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IR PRESEASON BOYS TEAM RANKINGS!!

Updated: Aug 3

As always, Indiana Runner brings you its top 50 preseason cross country teams. We will release these five at a time through June and July, finishing before the official season starts on August 5.


#1 – Bloomington North Cougars

Mater Dei Regional #1

 

State meet history: 37 appearances (last in 2023), 6 podium finishes (last in 2006), 1 state championship (1980)

 

2023 Results:

Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 1st place (31 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 1st place (88 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 10th place (299 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Mater Dei Regional)

Caleb Winders (11) - 15:39 (5th place)

Caelan D’Onofrio (11) - 15:51 (13th place)

Jacob Mitchell (11) - 16:12 (23rd place)

Jack Holden (12) - 16:14 (27th place)

 

2024 Outlook: This is a clear number one with potential to be one of the best teams in the United States. The Cougars return four back from a team that finished just tenth at the state meet but had the second best performance of any team at the regional level, per inccstats. The track season paints a very optimistic picture. North won its second consecutive state championship in the 4x800 relay, and while there is not a ton of direct correlation between half-mile and cross country prowess, the Cougars saw a plethora of success in longer distances. Sophomore Caelan D’Onofrio and junior Jack Holden both ran 4:16 for 1600 meters outdoors and 9:16 for 3200 meters. Junior Jacob Mitchell has enjoyed the most success in cross country and also had a strong spring in running 4:21 and 9:13. All-time great mid-distance runner Caleb Winders expanded his great range by going 4:13 in the 1600 indoors (plus 1:49 outdoors in the open 800). On top of all the overwhelming star power, senior Caleb Webb will be fully eligible this fall. He ran 9:35 for 3200 meters and should benefit from a return to varsity action after a fall of dominating JV races last season. While the Cougars don’t have the depth of some of their Hamilton County adversaries, two more outside of the five stars did run under 10:00 this past spring.


#2 – Carmel Greyhounds

Brownsburg Regional #1

 

State meet history: 50 appearances (last in 2023), 25 podium finishes (last in 2023), 13 runner-up titles (1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1989, 1992, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2014, 2016, 2019, 2020), 18 state championships (1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1987, 1988, 1993, 1996, 2008, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2023)

 

2023 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional: 1st place (24 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 1st place (34 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 1st place (76 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brownsburg Regional)

Jack Capes (12) - 15:51 (15th place)

Kiefer Jay (12) - 15:58 (18th place)

Jonah Kaul (10) - 16:11 (27th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Greyhounds won the last two state championships in cross country and finished either first or second in 11 of the last 12 state meets. This year’s group has the talent and experience for a three-peat. Senior Jack Capes has scored on the last two title teams, classmate Kiefer Jay ran in cross and track state meets as a junior and sophomore Jonah Kaul was the state’s second-ranked freshman on inccstats. In addition to those three listed returners, junior Carter Buhr finished 63rd at the state cross country meet and had a very good track season (4:26 and 9:44). Sophomore Cooper Szotek could be an X-factor for Carmel. Absent from most cross country results last fall, Szotek ran 4:26 for 1600 and 9:45 for 3200 in addition to providing a leg at the state finals in the 4x8 for the ‘Hounds. This is a group hit by graduation: three seniors finished All-State for Carmel last fall. Still, this is the only school with five returners that ran 9:45 or faster this past spring, and history indicates we might see one Greyhound (or more) make an unexpected jump this fall.

 

#3 – Columbus North Bull Dogs

Mater Dei Regional #2

 

State meet history: 28 appearances (last in 2023), 14 podium finishes (last in 2022), 2 runner-up titles (2001, 2013), 6 state championships (2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2020)

 

2023 Results:

Brown County Sectional: 1st place (31 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 3rd place (101 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 6th place (244 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Mater Dei Regional)

Neal White (12) - 15:49 (12th place)

Jace Works (11) - 16:06 (19th place)

Draven Martinez (12) - 16:17 (31st place)

Logan Vanzant (11) - 16:38 (43rd place)

Jonathon Klaus (12) - 16:43 (48th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Bull Dogs bring back five from a team that was just two points shy of the podium. Senior Neal White gives North a legitimate frontrunner, and the depth might be there to stay in title contention. As a junior, White was 12th at the state cross country meet and ran 9:10 for 3200 meters indoors but was absent from tournament results. Beyond the frontrunner, North had three returners break 4:30 for 1600 meters and four different returners go under 10:00 for 3200 meters. After such a strong spring, it is possible that the Dogs are the deepest team in Indiana, which portends well for this fall.


#4 – Fishers Tigers

Shelbyville Regional #1

 

State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2023), 9 podium finishes (last in 2023), 3 runner-up titles (2015, 2017, 2023), 1 state championship (2007)

 

2023 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 1st place (29 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 1st place (85 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 2nd place (185 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Regional)

Sam Quagliaroli (12) - 15:17 (1st place)

Nate Thomas (11) - 16:23 (27th place)

Bryson Slagle (12) - 16:27 (30th place)

Parker Melling (12) - 16:35 (38th place)

Henry Wood (12) - 16:51 (60th place)

Cooper Mohr (12) - 17:29 (100th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Tigers bring back seven of their top eight based from a team that finished runner-up at the state meet for the third time in the last nine seasons. Senior Sam Quagliaroli was third in Terre Haute, easily the number one returner based on those results. He also ran 9:08 indoors but had his outdoor campaign cut short. Regardless, his frontrunning is a luxury no other title contender will enjoy. Junior Nate Thomas also had an abbreviated track season, ultimately running 4:31 and 9:53, but he finished 50th at the state meet in cross country. Sophomore Reece Torres, 4:35 for 1600 and 9:51 for 3200, could be a difference maker for the Tigers after a great freshman track season. 


#5 – Hamilton Southeastern Royals

Shelbyville Regional #2

 

State meet history: 18 appearances (last in 2023), 5 podium finishes (last in 2023), 2 runner-up titles (2011, 2021)

 

2023 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 3rd place (59 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 2nd place (89 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 5th place (242 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Regional)

Liam Powers (11) - 16:07 (11th place)

Riley Schamp (11) - 16:27 (31st place)

Michael Chalfant (12) - 16:27 (32nd place)

Isaac Smith (10) - 16:42 (45th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Royals return a lot of depth, including their top four from a podium team. In a typical year, this is the exact recipe for a real title contender. Junior Liam Powers (4:21 and 9:32 this spring) is likely the number one runner for Southeastern. This is a pretty young team entering a two-year window of contention. In addition to the listed returners, senior Nick Vega was the number one runner at the state meet and ran 9:40 for 3200 meters this past spring. HSE doesn’t have the security at the top of the lineup from a returning All-Stater, but with six returners under 10:00 from this spring, this may be one of Indiana’s deepest teams. Sophomore Mason Schmitz nearly set a class record this past spring over 800 meters and could be a big contributor for the Royals, though he had an abbreviated fall season in 2023.


