IR TOP 50 BOYS PRESEASON RANKINGS!

Our annual preseason rankings have begun! You have anxiously been awaiting our early look into the best high school cross country teams in Indiana...your wait is over! We will release 10 new teams each week, counting down to the preseason number 1 team! Who will it be? Where will your team rank? Check back frequently to find out!

#1 – Columbus North Bull Dogs

Crawford County Regional #1

State meet history: 30 appearances (last in 2025), 15 podium finishes (last in 2025), 2 runner-up titles (2001, 2013), 7 state championships (2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2020, 2025)

2025 Results:

Brown County Sectional: 1st place (16 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 1st place (34 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 1st place (58 points)

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

Justin Reckers (12) - 15:17 (6th place)

Joseph Day (11) - 15:31 (9th place)

Graham Pumphrey (12) - 15:43 (11th place)

2026 Outlook: The Bull Dogs won the state championship last year with a group that could make a legitimate claim to be the best team of all-time. Three of those seven return, including All-Staters Justin Recker and Joseph Day, giving CN status as a heavy preseason favorite. In addition to that listed trio of returners, junior Rohan Norris ran well under 16:00 last fall and covered 3200 meters in 9:41 in the track season. The Dogs seem to have it all heading into cross country season with frontrunning and depth as North has eight returners under 4:35 for 1600 meters, tied with Brownsburg for the most. They certainly aren’t a lock, but it seems hard to imagine any team beating the Dogs this fall.

#2 – Noblesville Millers

Franklin Regional #1

State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 2025), 4 podium finishes (last in 2025), 3 runner-up titles (2010, 2024, 2025)

2025 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 1st place (41 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 1st place (63 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 2nd place (129 points)

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

Banner Barnes (12) - 15:30 (1st place)

Jack Rush (12) - 15:57 (17th place)

Isaiah Vohs (11) - 16:18 (39th place)

Matthew Huseman (12) - 16:27 (54th place)

2026 Outlook: The Millers have been second at the last two state meets, clearly the two best teams in school history. Noblesville could be even better this fall. Senior Banner Barnes has developed into one of the best distance runners in the state, and he should figure prominently into the individual state championship. His 4:04 at the state meet ranks 11th all-time, and he’s also 10th in state history over 800 meters. Junior Isaiah Vohs is a likely All-Stater as well; he ran 4:13 for 1600 meters and 9:22 for 3200 meters in the spring. Noblesville should have the depth to contend for the title; in addition to Barnes and Vohs, three other returners broke 10:00 in the 3200. Sophomore Cohen Baumer could be a big difference-maker for the Millers this fall.

#3 – Carmel Greyhounds

Brownsburg Regional #1

State meet history: 52 appearances (last in 2025), 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)

2025 Results:

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

Brownsburg Regional: 1st place (81 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 6th place (183 points)

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

Jonah Kaul (12) - 15:23 (7th place)

Lucas Bartlett (12) - 15:53 (25th place)

Ben Meisner (12) - 15:56 (30th place)

Cooper Szotek (12) - 16:02 (35th place)

Grant VanNahmen (11) - 16:20 (66th place)

2026 Outlook: The Greyhounds have been off the podium the last two seasons with last year’s near-miss in heartbreaking fashion; prior to that two-year skid, Carmel had won the past two state championships. The ‘Hounds have a team to be excited about heading into this fall. Senior Jonah Kaul finished 18th at last fall’s state meet then ran 4:17 and 9:08 this past spring while senior Lucas Bartlett went 4:17 and 9:03 in the track season. Those two should be among the very best duos in the state. Junior Grant VanNahmen improved mightily in both seasons last year, running 16:01 on the grass then 4:21 and 9:24 in track. Those performances suggest Carmel could have three frontrunners. The ‘Hounds routinely have the biggest team in the state (127 participants last fall), though Carmel might not have its usual depth with just five returners under 10:00 for 3200 meters last spring.

#4 – Fort Wayne Homestead Spartans

Manchester Regional #1

State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2025), 1 podium finish (2025)

2025 Results:

New Haven Sectional: 1st place (26 points)

New Haven Regional: 1st place (54 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 3rd place (150 points)

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

Jace Trevino (12) - 15:37 (5th place)

Branson Birkey (12) - 16:16 (15th place)

Tate Knoblauch (11) - 16:27 (21st place)

Jack McMahon (12) - 16:35 (33rd place)

Levi Cordes (11) - 17:15 (64th place)

2026 Outlook: The Spartans had an up-and-down season but hit a home run at the state meet to finish third, the best showing in school history. Homestead could be even better this year. Senior Jace Trevino is a great frontrunner for the Spartans; he was just shy of an All-State finish last fall and has also seen much success on the track, running 1:50 for 800 meters and 4:12 for 1600 meters. Homestead is the only podium team with five returners from the state meet, and the Spartans had six returners under 10:00 in the 3200. Sophomore Wesley Brooks (4:31 and 9:54) could play a big role for Homestead this fall.

