#1 – Fort Wayne Concordia Cadets
New Haven Semi-state #1
West Noble Regional #1
State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2018), 2 podium finishes (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 2nd place (71 points)
West Noble Regional: 2nd place (78 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 2nd place (148 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 4th place (228 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Reece Gibson (12) – 15:39 (2nd place)
Wilson Whicker (12) – 16:00 (5th place)
Drake Kropf (12) – 16:55 (47th place)
Daniel Adair (10) – 17:08 (74th place)
Kalen Schlegel (12) – 17:10 (78th place)
Karsten Schlegel (10) – 17:11 (80th place)
Luke Bentz (11) – 17:21 (92nd place)
2019 Outlook: The Cadets grab our top spot with seven back from a team that finished fourth at the state meet last year, including two in the top 25. Senior Reece Gibson is undoubtedly an individual title contender, and senior Wilson Whicker could give Concordia a single-digit score through two athletes. Senior Drake Kropf gives the Cadets a solid top trio, probably the best in Indiana. He ran under 4:30 and well under 10:00 in the track season. Sophomore Daniel Adair ran 4:35 over 1600 meters and should benefit from the typical tenth-grade jump in performance. The depth coupled with unmatched top end talent should have the Cadets entering the season highly confident to take on all of Indiana. Concordia is stacked with talent and experience, and the Cadets have a history of performing very well in the tournament. Of course, so do our other top three teams on this list…
#2 – Carmel Greyhounds
Shelbyville Semi-state #1
Noblesville Regional #1
State meet history: 45 appearances (last in 2018), 40 podium finishes (last in 2018), 11 runner-up titles (1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1989, 1992, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2014, 2016), 16 state championships (1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1987, 1988, 1993, 1996, 2008, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018)
2018 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 1st place (27 points)
Noblesville Regional: 2nd place (51 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 2nd place (90 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 1st place (136 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Grant Moon (12) – 16:07 (19th place)
Will Murphy (12) – 16:21 (26th place)
Ben Myers (12) – 16:46 (56th place)
2019 Outlook: The Greyhounds have four seniors on their roster that have finished in the top 50 in the state finals. Senior Grant Moon was 33rd at last year’s state meet with senior Ben Johnson finishing 40th despite not competing in the regional nor the semi-state. Senior Ben Myers had a shortened season last year but was 33rd in 2017 as a sophomore on a state championship squad. Because of a senior-dominated line-up in the track tournament, spring results are relatively inconclusive. Given the aforementioned four seniors, it would be hard to justify ranking the ‘Hounds outside of the top two. In the last seven years, Carmel has won five titles and finished second the other two. The ‘Hounds seemed vulnerable to lose what was a six-year streak in 2018, especially after being soundly beaten in the regional and semi-state, before running their best team race of the tournament in Terre Haute.
third in the last four seasons at the state finals. Last season’s realignment also relieves some pressure on Fishers and rival and perennial contender Carmel as the two no longer worry about matching up through four consecutive rounds.
#3 – Fishers Tigers
New Haven Semi-state #2
State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2018), 6 podium finishes (last in 2018), 2 runner-up titles (2015, 2017), 1 state championship (2007)
2018 Results:
Pendleton Heights Sectional: 1st place (23 points)
Delta Regional: 1st place (24 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 1st place (63 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 3rd place (150 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Drew Smith (12) – 16:09 (10th place)
Max McCollum (11) – 16:40 (33rd place)
2019 Outlook: The Tigers are the first of our legitimate title contenders. That claim may look odd with only two back from a team that finished third at the state finals. Fishers should benefit by the return of junior Will Clark (46th in the ’17 state meet as a freshman) and the emergence of junior Jaylen Castillo (anchor of the state championship 4x8 this past spring). Even if those two plus the two returners pan out, the Tigers will need to develop their depth. That has not been an issue in recent years with Fishers finishing second, fourth, second and third in the last four seasons at the state finals. Last season’s realignment also relieves some pressure on Fishers and rival and perennial contender Carmel as the two no longer worry about matching up through four consecutive rounds.
#4 – Westview Warriors
New Haven Semi-state #3
West Noble Regional #2
State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2018), 3 podium finishes (last in 2017)
2018 Results:
West Noble Sectional: 1st place (30 points)
West Noble Regional: 3rd place (87 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 4th place (155 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 16th place (332 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Spencer Carpenter (11) – 16:03 (6th place)
Remington Carpenter (11) – 16:39 (30th place)
Anthony Schwartz (12) – 17:02 (57th place)
Anthony Sanchez (10) – 17:18 (88th place)
Avery Nicum (12) – 17:44 (121st place)
Darrien Thornburg (12) – 18:45 (162nd place)
2019 Outlook: The Warriors had their worst meet of the year in Terre Haute last year, per inccstats.com’s performance ratings. Other than that, Westview looked like a podium contender for much of the fall. With six of those seven returning, the Warriors may even be a fringe title contender this year and could be even tougher in 2020. Junior Spencer Carpenter could get into the individual title discussion and a healthy Remington Carpenter would give Westview one of the state’s more formidable 1-2 punches. Despite a tiny enrollment, the Warriors are deep, and the program has seen a lot of success on the state level over the last three years. That looks likely to continue this season.
#5 – Homestead Spartans
New Haven Semi-state #4
West Noble Regional #3
State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 1st place (48 points)
West Noble Regional: 4th place (96 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 3rd place (153 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 10th place (300 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Keagan Stuckey (12) – 16:17 (15th place)
Carter Cook (12) – 16:56 (51st place)
Austin Richards (12) – 17:00 (56th place)
Donald McArdle (11) – 17:05 (66th place)
2019 Outlook: The Spartans are a program on an upswing. Even the graduation of multiple time All-Stater Ryan Ruppert doesn’t look to slow down Homestead this fall. With four back from last year’s top ten state meet team, the Spartans look to be in a position to finish on the podium for the first time in school history. Senior Kegan Stuckey gives Homestead a legitimate frontrunner for every meet, and the spring season was great for the Spartans with the team finishing fourth in the 4x8 without using Ruppert. Senior Jarred Neff, absent from the tournament results but ranked as the third-best Spartan last fall, will be huge for Homestead.
