#1 – Zionsville Eagles
Shelbyville Semi-state #1
State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2018), 4 podium finishes (last in 2018), 1 runner-up title (2018), 1 state championship (2017)
2018 Results:
Ben Davis Sectional: 1st place (23 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 1st place (31 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 1st place (76 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 2nd place (149 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Katelyn Wasson (12) – 18:31 (8th place)
Lauren Rinehart (12) – 18:42 (12th place)
Anna Settle (12) – 18:52 (20th place)
Sarah Petersen (12) – 18:54 (25th place)
Lydia Moore (10) – 18:56 (27th place)
Grace Gongwer (10) – 20:12 (67th place)
2019 Outlook: The Eagles return six of their seven that finished runner-up last fall after winning the title in 2017. Senior Katelyn Wasson gets Zionsville off to a great start. She has finished 15th, 10th and 15th in her three state cross country races previously, and she had a breakout track season in which she was less than a second from winning the state championship over 3200 meters. Health, which was the biggest question for the Eagles last fall, will be the biggest determinant of success in 2019. Senior Lauren Rinehart, a transfer from Brownsburg last year, and Wasson missed the first several weeks of the season in 2018. Senior Margaret Allen got off to a much slower start last year than in 2017 when she was 28th at the state meet when the Eagles took home the title. If those three are healthy and running well, Zionsville will be exceptionally difficult to beat, given the Eagles’ depth this season.
#2 – Fort Wayne Carroll Chargers
New Haven Semi-state #1
West Noble Regional #1
State meet history: 16 appearances (last in 2018), 7 podium finishes (last in 2018), 3 runner-up titles (2015, 2016, 2017), 1 state championship (2018)
2018 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 1st place (24 points)
West Noble Regional: 1st place (34 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 1st place (44 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 1st place (85 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Zoe Duffus (11) – 18:54 (10th place)
Monroe Fruchey (12) – 18:57 (11th place)
Ashlyn Minton (11) – 19:21 (21st place)
Mallory Clements (12) – 19:28 (24th place)
Brooke Hansen (10) – 19:49 (31st place)
2019 Outlook: The Chargers finally got over the hump last year, taking home their first state title after three consecutive runner-up finishes. Carroll could absolutely make it two in a row. Senior Monroe Fruchey ran the race of her life last October in Terre Haute, ultimately finishing sixth on the biggest stage in the sport. Junior Zoe Duffus had a forgettable race, serving as the team’s number six, but her spring resurgence leads our committee (of one) to imagine a world in which she’s an individual title contender this coming fall. Both Duffus and Fruchey were individual qualifiers to the state track meet this past spring. Beyond that duo that could score single digit points between the two of them, the Chargers have three returners with a combined five state meet appearances. If they trail our number one team, it is only by the smallest of margins heading into the season.
#3 – Carmel Greyhounds
Shelbyville Semi-state #2
Noblesville Regional #1
State meet history: 38 appearances (last in 2018), 34 podium finishes (last in 2018), 8 runner-up titles (1981, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2009), 18 state championships (1982, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016)
2018 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 1st place (27 points)
Noblesville Regional: 4th place (90 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 3rd place (95 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 4th place (235 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Phoebe Bates (12) – 17:43 (2nd place)
Jamie Klavon (10) – 18:44 (13th place)
Abby Parker (11) – 19:13 (32nd place)
Brooke Waldal (11) – 19:22 (35th place)
Lily McAndrews (12) – 19:30 (38th place)
Roni Ledezma (11) – 19:55 (54th place)
2019 Outlook: The Greyhounds have six back from their state meet team and eight back who ran in either the semi-state or the state finals in 2018. Senior Phoebe Bates spent nearly the entire regular season looking like the second best, or perhaps even the best, cross country runner in Indiana. Carmel is deep, nearly twice the size of any other team in the state, and the ‘Hounds have won nearly half of all state championships contested in the sport (18 of 38). Though Carmel trails our top two teams by a bit based on returners, this team is every bit a contender heading into 2019. Either improvement or newcomers will be huge in determining the fate of the ‘Hounds this fall.
#4 – Fort Wayne Dwenger Saints
New Haven Semi-state #2
West Noble Regional #2
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 3rd place (76 points)
West Noble Regional: 2nd place (62 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 4th place (123 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 6th place (253 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Erin Strzelecki (12) – 18:06 (2nd place)
Kaitlyn Woods (10) – 19:00 (12th place)
Nora Steele (11) – 19:45 (30th place)
Aileen Delaney (11) – 20:20 (49th place)
Kathryn Nix (12) – 20:21 (50th place)
Susan Beeber (12) – 20:22 (51st place)
Anna Morris (12) – 20:57 (81st place)
2019 Outlook: The Saints are definitely a team to watch out for. They boast perhaps the best individual in the entire state in senior Erin Strzelecki, last year’s runner-up in Terre Haute. They have an emerging younger runner in sophomore Kaitlyn Woods, who was very nearly All-State last fall. They had an excellent track season in which they scored in the 4x8 relay without their best runner, and Strzelecki was a top contender for the state title in the 3200, ultimately finishing third. Dwenger also returns all seven runners back from a team that was just a spot away from the podium. This year could be different.
#5 – Valparaiso Vikings
New Prairie Semi-state #1
State meet history: 31 appearances (last in 2018), 12 podium finishes (last in 2011), 3 runner-up titles (2001, 2005, 2006), 5 state championships (1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004)
2018 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 1st place (37 points)
New Prairie Regional: 2nd place (43 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 2nd place (92 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 13th place (328 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Ava Gilliana (12) – 18:36 (4th place)
Sarah Worthington (11) – 19:19 (16th place)
Emily Worthington (11) – 19:39 (20th place)
Lillian Maldia (10) – 19:52 (26th place)
Xanthi Tsagris (12) – 20:09 (40th place)
Nicole Brandy (12) – 20:22 (48th place)
Aubree Foreman (10) – 20:24 (50th place)
2019 Outlook: The Vikings have a solid frontrunner and in senior Ava Gilliana and six others back from last year’s state meet team, putting Valpo on the very fringes of title contention. The Vikes have qualified for 25 of the last 26 state finals in cross country, and there is little doubt where there season will end in 2019. This is an incredibly experienced team with 12 state meet appearances among the returning roster. Gilliana was a qualifier to the state meet in the 1600 while juniors Sarah and Emily Worthington advanced out of the sectional in their individual distance events. The lack of results from the rest of the returning contingent is a bit concerning for a potential podium team, but Valpo certainly has a history of performing well in the cross country tournament.
