#1 – Carmel Greyhounds
Brownsburg Regional #1
State meet history: 49 appearances (last in 2022), 44 podium finishes (last in 2022), 13 runner-up titles (1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1989, 1992, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2014, 2016, 2019, 2020), 17 state championships (1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1987, 1988, 1993, 1996, 2008, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2022)
2022 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 1st place (25 points)
Noblesville Regional: 1st place (38 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 1st place (67 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 1st place (103 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Tony Provenzano (12) – 15:07 (3rd place)
Jack Capes (11) – 16:01 (24th place)
Thomas Biltimier (12) – 16:07 (30th place)
2023 Outlook: The Greyhounds had a dream season last fall, running undefeated against Indiana schools over 5000 meters and culminating in the school’s first state championship in four years and a number two all-time ranking per Inccstats. Four of those seven have graduated, but Carmel should again be the deepest team in Indiana with seven projected in Inccstats’ preseason top 100 individuals. (For comparison: Noblesville has five, Zionsville has four in the preseason top 100.) Senior Tony Provenzano will provide the frontrunning the ‘Hounds have become used to over the last three years; he was second to graduated teammate Kole Mathison in both cross country and the 3200. Beyond him, Carmel had seven other returners under 10:00 (and an additional four under 10:10) for 3200 meters and four others under 16:00 (and an additional two under 16:10) in the cross country season. Junior Kiefer Jay (4:23 for 1600 and 9:33 for 3200), senior Max Meisner (4:30 for 1600 and 9:38 for 3200) and senior Kyle Grove (15:56 in the cross country sectional) could help fill the void of scorers due to graduation along with a pair of sophomores that broke 10:00 for 3200 plus perhaps the deepest freshman class in over a decade. Carmel isn’t a runaway favorite, but the ‘Hounds certainly look like the number one team heading into this fall, a distinction that has eluded them the last five years.
#2 – Noblesville Millers
Shelbyville Regional #1
State meet history: 12 appearances (last in 2022), 2 podium finishes (last in 2022), 1 runner-up title (2010)
2022 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 3rd place (65 points)
Noblesville Regional: 2nd place (66 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 4th place (129 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 5th place (166 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Caden Click (12) – 15:39 (9th place)
Ronald Neal (11) – 16:06 (29th place)
Jack Strong (11) – 16:15 (36th place)
Alec Moor (12) – 16:52 (65th place)
Samuel Rinker (12) – 16:53 (68th place)
2023 Outlook: The Millers bring five of seven back, including one of the state’s top runners, for a team looking not only to make the podium but take home the title. Predictably enough, Noblesville’s toughest competition will come from within its own county, though the teams will see less of each other this fall due to new tournament structure. Based on returners from last fall, the Millers are close; based on results from the previous spring’s track season, a case could easily be made for Noblesville being the preseason number one team. The Millers had five under 9:40 over 3200 meters, and senior Caden Click was fourth in the state finals over 1600 meters in 4:10. Only Carmel can match that number of returners under 9:40, and Noblesville is faster at three of those five positions. The Millers won’t be the deepest teams in the state, but it is possible they have the best top five in Indiana, which is how the meets are scored.
#3 – Zionsville Eagles
Brownsburg Regional #2
State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2022), 1 podium finish (2022), 1 runner-up title (2022)
2022 Results:
Ben Davis Sectional: 1st place (25 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 1st place (28 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 2nd place (74 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 2nd place (106 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Evan Mayo (12) – 15:50 (16th place)
Samuel Spees (12) – 15:52 (20th place)
Jack Turnbull (11) – 15:54 (22nd place)
Elijah Bineyard (12) – 16:55 (71st place)
2023 Outlook: The Eagles are coming off the best year in school history, the first ascension of the podium and very nearly the state championship. Zionsville has another shot this fall, especially given the top three returners. Senior Sam Spees is coming off a junior campaign where he was All-State in cross country then followed that up with a 9:22 performance for 3200 meters. Junior Jack Turnbull should have times as the team’s number one runner as well after a spring running 4:18 for 1600 and 9:24 for 3200. Senior Evan Mayo completes perhaps the best top trio in the state. He was 37th at the state cross country meet and his second leg in the 4x8 kept the Eagles in the mix, ultimately finishing second in that event as well. Zionsville does need to develop depth, thus the third ranking behind Carmel and Noblesville. Seniors Elijah Bineyard and Dominic Dell along with sophomore Elijah Weaver give the Eagles a group of experienced distance runners to develop.
#4 – Fishers Tigers
Shelbyville Regional #2
State meet history: 12 appearances (last in 2022), 8 podium finishes (last in 2021), 2 runner-up titles (2015, 2017), 1 state championship (2007)
2022 Results:
Pendleton Heights Sectional: 2nd place (56 points)
Delta Regional: 1st place (26 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 1st place (79 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 6th place (224 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Sam Quagliaroli (11) – 15:56 (7th place)
Matthew Kim (12) – 16:13 (18th place)
Bryson Slagle (11) – 16:56 (62nd place)
Parker Melling (11) – 17:36 (106th place)
2023 Outlook: The Tigers have won just once in 2007, just the second year of the school, but have been a frequent contender since the split with Hamilton Southeastern. The numbers don’t really align with Fishers being a title contender, but the track season illustrates that the Tigers could be a difficult contestant. Junior Sam Quagliaroli gives Fishers a chance to score four, and senior Matthew Kim is a likely All-Stater. Junior Parker Melling had a breakout season, running 9:33 for 3200 meters, which puts him in line with the projected scorers from Carmel and Noblesville. Sophomore Nate Thomas should be ready for serious varsity action after running 4:30 and 9:47. This is probably a podium team without the depth to beat everyone at the state finals, but Fishers could get into it this fall.
#5 – Brownsburg Bulldogs
Brownsburg Regional #3
State meet history: 1 appearance (2019), 1 podium finish (2019)
2022 Results:
Brownsburg Sectional: 1st place (37 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 2nd place (72 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 8th place (242 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Ian Baker (11) – 16:12 (34th place)
Sherjeel Khan (12) – 16:25 (41st place)
Brandon Haas (10) – 16:49 (63rd place)
Clayton Kaneversky (12) – 16:55 (70th place)
Sudharshan Srinivasan (12) – 16:57 (72nd place)
2023 Outlook: The Bulldogs have made one state meet in program history and look incredibly likely to double that number this fall. Brownsburg has the five scoring runners back from a tenth-place semi-state finish and gets some help with the new tournament format, not that the ‘Dogs need much assistance. Very few teams had as promising of a track season among returners as Brownsburg. Senior Sherjeel Khan ran 9:13 for 3200 meters and junior Ian Baker ran 4:14 for 1600 meters. Both could be elite frontrunners this fall. The ‘Dogs do have five returners that broke ten minutes for the 3200, including two freshman who will be important scorers assuming the sophomore jump. With an incredible incoming freshman class, the ‘Dogs are probably a year or two way from title contention but could ascend the podium this year.