#6 – Noblesville Millers

Shelbyville Regional #3

 

State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2023), 2 podium finishes (last in 2022), 1 runner-up title (2010)

 

2023 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 2nd place (41 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 3rd place (104 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 12th place (309 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Regional)

John Libs (11) - 16:18 (23rd place)

Jack Strong (12) - 16:40 (43rd place)

Ronnie Neal (12) - 16:47 (56th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Millers are certainly contenders in theory after an excellent spring in which eight returners ran under 10:00 for 3200 meters. Noblesville has potential frontrunners in junior John Libs (9:27 for 3200 meters) and senior Jack Strong (4:17 for 1600 meters and 9:20 for 3200 meters), and senior Ronnie Neal has flashed potential to be the Millers’ number one runner in the past as well. A great sophomore campaign from Banner Barnes could make the difference between contending for the title and just qualifying for another state meet; Barnes won the freshman races at both the Franklin Central and Carmel Showcase meets and provided a leg on the Millers’ podium 4x8. 


#7 – Brownsburg Bulldogs

Brownsburg Regional #2

 

State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2023), 2 podium finishes (last in 2023)

 

2023 Results:

Brownsburg Sectional: 1st place (40 points)

Ben Davis Regional: 2nd place (99 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 3rd place (218 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brownsburg Regional)

Ian Baker (12) - 15:30 (5th place)

Brandon Haas (11) - 16:05 (24th place)

Tyler Kerzee (12) - 16:16 (31st place)

Eli Balbach (11) - 16:36 (46th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Bulldogs are coming off their best state meet place in school history and could challenge for a third podium finish in six years. Senior Ian Baker, tenth in the state cross country meet and fourth in the 1600, is a legitimate state championship contender heading into this school year. Juniors Brandon Haas (4:22 and 9:25) and Eli Balbach (9:42) made great strides last fall and spring; both will contribute big this coming year. In addition to the aforementioned three, Brownsburg had three other returners under 4:40 for 1600, including senior Tyler Kerzee who ran 4:26 in the spring after scoring for the ‘Dogs in the state cross country meet. A solid freshman class last school year should give a lot of candidates for a big “sophomore jump”, padding Brownsburg’s depth for another podium chase.


#8 – Evansville Reitz Panthers

Mater Dei Regional #3

 

State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2023)

 

2023 Results:

Mater Dei Sectional: 1st place (30 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 4th place (133 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 17th place (381 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Mater Dei Regional)

Jackson Nolan (12) - 15:32 (3rd place)

Sawyer Mossberger (12) - 15:43 (9th place)

Brice Johnson (12) - 16:29 (37th place)

Carter Zieren (10) - 16:32 (39th place)

Caleb Meritt (12) - 17:00 (59th place)

Will Dierlam (10) - 17:15 (69th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Panthers have a bonafide frontrunner in senior Jackson Nolan, 19th in the cross country state meet and 9:06 over 3200 meters in the track season. In addition to him, senior Sawyer Mossberger ran 9:38 for 3200 this spring and sophomore Carter Zieren went 4:25 for 1600 meters. Based on returners, Reitz is likely one short from a strong chance at the podium. That could come with a big improvement from one returner or a newcomer, though based on middle school results we don’t project that this fall. Nevertheless, the Panthers are coming off their best season ever (by far) and could be substantially better this fall.


#9 – Warsaw Tigers

New Haven Regional #1

 

State meet history: 14 appearances (last in 2023), 1 podium finish (2012)

 

2023 Results:

Manchester Sectional: 1st place (36  points)

New Haven Regional: 2nd place (101 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 11th place (307 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Jackson Gackenheimer (11) - 15:56 (5th place)

Tyler Mimnaugh (12) - 16:11 (12th place)

Clark Meridew (12) - 16:51 (16:51 (43rd place)

Rick Orr (12) - 17:00 (74th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Tigers bring back four of their team that finished 11th at the state finals and with those project at about the same level. Junior Jackson Gackenheimer is a likely All-Stater; he was 27th at last fall’s state finals and ran 9:14 over 3200 meters this spring. Seniors Clark Meridew and Tyler Mimnaugh could give Warsaw three frontrunners on a regional level. Mimnaugh ran 9:27 over 3200 meters and Meridew covered 1600 meters in 4:28 along with finishing All-Regional. The Tigers had all four returners well under 10:00 this spring. This is a very deep year in the team race, and while Warsaw has the start of a potential podium team, it will take at least one more based on returners.


#10 – Franklin Central Flashes

Shelbyville Regional #4

 

State meet history: 12 appearances (last in 2023), 4 podium finishes (last in 2006), 2 runner-up titles (2000, 2006), 1 state championships (1998)

 

2023 Results:

Mt. Vernon Sectional: 1st place (38 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 5th place (146 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 18th place (383 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Regional)

Evan Farmer (12) - 15:54 (5th place)

Justin Reedus (11) - 16:33 (34th place)

Ian Tharp (10) - 16:48 (57th place)

Andrew Wright (11) - 16:51 (59th place)

Emilio Leal (12) - 16:56 (57th place)

 

2024 Outlook: With a great senior class, the Flashes are on a podium drought that they could end this year. FC brings back five of seven, and senior Evan Farmer was a true frontrunner last year. Junior Justin Reedus had an excellent track season in going 9:33. Sophomore Ian Tharp was a scorer in most of the cross country season and had a solid showing in track as well. Senior Emilio Leal has been a consistent contributor to the Flashes through high school; his contributions this spring could be very decisive to FC’s fate in terms of state meet placing. This fall might be too early to make a difference on the state level, but the Flashes should have a good incoming ninth-grade class after winning the big school division of the middle school state championship.