#6 – Bloomington North Cougars
Brown County Semi-state #1
State meet history: 28 appearances (last in 2018), 4 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 runner-up title (1982)
2018 Results:
Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 1st place (32 points)
Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 1st place (32 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 1st place (94 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 16th place (361 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-State)
Mya Hagerty (12) – 19:04 (10th place)
Abbey Armstrong (12) – 19:07 (11th place)
Beatrice Cakmak (10) – 19:39 (24th place)
Melissa Mahaffey (10) – 19:52 (33rd place)
Olivia Kaiser (11) – 19:53 (35th place)
Mackenzie Carver (12) – 19:56 (37th place)
Quinn Wilson (12) – 20:49 (73rd place)
2019 Outlook: The Cougars return all seven from their state finalist team of 2018. Senior Mya Hagerty, twice All-State in cross, provides North with the frontrunning it needs. Beyond her, the depth is fantastic. The Cougars placed six in the top 40 at the semi-state last fall, finished 11th in the state meet in the 4x8 and advanced both athletes in all three distance events out of the sectional in the spring. In particular, sophomore Bea Cakmak should be primed for a great fall after winning the regional championship over 1600 meters last spring.
#7 – Fishers Tigers
New Haven Semi-state #3
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Pendleton Heights Sectional: 2nd place (34 points)
Delta Regional: 1st place (30 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 3rd place (117 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 7th place (261 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Vera Schafer (10) – 19:02 (13th place)
Abigail Carter (12) – 19:26 (22nd place)
Elizabeth Barrett (10) – 19:57 (38th place)
Emma Gillespie (12) – 20:50 (76th place)
2019 Outlook: Perhaps this is the year that the Tigers claw their way onto the podium for the first time in school history. Fishers has been extremely close the last three years, including finishing just one-point short in 2017. The Tigers bring back just four, a pretty low number for a team ranked this high on our list, but Fishers had a great spring season that it might be able to translate into cross country success. Beyond sophomore Vera Schafer, who finished 33rd in her first state cross country meet, sophomore Elizabeth Barrett and senior Abigail Carter (a veteran of three state finals in cross) both ran 5:20 or faster over 1600 meters. Senior Johanna Strueder was not listed on the team’s cross country roster in 2018 but ran 11:23 in the 3200 in the sectional. She would be a great addition this fall.
#8 – Noblesville Millers
Shelbyville Semi-state #3
Noblesville Regional #2
State meet history: 9 appearances (last in 2018), 3 podium finishes (last in 2016)
2018 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 2nd place (42 points)
Noblesville Regional: 2nd place (74 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 4th place (141 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 9th place (307 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Madison King (12) – 18:54 (24th place)
Sophie Reichard (12) – 19:05 (29th place)
Bella Sharples-Gordon (11) – 19:21 (33rd place)
Taylor Gregory (12) – 19:52 (53rd place)
Sophie Stahl (11) – 20:11 (64th place)
2019 Outlook: The Millers have been solid over the last decade, qualifying for five of the last ten state meets as a team through Indiana’s most difficult tournament path. In that time frame, Noblesville has been even more successful on the track, finishing on the podium most years for the 4x8 relay and winning once. After a ninth-place finish last fall, the Millers are in a good position to qualify for a second straight state meet. Five return from last year’s squad. Because of the focus on mid-distance races, track results do not give us a more clear glimpse into Noblesville’s potential than what we know from the fall.
#9 – Columbus North Bull Dogs
Brown County Semi-state #2
State meet history: 34 appearances (last in 2018), 17 podium finishes (last in 2015), 3 runner-up titles (1986, 2010, 2011), 1 state championship (2009)
2018 Results:
Brown County Sectional: 1st place (20 points)
Brown County Regional: 1st place (33 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 5th place (140 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 20th place (447 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-State)
Olivia Morlok (12) – 18:57 (6th place)
Aric Tong (11) – 19:43 (28th place)
Ella Anderson (11) – 19:50 (31st place)
Abigail Jacobi (10) – 20:49 (71st place)
2019 Outlook: One of the blue bloods in girls cross country in Indiana, the Bull Dogs once again look to challenge for southern supremacy and advance to the state finals. Senior Olivia Morlok comes off her best year of high school distance running in which she finished 46th at the state meet in cross country and qualified for the state finals in the 3200. In total, North has girls with a combined nine state meet appearances coming back from last season’s roster. The Dogs should benefit most from the return of junior Mackenzie Barnett who was the team’s number two runner for the entire regular season but did not compete in the tournament. She did run 5:21 over 1600 meters this past spring so should be back to full strength.
#10 – Fort Wayne Homestead Spartans
New Haven Semi-state #4
West Noble Regional #3
State meet history: 18 appearances (last in 2018), 1 podium finish (2016)
2018 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 2nd place (50 points)
West Noble Regional: 3rd place (64 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 5th place (150 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 15th place (361 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Julia Dvorak (12) – 18:53 (9th place)
Amelia Fabor (10) – 19:50 (32nd place)
Lauren Richards (10) – 19:59 (39th place)
Skylar Kiess (12) – 20:10 (46th place)
Angelina Sedlaczek (12) – 20:30 (61st place)
2019 Outlook: The Spartans return five from a team that extended Homestead’s state finals streak to seven last year. Senior Julia Dvorak, a mid-distance specialist, has become a much better distance runner over the last couple of seasons. The depth the Spartans brings back makes them a formidable team. In addition to Dvorak’s spring success, sophomore Amelia Fabor was the sectional champion in the 3200 in 11:26 and senior Angelina Sedlaczek ran 5:25 over 1600 meters. Senior Rhyah Jones did not compete in the regional or semi-state but does return for 2019 with state meet experience.
#11 – Brebeuf Jesuit Braves
Shelbyville Semi-state #4
Noblesville Regional #3
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2018), 1 podium finish (2017)
2018 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 2nd place (53 points)
Noblesville Regional: 1st place (60 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 2nd place (82 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 8th place (268 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Zoe Simmons (12) – 18:10 (3rd place)
Madeline Keller (10) – 18:18 (4th place)
Kelly Gardner (12) – 19:45 (49th place)
Rachel Moore (12) – 20:51 (100th place)
Allison Caffrey (11) – 21:00 (107th place)
2019 Outlook: The Braves have two great frontrunners in senior Zoe Simmons and sophomore Madeline Keller. The pair finished third and fourth in the competitive Shelbyville Semi-state last fall, and Keller, in particular, continued to progress as an elite distance runner by finishing eighth in the 3200 at the state track meet. Depth was Brebeuf’s downfall last year, at least in terms of championship contention and podium potential, and that issue could be exacerbated with the graduation of two scorers. This is still a likely state meet team, but not enough returns to guarantee the Braves safe passage through their tournament route.