#6 – Zionsville Eagles
Shelbyville Semi-state #2
State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Ben Davis Sectional: 1st place (37 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 1st place (47 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 3rd place (102 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 7th place (244 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Jesus Garcia (11) – 15:57 (7th place)
Robert Pratt (12) – 16:01 (14th place)
William Pitts (12) – 16:51 (63rd place)
Jack Sampson (12) – 17:17 (91st place)
2019 Outlook: The Eagles have never finished the season on the podium, and this year might be their best opportunity yet. Zionsville has an excellent 1-2 punch in junior Jesus Garcia (23rd at last year’s state meet) and senior Robbie Pratt. The Eagles should have competent depth with one of the five biggest rosters in the state last year, per ihsaa.org’s school directory. The return of Logan Cole, who competed for Brebeuf in the cross country season but back with Zionsville in the spring, could definitely help. Cole’s talents paired with Garcia and Pratt could give the Eagles perhaps one of the best top trios in the state. If that happens, Zionsville would just need solid improvement from the other returners to earn medals in Terre Haute.
#7 – Crown Point Bulldogs
New Prairie Semi-state #1
State meet history: 26 appearances (last in 2018), 4 podium finishes (last in 1981), 3 runner-up titles (1975, 1976, 1977)
2018 Results:
Crown Point Sectional: 2nd place (39 points)
Crown Point Regional: 1st place (42 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 3rd place (116 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 17th place (345 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Geno Christofanelli (12) – 16:02 (2nd place)
Quinton Bock (12) – 16:20 (6th place)
Anthony Saberniak (11) – 17:23 (56th place)
Matthew Bates (11) – 17:57 (110th place)
2019 Outlook: The Bulldogs have promise but also question marks heading into this season. Seniors Geno Christofanelli and Quinton Bock give CP two great frontrunners, maybe even two All-Staters. The track season was fair at best for a potential podium team this past spring, though the absence of Christofanelli after some great performances earlier in the year puts a bigger spotlight than most teams are under. Still, the advanced stats love Crown Point, pitting them well ahead of any other team in the semi-state and in a great position to finish in the top five in Terre Haute.
#8 – Bloomington South Panthers
Brown County Semi-state #1
State meet history: 27 appearances (last in 2018), 3 podium finishes (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 2nd place (37 points)
Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 1st place (37 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 1st place (81 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 5th place (230 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Jack Gillard (12) – 16:10 (10th place)
Neal Alderson (11) – 16:35 (26th place)
Mason Moore (12) – 17:06 (56th place)
Josh Miller (12) – 17:13 (69th place)
2019 Outlook: The Panthers had their best team ever last fall, ascending the podium for the first time since 1981. South returns four of those seven, including a potential All-Stater, and had one of the deeper teams in Indiana. The Panthers continued to build momentum with their distance program this spring with senior Jack Gillard earning state runner-up honors in the 1600 and three other Panthers participating in the state meet in the 4x8. It is conceivable that South could be as good at the state meet as they were last year, especially if they can stay healthy throughout the fall, something that eluded them in 2018.
#9 – Brebeuf Braves
Shelbyville Semi-state #3
Noblesville Regional #2
State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2016), 2 podium finishes (last in 2014)
2018 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 3rd place (74 points)
Noblesville Regional: 6th place (141 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Noblesville Regional)
Jack Kovak (12) – 15:50 (5th place)
Krishna Thirunavukkarasu (10) – 15:57 (8th place)
Colin Chambers (12) – 17:03 (46th place)
Faizan Khan (11) – 17:06 (48th place)
Collin Stevens (10) – 17:10 (53rd place)
2019 Outlook: This is the most intriguing team in Indiana. The Braves have two awesome frontrunners in senior Jack Kovach and sophomore Krishna Thirunavukkarasu. Both qualified individually for the state finals with Thirunavukkarasu the second best freshman in the race by virtue of his 51st place finish. Both are likely All-Staters in 2019 with Kovach a legitimate title contender after scoring in both the 1600 and 3200 this past spring. Brebeuf seems to lack the depth needed to compete at the highest level, especially with junior Logan Cole having transferred back to Zionsville after a semester with the Braves. With potentially two scorers in the top ten of every meet and solid track seasons from senior Colin Chambers and junior Eli Franklin, the Braves could have their best team ever.
#10 – Noblesville Millers
Shelbyville Semi-state #4
Noblesville Regional #3
State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2010), 1 podium finish (2010), 1 runner-up title (2010)
2018 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 2nd place (55 points)
Noblesville Regional: 5th place (140 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 7th place (179 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Travis Hickner (11) – 15:57 (6th place)
Billy Gregory (11) – 16:36 (40th place)
Cole Kimmell (11) – 16:44 (49th place)
Kolby Kazmierski (10) – 17:38 (122nd place)
Seth Koszyk (12) – 17:52 (134th place)
2019 Outlook: The Millers are oozing with potential. Junior Travis Hickner was All-State last fall and could be a quasi-contender individually this year. His classmate Cole Kimmell ran under 9:40 over 3200 meters this past spring. Junior Andrew Anderson missed nearly the entire fall season but was All-State in the open 800; his return could make a real difference for Noblesville. The Millers had a history of faltering early in the tournament, but last year they were just five points away from the state meet so perhaps have turned the corner there. This is certainly a high variance team: Noblesville could get on the very fringes of title contention, or the Millers may be out at the regional.