#11 – Valparaiso Vikings

New Prairie Regional #1

 

State meet history: 49 appearances (last in 2023), 20 podium finishes (last in 2017), 1 runner-up title (2005), 6 state championships (1966, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1997, 2000)

 

2023 Results:

Chesterton Sectional: 1st place (30 points)

New Prairie Regional: 1st place (115 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 14th place (362 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Semi-State)

Mason Nobles (12) - 16:06 (8th place)

Sammy Sienkowski (12) - 16:06 (9th place)

Otto Leake (11) - 16:42 (23rd place)

Thomas Krueger (12) - 16:45 (28th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Vikings brought just two back from a team that ran in the state finals the year before but easily qualified last year, the school’s 15th appearance in the last 16 seasons. The frontrunning duo of Mason Nobles and Sammy Sienkowski head into their senior years, both having run on three different state-qualifying teams and both coming off stellar track seasons. Each could finish in the top 25 at the state meet this fall. Junior Otto Leake is a potential frontrunner as well after running 9:42 for 3200 meters in the spring. This is a solid team that will need to find a fifth runner to take a shot at the podium.


#12 – Northridge Raiders

New Prairie Regional #2

 

State meet history: 16 appearances (last in 2023), 4 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 state championship (2004)

 

2023 Results:

Elkhart Sectional: 1st place (33 points)

New Prairie Regional: 2nd place (119 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 13th place (356 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Marc Hernandez (12) - 16:25 (18th place)

Baylor Miller (11) - 16:33 (20th place)

Joe Keyser (12) - 16:43 (25th place)

Xavier Miller (11) - 16:50 (34th place)

Brady Hicks (11) - 17:32 (73rd place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Raiders have a great foundation, returning their top four from a team that was 13th at the state meet. In total, Northridge has eight state meet appearances on the roster with junior Baylor Miller leading the way after finishing 51st and 52nd the last two years. On top of cross country success, junior Xavier Miller nearly finished on the 1600 podium after running 4:20 at the state track meet. Sophomore Milo Bullaro did not run in the cross country tournament as a freshman, but he ran 4:28 for 1600 meters. If he can join the top four, the Raiders could challenge for New Prairie supremacy and might be able to land on the podium. 


#13 – Mt. Vernon (Fortville) Marauders

Shelbyville Regional #5

 

State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2015)

 

2023 Results:

Mt. Vernon Sectional: 3rd place (62 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 7th place (209 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Regional)

Xaiden Jenson (12) - 16:44 (49th place)

Brayden Strantz (12) - 16:44 (50th place)

Caden Cassada (11) - 16:46 (54th place)

Austin Baugh (11) - 16:59 (71st place)

Cooper Hunziker (11) - 17:11 (81st place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Marauders were shy of the state meet last year and project short of it (44.1% chance to quality, per inccstats.com) this fall. The path through the Shelbyville Regional will be very tough, but our committee (of one) really likes Mt. Vernon’s chances. The Marauders had an excellent spring: five returners ran 4:31 or faster over 1600 meters, highlighted by senior Ahmed Saleh’s 4:17 (and state podium finish), with five under 10:00 for 3200 meters. Mt. Vernon’s track stats usually correlate with a fringe podium team, not a borderline podium team; in the Shelbyville Regional, those may be one in the same, however.


#14 – North Central Panthers

Brownsburg Regional #3

 

State meet history: 32 appearances (last in 2023), 11 podium finishes (last in 2010), 2 runner-up titles (1967, 1968), 1 state championship (1969)

 

2023 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional: 3rd place (93 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 4th place (137 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 22nd place (456 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Noblesville Regional)

Grant Hostetler (11) - 16:03 (22nd place)

Gus Phillips (11) - 16:37 (48th place)

Keegan Terry (10) - 16:37 (49th place)

Max Frank (11) - 17:18 (98th place)

Isaac Fox (12) - 17:42 (122nd place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Panthers boast an abundance of young talent that could power the program to a run of state finals in the newly revamped state tournament. Last year’s group made it to Terre Haute pretty easily and the track season showcased even more potential. Sophomore Keegan Terry was one of the best freshman in the state, running 4:22 for 1600 and 9:42 for 3200 meters. Three other underclassmen ran under 4:45. The potential is there, not necessarily to challenge for the state championship this fall but possibly as a fringe podium in the near future, potentially very near.


#15 – Fort Wayne Homestead Spartans

New Haven Regional #2

 

State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2019)

 

2023 Results:

Woodlan Sectional: 2nd place (47 points)

New Haven Regional: 9th place (228 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Aiden Waugh (12) - 16:53 (47th place)

Cooper Knoblauch (11) - 16:55 (51st place)

Joshua Rodgers (12) - 16:59 (61st place)

Aaron Lazoff (10) - 17:16 (74th place)

Ryan Yoder (12) - 17:32 (92nd place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Spartans had a very likely state meet team that fell short after availability injuries got the better of them in October. Five of the seven who ran in the regional are back, but Homestead should benefit even more from getting back those who could not race in the tournament. Senior Evan McMahon, the team’s clear number one runner, had an excellent spring in going 4:22 and 9:47. Senior Aiden Waugh also ran under 4:30 for 1600 meters and junior Cooper Knoblauch broke 10:00 for 3200. The Spartans may also get some sophomore jumps from last year’s great freshman class with two ninth-graders under 4:40 for 1600 meters.


#16 – Center Grove Trojans

Shelbyville Regional #6

 

State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2023), 2 podium finishes (last in 2022)

 

2023 Results:

Shelbyville Sectional: 1st place (38 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 4th place (119 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 15th place (364  points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Semi-State)

Cameron Cox (11) - 16:15 (19th place)

Curtis Williams (12) - 16:45 (53rd place)

Michael Leavitt (11) - 17:09 (80th place)

Ethan Holbrook (10) - 17:16 (85th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Trojans lose two great frontrunners to graduation but return enough to get back to the state finals through the most difficult path. Center Grove has made five state meets in school history, all in the last five years. Through any other regional, the Trojans would be a lock for another state meet. Senior Mason Vrshek could be a key contributor in cross country after running 4:25 and 9:59 this track season, a huge improvement over the previous season. That would be huge for the Trojans’ chances.


#17 – Penn Kingsmen

New Prairie Regional #3

 

State meet history: 14 appearances (last in 2023), 1 podium finish (1999)

 

2023 Results:

New Prairie Sectional: 1st place (41 points)

New Prairie Regional: 3rd place (123 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 9th place (290 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Matthew Givens (12) - 16:31 (19th place)

Kush Grewal (11) - 16:51 (37th place)

Jack Ryan (12) - 16:54 (38th place)

Tanner Mammolenti (12) - 17:21 (62nd place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Kingsmen have four back from a top-ten team that could finish around the same this year. Penn doesn’t project a real frontrunner, but the Kingsmen have great depth: six returners ran under 4:40 for 1600 meters and under 10:10 for 3200 meters. Penn has made the last four state meets, and a fifth seems very likely through the New Prairie Regional. The Kingsmen also haven’t finished on the podium in this century, a drought that seems likely (but not certain) to continue.