#12 – Hamilton Southeastern Royals
New Haven Semi-state #5
State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2018), 4 podium finishes (last in 2018), 1 runner-up title (2013)
2018 Results:
Pendleton Heights Sectional: 1st place (22 points)
Delta Regional: 2nd place (36 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 2nd place (96 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 5th place (208 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Halle Hill (11) – 19:38 (26th place)
Lilly Patrick (11) – 19:52 (35th place)
Ellie Pedersen (12) – 20:02 (42nd place)
Brooke Ratliff (11) – 21:14 (100th place)
2019 Outlook: The Royals return four from a podium team. The four returners provide the start of a great team. Junior Halle Hill was All-State as a freshman and took time to recover from a previous injury. Hill’s track season illustrates that she’s back, perhaps on a new level, after anchoring the state runner-up 4x8 and subsequently nearly scoring in the 1600. Junior Ellie Johnson, in particular, could be a key difference maker. She did not compete in the tournament in cross country but ran 11:23 over 3200 meters in the spring.
#13 – Floyd Central Highlanders
Brown County Semi-state #3
State meet history: 24 appearances (last in 2018), 7 podium finishes (last in 1992), 1 runner-up title (1987), 4 state championships (1989, 1990, 1991, 1992)
2018 Results:
Crawford County Sectional: 1st place (20 points)
Crawford County Regional: 1st place (39 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 2nd place (96 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 11th place (322 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-State)
Sydney Liddle (12) – 18:40 (3rd place)
Sydney Baxter (11) – 19:34 (21st place)
Jaydon Cirrincione (10) – 19:40 (25th place)
Carley Conway (12) – 20:05 (43rd place)
Emma Hupp (12) – 20:31 (59th place)
2019 Outlook: Like many ranked this high on the list, the Highlanders are on a lengthy state meet streak—six years. A seventh looks likely with six back from a state meet squad that almost finished in the top ten last season. Senior Sydney Liddle was 14th at the state meet in cross country and 11th in the 3200 in track. Floyd is the dominant team in the area; the ‘Landers qualified two to the state meet in the 3200 and very nearly made the podium on the 4x8. With a true frontrunner and enough depth, Floyd is our first podium longshot.
#14 – West Lafayette Red Devils
New Prairie Semi-state #2
State meet history: 16 appearances (last in 2018), 8 podium finishes (last in 2018), 1 runner-up title (2012)
2018 Results:
Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 1st place (18 points)
Harrison (West Lafayette) Regional: 1st place (39 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 1st place (55 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 3rd place (176 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Alli Steffey (10) – 19:20 (17th place)
Amelia Simpson (11) – 19:58 (30th place)
Haley Mansfield (11) – 20:09 (41st place)
2019 Outlook: With just three back from last year’s team of only 24 runners in a school of 771 students, we still feel very confident in the Red Devils’ chances to qualify for a tenth straight state meet. In addition to these three returners, West Lafayette should benefit from the return of Caroline Jordan who was 56th in the 2017 state meet but missed the majority of last fall before giving it a go in Terre Haute. With those four, the Devils should have no problem finding a fifth to qualify again for the state meet. A top ten state meet finish is possible, but we project West Side short of the podium.
#15 – Cathedral Fighting Irish
Shelbyville Semi-state #5
Noblesville Regional #4
State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2015), 2 podium finishes (last in 2015)
2018 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 3rd place (61 points)
Noblesville Regional: 5th place (94 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 9th place (196 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Gillian Cridge (12) – 18:41 (11th place)
Audrey McKinney (12) – 18:50 (17th place)
Gracie Carr (12) – 19:36 (43rd place)
Elise Thor (11) – 20:24 (78th place)
Megan Kaster (12) – 20:43 (93rd place)
Kendrick Mernitz (12) – 21:03 (110th place)
Lindsey Douglas (12) – 21:31 (130th place)
2019 Outlook: The Irish have all seven back from a team that finished close to making the state meet, including two individual qualifiers in seniors Gillian Cridge and Audrey McKinney. That duo along with senior Gracie Carr made up one of the state’s top trios last fall. Carr, in particular, had an excellent track season when she qualified for state finals over 1600 meters. With those three, the Irish are off to a strong start. Cathedral typically has the second biggest girls team in the state—90 in 2018—so should be able to find adequate depth among the rest of the squad.
#16 – Bloomington South Panthers
Brown County Semi-state #4
State meet history: 21 appearances (last in 2018)
2017 Results:
Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 2nd place (43 points)
Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 2nd place (73 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 4th place (137 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 19th place (446 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-State)
Abby Beathea (10) – 19:00 (7th place)
Katrina Tann (12) – 19:37 (30th place)
Anneke Furr (12) – 19:54 (36th place)
Olivia Brummett (11) – 20:03 (41st place)
2019 Outlook: The Panthers are on a twelve-year state meet streak that looks likely to continue. The Panthers return all six of their top runners from their inccstats profile, though junior Aviv Hagar returned well enough to advance from the sectional in the 1600 and to compete in the state meet in the 4x8. With those six back, South is a borderline lack to make the state meet, which would be 13 in a row. The Panthers have a relatively young team returning as well so that streak looks to continue beyond 2019.
#17 – Penn Kingsmen
New Haven Semi-state #6
State meet history: 19 appearances (last in 2018), 6 podium finishes (last in 2014)
2018 Results:
South Bend Riley Sectional: 1st place (34 points)
Elkhart Central Regional: 1st place (39 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 6th place (184 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 23rd place (520 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Brooke Neal (12) – 19:13 (19th place)
Nourra Miss (12) – 20:24 (53rd place)
Mackenzie Holland (10) – 20:24 (54th place)
Haley Makowski (11) – 20:53 (79th place)
Aislynn Alkire (12) – 20:58 (83rd place)
Morgan Gannon (10) – 21:05 (87th place)
2019 Outlook: The Kingsmen survived the semi-state for the eighth year in a row. In the track season, they finished third in the state meet in the 4x8 and Nicole Marshall qualified for state in the 800 though she did not compete in the semi-state or state meet in cross country. Penn has plenty of depth as evidenced by the bounty of returners that includes 14 that were ranked in last year’s top 1000 on inccstats. The new tournament alignment doesn’t allow us to call Penn a lock just yet, though.