#11 – Bloomington North Cougars
Brown County Semi-state #2
State meet history: 32 appearances (last in 2018), 6 podium finishes (last in 2006), 1 state championship (1980)
2018 Results:
Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 1st place (31 points)
Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 2nd place (55 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 3rd place (126 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 8th place (287 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Paul Rushton (12) – 15:48 (4th place)
Chris Herrera (10) – 16:43 (34th place)
Jacob Talbert (12) – 16:58 (46th place)
Nathaniel Dixon (12) – 17:20 (79th place)
Mason Childers (11) – 17:30 (87th place)
Henry Streib (12) – 18:34 (159th place)
2019 Outlook: The Cougars are another of the state’s top traditions. North brings back six of last year’s seven from an eighth-place state meet team, but the graduation of one of its two All-Staters weights more heavily than a typical team returning six runners. Senior Paul Rushton, 12th at the state meet last year, gives the Cougars an excellent frontrunner. He also qualified for the state meet individually in the open 800 and contributed a leg on North’s All-State 4x8 relay. The most likely outcome of this season is the Cougars battling cross-town rival Bloomington South for southern supremacy and potentially ascending the podium for the first time in 13 years.
#12 – Cathedral Fighting Irish
Shelbyville Semi-state #5
Noblesville Regional #4
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2018), 3 podium finishes (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 1st place (38 points)
Noblesville Regional: 1st place (41 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 1st place (78 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 2nd place (146 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Nick Hruskoci (12) – 16:21 (25th place)
Joseph Mathioudakis (12) – 16:27 (34th place)
Jackson Carlile (11) – 16:34 (38th place)
Grant Ferguson (12) – 16:42 (46th place)
2019 Outlook: The Irish had its best team in school history, and came within ten points of winning the state championship. Gone are three of Cathedral’s scorers, including last year’s state and national champion. The Irish could rebuild well enough to get back to the state meet, potentially even ascend the podium for a third consecutive season. Senior Nick Hruskoci had a good albeit inconsistent cross country season then performed even better in the track season, contributing a leg on Cathedral’s fifth-place 4x8 and qualifying for the state meet in the 3200.
#13 – Franklin Grizzly Cubs
Shelbyville Semi-state #6
State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2018), 3 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 state championship (2001)
2018 Results:
Franklin Sectional: 1st place (29 points)
Shelbyville Regional: 1st place (39 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 5th place (159 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 11th place (310 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Wyatt McCullough (12) – 16:01 (13th place)
Ethan Pheifer (11) – 16:36 (41st place)
William Tucker (12) – 17:06 (81st place)
Anthony McDonald (11) – 17:16 (90th place)
Andrew Hargis (12) – 17:30 (115th place)
2019 Outlook: The Grizzly Cubs were solid all last season, nearly finishing in the top ten at the state meet, and they return the bulk of that squad. Senior Wyatt McCullough can serve as an excellent frontrunner; he finished 43rd in the state meet last year. Franklin also made the state meet in the 4x8 and fell just a second short of medals in that event. With five back who ran in the state finals in cross country plus three who also did in track, Franklin is a favorite to advance to a second consecutive trip to Terre Haute.
#14 – Brownsburg Bulldogs
Shelbyville Semi-state #7
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
South Putnam Sectional: 2nd place (49 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 4th place (128 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 8th place (182 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Alex Freeman (12) – 16:21 (24th place)
Trevor Nolan (11) – 16:39 (44th place)
Kole Kelley (11) – 16:50 (60th place)
Jacob Kodrick (11) – 16:51 (65th place)
Panin Skiles (12) – 17:36 (120th place)
2019 Outlook: The Bulldogs have never made the state meet, and this could be the year they finally break through. Brownsburg was an agonizing eight points away last year with what was the best team in school history, per inccstats.com. The ‘Dogs have four scorers and five back overall, including senior Alex Freeman who nearly qualified individually. Brownsburg is an emerging program and had the track season to prove it. That continued improvement gives the ‘Dogs a great chance to do what they’ve never done before.
#15 – Valparaiso Vikings
New Prairie Semi-state #2
State meet history: 45 appearances (last in 2018), 20 podium finishes (last in 2017), 1 runner-up title (2005), 6 state championships (1966, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1997, 2000)
2018 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 1st place (62 points)
New Prairie Regional: 2nd place (74 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 1st place (100 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 15th place (332 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Jack Acton (12) – 16:27 (9th place)
William Miltenberger (11) – 17:01 (35th place)
Tyler Puskar (12) – 17:10 (42nd place)
Thomas Cavanaugh (12) – 17:31 (72nd place)
Nicholas Clark (12) – 17:34 (79th place)
2019 Outlook: The Vikings have been one of the model programs in Indiana for nearly a half century, tied with Carmel for the most state meet appearances and finishing in the top five at least twice in every decade since the 70s. Valpo did not have a particularly great track season, with no one advancing out of the sectional in either the 1600 or 3200, though the Vikes did qualify for the state finals in the 4x8. The Vikings do have a history of performing well in the tournament with older and experienced groups.
#16 – Columbus North Bull Dogs
Brown County Semi-state #4
State meet history: 23 appearances (last in 2018), 10 podium finishes (last in 2014), 2 runner-up titles (2001, 2013), 5 state championships (2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2011)
2018 Results:
Brown County Sectional: 1st place (26 points)
Brown County Regional: 1st place (25 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 2nd place (97 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 6th place (234 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Matthew Newell (10) – 16:35 (27th place)
Collin Pruitt (11) – 17:00 (49th place)
Evan Carr (10) – 17:10 (62nd place)
Reese Kilbarger-Stump (10) – 17:15 (73rd place)
2019 Outlook: The Bulldogs look like a team of the future in an in-between year. North scored two freshmen last year at the state finals in cross country while ending just four points shy of a podium appearance. This spring those same two freshmen contributed legs on a state-qualifying 4x800 relay while also qualifying individually in the 1600, an unheard of feat for a pair so young. At the state meet, sophomore Matt Newell ran 4:17, the fourth-best freshman time in history with Reese Kilbarger-Stump running 4:24, one of the 25 best times ever for a ninth-grader. Both seem like potential All-Staters this season. If that progression takes place, North could again be a podium contender.