#18 – Zionsville Eagles

Brownsburg Regional #4

 

State meet history: 12 appearances (last in 2023), 2 podium finishes (last in 2023), 1 runner-up title (2022)

 

2023 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional: 2nd place (43 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 3rd place (113 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 4th place (232 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brownsburg Regional)

Jack Turnbull (12) - 15:33 (6th place)

Elijah Weaver (11) - 16:28 (40th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Eagles are coming off the two best seasons, by far, in school history. Graduation will certainly take its toll, but senior Jack Turnbull helps Zionsville get off to a great start. He was All-State last fall and twice a state finalist in the 1600. Junior Elijah Weaver is the only other returner from Zionsville’s podium team of 2023. Senior Nolan White broke 10:00 over 3200 meters, and senior John Bailey has been great over 800 meters for years so could be ready for cross country contributions. The Eagles will certainly take a step back from title contenders but should find their way back to Terre Haute.

 

 #19 – Fort Wayne Carroll Chargers

New Haven Regional #3

 

State meet history: 14 appearances (last in 2023), 5 podium finishes (last in 2016), 2 runner-up titles (2008, 2012), 1 state championship (2016)

 

2023 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 2nd place (58 points)

New Haven Regional: 5th place (188 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 25th place (594 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Aiden Borbiev (11) - 16:28 (27th place)

Zaraab Habib (11) - 16:47 (37th place)

Cohen Brunson (10) - 16:55 (54th place)

Taegan McKinney (10) - 17:37 (103rd place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Chargers qualified for the state meet, an expected trip for a team that with a sophomore and two freshmen at the top of the line-up at the state finals. Carroll should make it back to the state meet with this group through the least treacherous path to Terre Haute. With six back who ran under 4:50 for 1600 meters, the Chargers have plenty of depth and with a very young roster perhaps one or two will have a breakout fall and progress more quickly than projected.

 

#20 – Wabash Apaches

New Haven Regional #4

 

State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2023)

 

2023 Results:

Marion Sectional: 2nd place (52 points)

New Haven Regional: 3rd place (142 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 24th place (538 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Jonas Church (12) - 16:38 (30th place)

Isaiah Cordes (11) - 16:39 (31st place)

Brett Shull (11) - 16:47 (36th place)

Jace Bullins (12) - 16:54 (50th place)

Ezra Church (10) - 17:07 (69th place)

Chase Howard (12) - 18:15 (170th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Apaches qualified for their first state meet this century and bring back six of those seven. A repeat trip looks likely. This was a pack-running team without any true frontrunner, though sophomore Ezra Church might have had the best track season of any team member and could break out this fall. Junior Caidan Burchett, 4:48 over 1600 meters in the spring, has not run cross country in the past but could certainly help bolster Wabash’s depth if he runs this fall.


#21 – Elkhart Lions

New Prairie Regional #4

 

State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 1971), school recently consolidated

 

2023 Results:

Elkhart Sectional: 4th place (106 points)

New Prairie Regional: 11th place (271 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Aaron Richter (12) - 15:48 (3rd place)

Max Malloy (12) - 15:52 (4th place)

Ernest McClain (12) - 17:41 (82nd place)

Jackson Ezzell (11) - 17:47 (87th place)

Trevor Becker (10) - 18:27 (147th place)

Peyton Shanholt (11) - 18:28 (150th place)

Nathan Sharp (11) - 18:53 (180th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Lions are a very interesting team moving into this fall. They have two top-tier frontrunners and can essentially score three every meet. In addition to the senior duo of Aaron Richter and Max Malloy, Elkhart got great track seasons from junior Jackson Ezzell and sophomore Trevor Becker (both 4:33 for 1600 meters). With perhaps the top duo in the state, the Lions certainly have the talent and potential to advance back to the state finals for the first time since its recent consolidation.


#22 – Lake Central Indians

New Prairie Regional #5

 

State meet history: 17 appearances (last in 2023), 2 podium finishes (last in 1983), 1 runner-up title (1982)

 

2023 Results:

Highland Sectional: 1st place (45 points)

New Prairie Regional: 4th place (181 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 21st place (446 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Ben Perschon (11) - 16:24 (17th place)

Evan Smith (12) - 17:09 (48th place)

Kristopher Garner (12) - 17:21 (61st place)

Patrick Ryan (12) - 17:57 (108th place)

 

2024 Outlook: Lake Central’s season was a tale of two halves last fall. Early, LC looked like a potential podium team, but by October barely hung on to advance to Terre Haute. This year’s team does not have quite the same ceiling as last year’s group, but there is definitely potential there. Junior Ben Perschon is a possible All-Stater, despite an abbreviated track season that culminated in relay duties. Senior Evan Smith should also be a big difference-maker. He ran 9:32 for 3200 meters in the spring. With those two, LC has a good start, though the New Prairie Regional projects to be tougher than recent years.


#23 – Castle Knights

Mater Dei Regional #4

 

State meet history: 1 appearance (2000)

 

2023 Results:

Mater Dei Sectional: 2nd place (48 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 6th place (252 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Mater Dei Regional)

Dane Kramer (11) - 16:13 (25th place)

Nathan Whitacre (10) - 17:04 (63rd place)

Deacon Sawyer (12) - 17:21 (79th place)

Charles Smith (10) - 17:48 (114th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Knights feel more than due for the state finals, and this season presents a very strong chance to break a decades-long drought. Castle was sixth, albeit many points back from advancing, in the Mater Dei Regional last year. Heavy graduation hits among many of southern Indiana’s frequent flyers could open up a spot this year. The Knights don’t have any surefire frontrunners, though junior Dane Kramer advanced to the state meet as an individual in cross country and senior Deacon Sawyer ran 4:27 for 1600 meters. In addition to those two, Castle had a very good freshman class last school year.


#24 – Fort Wayne Concordia Cadets

New Haven Regional #5

 

State meet history: 10 appearances (last in 2023), 3 podium finishes (last in 2019), 1 state championship (2019)

 

2023 Results:

Woodlan Sectional: 1st place (22 points)

New Haven Regional: 1st place (85 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 7th place (253 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Will Schlegel (12) - 16:12 (14th place)

Hunter Panning (11) - 16:18 (19th place)

Cillian Hoover (12) - 17:19 (75th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Cadets very nearly made an unexpected ascension of the podium last fall. Though graduation will take a toll, Concordia certainly has a foundation to make it nine state meets in ten years. Junior Hunter Panning and senior Will Schlegel, 56th and 69th at the state meet, should be two of the top runners in the New Haven Regional. Both also ran under 9:50 in the 3200. The Cadets clearly have work to do along the rest of the line-up, but that has not been an issue in the past. 