#18 – New Palestine Dragons
Shelbyville Semi-state #6
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
New Palestine Sectional: 2nd place (42 points)
Rushville Regional: 1st place (31 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 7th place (186 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Brenna Shaw (11) – 18:49 (15th place)
Kendall Mann (11) – 19:08 (30th place)
Kaylin Casner (12) – 20:11 (65th place)
Emily Adam (10) – 20:16 (71st place)
2019 Outlook: The Dragons were just 18 points shy of the state meet last year and bring back four of their scorers. With those four back, New Pal could certainly make up those 18 points this year. NP definitely had a good track season with the team scoring in the 4x8 and 4x4 and junior Brenna Shaw qualified for the state meet in the open 800. The Dragons weren’t particularly deep last year but should not have too much of an issue finding a fifth.
#19 – Franklin Central Flashes
Shelbyville Semi-state #7
State meet history: 9 appearances (last in 2018), 4 podium finishes (last in 2012)
2018 Results:
New Palestine Sectional: 1st place (22 points)
Rushville Regional: 2nd place (34 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 6th place (168 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 12th place (326 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Brianna Lawson (11) – 18:48 (14th place)
Cami Farmer (10) – 20:02 (59th place)
Audrey Comastri (12) – 20:31 (85th place)
Olivia Keller (10) – 21:07 (116th place)
2019 Outlook: The Flashes qualified for the state meet for the first time in five years, and though they lose three of their typical scorers, FC has a chance to make it two in a row. Junior Brianna Lawson was 37th at the state meet last fall, though she was absent from the track tournament. Due to geography, the Flashes easily make the semi-state. Once they get there, we project they have a chance to make the state finals, though if they do so they will need to develop the depth beyond Lawson. If not, she should qualify individually.
#20 – Crown Point Bulldogs
New Prairie Semi-state #3
State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 2018), 1 podium finish (2013)
2018 Results:
Crown Point Sectional: 1st place (39 points)
Crown Point Regional: 2nd place (72 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 6th place (189 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 22nd place (464 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Jaelyn Burgos (11) – 18:46 (7th place)
Maddie Russin (12) – 18:59 (10th place)
Kloe Kiran (10) – 21:00 (85th place)
Elizabeth Leitel (11) – 21:26 (109th place)
Layla Nowaczyk (10) – 21:47 (126th place)
2019 Outlook: The Bulldogs are a hard team to get a hold on heading into this season. They return two potential All-Staters in junior Jaelyn Burgos and senior Maddie Russin with Burgos finishing 17th in Terre Haute last year and Russin nearly winning the state championship over 800 this past spring after winning in 2018. Last year CP overcame its lack of depth with superior frontrunning, which will need to be the strategy again this season. Both Russin and Burgos had excellent track seasons, though the ‘Dogs look like they’ll need to develop some depth after those two for sure.
#21 – Westfield Shamrocks
Shelbyville Semi-state #8
Noblesville Regional #5
State meet history: 14 appearances (last in 2016), 6 podium finishes (last in 2008), 1 runner-up title (2004), 4 state championships (1998, 2005, 2006, 2007)
2018 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 3rd place (101 points)
Noblesville Regional: 6th place (167 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Noblesville Regional)
Julia Clark (11) – 19:41 (35th place)
Sarah Coates (11) – 19:46 (37th place)
Sophia Brown (11) – 19:50 (41st place)
Kyla Curtis (12) – 19:55 (42nd place)
Morgan Houck (11) – 19:57 (43rd place)
Sydney Clifford (12) – 20:04 (48th place)
2019 Outlook: The Shamrocks bring back six of last year’s team that was eliminated in the regional round, though the 73 point gap to fifth was a mammoth one. Westfield does have a very good pack returning, though the lack of a frontrunner could be tough in a small meet like the regional. A number of the returners also had competitive track seasons, though the overall talent in the area makes it hard to advance individually through the tournament. The same is true for Westfield as a team each year in the fall, though if the ‘Rocks can survive the regional round they could certainly qualify for the state meet.
#22 – Pike Red Devils
Shelbyville Semi-state #9
Noblesville Regional #6
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2018), 3 podium finishes (last in 1987)
2018 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 1st place (47 points)
Noblesville Regional: 3rd place (77 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 5th place (165 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 17th place (363 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Jessica Velez (11) – 19:26 (36th place)
Cara Karmolinski (11) – 19:50 (52nd place)
Katelin Schwab (10) – 20:02 (58th place)
Mary Hodges (10) – 20:45 (96th place)
2019 Outlook: The Red Devils made the state meet for the first time in over thirty years. Despite some serious graduation losses, including the top two, Pike could make it two in a row. In particular, sophomore Mary Hodges had an excellent track season, who finished in second in both the 1600 and 800 in the sectional round. If she continues that success onto the track, Pike could make a return trip to the state meet. Based on the re-alignment, though, the Devils may be out after the second round.
#23 – Warsaw Tigers
New Prairie Semi-state #4
State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2018)
2017 Results:
Culver Academies Sectional: 1st place (34 points)
Culver Academies Regional: 1st place (42 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 5th place (180 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 21st place (449 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Wini Barnett (10) – 19:56 (28th place)
Adree Beckham (11) – 20:03 (36th place)
Ava Knight (10) – 20:28 (54th place)
Amslie Howett (12) – 20:59 (82nd place)
2019 Outlook: The Tigers are a state meet staple with seven appearances in the last eight years. This looks likely to continue with four athletes back from last year’s state finalist team. Sophomore Wini Barnett gives Warsaw a great frontrunner; she was 35th at the state cross country meet and qualified for the state track finals in the 3200. In addition to her, the Tigers got two 5:20 or faster performances from sophomores and another sub 12:00 performance from a junior. These returners certainly give Warsaw enough to make it eight qualifications in nine years.
