Austin Rader JR, Christian Frietag JR, Josh Zurawski JR, Gerard Sweeney JR, Adam Bormann SR, John Caron FR.

 

Outlook – One school that will sneak up on teams this year is Waubonsie Valley. They ran their worst race of the year at the West Chicago Regional failing to get out placing seventh. Six of their seven come back for Coach Kevin Rafferty. With the good summer of training that the Warriors had along with improvement for track, expectations are high for this team to extend their season another two weeks.

 

“We had a solid summer.  All our big contributors put in solid work this season and most looked like they continued to train when they went on vacation.  We use a consistent measure for our fitness in a four mile timed effort with no kicking allowed.  We're way ahead of every group of kids I've had as a head coach,” Rafferty said. “We've managed nicks and dings well also.  We're training right at the edge where guys have to be diligent or else they'll get beat up and several guys have done a great job of playing at the edge without toppling over.”

 

Waubonsie does not have the talent that will give themselves low numbers in the first two spots. They do have a solid pack of five that can kill you. Justin