#25 – West Lafayette Red Devils

Brownsburg Regional #5

 

State meet history: 19 appearances (last in 2022), 5 podium finishes (last in 2015), 1 runner-up title (1963) 2 state championships (1964, 2014)

 

2023 Results:

Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 3rd place (63 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 6th place (249 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brownsburg Regional)

Ryan Miloudi (12) - 15:55 (16th place)

Jack Chandler (12) - 16:50 (62nd place)

Luca Reynolds (10) - 16:56 (70th place)

Zach Johnson (11) - 17:16 (95th place)

Lincoln Miller (12) - 17:27 (108th place)

Ryan Kelley (10) - 17:55 (147th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Red Devils have made the state meet just once in the last four years, but they certainly have a team that could advance with six back from last year’s team that finished sixth. Senior Ryan Miloudi should provide adequate frontrunning. He was 46th at the 2023 state cross country meet and ran 4:24 and 9:40 in the track season. Senior Jack Chandler and freshman Luca Reynolds also displayed great improvement over the spring as well. If those three are around 16:00 at the regional, the Devils would be in great shape to qualify for the state meet.


#26 – Crown Point Bulldogs

New Prairie Regional #6

 

State meet history: 29 appearances (last in 2021), 4 podium finishes (last in 1981), 3 runner-up titles (1975, 1976, 1977)

 

2023 Results:

Crown Point Sectional: 3rd place (75 points)

New Prairie Regional: 8th place (223 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Jacob Metzger (11) - 16:33 (21st place)

Blythe Dieck (11) - 17:18 (58th place)

Jacob Gernek (11) - 17:48 (91st place)

Caleb Kotynski (11) - 17:49 (95th place)

Jackson Zona (10) - 18:17 (134th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Bulldogs could be very competitive this fall and potentially a top-ten team in 2025 with no seniors in this year’s projected line-up. Junior Jake Metzger, an individual qualifier to the state cross country meet, backed up a solid fall season with a great spring in running 4:31 and 9:44. In addition to four juniors who got good experience in 2023, CP had three freshmen under five minutes last track season. Sophomore Jackson Zona headlines that group and could give the ‘Dogs a frontrunning duo with Metzger.

 

#27 – Avon Orioles

Brownsburg Regional #6

 

State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2023)

 

2023 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 2nd place (61 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 5th place (184 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 20th place (419 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brownsburg Regional)

Zach Risner (12) - 15:44 (9th place)

Gavin Thornberry (12) - 17:03 (79th place)

Mitchell Ford (11) - 17:22 (104th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Orioles snapped a four-year drought from the state meet and may gain their first cross country All-Stater in school history this fall after senior Zach Risner finished 30th in 2023. Avon could be starting another state meet streak after the restructuring. Beyond Risner, the O’s flashed potential from younger athletes that didn’t race in the tournament. Junior Colin Packer broke 10:00 for 3200 meters and three freshmen went under 4:45 and 10:20 in the spring. Of all of the teams looking to contend for the fifth advancing spot from the Brownsburg Regional, Avon had by far the best track season from returners.


#28 – Portage Indians

New Prairie Regional #7

 

State meet history: 46 appearances (last in 2016), 22 podium finishes (last in 1999), 7 runner-up titles (1973, 1981, 1988, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1998), 4 state championships (1974, 1984, 1992, 1999)

 

2023 Results:

Chesterton Sectional: 2nd place (46 points)

New Prairie Regional: 6th place (208 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Shane Conroy (12) - 15:45 (2nd place)

Landon Miller (12) - 17:16 (55th place)

Joshua Bosstel (12) - 17:30 (70th place)

Aiden Farley (12) - 17:52 (98th place)

Weston Stillwell (11) - 17:53 (100th place)

Ethan Walsh (11) - 17:56 (108th place)

 

2024 Outlook: Portage was one place back from the state meet and returns six of seven, including frontrunner senior Shane Conroy who was sixth at last year’s state cross country meet and sixth in the 3200 at 9:02. This is certainly a team that will be in the mix, especially with scoring four each race. Beyond Conroy, junior Weston Stillwell had a very good track season where he broke 10:00 over 3200 meters. In addition to those two, three more seniors as projected scorers bodes well for Portage in a make-or-break year to try and end a state meet drought.


#29 – LaPorte Slicers

New Prairie Regional #8

 

State meet history: 24 appearances (last in 2023), 2 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 runner-up title (2007)

 

2023 Results:

New Prairie Sectional: 2nd place (43 points)

New Prairie Regional: 5th place (185 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 16th place (378 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Hunter Quadlin (12) - 17:04 (43rd place)

Liam Lilly (12) - 17:06 (44th place)

Charles Tonagel (12) - 17:31 (71st place)

Jack Miskowicz (10) - 18:22 (138th place)

Evan Howes (10) - 18:59 (185th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Slicers have qualified for three consecutive trips to the state finals and could get into a good position to earn a fourth this fall. The trio of seniors Hunter Quadlin (4:24/9:49) and Liam Lilly (4:27/9:44) along with sophomore Jack Mikowicz (4:31 and 9:50) give LaPorte one of the best trios in the New Prairie Regional. In addition to those three very promising track seasons, senior Charles Tongel scored in every meet for the Slicers last year. LaPorte has a combined eight appearances in the state cross country meet on the roster. 


#30 – Floyd Central Highlanders

Mater Dei Regional #5

 

State meet history: 26 appearances (last in 2023), 1 podium finish (1991), 1 state championship (1991)

 

2023 Results:

Crawford County Sectional: 1st place (36 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 2nd place (94 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 8th place (254 points)

 

Returning Runners:  (Based on results from the Mater Dei Regional)

Luca Cirincione (12) - 15:35 (4th place)

Noah Nifong (12) - 15:45 (11th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Highlanders had its best team in over thirty years last fall, nearly ending on the podium. Just three return from the seven that finished at the state meet, though seniors Luca Cirincione and Noah Nifong were both in the top forty. Both had solid track seasons, competing in the state finals. Could two frontrunners paired with a high enrollment and good tradition propel Floyd to a seventh consecutive trip to the state finals? Possibly, but the ‘Landers would need to develop its depth pretty substantially to do so.