#24 – Brownsburg Bulldogs
Shelbyville Semi-state #10
State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2017)
2018 Results:
South Putnam Sectional: 1st place (32 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 3rd place (81 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 10th place (233 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Brooke Dixon (12) – 18:40 (10th place)
Alivia Gustrowsky (11) – 20:18 (75th place)
Kiley Vanness (10) – 20:25 (79th place)
Sophie Britton (10) – 20:35 (89th place)
Carly Altier (12) – 20:52 (101st place)
2019 Outlook: Even with losing two key runners last season, the Bulldogs still finished in the top ten of the semi-state. Five of those runners come back, including senior Brooke Dixon who finished tenth in the state meet over 1600 meters and qualified individually in cross country as well. The real difference will be whether Abigail Lynch runs this season. She was All-State as a freshman but did not run her sophomore fall in favor of soccer. The ‘Dogs are probably a middle-of-the-pack team at semi-state without her, but the two low sticks would go a long way to qualifying for the meet as a team if she does participate in the tournament.
#25 – Cardinal Ritter Raiders
Shelbyville Semi-state #11
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
Ben Davis Sectional: 2nd place (59 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 2nd place (64 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 8th place (186 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Mary Anna Wehrle (12) – 18:18 (5th place)
Mariah Wehrle (12) – 18:30 (6th place)
Hannah Wells (11) – 19:37 (44th place)
Jenna Gruber (11) – 20:17 (73rd place)
Sarah Jacob (10) – 21:02 (109th place)
Lauryn Harcus (12) – 24:00 (169th place)
Sophie Konger (10) – 27:03 (179th place)
2019 Outlook: The Raiders have everyone back, including two of the state’s elite distance runners. Mary Anna Wehrle finished 11th in the state cross country meet while her sister Mariah was third in the 1600 while also qualifying in the 3200 where she ran with Mary Anna. With two potentially in the top ten of the entire state, the Raiders could legitimately make the state meet, but they will need to do it out of the toughest semi-state. They were just 18 points away from sixth last season, however. One difference-making newcomer would be huge here.
#26 – Chesterton Trojans
New Prairie Semi-state #5
State meet history: 19 appearances (last in 2018), 7 podium finishes (last in 2003), 3 runner-up titles (1995, 1997, 2003)
2018 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 2nd place (55 points)
New Prairie Regional: 1st place (36 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 3rd place (134 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 10th place (314 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Bailey Ranta (10) – 19:03 (11th place)
Nalani Malackowski (11) – 20:00 (32nd place)
Ashley Craycraft (12) – 20:51 (75th place)
Bree Gentry (10) – 21:13 (90th place)
2019 Outlook: The Trojans bring back four from last year’s top ten state meet team, including sophomore Bailey Ranta who was All-State in cross country and nearly so over 3200 meters in the spring. Beyond her, Chesterton qualified for the state meet in the 4x8 relay. With returners from the state meet in cross country and track, the Trojans should be able to field at least five solid scorers and return to Terre Haute for a third consecutive season.
#27 – Norwell Knights
New Haven Semi-state #7
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 1995)
2018 Results:
Bellmont Sectional: 1st place (44 points)
Marion Regional: 2nd place (63 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 10th place (310 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Sydney Lambert (12) – 19:07 (14th place)
Lauren Bales (11) – 20:24 (55th place)
Kaylee Fuelling (11) – 20:29 (60th place)
Sarah Mahnensmith (11) – 21:25 (114th place)
Macy Morgan (12) – 22:47 (153rd place)
Maeli Cassel (10) – 22:51 (154th place)
Addison Dirig (11) – 23:29 (164th place)
2019 Outlook: The Knights return all seven from a top-ten semi-state team last fall. Senior Sydney Lambert has run in the state meet her previous three years. Junior Sarah Mahnensmith had a sub-par race at the semi-state; her season average performance would have put Norwell in more like seventh place. Both Lambert and Mahnensmith had good track seasons, running 5:08 and 5:23 respectively in the sectional over 1600 meters. Norwell also qualified for the state finals in the 4x8 without using Lambert in the regional round so the Knights have quality depth.
#28 – North Central Panthers
Shelbyville Semi-state #12
Noblesville Regional #7
State meet history: 16 appearances (last in 2008), 6 podium finishes (last in 1994)
2018 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 4th place (103 points)
Noblesville Regional: 8th place (273 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Noblesville Regional)
Ellen Baker (11) – 19:30 (31st place)
Rashiwa Tezera (10) – 19:33 (33rd place)
Gabby Green (12) – 20:30 (55th place)
Adriane Jackson (10) – 20:34 (56th place)
Jane Hirschman (12) – 20:44 (60th place)
Caleigh Brewer (12) – 21:01 (67th place)
2019 Outlook: The Panthers return six of last year’s team. Still a relatively young squad, NC got state meet experience again this spring with another trip to Bloomington on their 4x8. Geography and tournament alignment will always be the biggest opponent for the Panthers. Even as the program improves, advancing beyond the regional is still a tall task. After winning the state title in track in dominating fashion, however, perhaps NC can continue that momentum on the grass.
#29 – Evansville Memorial Knights
Brown County Semi-state #5
State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Evansville Mater Dei Sectional: 1st place (21 points)
Pike Central Regional: 1st place (25 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 3rd place (122 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 23rd place (496 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-State)
Clare Vogel (12) – 18:45 (4th place)
Allison Morphew (12) – 19:02 (9th place)
Isabelle Haseman (12) – 20:07 (46th place)
Taylor Gries (12) – 21:01 (86th place)
Allyson Bennett (12) – 21:41 (110th place)
2019 Outlook: The Knights are on a three-year state meet streak that looks likely to continue, especially with five seniors back from last year’s squad. Senior Clare Vogel, who has run in all three of those meets, provides a great frontrunning presence for the Knight. She was nearly All-State last year. Senior Allison Morphew had a good track season, qualifying for the state finals individually over 800 meters and providing a leg on the Knights’ All-State 4x8. Sophomore Jacqueline Brasseale, who qualified in the state meet in the 1600 but did not run cross country last fall, would be a great addition if she runs this fall.
#30 – Edgewood Mustangs
Brown County Semi-state #6
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 3rd place (52 points)
Pike Central Regional: 3rd place (82 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 6th place (166 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 24th place (500 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-State)
Annalyssa Crain (11) – 17:59 (1st place)
Sarah Foster (11) – 19:39 (23rd place)
Claire Sherfield (10) – 20:49 (76th place)
Emma Bitner (10) – 20:58 (83rd place)
Olivia Werner (11) – 21:42 (111th place)
2019 Outlook: The Mustangs return five from their second consecutive state meet team. This is still a young team so Edgewood could be in the middle of four straight trips to Terre Haute together. That four year run would coincide with Annalyssa Crain’s time in high school, which would be no coincidence as she was sixth in the state meet as a freshman and third as a sophomore. She could very well win individually this season, meaning the Mustangs only need to score four.