#17 – Floyd Central Highlanders
Brown County Semi-state #3
State meet history: 21 appearances (last in 2018), 1 podium finish (1991), 1 state championship (1991)
2018 Results:
Crawford County Sectional: 1st place (38 points)
Crawford County Regional: 1st place (50 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 4th place (164 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 21st place (478 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
David Heinemann (12) – 16:33 (25th place)
Luke Heinemann (12) – 16:50 (39th place)
Hunter Griffin (11) – 17:02 (51st place)
Weston Naville (10) – 17:08 (60th place)
Justin McWilliams (11) – 17:30 (88th place)
2019 Outlook: The Highlanders are pretty close to a state meet lock. Last year, the Floyd boys ended a decade-long hiatus from the state finals. They followed up that cross country success with a solid spring campaign in which they qualified for the state meet in the 4x8 and competed their without any seniors. The ‘Landers return five from their state meet team in cross country. They aren’t quite a podium team but should easily make the state finals and could contend for southern supremacy.
#18 – Penn Kingsmen
New Haven Semi-state #5
State meet history: 10 appearances (last in 2017), 1 podium finish (1999)
2018 Results:
South Bend Riley Sectional: 1st place (33 points)
Elkhart Central Regional: 3rd place (86 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 9th place (256 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Mariano Retzloff (10) – 16:50 (45th place)
Romeo Gonzalez (12) – 17:07 (70th place)
Dillon Pottschmidt (11) – 17:08 (72nd place)
Joshua Temeles (12) – 17:14 (83rd place)
Jacob Meek (11) – 17:16 (86th place)
Josiah Railton (12) – 17:19 (89th place)
2019 Outlook: The Kingsmen bring back six from a top-ten semi-state team. Advancing from the northeast semi-state will be no easy task moving forward, but Penn looks to have the personnel capable of doing it. In addition to a very solid pack from last fall, the Kingsmen had a spring that is reason for optimism this year, qualifying for the state meet in the 4x8 and in the 3200 with sophomore Mariano Retzloff. Improvement looks likely as this is a team with young difference makers.
#19 – Lowell Red Devils
New Prairie Semi-state #3
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2018), 1 podium finish (2016)
2018 Results:
Crown Point Sectional: 1st place (28 points)
Crown Point Regional: 3rd place (110 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 2nd place (103 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 14th place (329 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Gabriel Sanchez (12) – 15:59 (1st place)
Jacob Durr (12) – 16:37 (16th place)
Malachi Freeman (12) – 17:43 (95th place)
2019 Outlook: Lowell is on a four-year state meet streak that looks likely to continue. Senior Gabe Sanchez was the runner-up last fall at the state meet and should be among the top contenders this season, helping the Devils to score four in each meet. Beyond him, the team didn’t have much in track results from returners with so many seniors running in the tournament. Still, the team had 44 members last year, per ihsaa.org, and now a tradition of excellence on which to build. This is one of the best-coached teams in the state. Expect Lowell to be competitive on the state level again this season.
#20 – West Noble Chargers
New Haven Semi-state #6
West Noble Regional #4
State meet history: 12 appearances (last in 2018), 2 podium finishes (last in 1993)
2018 Results:
West Noble Sectional: 2nd place (47 points)
West Noble Regional: 5th place (99 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 6th place (169 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 20th place (434 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Colten Cripe (12) – 16:39 (26th place)
Nathan Mast (12) – 17:06 (67th place)
Abraham Longoria (12) – 17:09 (75th place)
Michael Weaver (12) – 17:27 (101st place)
Isaac Flora (11) – 18:06 (138th place)
2019 Outlook: Always solid, the Chargers return five of last year’s seven from a state finals team. West Noble seems to be a perennial contender for a state meet spot, a team typically without any superstars, who advances through an increasingly tough regional and semi-state to compete in Terre Haute. With the continued improvement of the Fort Wayne schools along with new alignment, that tradition will not be easy to maintain, but the Chargers look up to the challenge once again.
#21 – Harrison (West Lafayette) Raiders
New Prairie Semi-state #4
State meet history: 1 appearance (2018)
2018 Results:
Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 1st place (33 points)
Harrison (West Lafayette) Regional: 2nd place (39 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 5th place (155 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 18th place (356 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Caleb Williams (12) – 16:21 (7th place)
Isidore White (11) – 17:28 (65th place)
Dieubeni Baribusta (11) – 17:36 (82nd place)
Joseph Agree (11) – 18:14 (132nd place)
2019 Outlook: The Raiders are at a high point in program history. They qualified for the first state finals in program history last fall and had three individual qualifiers for the state meet in distance races this most recent spring. Senior Caleb Williams is coming off an All-State finish in cross country with three of his teammates also grabbing state meet experience. Junior Leonel Soriano, who ran in some late-season meets but was not eligible for the semi-state and state meet, would be an important full-time addition to the team this year.
#22 – Westfield Shamrocks
Shelbyville Semi-state #8
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2015), 1 podium finish (2015)
2018 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 3rd place (66 points)
Noblesville Regional: 4th place (127 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 12th place (328 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Mahamat Djour (12) – 16:49 (57th place)
Kai Connor (10) – 17:20 (96th place)
Kyler Koning (11) – 17:26 (110th place)
Joseph Barnett (12) – 17:42 (125th place)
2019 Outlook: The Shamrocks had to be disappointed to plummet in the semi-state results after surviving the brutal Noblesville Regional the week prior. Nevertheless, Westfield has a chance to rebound this season. The Shamrocks still have a young line-up, and the roster was littered with sub 4:40 1600 and sub 10:00 3200 performances this spring. The ‘Rocks haven’t been able to unilaterally translate that track success onto the grass historically, but there seems to be a large enough pool of talent, especially in the sophomore class, to capitalize big this season.
#23 – Avon Orioles
Shelbyville Semi-state #9
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
South Putnam Sectional: 2nd place (42 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 2nd place (65 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 4th place (159 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 10th place (281 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Nathaniel Beeler (12) – 16:18 (23rd place)
Justin Loh (12) – 16:56 (73rd place)
Awet Hailu (12) – 17:10 (85th place)
Sam Cook (11) – 17:33 (118th place)
2019 Outlook: The Orioles are on a five-year state meet streak that encompasses all of Avon’s state finals appearances in school history. While that string might appear to be in jeopardy based on returners and preseason projections, the four runners is the most that the Orioles have had coming back over the last five seasons. Senior Nathaniel Beeler should provide a serviceable number one runner. Behind him, expect the Orioles to field a highly competitive team as usual.