#31 – Edgewood Mustangs

Mater Dei Regional #6

 

State meet history: 1 appearance (2004)

 

2023 Results:

Brown County Sectional: 2nd place (74 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 8th place (277 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Mater Dei Regional)

Zane Meyer (12) - 15:58 (15th place)

Jackson Klinger (12) - 16:19 (32nd place)

Carson Sigman (12) - 17:20 (78th place)

Landen Beauchamp (12) - 17:54 (123rd place)

Tucker McCarty (12) - 18:18 (144th place)

Darrin Norris (10) - 18:22 (148th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Mustangs have six back from last year’s tournament group, including two potential frontrunners who could propel them to the state meet for the first time in twenty years. Seniors Jackson Klinger and Zane Miller, 9:32 and 9:36 over 3200 meters in the spring, really boost Edgewood’s chances. Beyond those two, the depth might be there in a regional that should be easier to navigate than last year. With five seniors at the top of the line-up, this could be now or never (relatively speaking) for the Mustangs. 


#32 – Jasper Wildcats

Mater Dei Regional #7

 

State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2022)

 

2023 Results:

Jasper Sectional: 1st place (44 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 7th place (261 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Mater Dei Regional)

Calvin Seitz (10) - 15:41 (7th place)

Kyle Woehler (12) - 17:15 (70th place)

Max Kline (12) - 17:28 (84th place)

Cameron Crawford (12) - 17:51 (119th place)

Garrett Gates (10) - 19:21 (197th place)

Oliver Bez (10) - 19:31 (205th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Wildcats have an incredible foundation  with sophomore Calvin Seitz after he finished ninth at the state meet as a freshman and ran 4:22 and 9:23 in the spring. Jasper was seventh in the regional, not all that close to advancing, and projects around the same this fall, though the last spot to state seems more attainable than the previous season. Outside of Seitz, next year’s team is pretty senior-heavy so this may present Jasper with the best chance to get to Terre Haute in the next few years, depending on what is coming up through the junior high ranks.

 

#33 – Silver Creek Dragons

Mater Dei Regional #8

 

State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2015), 1 podium finish (1990), 1 runner-up title (1990)

 

2023 Results:

Crawford County Sectional: 3rd place (60 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 14th place (410 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Mater Dei Regional)

Brady Day (11) - 16:42 (46th place)

Trey Smith (10) - 17:10 (67th place)

Alex Smith (11) - 17:41 (102nd place)

Ryan Graham (11) - 17:44 (107th place)

Logan James (11) - 18:55 (180th place)

Lucas Dognaux (10) - 21:00 (242nd place)

 

2024 Outlook: With six back from last year’s tournament group, none of them seniors, the Dragons have a pretty wide window to contend for advancement to the state finals. Based on track results, Silver Creek is progressing very well. Sophomore Trey Smith ran 4:27 for 1600 meters and 9:57 for 3200 meters with three other teammates also under 4:50 in the 1600. The Dragons also got a taste of the state meet by qualifying in the 4x800 relay. Silver Creek will look to make it consecutive seasons to the state finals with its young core.

 

#34 – Westview Warriors

New Prairie Regional #9

 

State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2018), 3 podium finishes (last in 2017)

 

2023 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 3rd place (87 points)

New Prairie Regional: 12th place (271 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Noah Bontrager (11) - 15:59 (5th place)

Daniel Yoder (10) - 17:10 (49th place)

Cole Bontrager (12) - 17:40 (80th place)

Evan Beechy (10) - 19:41 (217th place)

Lucas Mullet (10) - 19:44 (220th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Warriors might score four runners at each meet with junior Noah Bontrager, who is an individual state championship contender after starting high school with two All-State finishes in cross country and a 9:01 over 3200 meters this spring. Westview could get some help from its incoming runners after finishing third at the middle school state championship in the small school division. Three of those incoming freshmen could provide scoring help, though the Warriors are more likely a year away from contending for advancement to the state meet in a New Prairie Regional of increasing strength.


#35 – Goshen RedHawks

New Prairie Regional #10

 

State meet history: 10 appearances (last in 2022), 1 podium finish (1976)

 

2023 Results:

Elkhart Sectional: 2nd place (66 points)

New Prairie Regional: 7th place (214 points)

 

Returning Runners:  (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Dorian Diaz (11) - 16:08 (10th place)

Levi Schlegel (10) - 16:57 (40th place)

Peter Moser (12) - 17:54 (105th place)

Jose Perez (11) - 18:35 (157th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The RedHawks lost a three-year state meet streak last fall and could use some help getting a new streak started. Junior Dorian Diaz, 41st at the state finals a year ago, gives Goshen a great start. He also ran 4:28 over the 1600 while sophomore Levi Schlegel covered the same distance in 4:41. Beyond those two, the ‘Hawks will need to do a lot of development along the roster to return the state finals.


#36 – Guerin Catholic Golden Eagles

Shelbyville Regional #7

 

State meet history: 1 appearance (2020)

 

2023 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 4th place (131 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 8th place (266 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Regional)

Luke Moster (12) - 16:09 (14th place)

John Constantino (11) - 17:26 (96th place)

Hunter Kinzle-Gorman (11) - 17:27 (98th place)

Sean Laferriere (10) - 17:42 (121st place)

Luke Ross (12) - 17:43 (122nd place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Golden Eagles had a team qualify for an unlikely state meet appearance in 2020 and is in a bit of a transitional phase now. Guerin did have a strong freshman class, and senior Luke Moster gives the Eagles frontrunning and experience after qualifying individually for state and finishing 66th two years in a row. Moster also covered 3200 meters in 9:40 in the track season. In addition to these five returners back from an eighth-place finish in the Shelbyville Regional, sophomore Brady Linn had a breakout season and could factor into the scoring this fall. The path to the state meet doesn’t get any easier this fall, however.


#37 – Indian Creek Braves

Shelbyville Regional #8

 

State meet history: Never qualified

 

2023 Results:

Shelbyville Sectional: 2nd place (84 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 12th place (351 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Regional)

Luke Neibert (12) - 16:15 (20th place)

Noah Greenwood (11) - 16:29 (33rd place)

Lukas Hogan (12) - 17:35 (109th place)

Henry Fleetwood (12) - 17:35 (111th place)

Andrew Elsbury (12) - 18:37 (183rd place)

Logan Ankney (12) - 18:52 (200th place)

Tyler Lower (11) - 20:43 (238th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Braves enter the season in a unique position. They have two returning individual state meet qualifiers in senior Luke Neibert and junior Noah Greenwood, both of whom also broke 10:00 for 3200 meters in the track season. Indian Creek also returns all seven of its runners from last year’s tournament. In addition, the Braves might have one of the best incoming freshman classes of any school in the state, regardless of enrollment. Out of any other regional, the Braves could be a more serious contender for the state meet, especially given the potential of the newcomers. Advancement from Shelbyville will be challenging, and Indian Creek’s timelines just may not match up. 