#31 – Oak Hill Golden Eagles
New Haven Semi-state #8
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 1992)
2018 Results:
Marion Sectional: 1st place (32 points)
Marion Regional: 1st place (57 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 15th place (354 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Mollie Gamble (12) – 18:49 (7th place)
Selah Jackson (11) – 20:46 (73rd place)
Kinzie Robey (11) – 21:28 (118th place)
Kate Hornocker (11) – 21:55 (136th place)
Grace Geller (10) – 21:58 (138th place)
Ireland Dodson (12) – 22:39 (148th place)
Lauren Marsh (12) – 23:03 (159th place)
2019 Outlook: One of the model small schools in the state, the Golden Eagles have a chance to advance to the state meet for the first time in over twenty-five years. Senior Mollie Gamble, 19th in the state cross country meet in 2018, provides huge value as a frontrunner. To move to the state meet, Oak Hill will need to be better two through five. A frontrunner and four runners between 50th and 60th would probably get the job done.
#32 – Center Grove Trojans
Shelbyville Semi-state #13
State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2011), 1 podium finish (2006)
2018 Results:
Franklin Sectional: 1st place (26 points)
Shelbyville Regional: 1st place (46 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 11th place (339 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)
Hudson Gilstorf (10) – 20:11 (66th place)
Rebecca Stockman (10) – 20:20 (76th place)
Sadie Schemmel (11) – 20:28 (81st place)
Gabrielle Harrell (12) – 20:40 (91st place)
Samant Rasmussen (12) – 21:05 (115th place)
2019 Outlook: The Trojans return five of last year’s seven. Without a true frontrunner but solid depth, this is a team that should easily advance to the semi-state and could finish in the top ten. In a school so large (2528 in 2018-2019, per ihsaa.org) it seems likely too that some of Center Grove’s scorers for this upcoming fall were not on the roster last year.
#33 – Wheeler Bearcats
New Prairie Semi-state #6
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 3rd place (87 points)
New Prairie Regional: 3rd place (104 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 9th place (287 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Hailey Orosz (11) – 19:08 (12th place)
Amaya Turner (11) – 20:13 (43rd place)
Emily Gaylord (11) – 20:45 (68th place)
Emma Hellwege (10) – 21:27 (112th place)
Shelby Stevens (12) – 22:09 (146th place)
Dottie Heurig (11) – 23:12 (171st place)
Sarah Gerbick (11) – 23:21 (174th place)
2019 Outlook: This is one of the more intriguing teams to monitor this season. Still a young team, the Bearcats are projected as one of the six best teams in their semi-state, meaning that this could be the school’s first ever trip to the state finals. Junior Hailey Orosz has mad the trip individually each of the last two seasons, and her presence at the front of this year’s line-up is the biggest cause for optimism. Wheeler will look to parlay a highly successful track season into the team’s best cross country campaign ever: Junior Amaya Turner and sophomore Emma Hellwege both made the state meet individually.
#34 – Fort Wayne Concordia Cadets
New Haven Semi-state #9
West Noble Regional #4
State meet history: 12 appearances (last in 2017), 2 podium finishes (last in 2011), 1 state championship (1983)
2018 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 5th place (143 points)
West Noble Regional: 4th place (122 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 8th place (271 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Ellie Cates (12) – 19:14 (20th place)
Callie Hoover (11) – 19:55 (36th place)
Abigail Mays (11) – 20:26 (58th place)
Gretchen Witmer (11) – 21:20 (106th place)
Rhaya Kaschinske (11) – 21:41 (124th place)
Katelyn Nix (12) – 22:14 (141st place)
Mary Pennekemp (12) – 22:29 (146th place)
2019 Outlook: The Cadets have all seven back from a team that finished two spots away from the state meet last year, though improvement is not guaranteed and advancement is not easy along their path. Concordia has a competitive top trio, including frontrunner Ellie Cates who qualified for the state finals in cross country individually and advanced out of one of the most competitive sectionals in the state in the 1600 and 3200 this past spring. A state meet would require development of the depth, but that is within range this fall.
#35 – Lowell Red Devils
New Prairie Semi-state #7
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2018)
2018 Results:
Crown Point Sectional: 2nd place (43 points)
Crown Point Regional: 1st place (39 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 4th place (143 points)
IHSAA State Finals: 14th place (353 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Karina James (10) – 18:36 (5th place)
Megan Kaczur (11) – 20:53 (77th place)
Alexia Bibakis (12) – 21:15 (95th place)
Brooke Hayden (12) – 21:27 (113th place)
2019 Outlook: Graduation will certainly hurt the Red Devils, though Lowell has developed a culture and program over the last few years that may help to overcome those issues. The Devils have qualified for the state finals three times, all coming in the preceding three seasons. In a weaker semi-state, that could certainly stretch to four. Sophomore Karina James may be among the very top runners in the entire state, and senior Alexia Bibakis showcased improvement in the track season by qualifying for the regional in the 1600.
#36 – Barr-Reeve Vikings
Brown County Semi-state #7
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
South Knox Sectional: 1st place (19 points)
Pike Central Regional: 2nd place (52 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 9th place (232 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-State)
Makenna Pruett (10) – 19:12 (12th place)
Katie Wagler (11) – 20:34 (64th place)
Andrea Graber (11) – 20:47 (70th place)
2019 Outlook: The Vikings bring just three back from their semi-state team last year. It is the beginnings of a potential state meet team, especially with frontrunner Makenna Pruett who qualified individually in her freshman year. This could be a highly competitive team again—the Vikes weren’t that far away from the state meet in 2018—but finding the numbers necessary in such a small school may prove to be difficult.
#37 – Avon Orioles
Shelbyville Semi-state #14
Ben Davis Regional #4
State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2014), 2 podium finishes (last in 2014), 1 runner-up title (2014)
2018 Results:
South Dearborn Sectional: 2nd place (48 points)
Ben Davis Regional: 4th place (104 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 12th place (344 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Isabella Wall (11) – 20:12 (69th place)
Claire Wigger (10) – 20:26 (80th place)
Juliana Wall (11) – 20:45 (97th place)
Katie Risner (12) – 20:58 (104th place)
Maya Abramson (12) – 21:18 (123rd place)
2019 Outlook: The Orioles have been a middle-of-the-pack semi-state team since a string of four straight state finals appearances ended with a runner-up finish in 2014. Barring an unforeseen influx of talent, this year’s group looks similar. Avon has no true frontrunner but instead a solid pack of five back from last season’s seven. The Orioles should be competitive inside their county and sectional.