#24 – Hamilton Southeastern Royals
New Haven Semi-state #7
State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2018), 3 podium finishes (last in 2012)
2018 Results:
Pendleton Heights Sectional: 2nd place (62 points)
Delta Regional: 2nd place (57 points)
New Haven Semi-state:5th place (165 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 13th place (329 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Eric Swinson (12) – 16:47 (38th place)
Nolan Satterfield (10) – 17:08 (73rd place)
2019 Outlook: The tournament realignment seems to have rejuvenated the Royals’ program who qualified for the state finals last year in cross country then had excellent track seasons by a number of team members, albeit mainly graduating seniors. Senior Eric Swinson should be very competitive as HSE’s top runner after scoring in nearly every meet last year then running under 4:30 over 1600 meters last spring. After him, the Royals will need to rebuild the line-up but with one of the biggest teams in the state. That should not be too difficult.
#25 – Center Grove Trojans
Shelbyville Semi-state #10
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
Franklin Sectional: 2nd place (50 points)
Shelbyville Regional: 2nd place (57 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 14th place (364 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Archit Malik (12) – 16:55 (69th place)
Raef Sauer (10) – 16:56 (72nd place)
Nick Wilson (12) – 17:15 (88th place)
Aidan Galt (11) – 17:46 (130th place)
Atticus Martin (10) – 18:14 (151st place)
Brody Shadle (10) – 18:33 (162nd place)
2019 Outlook: This looks to be one of the best Center Grove squads in a long time. The Trojans easily qualified for the semi-state last fall and return six of those seven. Senior Nick Wilson had a strong track season, running under 4:30 on multiple occasions over 1600 meters; he could emerge as the team’s number one runner. This isn’t a state meet team but could certainly finish in the top ten at the semi-state.
#26 – Jennings County Panthers
Brown County Semi-state #5
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Southwestern (Hanover) Sectional: 1st place (27 points)
Brown County Regional: 2nd place (56 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 5th place (179 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 24th place (549 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Carter Leak (12) – 16:22 (18th place)
Lane Elsner (10) – 16:57 (42nd place)
Gavin Hendrix (11) – 17:11 (66th place)
Jason Gasper (12) – 17:31 (89th place)
Logan McIntosh (10) – 17:55 (122nd place)
AJ Siener (12) – 18:16 (147th place)
2019 Outlook: The Panthers are at the absolute apex of their program’s history, having qualified for the only three state finals ever over the past three years. This may be the best team ever. Jennings County has six athletes with state meet experience in cross country, three of which have competed on the ultimate stage multiple times. The Panther scored two freshmen at last year’s state meet and could get bigger contributions from them in their second year of high school cross country. It’s probably a little early in our countdown to declare state meets locks, but JC made us contemplate doing so.
#27 – Franklin Central Flashes
Shelbyville Semi-state #11
State meet history: 9 appearances (last in 2012), 4 podium finishes (last in 2006), 2 runner-up titles (2000, 2006), 1 state championships (1998)
2018 Results:
New Palestine Sectional: 2nd place (66 points)
Rushville Regional: 2nd place (61 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 13th place (344 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Jackson Andry (11) – 16:24 (31st place)
William Hackler (12) – 16:57 (74th place)
Justin Healey (11) – 17:20 (95th place)
Spencer McKinney (11) – 17:21 (99th place)
Samuel Masih (11) – 17:57 (140th place)
Max Young (11) – 18:34 (163rd place)
2019 Outlook: The Flashes have the beginnings of their best team in several years with six returning from last year’s semi-state team. Junior Jackson Andry wasn’t too far away from qualifying for the state meet individually in his sophomore season, and classmate Justin Healey ran 4:32 for 1600 meters this past spring. We project FC still a ways from qualifying for the state meet, but five sophomores in last year’s seven promises an even brighter future in 2020.
#28 – Wabash Apaches
New Haven Semi-state #8
State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 1999)
2018 Results:
Marion Sectional: 1st place (37 points)
Marion Regional: 1st place (37 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 8th place (191 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Dereck Vogel (12) – 16:15 (14th place)
Zackary Reed (11) – 16:50 (44th place)
Blakely Cole (12) – 17:27 (100th place)
Caleb Callahan (12) – 18:03 (137th place)
Jarrett Wilson (11) – 19:23 (172nd place)
2019 Outlook: The Apaches are one of the state’s up-and-coming programs. They nearly made the state finals last year in cross country and also nearly did so in the 4x8 this past spring. The firepower upfront is in place for Wabash to qualify for the state meet. Senior Dereck Vogel made the state finals individually last fall and had a competitive spring season. To continue to perform at that level, Wabash will need to develop the depth of its line-up. It’s tougher to restock the metaphorical shelves at a school of 457 than it is of 2457, but the Apaches have been building for a few years now.
#29 – North Central Panthers
Shelbyville Semi-state #12
Noblesville Regional #6
State meet history: 31 appearances (last in 2018), 11 podium finishes (last in 2010), 2 runner-up titles (1967, 1968), 1 state championship (1969)
2018 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 2nd place (48 points)
Noblesville Regional: 3rd place (103 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 6th place (174 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 9th place (297 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Dominik Hickman (11) – 16:55 (68th place)
Alex Frey (12) – 17:23 (105th place)
2019 Outlook: The Panthers have just two back from their team that made a second consecutive trip to Terre Haute. NC could reload in a hurry, though. Senior Alex Frey is one of the state’s best and might be an individual title contender after finishing sixth in the state meet over 3200 meters. Sophomore Sawyer Hussain made a big performance leap in the spring and should be a contributor as well. The Panthers have one of the five biggest enrollments in Indiana so fielding a competitive team should not be too difficult. Advancing through the tournament may be, however.