#6 – Franklin Central Flashes
Shelbyville Regional #3
State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2022), 4 podium finishes (last in 2006), 2 runner-up titles (2000, 2006), 1 state championships (1998)
2022 Results:
Mt. Vernon Sectional: 1st place (29 points)
Rushville Regional: 1st place (37 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 6th place (201 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 10th place (322 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Evan Farmer (11) – 16:05 (26th place)
Joseph Ashman (12) – 16:34 (48th place)
Justin Reedus (10) – 16:48 (61st place)
Emilio Leal (11) – 17:00 (76th place)
Kaden McDermott (12) – 17:33 (108th place)
2023 Outlook: The Flashes have now made two consecutive state meets after an eight-year absence and look very likely to make it three straight while eyeing the podium for the first time since 2006. Losing frontrunner Brayden Henkle will hurt, but FC has a ton of depth and an exciting foundation to try to earn team medals. Sophomore Evan Farmer appears the likely number one runner after his 9:31 performance over 3200 meters this past spring. In total, the Flashes have four back that broke 10:00 in the longest track distance. Senior Joey Ashman’s ability to transition his 1:53 800 meter prowess to the grass will be key to FC’s podium hopes.
#7 – Bloomington North Cougars
Mater Dei Regional #1
State meet history: 36 appearances (last in 2022), 6 podium finishes (last in 2006), 1 state championship (1980)
2022 Results:
Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 1st place (32 points)
Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 1st place (44 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 4th place (131 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 7th place (265 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Jacob Mitchell (10) – 15:48 (6th place)
Jack Holden (11) – 16:55 (48th place)
Gabriel Herrera (12) – 16:56 (49th place)
Dominic D’Onofrio (12) – 17:03 (56th place)
Caelan D’Onofrio (10) – 17:15 (66th place)
2023 Outlook: The Cougars brim with potential heading into this fall. Sophomore Jacob Mitchell headlined an incredible freshman class last year, finishing 38th at the state cross country meet and covering 3200 meters in 9:38. Junior Jack Holden had an excellent track season as well, running 4:22 for 1600 meters. Senior Dominic D’Onofrio ran 4:24 for 1600 meters and contributed a leg to the Cougars’ state title 4x8 last spring. With five back from last season’s seventh-place state finals team plus two sophomores who enjoyed great freshman track seasons, North could definitely end this season with medals.
#8 – Floyd Central Highlanders
Mater Dei Regional #2
State meet history: 25 appearances (last in 2022), 1 podium finish (1991), 1 state championship (1991)
2022 Results:
Crawford County Sectional: 1st place (31 points)
Crawford County Regional: 1st place (55 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 2nd place (117 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 12th place (328 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Luca Cirincione (11) - 16:00 (14th place)
Noah Nifong (11) – 16:05 (18th place)
Will Conway (12) – 16:20 (22nd place)
Ethan Edwards (12) – 16:57 (52nd place)
Reid Coleman (12) – 17:06 (58th place)
Braden McGuire (12) – 17:37 (94th place)
2023 Outlook: The Highlanders certainly have the start of a potential podium team. Senior Will Conway—an incredible 4:05 for 1600 and 8:57 for 3200—means Floyd will score four at every meet. Junior Noah Nifong was All-State last fall, running by far the best race of his career in Terre Haute. Junior Luca Cirincione ran well across both seasons, going 1:57 for 800 and 4:29 for 1600 in the spring. The ‘Landers may not have the depth currently, but that front trio headlined by one of the best in the country means Floyd may be able to keep up with anyone initially in the scoring.
#9 – Northridge Raiders
New Prairie Regional #2
State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 2022), 4 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 state championship (2004)
2022 Results:
Elkhart Sectional: 1st place (33 points)
Elkhart Regional: 1st place (45 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 2nd place (84 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 8th place (267 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Baylor Miller (10) – 15:48 (4th place)
David Gingerich (12) – 16:23 (23rd place)
Xavier Miller (10) – 16:45 (42nd place)
Marc Hernandez (11) – 17:03 (70th place)
2023 Outlook: The Raiders nearly won the semi-state last fall and finished eighth at the state meet. They bring back four of those seven in addition to a pretty deep JV team. Sophomore Baylor Miller had a phenomenal freshman cross country season and a solid spring as well. Senior David Gingerich certainly improved in the track season, running 4:32 for 1600 meters 9:38 over 3200 meters. The Raiders are likely a little back from the podium, but with big sophomore jumps from the Millers might get into the mix.
#10 – Valparaiso Vikings
New Prairie Regional #1
State meet history: 48 appearances (last in 2022), 20 podium finishes (last in 2017), 1 runner-up title (2005), 6 state championships (1966, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1997, 2000)
2022 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 1st place (40 points)
Chesterton Regional: 1st place (47 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 2nd place (127 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 13th place (352 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Brady Cavanaugh (12) – 17:12 (30th place)
Samuel Sienkowski (11) – 17:45 (63rd place)
2023 Outlook: The Vikings bring back just two from the semi-state, though those results don’t include frontrunner Mason Nobles who finished 32nd at the state meet as a sophomore last fall and ran 9:29 for 3200 meters this past spring. Junior Samuel Sienkowski was equally impressive in the track season, going 9:30 over the same distance. Those two give the Vikes a great start, and a strong freshman class last year could provide great depth. Valpo is a longshot podium team this fall that projects a lot better in 2024.
#11 – Columbus North Bull Dogs
Mater Dei Regional #3
State meet history: 27 appearances (last in 2022), 14 podium finishes (last in 2022), 2 runner-up titles (2001, 2013), 6 state championships (2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2020)
2022 Results:
Brown County Sectional: 1st place (19 points)
Columbus North Regional: 1st place (24 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 1st place (55 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 4th place (157 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Neal White (11) – 16:03 (17th place)
Draven Martinez (11) – 16:39 (30th place)
2023 Outlook: The Bull Dogs return just two from last year’s fourth-place team at the state meet, the fourth year in a row that North has landed on the podium. A fifth-consecutive year isn’t out of the question, but the Dogs will have a lot of work to do. Junior Neal White could be the next great CN runner; he went 9:24 for 3200 meters as a sophomore and could be an All-Stater this year. Beyond him, the Dogs had two others break 10:00 for 3200 last spring and should develop their younger runners as usual.