#38 – Pendleton Heights Arabians
New Haven Semi-state #10
State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2016)
2018 Results:
Pendleton Heights Sectional: 3rd place (74 points)
Delta Regional: 3rd place (101 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 9th place (297 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)
Katie Jones (10) – 20:24 (52nd place)
Catherine Dudley (10) – 20:35 (63rd place)
Laney Ricker (10) – 20:53 (78th place)
Madison McKee (11) – 21:07 (89th place)
Hailee Brunnemer (10) – 21:08 (90th place)
Berkeley Lord (10) – 21:12 (99th place)
2019 Outlook: The Arabians have solid depth, having scored four freshmen last year in a ninth-place semi-state finish. In theory, Pendleton should see a big performance jump from last year among the young squad. They were solid but not spectacular through the track season with sophomores Katie Jones and Laney Ricker advancing out of the sectional in distance events. Another incoming class comparable to last year’s freshmen would certainly set Pendleton up for a competitive stretch.
#39 – Terre Haute South Braves
Brown County Semi-state #8
State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2012)
2018 Results:
Terre Haute North Sectional: 1st place (47 points)
Brown County Regional: 4th place (127 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 10th place (236 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-State)
Lily Barton (12) – 19:18 (17th place)
Micah Peals (10) – 19:53 (34th place)
Ava Rose (10) – 20:49 (75th place)
Kaylee Auterson (11) – 21:02 (87th place)
Trinity Rogers (11) – 21:16 (99th place)
Kaya Tanner (10) – 21:59 (126th place)
2019 Outlook: The Braves certainly have the start to a potential state meet team, something that they haven’t done since 2012. Senior Lily Barton, who has made it to the state finals two of her first three years, gives them that. Sophomore Micah Peals is a serviceable second runner, but the Braves will need to develop better depth for a realistic chance to advance to the state meet. A top ten semi-state finish seems likely.
#40 – Guerin Catholic Golden Eagles
Shelbyville Semi-state #15
Noblesville Regional #8
State meet history: 1 appearance (2016)
2018 Results:
Noblesville Sectional: 5th place (130 points)
Noblesville Regional: 7th place (184 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Noblesville Regional)
Beatriz Perez (11) – 20:09 (49th place)
Raegan Bohbrink (11) – 20:14 (51st place)
Joelle Klavon (10) – 21:18 (73rd place)
Nicole Powers (12) – 21:32 (78th place)
Emma Hubbard (10) – 21:33 (79th place)
2019 Outlook: The Golden Eagles are developing some good depth, and the restructuring of the tournament paths in central Indiana should help push them a round further for the indefinite future. Guerin is in a precarious position, though. Graduation won’t be kind to the Eagles, and the path through the tournament is brutal. The Eagles did get productive track seasons from some girls who did not run cross country last fall. Recruiting them for the upcoming year would make a difference.
#41 – Lake Central Indians
New Prairie Semi-state #8
State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2016), 2 podium finishes (last in 2008), 2 runner-up titles (2007, 2008)
2018 Results:
Hammond Gavit Sectional: 2nd place (37 points)
Crown Point Regional: 3rd place (83 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 10th place (302 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Hannah Roth (12) – 20:25 (52nd place)
Taylor Kosiek (10) – 20:50 (73rd place)
Carly Davis (10) – 21:14 (91st place)
Emily Thomas (11) – 21:14 (93rd place)
Abigail Martisek (11) – 21:25 (107th place)
Lillian Zubeck (12) – 22:36 (160th place)
2019 Outlook: Lake Central has been up and down the last few years since field podium potential teams earlier in the decade. LC is still a young team with six back from a top ten semi-state group in 2018. Though they had no regional qualifiers in either the 1600 or 3200 out of a highly competitive, the Indians did have a state-qualifying 4x8 in the spring. Given that taste of success and pairing it with youth and a large enrollment, LC could be a state meet team this fall.
#42 – Leo Lions
New Haven Semi-state #11
West Noble Regional #5
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 4th place (134 points)
West Noble Regional: 5th place (151 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 14th place (351 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Eden Norris (10) – 19:42 (29th place)
Renee Beaubien (10) – 20:59 (84th place)
Megan Fuchs (12) – 21:22 (109th place)
Lily Kissner (11) – 21:25 (113th place)
Taylor Stine (10) – 21:44 (127th place)
Elizabeth Robinson (12) – 23:21 (162nd place)
Josie Hipskind (12) – 24:36 (176th place)
2019 Outlook: The Lions return all seven but run through a gauntlet of a tournament route that likely culminates in a challenging semi-state. Sophomore Eden Norris was the first finisher not to qualify for the state meet in cross country last fall, and she had a competitive season over 1600 and 3200 meters. Classmate Renee Beaubien looks improved based on spring results and could provide a solid number two for Leo.
#43 – Culver Academy Eagles
New Prairie Semi-state #9
State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2010)
2018 Results:
Culver Academies Sectional: 2nd place (68 points)
Culver Academies Regional: 2nd place (97 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 17th place (391 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Marissa Rivera (12) – 20:05 (38th place)
Julia Arnold (12) – 20:54 (78th place)
Maggie Bialek (11) – 21:21 (103rd place)
Emily Heim (10) – 22:36 (159th place)
2019 Outlook: The Eagles bring back four from last year’s semi-state team, though the New Prairie Semi-state seems pretty open at this point. Senior Marissa Rivera gives Culver a good to runner, though she’s more accomplished as a mid-distance runner rather than in cross country. After her, no Eagles had a very noteworthy spring season, though the nature of Culver Academy makes it possible that a talent influx could change the team’s trajectory at any season.