#30 – Chesterton Trojans
New Prairie Semi-state #5
State meet history: 35 appearances (last in 2017), 4 podium finishes (last in 2009), 1 runner-up title (2009)
2018 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 2nd place (72 points)
New Prairie Regional: 1st place (58 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 7th place (178 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Dylan Draves (12) – 17:05 (40th place)
Will Shook (12) – 17:25 (62nd place)
Kyler Haynes (12) – 17:38 (87th place)
Matthew Streeter (11) – 17:58 (112th place)
2019 Outlook: The Trojans were dangerously close to the state meet last year, less than a one second average behind the sixth-place team. With four back from that team in a semi-state heavily hit by graduation losses, Chesterton could make it to Terre Haute this season. The spring season was not spectacular in terms of individual results, but two of the returning runners got state meet experience in the 4x800 relay.
#31 – Fort Wayne Snider Panthers
New Haven Semi-state #9
West Noble Regional #5
State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 2011), 3 podium finishes (last in 2004)
2018 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 4th place (81 points)
West Noble Regional: 6th place (100 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the West Noble Regional)
Kobe Milledge (11) – 16:46 (19th place)
Julian Slater (11) – 17:04 (32nd place)
Jaime Mendoza (11) – 17:36 (52nd place)
Stuart Findley (12) – 18:42 (76th place)
2019 Outlook: The Panthers’ position heading into this fall is difficult to quantify fully. They do lose the best runner in school history and other contributors that made up last year’s squad. Snider also returns three key juniors who continue to improve, including Kobe Milledge who nearly made the state meet in cross and track (800 meters) as a sophomore. That trio gives the Panthers a good start, but geography is an opponent as well in that the state’s toughest regional at West Noble has been a frequent stumbling block over much of the past decade. If Snider can advance to the semi-state, they will have a good opportunity to advance to Terre Haute.
#32 – Bellmont Braves
New Haven Semi-state #10
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
Bellmont Sectional: 1st place (20 points)
Marion Regional: 2nd place (69 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 12th place (275 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Jordan Garlinger (11) – 17:03 (62nd place)
Kyle Lawson (12) – 17:09 (77th place)
Isaac Fuelling (11) – 17:10 (79th place)
Blaine Johnson (12) – 17:30 (104th place)
Nick Corral (12) – 18:28 (153rd place)
2019 Outlook: The Braves bring back five of seven from a semi-state team that finished 12th place. Based on returners, Bellmont looks like a potential top-ten team this fall. The Braves also had a good track season, and Deion Guise (4:45 over 1600 meters) looks to be an important addition to the varsity line-up this coming year. Bellmont should be the favorite in its own sectional and look ready to challenge Oak Hill for Marion Regional supremacy.
#33 – Oak Hill Golden Eagles
New Haven Semi-state #11
State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2009), 1 podium finish (2003)
2018 Results:
Marion Sectional: 1st place (41 points)
Marion Regional: 1st place (46 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 15th place (383 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Surafel Fry (12) – 17:05 (65th place)
Dillon Mitchell (12) – 17:22 (93rd place)
Solomon O’Blenis (10) – 17:42 (119th place)
Tahj Johnson (12) – 17:49 (124th place)
Macallister Clark (12) – 17:52 (128th place)
Danny Nally (12) – 18:38 (158th place)
2019 Outlook: The Golden Eagles won their sectional and regional last year and bring six of those seven runners back for 2019. Senior Tahj Johnson is an interesting runner for Oak Hill as he has finished All-State in each of the last two years in the 400. Based on what everyone has returning, the Eagles should be really tough to beat in the opening rounds of the tournament but probably do not have enough to be a serious contender to advance from that semi-state.
#34 – Batesville Bulldogs
Shelbyville Semi-state #13
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
South Dearborn Sectional: 1st place (22 points)
Shelbyville Regional: 3rd place (75 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 19th place (510 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Benjamin Moster (10) – 17:25 (108th place)
Adam Moster (12) – 17:43 (127th place)
Joshua Myers (12) – 17:54 (137th place)
Dillon Murray (11) – 18:06 (144th place)
Adam Hollowell (11) – 18:28 (158th place)
2019 Outlook: The Bulldogs bring back a lot of talent from last year and should move up the results in this year’s semi-state. Sophomore Ean Loichinger flashed brilliance at points in the season, though he doesn’t appear in the semi-state results. Beyond him, Batesville had a great track season. Senior Josh Myers ran 4:36 over 1600 meters and senior Adam Moster finished All-State in the 800. If the ‘Dogs can translate that track success onto the grass this fall, they could make a bid for the state finals.
#35 – Southport Cardinals
Shelbyville Semi-state #14
State meet history: 22 appearances (last in 1997), 10 podium finishes (last in 1989), 1 runner-up title (1972), 3 state championships (1970, 1971, 1975)
2018 Results:
Ben Davis Sectional: 4th place (98 points)
Shelbyville Regional: 9th place (216 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Nick Frank (11) – 17:14 (87th place)
2019 Outlook: The Cardinals bring back everyone from a team that was ousted in the regional round. With everyone back, it seems likely that the Cards would be able to return to the semi-state this fall. Senior Drew Shellenberger served as the team’s number one runner the entire season and appeared to be one of the state’s best but did not compete in the tournament for the Cards. His presence would greatly help Southport’s line-up.
#36 – Northview Knights
Brown County Semi-state #6
State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2001)
2018 Results:
Terre Haute North Sectional: 1st place (36 points)
Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 4th place (113 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 9th place (254 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Braedon Norris (12) – 16:44 (36th place)
Thomas Chapman (10) – 16:59 (48th place)
Stuart Bennett (10) – 17:13 (70th place)
Corbin Butts (11) – 17:21 (81st place)
Carter Mullenix (11) – 17:46 (110th place)
Braeden Knerr (11) – 18:25 (153rd place)
2019 Outlook: The Knights bring back six of seven and hold a great chance to advance to the state finals as a team for the first time in nearly twenty years. To be among the top six teams in the semi-state, Northview doesn’t need anything spectacular, just steady improvement that can be expected among the plethora of sophomores and juniors returning for 2019. A competitive track season showcases that the necessary improvement is definitely underway.