#12 – Fort Wayne Concordia Cadets
New Haven Regional #1
State meet history: 9 appearances (last in 2022), 3 podium finishes (last in 2019), 1 state championship (2019)
2022 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 1st place (52 points)
West Noble Regional: 1st place (63 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 5th place (176 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 17th place (398 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Vaughn Hendrickson (12) – 16:24 (25th place)
William Schlegel (11) – 16:28 (30th place)
Benjamin Bentz (12) – 16:46 (44th place)
Hunter Panning (10) – 16:56 (64th place)
Nicholas Spielman (12) – 17:07 (73rd place)
Max Adair (12) – 17:51 (119th place)
2022 Outlook: The stars are aligning for the Cadets to make the state meet for years moving forward. Concordia has six back from a state meet team last fall and based on track results have at least four runners who could be very competitive to take the Cadets up into the top ten. Senior Nick Spielman ran 9:47 for 3200 and classmate and last year’s top runner Vaughn Hendrickson went 9:48 for the same distance. Sophomore Hunter Panning could make the jump to a frontrunner as well in the New Haven Regional after running 4:29 for 1600 meters, and junior Will Schlegel was 4:32 over the same distance. Concordia is always a threat to add new talent as well.
#13 – Hamilton Southeastern Royals
Shelbyville Regional #4
State meet history: 17 appearances (last in 2022), 4 podium finishes (last in 2021), 2 runner-up titles (2011, 2021)
2022 Results:
Pendleton Heights Sectional: 1st place (23 points)
Delta Regional: 2nd place (62 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 3rd place (120 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 22nd place (505 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Liam Powers (10) – 16:21 (22nd place)
Andrew Smith (12) – 16:38 (37th place)
Nicolas Vega (11) – 16:45 (41st place)
Tate Watson (11) – 16:51 (54th place)
Ian Ross (12) – 16:56 (61st place)
Matthew Hemmerling (12) – 18:17 (141st place)
2023 Outlook: The Royals bring back six from last year’s state-qualifying team. Despite the move to the more treacherous Shelbyville Regional, HSE stands a good chance to advance this year with perhaps a podium team in 2024. Sophomore Liam Powers could give the Royals frontrunning: he ran 9:35 over 3200 meters at the regional and dipped under 9:40 three separate times this past spring. Classmate Riley Schamp also broke 10:00 as a freshman. With perhaps the state’s best incoming freshman set to start at Southeastern in August, the Royals could boast a top trio of all underclassmen. This is a team with potential to be among the top of the state that is likely a year away.
#14 – Lake Central Indians
New Prairie Regional #3
State meet history: 16 appearances (last in 2022), 2 podium finishes (last in 1983), 1 runner-up title (1982)
2022 Results:
Highland Sectional: 1st place (36 points)
Crown Point Regional: 1st place (49 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 3rd place (159 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 21st place (465 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Drew McGrath (12) – 17:11 (27th place)
Benjamin Perschon (10) – 17:13 (31st place)
Riley Petrovich (12) – 17:22 (40th place)
Austin Wojcik (12) – 17:27 (45th place)
Roger Ochoa (12) – 17:38 (56th place)
Evan Smith (11) – 17:54 (79th place)
2023 Outlook: Lake Central has potentially a very deep team that could challenge for the top ten. This is also a senior-laden team that could be close to an all-time high for the school. The returning statistics don’t really showcase LC’s true potential this fall. Senior Austin Wojcik ran 9:33 for 3200 meters with junior Evan Smith going 9:34 for the same distance, two very competitive performances that bode well for this fall. Sophomore Ben Perschon could likely be the team’s top runner after going 4:18 for 1600 meters, the fifth best performance for ninth-graders in state history.
#15 – Center Grove Trojans
Shelbyville Regional #5
State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2022), 2 podium finishes (last in 2022)
2022 Results:
Franklin Sectional: 1st place (18 points)
Franklin Regional: 2nd place (96 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 3rd place (83 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 3rd place (143 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Kyle Montgomery (12) – 15:51 (19th place)
Gavin Rockwell (12) – 16:06 (28th place)
2023 Outlook: This Trojans are a tough team to get a handle on a year after entering the season as our number one team. CG returns just two of last year’s seven, though both could be at an All-State level this fall. Senior Kyle Montgomery ran 4:16 for 1600 and 9:27 for 3200 meters and classmate Gavin Rockwell was 4:22 over 1600. The Trojans will have some depth, though those are the only two returners under 10:00 for 3200. This isn’t a team in contention for the title or even the podium, but CG could make it a fifth consecutive state finals.
#16 – Warsaw Tigers
New Haven Regional #2
State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2022), 1 podium finish (2012)
2022 Results:
Manchester Sectional: 1st place (34 points)
Culver Academies Regional: 1st place (33 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 5th place (183 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 18th place (420 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Tyler Mimnaugh (11) – 17:16 (32nd place)
Tyler Swartz (12) – 17:25 (44th place)
Gabriel Klein (12) – 17:41 (59th place)
Jackson Gackenheimer (10) – 17:45 (66th place)
Andrew Potter (12) – 17:55 (80th place)
2023 Outlook: The Tigers return five from last year’s state finals team, and the move to New Haven should make future qualifications easier for the foreseeable future. In addition to the returners with cross country experience, Warsaw had a very good spring track season. The Tigers bring back five that broke 10:00 in the 3200 and a sixth that ran exactly 10:00; junior Tyler Mimnaugh ran 9:26 at the Carmel Showcase over 3200 meters and sophomore Jackson Gackenheimer went 9:43 in the same meet in the freshman race. Junior Clark Meridew had a breakout track season (4:37 and 9:59) and should factor in the scoring after a fall outside the top seven last year.
#17 – Bloomington South Panthers
Mater Dei Regional #4
State meet history: 51 appearances (last in 2022), 7 podium finishes (last in 2018)
2022 Results:
Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 2nd place (32 points)
Edgewood Regional: 2nd place (54 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 3rd place (127 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 16th place (389 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Ryan Rheam (12) – 15:27 (2nd place)
Hunter Tabor (12) – 16:26 (23rd place)
Joseph Zinkan (12) – 16:53 (46th place)
Marshall Caldwell (11) – 17:09 (61st place)
Suoming Zhang (12) – 17:27 (77th place)
2023 Outlook: The Panthers return five of last year’s seven, including senior Ryan Rheam who is coming off a double All-State year (13th in cross country, 3rd in the 3200). South shouldn’t have any problems qualifying for the state finals again, which would be a seventh consecutive season. In addition to Rheam's success, senior Joe Zinkan ran 9:21 over 3200 meters and qualified for the state meet in that event, which could give the Panthers two frontrunners at the regional level. Senior Hunter Tabor also had a good spring, running 4:30 for 1600 meters and 9:48 for 3200.