#44 – Jasper Wildcats
Brown County Semi-state #9
State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2014)
2018 Results:
Jasper Sectional: 2nd place (48 points)
Crawford County Regional: 3rd place (74 points)
Brown County Semi-state: 7th place (199 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-State)
Andi Van Meter (10) – 19:13 (14th place)
Kelsea Skorge (11) – 20:38 (66th place)
Kylie Morton (10) – 20:49 (72nd place)
Amanda Schnell (11) – 21:23 (102nd place)
Mayson VanMeter (12) – 22:25 (144th place)
2019 Outlook: The Wildcats are not an especially deep team but good frontrunning coupled with a talented newcomer or two could help propel Jasper back to the state finals for the first time since 2014. Sophomore Andi VanMeter qualified for the state finals in cross and track as a freshman and should be a serviceable frontrunner this season. The ‘Cats will need steep improvement or a couple freshmen to make a serious run at the state meet, but they aren’t that far away.
#45 – Northridge Raiders
New Haven Semi-state #12
State meet history: 24 appearances (last in 2017), 7 podium finishes (last in 2005), 2 runner-up titles (1993, 2002)
2018 Results:
Elkhart Central Sectional: 3rd place (81 points)
Elkhart Central Regional: 4th place (120 points)
New Haven Semi-state: 16th place (419 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-State)
Alison Bache (12) – 20:25 (56th place)
Clare Ritchie (10) – 21:22 (110th place)
Caitlin Clark (12) – 21:43 (126th place)
Keeton LeBaron (11) – 21:46 (129th place)
Ann Metzger (12) – 21:51 (131st place)
Riley Demeter (11) – 23:12 (161st place)
2019 Outlook: The Raiders bring back all six of their finishers from a semi-state team last fall. It seems likely, given returners and perhaps anticipating a newcomer that can make a difference, that Northridge will again qualify for the semi-state and finish toward the middle. Senior Caitlin Clark and junior Keeton LeBaron have both improved since the semi-state and should give the Raiders production closer to the front of the team’s pack than the end.
#46 – Portage Indians
New Prairie Semi-state #10
State meet history: 19 appearances (last in 2015), 2 podium finishes (last in 1996), 1 runner-up title (1988)
2018 Results:
New Prairie Sectional: 4th place (95 points)
New Prairie Regional: 4th place (114 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 11th place (302 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Morgan McCulloch (11) – 19:09 (13th place)
Brisa Martinez (12) – 21:02 (87th place)
Amanda Purnick (10) – 21:27 (111th place)
Anna Timm (12) – 21:49 (130th place)
Soraya Loubriel (10) – 21:49 (131st place)
Kaitlyn MacKoyvak (12) – 21:51 (132nd place0
2019 Outlook:
Portage returns six of seven from last year’s semi-state team that typically finishes middle of the pack. Junior Morgan McCulloch had an outstanding sophomore campaign, advancing to the state meet individually. The track season was middling based on tournament results with only McCulloch advancing to the regional (plus a 4x800 relay). The semi-state is not particularly strong this year, but it looks like Portage would need some newcomers to help advance a round further this upcoming fall.
#47 – Munster Mustangs
New Prairie Semi-state #11
State meet history: 1 appearance (2007)
2018 Results:
Hammond Gavit Sectional: 1st place (29 points)
Crown Point Regional: 5th place (123 points)
New Prairie Semi-state: 18th place (405 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)
Hannah Robbins (10) – 19:17 (15th place)
Katie Hemingway (11) – 22:40 (162nd place)
Amelia Konstantinopolous (10) – 22:47 (166th place)
2019 Outlook: The Mustangs do not appear highly competitive based on semi-state returners, but the advanced stats portray a borderline state meet team last year hampered by late season injuries. Munster will certainly benefit from senior Maria Blaesing’s return to the line-up. She was the team’s top runner multiple times last fall, won two individual events at the track sectional and qualified for the state meet over 1600 meters this past spring. The combination of Blaesing and sophomore Hannah Robbins, 21st at the state meet as a freshman, gives Munster a great start.
#48 – Bishop Chatard Trojans
Shelbyville Semi-state #16
Noblesville Regional #9
State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2007)
2018 Results:
Brebeuf Sectional: 5th place (115 points)
Noblesville Regional: 9th place (234 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Noblesville Regional)
Mary Bea Sowinski (10) – 19:27 (30th place)
Alex Gantz (10) – 20:04 (47th place)
Fiona Hostettler (12) – 21:00 (66th place)
Mayan Stickel (10) – 21:15 (72nd place)
2019 Outlook: The Trojans have four back from a regional-qualifying team that typically exits after the second round of the tournament based on geographical strength. Track results for Chatard were relatively inconclusive with the Trojans typically concentrating on mid-distance and relays. We project this as a team fighting to make it out of the Brebeuf Sectional again.
#49 – Greensburg Pirates
Shelbyville Semi-state #17
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
South Dearborn Sectional: 2nd place (52 points)
Shelbyville Regional: 4th place (122 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 14th place (374 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Brenner Hanna (11) – 18:49 (16th place)
Emily Mangels (10) – 20:05 (61st place)
Elizabeth Pavy (11) – 21:01 (108th place)
Olivia Colson (11) – 22:09 (147th place)
Mollie Pumphrey (11) – 22:14 (150th place)
Emma Wilmer (11) – 24:01 (170th place)
Sophia Nobbe (10) – 26:33 (178th place)
2019 Outlook: The Pirates have a great frontrunner in Brenner Hanna, a state meet qualifier in both cross and track in both her freshmen and sophomore seasons. Greensburg did qualify for the semi-state last fall and looks likely to do that again. The Pirates aren’t quite as deep as some other teams in the area, but the frontrunning of Hanna helps to negate some of that disadvantage in a bigger meet.
#50 – Batesville Bulldogs
Shelbyville Semi-state #18
State meet history: Never qualified
2018 Results:
South Dearborn Sectional: 1st place (43 points)
Shelbyville Regional: 2nd place (95 points)
Shelbyville Semi-state: 13th place (365 points)
Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-state)
Elizabeth Loichinger (12) – 19:49 (51st place)
Lily Pinckley (10) – 20:01 (56th place)
Trysta Vierling (11) – 21:09 (117th place)
Katie Olsen (10) – 21:28 (127th place)
Sarah Ripperger (10) – 21:29 (128th place)
Maria Lopez (10) – 22:03 (143rd place)
Ava Ralston (11) – 24:25 (173rd place)
2019 Outlook: The Bulldogs have all seven back from last year’s semi-state team, and we project Batesville around the same this fall. The front two of Loichinger and Pinckley, both regional qualifiers in distance events to the track regional, give Batesville a good start. The Bulldogs should contend for their sectional championship, which they have won three of the last five years.