#37 – LaPorte Slicers
New Prairie Semi-state #6
State meet history: 21 appearances (last in 2015), 2 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 runner-up title (2007)
2018 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 5th place (92 points)
New Prairie Regional: 3rd place (77 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 11th place (353 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Connor Havens (12) – 17:02 (36th place)
Cole Raymond (10) – 17:30 (70th place)
Samuel Bell (11) – 17:53 (106th place)
Theodore Merkel (10) – 18:44 (154th place)
Sean Wilson (12) – 21:01 (177th place)
2019 Outlook: LaPorte has a great chance of making the state meet for the first time in four years. Senior Connor Havens was the team’s number two runner for much of last year and ran 9:44 over 3200 meters this past spring. Sophomore Cole Raymond looks primed for a breakout season after running in the state meet over 1600 meters. Beyond them, the Slicers will need to improve the rest of the roster, but they have a great start with Havens and Raymond.
#38 – Portage Indians
New Prairie Semi-state #7
State meet history: 34 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)
2018 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 3rd place (84 points)
New Prairie Regional: 5th place (90 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 8th place (189 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Kyle Gutierrez (12) – 16:46 (23rd place)
Tom Elwood (12) – 16:52 (26th place)
Andrew Doctor (12) – 17:24 (57th place)
Branden Warren (11) – 17:41 (92nd place)
Joe Mietzner (12) – 17:52 (105th place)
2019 Outlook: The Indians were relatively close to advancing to the state finals last year and return five of those seven, including the top two. That puts Portage right in the thick of things to advance to the state meet based on preseason projections. Senior Kyle Gutierrez qualified for the state meet as an individual and classmate Tom Elwood was very close. Like any other state meet hopeful, Portage will need to develop its depth.
#39 – West Lafayette Red Devils
New Prairie Semi-state #8
State meet history: 17 appearances (last in 2018), 5 podium finishes (last in 2015), 1 runner-up title (1963) 2 state championships (1964, 2014)
2018 Results:
Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 2nd place (34 points)
Harrison (West Lafayette) Regional: 1st place (37 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 6th place (155 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 23rd place (521 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Alec Meister (12) – 17:01 (33rd place)
Andrew Hazbun (11) – 17:19 (49th place)
Tyler Milam (12) – 17:33 (76th place)
2019 Outlook: The Red Devils suffer some graduation losses that will put their seven-year state finals streak in jeopardy. The returners alone certainly don’t constitute a state meet team, not even just the beginnings of one. The semi-state is open, though, and West Lafayette has demonstrated a remarkable penchant for reloading over the last decade. We would expect that to continue this season, giving the Devils a chance to make it eight straight.
#40 – Elkhart Memorial Chargers
New Haven Semi-state #12
State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2006), 1 podium finish (1986)
2018 Results:
Elkhart Central Sectional: 1st place (61 points)
Elkhart Central Regional: 1st place (71 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 16th place (400 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Neil Terrell (12) – 17:33 (107th place)
Daniel Brown (12) – 17:35 (111th place)
Luis Cruz Portillo (11) – 18:00 (135th place)
Juan Cepero (12) – 18:10 (141st place)
2019 Outlook: The Chargers had perhaps their best season since their state meet teams in the mid-00s in winning the sectional and regional last year. Memorial is not immune to graduation losses, but seniors Neil Terrell (4:29 for 1600) and Daniel Brown (10:10 for 3200) had good track seasons. The Chargers also advanced to the state meet in the 4x800 relay with two returners getting state meet experience. The semi-state looks to be tough in perpetuity, but Memorial looks to have a clear path to get there at the least.
#41 – Jasper Wildcats
Brown County Semi-state #7
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 1952)
2017 Results:
Jasper Sectional: 2nd place (62 points)
Crawford County Regional: 4th place (108 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 13th place (318 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)
Jackson Miller (12) – 16:21 (16th place)
Drew O’Neill (12) – 17:18 (76th place)
Abe Eckman (10) – 17:44 (107th place)
Cameron Eckstein (12) – 17:49 (115th place)
John Summerlot (12) – 20:16 (179th place)
2019 Outlook: The Wildcats return five of seven from last year’s semi-state group with senior Jackson Miller advancing to the state meet individually. Senior Drew O’Neill had a breakthrough track season, qualifying for the state meet in the 3200 so Jasper could be looking at two potential frontrunners. That would give them the start of a possible state meet team. Depth development after those two will be key to challenging for a spot in Terre Haute.
#42 – Highland Trojans
New Prairie Semi-state #9
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Hammond Gavit Sectional: 1st place (21 points)
Crown Point Regional: 2nd place (74 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 4th place (141 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 12th place (329 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Lucas Guerra (11) – 16:20 (5th place)
Benjamin Salinas (12) – 16:56 (28th place)
Mateo Garcia (12) – 17:12 (44th place)
Adam Ackermann (11) – 18:13 (129th place)
2019 Outlook: The Trojans are an interesting team heading into the fall of 2019. They made the state meet last season for the first time in 35 years and return their number one runner in junior Lucas Guerra, a contender for the individual title this year. Highland performed well on the biggest stage, finishing in the top half at the state meet. Graduation will take a toll, but the New Prairie Semi-state is pretty open again this year.
#43 – Cardinal Ritter Raiders
Shelbyville Semi-state #15
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
Ben Davis Sectional: 3rd place (90 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 5th place (147 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 11th place (321 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Paul Stamm (11) – 16:10 (20th place)
Peter Sperry (12) – 17:11 (86th place)
Will Stamm (11) – 17:17 (92nd place)
Eli Bush (12) – 17:27 (113th place)
Michael Mark (12) – 19:31 (175th place)
Johnathan Tune (12) – 19:35 (177th place)
2019 Outlook: The Raiders had a highly competitive team last year and bring six back. Junior Paul Stamm qualified for the state meet last season. His brother, Will, had a solid track season and should help make a difference as well. Ritter has enough to qualify out of a competitive regional, but to advance to the state meet the Cards will need at least one more runner that wasn’t on the roster last season. Getting another addition to the pack could put them on the very fringe of the state meet discussion.