#18 – Penn Kingsmen
New Prairie Regional #4
State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2022), 1 podium finish (1999)
2022 Results:
South Bend Riley Sectional: 1st place (26 points)
Elkhart Regional: 2nd place (74 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 4th place (161 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 14th place (361 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Hudson Kaser (12) – 16:11 (14th place)
Brandon Mueller (12) – 16:36 (34th place)
Jack Ryan (11) – 16:58 (68th place)
Matthew Givens (11) – 17:13 (83rd place)
William Mickelson (12) – 17:14 (84th place)
Kush Grewal (10) – 17:24 (93rd place)
2023 Outlook: One of the usual suspects, the Kingsmen always seem to be in contention to advance to the state meet. With six back from last year’s state finalist team, it should be more of the same for Penn this fall. Senior Brandon Mueller had displayed great improvement in the track season, running 9:28 over 3200 meters, and junior Matt Givens ran 9:48 for the same distance. Top returner Hudson Kaser concentrated more on the 800 this past spring, qualifying for the state finals in that event. The Kingsmen should be a very deep team; adding junior Tanner Mammolenti, who hasn’t run cross country in high school but went 4:34 for 1600 in the track season, could help.
#19 – Avon Orioles
Brownsburg Regional #4
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2018)
2022 Results:
Brownsburg Sectional: 2nd place (56 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 3rd place (109 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 13th place (334 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Samuel Clore (12) – 15:50 (17th place)
Benton Hunter (12) – 16:51 (64th place)
Zachary Risner (11) – 17:07 (84th place)
Mitchell Ford (10) – 18:09 (142nd place)
Jaxon Davis (12) – 18:44 (161st place)
2023 Outlook: The Orioles have their best shot at the state meet in quite a while coming into this fall. Senior Sam Clore gives Avon the frontrunner often necessary for team success; he qualified as an individual to the state meet as a junior and also ran 9:26 for 3200 meters while concentrating on the 4x8 during the tournament. Beyond its star, Avon had an incredibly solid spring: junior Zach Risner ran 9:38 for 3200 meters and senior Benton Hunter went 9:44 for the 3200 and 4:25 for the 1600. Those three give the Orioles the majority of a team that should make the state meet, and the depth beyond them will be more than adequate.
#20 – Homestead Spartans
New Haven Regional #3
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2019)
2022 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 6th place (135 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Evan McMahon (11) – 16:44 (14th place)
Cooper Knoblauch (10) – 17:11 (22nd place)
Ryan Yoder (11) – 17:34 (29th place)
Aiden Waugh (11) – 17:38 (32nd place)
Joshua Rodgers (11) – 17:51 (38th place)
Alex MacDonald (10) – 17:59 (45th place)
Ayden Coper (12) – 18:09 (49th place)
2023 Outlook: The Spartans suffered an earlier-than-anticipated demise in last year’s tournament, but this is a team that looks likely to go the distance this year. Homestead had an incredibly young team with two freshman and four sophomores running in the sectional, plus rising sophomore Riley Lembke (who could be the team’s number one this fall) unavailable for that meet. The Spartans seem to be on an optimistic yet simple trajectory: they make the state meet this fall with a young team then contend for a top ten or even podium finish in 2024. A very good incoming freshman class with four eighth graders in feeder programs under 10:30 at the middle school state meet is another reason for optimism.
#21 –Greenfield-Central Cougars
Shelbyville Regional #6
State meet history: Never qualified
2022 Results:
Mt. Vernon Sectional: 2nd place (68 points)
Rushville Regional: 2nd place (62 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 9th place (278 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Liam Brinkruff (12) – 16:06 (27th place)
Christopher Ross (12) – 16:30 (46th place)
Carter Crouch (12) – 17:18 (93rd place)
Luke Haffner (10) – 18:26 (156th place)
Elijah Ross (11) – 18:31 (159th place)
Davis Wasson (10) – 19:14 (168th place)
2023 Outlook: All signs point to the Cougars being highly competitive this fall and potentially qualifying for the school’s first ever state finals. Greenfield will definitely have frontrunning. Senior Liam Brinkruff qualified for the state meet individually in cross country last year. Fellow senior Chris Ross covered 3200 meter in 9:18 at the state finals in June, and Carter Crouch could make it a trio in the class of ’24 after a breakout spring that included 4:20 for 1600 (an event he qualified for the state finals) and 9:38 for 3200. In any other regional, the Cougars would be favored to advance to the state meet, but even with their big three it will be a tall order out of Shelbyville.
#22 – Brebeuf Braves
Brownsburg Regional #5
State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2022), 5 podium finishes (last in 2021), 1 state championship (2021)
2022 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 2nd place (71 points)
Noblesville Regional: 3rd place (83 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 5th place (163 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 11th place (325 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Cameron Todd (12) – 15:05 (2nd place)
Malachi Lesnet (10) – 17:09 (87th place)
Erik Eigenbord (12) – 18:02 (135th place)
Egan Williams (12) – 18:59 (165th place)
2023 Outlook: The Braves have one holdover from their state championship team in 2021. Cameron Todd gives Brebeuf the ultimate frontrunner, the top returner from the national championship through Champs Sports in San Diego, and he ran 4:08 and 8:52 this past spring. Todd’s performances won’t dictate the Braves’ season, however. Brebeuf will score four in every meet, but advancing to a fifth consecutive state finals pivots around the Braves’ ability to develop depth beyond Todd.
#23 – Mt. Vernon (Fortville) Marauders
Shelbyville Regional #7
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2015)
2022 Results:
Mt. Vernon Sectional: 3rd place (80 points)
Rushville Regional: 3rd place (65 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 11th place (307 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Ahmed Saleh (11) – 16:52 (66th place)
Colin Strachman (12) – 17:16 (92nd place)
Austin Baugh (10) – 17:22 (97th place)
Xaiden Jenson (11) – 17:48 (125th place)
Landon Willis (11) – 17:49 (126th place)
Isaiah Njau (12) – 17:49 (127th place)
2023 Outlook: The Marauders return six of seven, though graduating their frontrunner will undoubtedly hurt in the team score at times this season. Still, six back is significant and the Shelbyville path has gotten significantly more manageable in the restructuring. This should be a competitive team; the Marauders have three returners that broke 10:00 last spring, but they’re also in one of the more competitive regionals, if not the most so; they’ll have a better chance in 2024.