#38 – Terre Haute South Braves

Brownsburg Regional #7

 

State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 2016), 1 podium finish (2013)

 

2023 Results:

Terre Haute North Sectional: 1st place (38 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 10th place (298 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brownsburg Regional)

Aiden Miller (10) - 16:46 (59th place)

Braeden Chastain (11) - 17:11 (88th place)

Owen Frazier (11) - 17:14 (90th place)

Braden Fears (12) - 17:45 (126th place)

Micah Jarvis (10) - 17:59 (156th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Braves return five from a top ten team at the regional. While THS loses its frontrunner, this could be one of the deeper teams in the Brownsburg Regional. Sophomore Aiden Miller could develop into a strong number one for the Braves after running 9:58 over 3200 meters in the spring. In addition to Miller, the Braves had another five boys under 4:50 in the track season. This is a young group with a shot at the state meet over the next couple of years.


#39 – Columbia City Eagles

New Haven Regional #6

 

State meet history: 1 appearance (2019)

 

2023 Results:

Manchester Sectional: 3rd place (62 points)

New Haven Regional: 6th place (193 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Gavin Good (12) - 16:03 (7th place)

Daniel Mullett (12) - 16:43 (33rd place)

William Schmitt (10) - 17:31 (91st place)

Matthew Peppler (10) - 17:41 (108th place)

Logan Copeland (11) - 18:01 (144th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Eagles were agonizingly close to their second state meet in school history, and despite taking some graduation hits this is a team that could advance this year. Senior Gavin Good, an individual qualifier to the state meet last fall, looks like a potential All-Stater this year after running 4:19 and 9:29 in the track season. Senor Daniel Mullett also had an excellent track season with 4:33 and 9:49 performances. Those are two bonafide frontrunners in the New Haven Regional, and Columbia City might have the rest of a team to avenge last year’s heartbreak.


#40 – Plainfield Quakers

Brownsburg Regional #8

 

State meet history: Never qualified

 

2023 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 5th place (128 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 12th place (356 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brownsburg Regional)

Jakob Nehring (12) - 15:49 (14th place)

Ryan Evans (10) - 17:01 (76th place)

Nolan Birke (12) - 17:09 (84th place)

Zac Siddons (10) - 18:13 (170th place)

Jackson Hayes (10) - 18:23 (182nd place)

Zane Deugan (10) - 18:29 (188th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Quakers are an interesting team after running four freshmen in last year’s tournament. Senior Jakob Nehring (59th at the state finals in cross country last fall) and Nolan Birke (4:32 for 1600 meters this past spring) give Plainfield a good base. Developing this promising sophomore class could prove to be the difference between finishing in the middle of the regional and pushing for the school’s first qualification to the state finals.


#41 – Ben Davis Giants

Brownsburg Regional #9

 State meet history: 24 appearances (last in 1998), 7 podium finishes (last in 1996), 1 runner-up title (1996), 4 state championships (1961, 1989, 1990, 1995)

 

2023 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 4th place (125 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 14th place (367 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brownsburg Regional)

Aboubakar Ibrahim (11) - 16:20 (36th place)

Aaron Perez-Tovias (12) - 17:21 (101st place)

Elroe Tafese (11) - 17:25 (107th place)

Finan Doyle (12) - 17:28 (109th place)

Tesfaldet Hailu (11) - 17:48 (131st place)

Henos Haile (12) - 18:15 (174th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Giants have the recipe for a state meet team with a frontrunner and good depth coming off a solid spring. Junior Aboubakar Ibrahim very nearly made the state finals in his first cross country season in 2023 and had an excellent track season that included 1:55 and 4:21 races in the tournament. Beyond Ibrahim, Ben Davis has the runners to make a push for the state meet with four returners between 4:36 and 4:45 all of which also ran solid times over 3200 meters. Ibrahim developing into a potential All-State runner and good progression through the rest of the line-up could make the Giants a contender to advance to Terre Haute.


#42 – Wapahani Raiders

New Haven Regional #7

 State meet history: Never qualified

 

2023 Results:

Delta Sectional: 1st place (58 points)

New Haven Regional: 7th place (200 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Caleb Aber (12) - 16:48 (40th place)

Mason Tomboni (11) - 16:51 (44th place)

Preston McCorkhill (11) - 17:21 (76th place)

Kason Thrasher (11) - 17:23 (80th place)

Jason Rahe (11) - 17:50 (122nd place)

DJ Segraves (10) - 18:51 (203rd place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Raiders were close to qualifying for the state meet last fall, and though they lose their frontrunner they have an outside chance to advance for the first time in school history. Wapahani is a very small school, just 339 students last school year, but the Raiders do bring back six of seven and ran five underclassmen in the regional. With that youth, Wapahani projects a little more likely to advance to state in 2025. This is a well-coached group that our committee (of one) likes to make the state meet at least once in the next two seasons.


#43 – Westfield Shamrocks

Shelbyville Regional #9

 State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2015), 1 podium finish (2015)

 

2023 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 5th place (143 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 15th place (391 points)

 

Returning Runners:  (Based on results from the Shelbyville Regional)

Landon Jones (12) - 17:25 (92nd place)

Caleb Haney (11) - 17:39 (118th place)

Will Snedeker (12) - 17:46 (129th place)

Owen Mohler (12) - 17:50 (133rd place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Shamrocks don’t project any frontrunners, though this is one of the deepest teams in the state. Westfield has potential well beyond their listed returners  as evidenced by the track season. Senior Ty Conner covered 3200 meters in 9:50 and sophomore Luke Moulder ran 4:34 for 1600 meters in the sectional. Those are just two possible contributors for this fall. As usual, geography is a constant adversary for the ‘Rocks; the fifth-best team in the Shelbyville Regional preliminarily projects as the 13th best team in the entire state so advancement to the state finals will continue to be a challenge. 


#44 – Marion Giants

New Haven Regional #8

 State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 1962), 3 podium finishes (last in 1963)

 

2023 Results:

Marion Sectional: 2nd place (63 points)

New Haven Regional: 13th place (348 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Micheal Harrington (12) - 16:41 (32nd place)

Caiden Daniel (11) - 17:22 (77th place)

Nathaniel Beck (12) - 17:25 (82nd place)

Elijah McGruder (11) - 17:34 (98th place)

Micah Hawkins (10) - 18:12 (163rd place)

Lincoln Steenbergh (10) - 18:58 (208th place)

Joshua Bozquez (10) - 19:27 (224th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Giants return all seven from last fall and had a successful spring by qualifying for the state meet in the 4x8. In the New Haven Regional, Marion does have a chance to advance to the state meet and end a drought that has stretched for over sixty years. Seniors Miike Harrington and Nathaniel Beck can get the Giants off to a good start. Both ran under 10:00 for 3200 meters and contributed legs to the team’s 4x8. 