#44 – Lake Central Indians
New Prairie Semi-state #10
State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2015), 2 podium finishes (last in 1983), 1 runner-up title (1983)
2018 Results:
Hammond Gavit Sectional: 2nd place (44 points)
Crown Point Regional: 4th place (110 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 12th place (343 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Logan Russell (11) – 17:25 (60th place)
Jordan Duggan (11) – 17:41 (93rd place)
Braden Johnson (11) – 18:12 (127th place)
Vince Vanderveen (10) – 18:13 (128th place)
Zakaria Mouhiuddin (11) – 18:24 (139th place)
2019 Outlook:
The Indians have a solid team coming back. Juniors Logan Russell and Jordan Duggan both advanced from the sectional in distance races. Behind them, Lake Central has some experience. This is certainly a group with a realistic shot at advancing to the state meet, even with five returning from a 12th place semi-state team. Steady improvement throughout the line-up could get LC there after a three-year hiatus.
#45 – Fort Wayne Carroll Chargers
New Haven Semi-state #13
West Noble Regional #6
State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2017), 5 podium finishes (last in 2016), 2 runner-up titles (2008, 2012), 1 state championship (2016)
2018 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 3rd place (79 points)
West Noble Regional: 1st place (76 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 7th place (183 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Robert Lohman (10) – 17:12 (81st place)
Hayden Mullett (12) – 17:34 (108th place)
2019 Outlook: The Chargers are a high variance team. Carroll was the last non-Carmel team to win the state title in boys cross country, and did so in dominant fashion two years ago. Since, the Chargers have taken heavy graduation hits. The Chargers return just two from a team that barely missed the state meet, but the new-look New Haven Semi-state will make it increasingly difficult to advance to Terre Haute as a team. Sophomore Preston Sloffer ran 4:32 in the track season over 1600 meters. He seems likely to serve as the team’s top runner in a rebuilding year.
#46 – Warsaw Tigers
New Prairie Semi-state #11
State meet history: 10 appearances (last in 2013), 1 podium finish (2012)
2018 Results:
Culver Academies Sectional: 1st place (36 points)
Culver Academies Regional: 1st place (39 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 10th place (237 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Samuel Lechlitner (11) – 16:51 (25th place)
Jacob Kissling (11) – 17:19 (50th place)
Fernando Niebbia (12) – 18:12 (126th place)
Harrison Phipps (10) – 18:13 (130th place)
2019 Outlook: The Tigers have four back from a top ten semi-state team, including junior Sam Lechlitner who was five seconds away from qualifying for the state meet last fall. Junior Jacob Kissling broke ten minutes over 3200 meters and should provide a good number two. After that pair, Warsaw will need to develop its depth. In one of the largest schools in the area, that shouldn’t be too tall of a task.
#47 – Concord Minutemen
New Haven Semi-state #14
State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2009)
2018 Results:
Elkhart Central Sectional: 5th place (110 points)
Elkhart Central Regional: 7th place (167 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Elkhart Central Regional)
Luke Owings (12) – 16:38 (7th place)
Noah Wright (12) – 17:36 (41st place)
William Nicoson (11) – 17:58 (51st place)
Ethan Smith (10) – 18:23 (67th place)
2019 Outlook: The Minutemen come through a very competitive area of the state and didn’t make it through to the semi-state last year. That could change this year with four of those seven back, including senior Luke Owings who was competitive individually in the semi-state and had a good track season over 3200 meters. Concord will obviously need to develop some depth but doing so should result in a longer tournament run.
#48 – South Bend Riley Wildcats
New Haven Semi-state #15
State meet history: 9 appearances (last in 2014)
2018 Results:
South Bend Riley Sectional: 2nd place (57 points)
Elkhart Central Regional: 2nd place (80 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 13th place (321 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Jacob Barrow (12) – 16:31 (24th place)
Kevin Liddell (11) – 17:34 (109th place)
Dieter Ruszkowski (12) – 17:50 (126th place)
Ethan Vandezande (10) – 18:34 (156th place)
Michael Burns (11) – 18:49 (164th place)
2019 Outlook: The Wildcats return five from a team that finished runner-up in both the sectional and regional rounds. Senior Jacob Barrow, just shy of qualifying for the state meet in cross country, provides good frontrunning, though Riley graduates the other of its top duo that both finished in the top 25 of the semi-state last year. In searching for some improvement among the rest of the line-up, the track season was unremarkable.
#49 – Roncalli Rebels
Shelbyville Semi-state #16
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
New Palestine Sectional: 5th place (87 points)
Rushville Regional: 3rd place (95 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 15th place (384 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Sam George (12) – 17:24 (106th place)
Liam Irwin (12) – 17:27 (112th place)
Ryan Flick (12) – 17:53 (135th place)
Owen Herndon (12) – 18:12 (149th place)
Matthew Croddy (11) – 18:44 (165th place)
Jean-Luc Euzen (10) – 19:06 (174th place)
2019 Outlook: The Rebels graduate their one frontrunner, but they return everyone else from last year’s semi-state qualifier. It seems likely that Roncalli will advance that far again, though the state meet would be really tough in such a competitive area of Indiana. Logan Wong, who only competed in the sectional of all the tournament meets, ran 4:37 over 1600 meters and should be a difference maker for the Rebels this fall.
#50 – Evansville North Huskies
Brown County Semi-state #8
State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2013)
2018 Results:
Evansville Mater Dei Sectional: 4th place (124 points)
Pike Central Regional: 7th place (172 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Pike Central Regional)
Dean Schmidt (12) – 16:18 (4th place)
Isaac Burns (12) – 17:54 (49th place)
Tyler Zimmerman (10) – 18:02 (54th place)
Dilan Harbert (12) – 18:15 (58th place)
Brendan Shrode (11) – 18:21 (60th place)
Blake Fehr (12) – 19:49 (85th place)
2019 Outlook: The Huskies did not advance from the regional last year but could go as far as the state meet this fall. Senior Dean Schmidt qualified for the state finals in both cross and track as a junior, including a 42nd place finish in Terre Haute last October. The rest of the line-up will need improvement, but North did have a handful of distance runners compete in the sectional that did not run cross country. Recruiting them for this fall would be big.
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