#24 – Bishop Chatard Trojans
Brownsburg Regional #6
State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2005), 1 podium finish (2005)
2022 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 1st place (59 points)
Noblesville Regional: 5th place (126 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 7th place (227 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Max Bourgeois (12) – 16:05 (25th place)
Ian Kolbus (12) – 16:30 (45th place)
JD Haines (11) – 16:42 (56th place)
Eli Hummell (11) – 18:48 (162nd place)
2023 Outlook: The Trojans have a possible state meet team, certainly through their top three. It still takes five, though, and Chatard could get that together by October. Junior JD Haines, listed third among returners, should be the Trojans’ true frontrunner and could be at an All-State level. He ran 4:29 and 9:31 in the track season. Chatard has a great start, and the new realignment certainly helps an aspiring state meet team that hasn’t gotten there yet. The Trojans are no longer a young team, however, so it’s now or never for Chatard.
#25 – Evansville Reitz Panthers
Mater Dei Regional #5
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2022)
2022 Results:
Evansville Mater Dei Sectional: 1st place (53 points)
Pike Central Regional: 2nd place (61 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 6th place (223 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 23rd place (544 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Jackson Nolan (11) – 15:56 (11th place)
Sawyer Mossburger (11) – 15:58 (13th place)
Brice Johnson (11) – 16:57 (51st place)
Caleb Meritt (11) – 17:58 (114th place)
Samuel Heathcotte (11) – 18:49 (160th place)
Josiah Spanner (10) – 19:08 (167th place)
2023 Outlook: The Panthers grabbed their first state meet appearance since 1957. Our committee (of one) was on this early and nailed it. Reitz got great contributions from frontrunners Jackson Nolan and Sawyer Mossburger, now entering their junior years. This is still a young team, though experienced, with no seniors in the projected top seven this fall. They ran great at just the right time and qualified for state on the tiebreaker. Nolan and Mossburger should still provide great frontrunning. None of the role players had a stellar spring, but this is still a team capable of a lengthy run in consecutive state finals qualifications.
#26 – Perry Meridian Falcons
Shelbyville Regional #8
State meet history: 1 appearance (1985)
2022 Results:
Ben Davis Sectional: 2nd place (49 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 5th place (132 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 16th place (403 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Luke Haggerty (12) – 16:44 (59th place)
James Haggerty (12) – 16:44 (60th place)
Jude Hunt (12) – 17:45 (123rd place)
Kyle Corbin (12) – 18:03 (137th place)
Leevi Monday (12) – 18:05 (140th place)
Patrick Miles (12) – 19:11 (167th place)
2023 Outlook: It’s now or never for the Falcons who could have close to the best team in school history and return five seniors with a lot of tournament experience. In addition to those five, junior Alec Dial did not compete in the tournament but did race in track so his return should help Perry. Based on preseason projections, the top five are leagues ahead of those teams outside the top five. If any of those five really slip up, Perry could get into it with this veteran group.
#27 – LaPorte Slicers
New Prairie Regional #5
State meet history: 23 appearances (last in 2022), 2 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 runner-up title (2007)
2022 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 3rd place (58 points)
Chesterton Regional: 2nd place (60 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 6th place (187 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 19th place (444 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Brayden Sobecki (12) – 16:31 (8th place)
Preston Peterson (12) – 17:17 (34th place)
Hunter Quadlin (11) – 17:45 (64th place)
Liam Lilly (11) – 18:26 (120th place)
Charles Tonagel (11) – 18:27 (121st place)
2023 Outlook: The Slicers bring back a good portion of their state meet team from last fall, including frontrunner Brayden Sobecki who grew into that role well through his junior season. LaPorte isn’t a lock for a third consecutive state meet; New Prairie is more challenging this year with one less qualifying spot. In addition to Sobecki, senior Preston Peterson and junior Hunter Quadlin both ran under 10:00 this spring. That trio gives LaPorte a good chance to emerge from a crowded New Prairie Regional field to Terre Haute again.
#28 – Angola Hornets
New Haven Regional #4
State meet history: 1 appearance (1954)
2022 Results:
West Noble Sectional: 3rd place (86 points)
Elkhart Regional: 5th place (138 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 12th place (306 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Sam Yarnelle (12) – 16:12 (15th place)
Gavin Hinkley (12) – 16:57 (65th place)
Kaden Klink (10) – 17:08 (75th place)
Cooper Enyeart (11) – 17:29 (97th place)
Gavin Cooke (10) – 19:03 (163rd place)
Brady Leininger (10) – 20:35 (177th place)
Grady Hoover (10) – 21:03 (178th place)
2023 Outlook: The Hornets are in an excellent position to qualify for the school’s first state finals since 1954. Senior Sam Yarnelle—9:29 over 3200 meters and a state qualifier in that event—gives Angola a formidable frontrunner. Behind him, the Hornets have three more competitive runners for the area. With these seven back, Angola projects out of the new-look New Haven Regional, but another runner in the 17:30 range would solidify it. Sophomore Grady Hoover ran 2:06 for 800 meters and 4:59 for 1600 meters in the track season but didn’t run cross country. Getting him out this fall would be huge for Angola’s state qualifying dreams.
#29 – Northview Knights
Brownsburg Regional #7
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2021)
2022 Results:
Terre Haute North Sectional: 1st place (37 points)
Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 4th place (97 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 9th place (281 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Jcim Grant (12) – 16:18 (21st place)
Douglas Dillman (12) – 17:12 (62nd place)
Connor Propst (10) – 17:28 (78th place)
Clint Mager (12) – 17:30 (81st place)
Camden Johnson (10) – 17:56 (113th place)
Nathan Kellar (12) – 18:37 (155th place)
2023 Outlook: The Knights snapped a three-year state meet streak last year, and despite changing tournament paths to merge with central Indiana schools they could return this fall. Senior Jcim Grant gives Northview a potential All-Stater; he qualified for the state meet individually last fall and ran 4:29 for 1600 meters and 9:30 for 3200 meters this past spring. Beyond him, Northview’s depth is solid enough to contend to advance in a regional where the fifth position behind four Indy-area giants seems up for grabs.
#30 – Portage Indians
New Prairie Regional #6
State meet history: 46 appearances (last in 2016), 22 podium finishes (last in 1999), 7 runner-up titles (1973, 1981, 1988, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1998), 4 state championships (1974, 1984, 1992, 1999)
2022 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 4th place (74 points)
Chesterton Regional: 4th place (84 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 9th place (262 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Shane Conroy (11) – 16:41 (12th place)
Noah Bosstel (12) – 17:20 (38th place)
Joshua Bosstel (11) – 18:21 (113th place)
Weston Stilwell (10) – 18:39 (136th place)
Landon Miller (11) – 19:18 (158th place)
2023 Outlook: Portage has a great start with junior Shane Conroy who ran fast enough to qualify for the state meet last cross country season then ran an astonishing 9:06 over 3200 meters. His presence enables Portage to score four nearly any race, putting the team in a jumbled group of potential state meet qualifiers. Five of seven from last year return. The addition of Penn and Northridge combined with one less spot in the new tournament make things more challenging, and other than Conroy no other Portage runner ran under 10:00 or 4:40 last spring.