#45 – Harrison (West Lafayette) Raiders

Brownsburg Regional #10

 State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2019)

 

2023 Results:

Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 1st place (48 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 9th place (288 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brownsburg Regional)

Ian Lah (12) - 16:24 (38th place)

Evan Lottes (11) - 16:55 (66th place)

Luke Wilmington (12) - 17:11 (89th place)

River Bender (11) - 18:37 (195th place)


2024 Outlook: The Raiders return four from a team that finished ninth at the regional, though they certainly take some graduation hits at the top of the roster. Senior Ian Lah is the top returner and could give Harrison some frontrunning on a local level. Sophomore Ossama Belal had a strong track season, going 4:45 over 1600 meters, and could contribute scoring. Harrison is a longshot to make the state meet, though the Brownsburg Regional is not incredibly strong this fall.


#46 – Mishawaka Cavemen

New Prairie Regional #11

 State meet history: 17 appearances (last in 2012), 5 podium finishes (last in 2011), 2 runner-up titles (1948, 1949), 1 state championship (1946)

 

2023 Results:

New Prairie Sectional: 3rd place (78 points)

New Prairie Regional: 9th place (240 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Prairie Regional)

Liam Bauschke (12) - 15:40 (1st place)

Aiden Rogers (10) - 16:51 (36th place)

Brayden Plonski (11) - 17:58 (109th place)

Cole Dahaher (10) - 19:25 (205th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Cavemen are a longshot state meet team out of the New Prairie Regional. Mishawaka has the massive advantage of scoring four with senior Liam Bauschke, a potential individual state champion who nearly qualified for Foot Locker Nationals as a junior. Sophomore Aiden Rogers, the fifth ranked freshman per inccstats last fall, could give the Cavemen a strong top duo although he didn’t record any track results this past spring. With those top two, Mishawaka can compete with any team in the regional early, but realistically the Cavemen lack the depth to advance with the roster as currently constructed.


#47 – Concord Minutemen

New Prairie Regional #12

 State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2009)

 

2023 Results:

Elkhart Sectional: 6th place (136 points)

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Elkhart Sectional)

Reid Sollars (12) - 16:49 (14th place)

Jackson Yoder (11) - 17:11 (21st place)

Jaxson Meyer (11) - 17:20 (22nd place)

Daniel Montiel (11) - 17:38 (30th place)

Alejandro Gonzalez (11) - 18:27 (52nd place)

 

2024 Outlook: The only team in the top 50 not to advance out of the sectional last fall, the Minutemen return five from last year’s team, including four who have two more seasons of high school. With so many sophomores in last year’s line-up, Concord projects about the same this year and next at around tenth in the New Prairie Regional. The Minutemen have their work cut out for them in terms of qualifying for the state finals, though they should definitely make through the sectional this fall. To become a contender for advancement, Concord will need to continue its momentum from a very strong track season in which juniors Jaxson Meyer and Jackson Yoder ran 4:29 and 4:33, respectively, for 1600 meters.


#48 –Franklin Community Grizzly Cubs

Shelbyville Regional #10

 State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2018), 3 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 state championship (2001)

 

2023 Results:

Shelbyville Sectional: 4th place (133 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 16th place (459 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Shelbyville Regional)

Liam Fennig (10) - 16:58 (69th place)

Isiah Tunis (11) - 17:16 (84th place)

Brooks Huddleston (10) - 17:20 (87th place)

William Holcroft (11) - 18:25 (173rd place)

Alex Lin (11) - 18:41 (190th place)

Phoenix Hoge-Mills (10) - 19:15 (215th place)

Kellen Shaff (11) - 19:24 (219th place)

 

2024 Outlook: The Grizzly Cubs ran a line-up of entirely underclassmen in last year’s cross country tournament, and this is a group brimming with potential. In addition to seven returners this fall (and possibly next as well), Franklin had some great track seasons. Junior Isiah Tunis ran 4:26 for 1600 meters in the sectional and 9:52 in the Carmel Showcase while sophomore Liam Fennig went 9:41 over 3200 meters in the regional. The Grizzly Cubs had two other freshmen run 4:46 for 1600 in the spring. Franklin has some depth and a lot of time to develop the talent, but geography is a factor here in the state’s most competitive regional. 


#49 – Yorktown Tigers

New Haven Regional #10

 State meet history: Never qualified

 

2023 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 3rd place (86 points)

New Haven Regional: 11th place (266 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Wyatt Turner (10) - 16:17 (18th place)

Isaiah Loney (10) - 16:59 (62nd place)

Cal Shanayda (10) - 17:40 (107th place)

Owen Fouts (11) - 18:00 (143rd place)

Owen Lamb (10) - 18:08 (1557th place)

 

2024 Outlook: Young talent is the most intriguing thing in sports, and after running four freshmen in last year’s tournament the Tigers have the attention of our committee (of one). Yorktown has a potential frontrunner in sophomore Wyatt Turner, perhaps a top 25 finisher at the state meet after a track season in which he ran 4:24 for 1600. Fellow sophomore Isaiah Loney should give the Tigers a top duo of a possible state meet team after breaking 10:00 for 3200 meters in the track season. Yorktown is likely a year away and will need to develop its young core beyond the first two, and while the New Haven Regional is stronger this year it still projects as the least challenging route to Terre Haute.


#50 – Culver Academy Eagles

New Haven Regional #9

 State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2009)

 

2023 Results:

Manchester Sectional: 4th place (97 points)

New Haven Regional: 10th place (255 points)

 

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Regional)

Lorenzo Diaz (10) - 16:55 (52nd place)

Jack Standfast (10) - 17:00 (66th place)

Brady Standfast (10) - 17:35 (100th place)

Landon Uher (10) - 17:35 (101st place)

Luke Doyle (11) - 18:12 (164th place)

 

2024 Outlook: Culver is a very young team with four sophomores projected to score. Like some of the other schools that ran multiple freshmen in last year’s tournament, the Eagles are likely a year or more away. Culver’s depth gives them a chance, albeit small, in the New Haven Regional to end a lengthy state meet drought. Sophomore Landon Uher had the strongest track season of the Eagles’ quartet of freshman this spring, and his continued improvement could be big for Culver over the next few years.

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