#31 – Indian Creek Braves
Shelbyville Regional #9
State meet history: Never qualified
2022 Results:
Franklin Sectional: 2nd place (72 points)
Franklin Regional: 1st place (75 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 14th place (377 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Lucas Neibert (11) – 16:34 (50th place)
Noah Greenwood (10) – 17:01 (79th place)
Henry Fleetwood (11) – 17:32 (106th place)
Casey Seitzinger (10) – 17:53 (130th place)
Jackson Neibert (12) – 18:18 (149th place)
Lukas Hogan (11) – 18:19 (150th place)
2023 Outlook: The Braves are one of the team’s that our committee (of one) has its eye on these next two years. Indian Creek was 14th in the state’s most competitive semi-state by far with a squad that had two freshmen and three sophomores. A look at the results illustrates a young team with improving runners from both the fall and spring. Last year’s team was the best in school history, and the Braves should be better in both ’23 and ’24 given the grades of their projected scorers heading into this fall.
#32 – Guerin Catholic Golden Eagles
Shelbyville Regional #10
State meet history: 1 appearance (2020)
2022 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 4th place (111 points)
Noblesville Regional: 6th place (158 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Noblesville Regional)
Luke Moster (11) – 15:49 (11th place)
Johnny King (12) – 17:02 (44th place)
Maxwell Fish (12) – 17:13 (49th place)
Hunter Kinzle-Gorman (10) – 17:17 (56th place)
2023 Outlook: The Golden Eagles had a potentially great team last year befell by misfortune. This year’s group has potential as well and opportunity, though losing two of the best distance runners in program history isn’t easy to shrug off. Junior Luke Moster has sky-high potential after bursting onto the scene as a sophomore in a year in which he qualified individually for the state cross country meet, ran on Guerin’s podium 4x8 and covered 3200 meters in 9:38. As always, geography is a big foe even with the newly drawn lines for a three-round tournament.
#33 – Edgewood Mustangs
Mater Dei Regional #6
State meet history: 1 appearance (2004)
2022 Results:
Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 3rd place (82 points)
Edgewood Regional: 3rd place (90 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 8th place (265 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Zane Meyer (11) – 16:46 (38th place)
Caleb Webb (11) – 16:51 (42nd place)
Joshua Kohne (12) – 17:28 (80th place)
Jackson Klinger (11) – 17:31 (84th place)
Carson Sigman (11) – 17:31 (85th place)
Landen Beauchamp (11) – 17:39 (96th place)
2023 Outlook: The Mustangs are an interesting team to monitor for the next two years. They ran five sophomore boys in last year’s semi-state and bring back their top six overall. The new tournament gets marginally easier for Edgewood, though the seven teams that finished in front of the Mustangs at last year’s semi-state will also be in the Mater Dei Regional. Junior Zane Meyer had a strong spring, running 9:41 for 3200 meters. In addition to Meyer, the Mustangs had two other sophomores under 10:00 this track season.
#34– North Central Panthers
Brownsburg Regional #8
State meet history: 31 appearances (last in 2018), 11 podium finishes (last in 2010), 2 runner-up titles (1967, 1968), 1 state championship (1969)
2022 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 3rd place (80 points)
Noblesville Regional: 7th place (174 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Noblesville Regional)
Owen Osterman (12) – 16:53 (42nd place)
Grant Hostetler (10) – 16:57 (43rd place)
Gus Phillips (10) – 17:06 (46th place)
Emmett Tuason (12) – 17:23 (59th place)
Liell Lloyd-Hostetter (12) – 18:07 (79th place)
2023 Outlook: The Panthers return five from a team that bowed out in the regional round last year. Graduating longtime frontrunner and 800 meter state champion Nate Killeen makes things difficult, but NC should get a boost in improvement after scoring two freshmen last year. Realistically, the Panthers are a year away from true contention to the state meet, but they could get into the mix in the new Brownsburg Regional, especially with good depth compared to some of the other teams in the area.
#35 – Oak Hill Golden Eagles
New Haven Regional #5
State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2005)
2022 Results:
Marion Sectional: 2nd place (48 points)
Marion Regional: 2nd place (70 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 15th place (330 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Marion Regional)
Owen Jackson (12) – 16:03 (10th place)
Trenton Sweet (12) – 16:52 (56th place)
Toby Sneed (12) – 17:27 (96th place)
Corban Tippey (10) – 18:02 (131st place)
Brayden Sommers (10) – 18:43 (154th place)
Owen Roth (11) – 19:40 (173rd place)
AJ Austin (12) – 21:38 (179th place)
2023 Outlook: Things look really good for the Golden Eagles heading into this fall. They bring back all seven from last fall and had a very successful spring that culminated in a fifth-place finish at the state meet in the 4x8 relay. Senior Owen Jackson is a two-time individual qualifier to the state cross country meet who could very realistically compete with his team this fall. In addition, four of the teams ranked ahead of Oak Hill have moved out of the New Haven path into either New Prairie or Shelbyville. With potentially four seniors scoring, the Eagles have their best shot at the state meet in nearly twenty years.
#36 – Crown Point Bulldogs
New Prairie Regional #7
State meet history: 29 appearances (last in 2021), 4 podium finishes (last in 1981), 3 runner-up titles (1975, 1976, 1977)
2022 Results:
Hebron Sectional: 1st place (54 points)
Crown Point Regional: 2nd place (94 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 7th place (197 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Weston Hulen (12) – 16:32 (9th place)
Jacob Metzger (10) – 17:32 (49th place)
Andrew Luri (12) – 17:56 (84th place)
William Mouser (12) – 18:02 (96th place)
Zachary Cooper (11) – 18:03 (98th place)
2023 Outlook: The Bulldogs snapped a nine-year state meet streak in finishing seventh in the semi-state. With five back, even in a more challenging tournament path, CP could start a new streak this season. Senior Weston Hulen gives the ‘Dogs a good start after qualifying individually for both state finals last year and earning a medal in the 800 last spring. Though New Prairie will be more competitive with Penn and Northridge in the mix and one less spot advancing, CP has a lot of potential with a frontrunner and an experienced group.
#37 – Westfield Shamrocks
Shelbyville Regional #11
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2015), 1 podium finish (2015)
2022 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 2nd place (61 points)
Noblesville Regional: 4th place (126 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 10th place (304 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Jack Loiselle (12) – 16:34 (49th place)
Owen Mohler (11) – 17:36 (111th place)
2023 Outlook: The Shamrocks are a tough team to get a handle on heading into this season. Westfield wasn’t all that close to the state meet last fall and only return two of those seven. Still, the ‘Rocks are a deep team with 42 participants last fall. Jack Loiselle could be a sub 16:00 runner this season, and sophomore Caleb Haney could be Westfield’s top runner at times. Things shift around in the path for Westfield but don’t get any easier: Carmel and Zionsville are out but Fishers and HSE are back. The ‘Rocks will be in the mix, though they project better in ’24 than this year.
#38 – West Lafayette Red Devils
Brownsburg Regional #9
State meet history: 19 appearances (last in 2022), 5 podium finishes (last in 2015), 1 runner-up title (1963) 2 state championships (1964, 2014)
2021 Results:
Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 1st place (46 points)
Harrison (West Lafayette) Regional: 1st place (52 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 4th place (162 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 24th place (616 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Albert Rajwa (12) – 17:03 (25th place)
Ryan Miloudi (11) – 17:19 (37th place)
Zachary Johnson (10) – 17:56 (83rd place)
2023 Outlook: The Red Devils ended a state meet drought (by their standards) in making Terre Haute after a two-year hiatus. That was preceded by an eight-year streak. Those trips to state will be harder earned moving forward after the shift to the Brownsburg Regional that will see the Devils go against central Indiana schools like state champion Carmel (cross country) and Brownsburg (track). West Side could be in a position to make that happen but will need to develop depth and improve the returners as well.
#39 – Goshen RedHawks
New Prairie Regional #8
State meet history: 10 appearances (last in 2022), 1 podium finish (1976)
2022 Results:
Elkhart Sectional: 2nd place (54 points)
Elkhart Regional: 3rd place (88 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 6th place (196 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 15th place (370 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Dorian Diaz (10) – 16:51 (53rd place)
Peter Moses (11) – 17:15 (87th place)
Alexander Lopez (12) – 17:16 (89th place)
Lincoln Clark (12) – 17:36 (105th place)
Brady Abney (12) – 17:56 (123rd place)
2023 Outlook: The RedHawks have made the state meet the past three years. Despite graduating three All-State level distance runners the past two years and changing tournament paths, Goshen could make it four in a row. The ‘Hawks do bring back five from last year’s squad that was 15th at the state finals. This year will be a year of transition for Goshen, but a sophomore ready to make the jump to a frontrunner plus three seniors with state meet experience give the RedHawks a great start.
#40 – Harrison (West Lafayette) Raiders
Brownsburg Regional #10
State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2019)
2022 Results:
Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 2nd place (47 points)
Harrison (West Lafayette) Regional: 2nd place (61 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 8th place (213 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Jaiden Goins (12) – 16:52 (15th place)
Evan Lottes (10) – 17:24 (42nd place)
Ian Lah (11) – 17:58 (89th place)
Hunter Obrien (12) – 18:12 (104th place)
John Rafacz (12) – 18:19 (111th place)
2023 Outlook: The Raiders bring five back from a team that was in the mix to make it out of the New Prairie Semi-state. The new path will be much tougher. Harrison does return a competitive team. Senior Jaden Goins had an excellent track season and made the state finals as an individual in cross country as well. Beyond him, the Raiders do have a good amount of depth. Even with a possible frontrunner, Harrison would need massive improvement across the board to advance to the state meet, but it is not out of the question.
#41 – Elkhart Lions
New Prairie Regional #9
State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 1971), school recently consolidated
2022 Results:
Elkhart Sectional: 4th place (86 points)
Elkhart Regional: 5th place (141 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 11th place (295 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Max Malloy (11) – 16:26 (27th place)
Aaron Richter (11) – 17:09 (76th place)
David Sefu (11) – 17:42 (112th place)
Jackson Ezzell (10) – 18:00 (128th place)
2023 Outlook: The Lions have four back from a group that contended for advancement out of the New Haven Semi-state last year. This season’s group will see a more challenging path through New Prairie. Junior Max Malloy has developed into an incredibly valuable frontrunner after a track season with times of 4:15 and 9:12; he could finish in the top ten individually at the state finals. Junior Aaron Richter gives Elkhart a great number two after a spring that saw him run 4:30 and 9:45. Malloy and Richter plus recent school consolidation make this a program on the rise, though the Lions are more likely another year away from serious contention for the state meet.
#42 – Chesterton Trojans
New Prairie Regional #10
State meet history: 39 appearances (last in 2022), 4 podium finishes (last in 2009), 1 runner-up title (2009)
2022 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 2nd place (49 points)
Chesterton Regional: 3rd place (70 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 1st place (91 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 9th place (304 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Evan O’Connor (12) – 16:27 (6th place)
Oliver Wilgocki (12) – 17:52 (74th place)
Tyler Herzog (12) – 17:57 (86th place)
Ray Hundt (10) – 18:09 (102nd place)
2023 Outlook: The Trojans enjoyed their best team since a state runner-up finish in 2009, but they graduate three of those top four runners. This will likely be a senior-laden team as well with a new coach after the retirement of longtime coach Tim Ray. The addition of Northridge and Penn to the New Prairie Regional makes the path a little more challenging despite the departure of West Lafayette and Harrison. Senior Evan O’Connor should provide a great frontrunner after a track season in which eh ran 9:31 for 3200 meters.
#43 – Castle Knights
Mater Dei Regional #7
State meet history: 1 appearance (2000)
2022 Results:
Evansville Mater Dei Sectional: 2nd place (58 points)
Pike Central Regional: 3rd place (102 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 10th place (286 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Jackson Kramer (12) – 16:34 (26th place)
Deacon Sawyer (11) – 16:46 (37th place)
Dane Kramer (10) – 17:04 (57th place)
Brent Guyer (11) – 18:06 (121st place)
Elijah Barnard (11) – 18:56 (161st place)
2023 Outlook: The Knights were not that far away from the state meet last year, a place they’ve only made once in school history. On top of that, Castle returns the top four, including three in inccstats’ projected top 200 individuals. The Knights also saw track success, qualifying for the state finals in the 4x8 relay a year after two top individuals finished very high up in distance events the year prior. This is absolutely a team that could make the state finals this fall, especially with a top-five finisher in last year’s middle school state meet.
#44 – Fort Wayne Carroll Chargers
New Haven Regional #6
State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2021), 5 podium finishes (last in 2016), 2 runner-up titles (2008, 2012), 1 state championship (2016)
2022 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 2nd place (78 points)
West Noble Regional: 2nd place (110 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 10th place (286 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Aiden Borbiev (10) – 16:53 (58th place)
Elijah Silcox (12) – 17:18 (91st place)
Charles Basham (12) – 17:57 (126th place)
2023 Outlook: The Chargers missed the state meet for the first time in three years and graduate four of those seven. This is a group with a chance to make it back to Terre Haute this year, and a much better shot in 2024. Sophomore Aiden Borbiev had an excellent freshman campaign, senior Elijah Silcox had a solid track season, and the Chargers had a pretty deep class of ninth-graders behind Borbiev that could yield another couple of scorers. In addition, Carroll had an eighth grader in the top ten at the middle school state meet that could provide immediate help.
#45 – Wapahani Raiders
New Haven Regional #7
State meet history: Never qualified
2022 Results:
Delta Sectional: 1st place (33 points)
Marion Regional: 3rd place (73 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 8th place (262 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Nick Cook (12) – 15:35 (3rd place)
Caleb Aber (11) – 17:26 (95th place)
Mason Tomboni (10) – 18:31 (148th place)
Preston McCorkhill (10) – 19:26 (169th place)
2023 Outlook: The Raiders had an outside chance at the state meet last fall and despite some graduation hits, possibly a better chance this fall with many of the usual suspects out of the New Haven Regional after realignment. Senior Nick Cook, third in the semi-state in cross country and an excellent season on the track, gives Wapahani a lot of security at the top of the line-up. Sophomore Mason Tomboni might have made a leap in the track season in going 10:01 for 3200 meters, which would certainly help the Raiders chances to advance to a first-ever state finals.
#46 – Tell City Marksmen
Mater Dei Regional #8
State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2018)
2022 Results:
Jasper Sectional: 2nd place (60 points)
Crawford County Regional: 4th place (97 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 17th place (393 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Lachlan Russell (12) – 17:09 (60th place)
Rex Roper (11) – 17:34 (90th place)
Alden Marion (11) – 18:05 (119th place)
Ayden Zuelly (11) – 18:10 (125th place)
Orrin Kaiser (11) – 18:21 (136th place)
Zeke Zuelly (10) – 18:22 (140th place)
2023 Outlook: The Marksmen bring six back from a team that qualified for the semi-state last fall. This is a good team that’s probably a bit away from the state finals, though Tell City will very likely be better in 2024 than they are this year. Junior Alden Marion had a sub-par race at the semi-state but was the team’s top runner for almost all of the fall and had a solid spring as well. Solid improvement across the board should help the Markskmen, but this team is realistically a year away from contending for a state finals berth.
#47 – Wabash Apaches
New Haven Regional #8
State meet history: 8 appearances (60 points)
Crawford County Regional: 4th place (97 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 17th place (393 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Lachlan Russell (12) – 17:09 (60th place)
Rex Roper (11) – 17:34 (90th place)
Alden Marion (11) – 18:05 (119th place)
Ayden Zuelly (11) – 18:10 (125th place)
Orrin Kaiser (11) – 18:21 (136th place)
Zeke Zuelly (10) – 18:22 (140th place)
2023 Outlook: The Marksmen bring six back from a team that qualified for the semi-state last fall. This is a good team that’s probably a bit away from the state finals, though Tell City will very likely be better in 2024 than they are this year. Junior Alden Marion had a sub-par race at the semi-state but was the team’s top runner for almost all of the fall and had a solid spring as well. Solid improvement across the board should help the Markskmen last in 1999)
2022 Results:
Marion Sectional: 1st place (34 points)
Marion Regional: 1st place (61 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 9th place (273 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Kaden Vogel (12) – 16:50 (50th place)
Jonas Church (11) – 16:53 (57th place)
Jace Bullins (11) – 17:44 (114th place)
Isaiah Cordes (10) – 17:48 (117th place)
Chase Howard (11) – 18:26 (146th place)
Kasen Oswalt (11) – 19:06 (164th place)
2023 Outlook: The Apaches are still a young team that took the next step by qualifying for the semi-state last fall. The tournament has changed, and very likely in the favor of Wabash: gone are constants Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers with Warsaw and Penn in another path as well. This is probably a team a year away; the too-early statistical rankings for 2024 give the Apaches nearly double the chance to make it to the state meet. Regardless of the numbers, this is a school with a small enrollment but now a bonafide culture and a strong foundation.
#48 – Pike Red Devils
Brownsburg Regional #11
State meet history: Never qualified
2022 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 5th place (110 points)
Noblesville Regional: 10th place (230 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Noblesville Regional)
Simon Bosslet (12) – 16:33 (32nd place)
Matthias Smith (11) – 17:04 (45th place)
Christopher Boyd (10) – 17:17 (54th place)
Jude Hawkins (12) – 17:52 (67th place)
2023 Outlook: The Red Devils advanced from the state’s toughest sectional last fall, though their route will look different moving forward. Pike should advance from its new sectional and harbors very outside chance of contending to advance to the state meet out of the new Brownsburg Regional. The trio of seniors Simon Bosslet and Jude Hawkins with junior Matthias Smith should make the Devils very competitive up front; those three each had top two finishes in the 1600 or 3200 in the track sectional.
#49 – South Bend Adams Eagles
New Prairie Regional #11
State meet history: 1 appearance (1980)
2022 Results:
South Bend Riley Sectional: 2nd place (57 points)
Elkhart Regional: 4th place (123 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 7th place (240 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Bol Agwick (12) – 16:26 (26th place)
Michael Camilleri (12) – 16:50 (51st place)
Isaac Howk (12) – 16:58 (66th place)
Benjamin McVeigh (12) – 18:11 (140th place)
Jonas Larsen (12) – 18:53 (162nd place)
Carter Keen (11) – 19:09 (166th place)
2023 Outlook: The Eagles were one spot away from the state meet, though quite a few points. They do bring back Adams has a new path through to the state finals in the northwest now, which will be more challenging this year. Senior Bol Agwick gives the Eagles a possible frontrunner in the New Prairie Regional; he ran under 2:00, 4:30 and 10:00 this past track season. Adams is a senior-laden team, which usually bodes well in cross country.
#50 – DeKalb Barons
New Haven Regional #9
State meet history: 13 appearance (last in 2007), 3 podium finishes (last in 1997)
2022 Results:
West Noble Sectional: 1st place (73 points)
West Noble Regional: 6th place (141 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the West Noble Regional)
Matthias Hefty (12) – 17:24 (29th place)
Timothy O’Keefe (12) – 17:39 (36th place)
William Haupert (12) – 17:53 (50th place)
Jaren McIntire (12) – 18:17 (60th place)
Braylon Meyer (12) – 18:43 (73rd place)
2023 Outlook: The Barons haven’t made the state meet since 2007 and didn’t make it out of the regional last year. With five back from that team in a new-look New Haven Regional, DeKalb does have a semblance of a chance to qualify for the state finals. The Barons do have the make-up of a team that could be very tough with five seniors back plus some state meet experience from the past two springs in the 4x8 relay. Sophomore Asher Hallam ran in the state track meet last spring but did not run cross country; he could potentially help if he competed this fall.
Comments