#5 – Center Grove Trojans

Franklin Regional #2

State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2025), 2 podium finishes (last in 2022)

2025 Results:

Shelbyville Sectional: 1st place (21 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 2nd place (88 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 10th place (293 points)

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

Jayden Salo (12) - 15:38 (7th place)

Yared Seyoum (12) - 15:47 (13th place)

Will Cuskaden (12) - 16:10 (30th place)

Ethan Holbrook (12) - 16:14 (34th place)

Craig Salo (12) - 16:52 (74th place)

2026 Outlook: The Trojans return a senior-laden group that looked capable of finishing on the podium last fall and probably has an even better chance of it this year. All of CG’s six state finals appearances have come in the last seven years, and even though the Trojans go through the most competitive regional, another trip to Terre Haute seems almost a certainty heading into the season. Senior Jayden Salo finished All-State last year, 21st at the state finals while senior Will Cuskaden demonstrated potential to join him as a frontrunner this past spring by running 4:22 for 1600 meters and 9:22 for 3200 meters. Based on preseason projections, the Trojans have a gap between their fourth and fifth best runners. If someone can close that gap, CG could go from a potential podium team to the fringes of the state championship discussion.

#6 – Hamilton Southeastern Royals

Franklin Regional #3

State meet history: 20 appearances (last in 2025), 5 podium finishes (last in 2023), 2 runner-up titles (2011, 2021)

2025 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 2nd place (73 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 4th place (135 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 8th place (253 points)

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

Isaac Smith (12) - 15:36 (4th place)

Charles Ritter (12) - 16:21 (46th place)

Hayden Hoback (12) - 16:40 (65th place)

Porter Key (11) - 17:32 (123rd place)

2026 Outlook: The Royals bring four back from a top-ten place at the state meet, and HSE’s mix of frontrunning and depth make a podium push a very real possibility this fall. Senior Isaac Smith provides the prerequisite frontrunning for Southeastern; he’s run in three cross country state meets and ran 4:21 for 1600 and 9:10 for 3200 this past spring, certainly performances that bode well for finishing All-State. The Royals also had quite a few returners run well under 10:00 for 3200 meters in the track season and could have the best incoming freshman class this year.

#7 – Brownsburg Bulldogs

Brownsburg Regional #2

State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2025), 3 podium finishes (last in 2024)

2025 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 1st place (49 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 4th place (137 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 7th place (239 points)

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

Wesley Grant (11) - 16:05 (40th place)

Ashton Hultman (11) - 16:06 (41st place)

Cooper Jaynes (10) - 17:00 (108th place)

2026 Outlook: The Bulldogs took a step back after consecutive third-place finishes the last two seasons, but they ran really well to finish seventh last fall. This projects to be a young group looking to claw back onto the podium in ‘26 before likely entering ‘27 as the title favorite. While Brownsburg doesn’t project to have any frontrunners like in previous seasons, the ‘Dogs may have the best pack and depth in the state as early as this fall, especially after having the best freshman class last year. Keep an eye on senior Josiah Aynes who hasn’t run in the state cross country meet yet but ran 4:29 and 9:35 this past spring. 

#8 – Fort Wayne Carroll Chargers

Manchester Regional #2

State meet history: 16 appearances (last in 2025), 5 podium finishes (last in 2016), 2 runner-up titles (2008, 2012), 1 state championship (2016)

2025 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 1st place (43 points)

New Haven Regional: 2nd place (83 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 15th place (373 points)

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

Sam Sweet (11) - 15:29 (3rd place)

Kai Feasal (10) - 16:01 (10th place)

Cal Sloffer (12) - 16:28 (25th place)

Charlie Mitchell (12) - 16:38 (36th place)

Cohen Brunson (12) - 17:30 (80th place)

Ethan Fudge (10) - 17:54 (127th place)

2026 Outlook: It has been ten years since the Chargers’ state championship (and last podium finish). This fall’s group might be the best since that fairy tale season. Carroll has two certified frontrunners in junior Sam Sweet (15th at the state cross country meet) and sophomore Kai Feasal (9:29 for 3200 meters as a freshman). Those two stars form a very solid start to a potential podium squad. Seniors Cal Sloffer and Cohen Brunson also dipped under 10:00 for 3200 meters this past spring, while senior Taegan McKinney could be a secret weapon for the Chargers after running 4:25 and 9:27 this spring. Those performances, translated well to cross country, could give Carroll three potential All-Staters.

#9 – North Central Panthers

Brownsburg Regional #3

State meet history: 33 appearances (last in 2025), 11 podium finishes (last in 2010), 2 runner-up titles (1967, 1968), 1 state championship (1969)

2025 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional: 2nd place (40 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 3rd place (108 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 9th place (286 points)

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

Keegan Terry (12) - 15:23 (6th place)

Charlie Cromer (12) - 15:55 (28th place)

Owen Pritchard (10) - 16:06 (43rd place)

Dawson Pikus (12) - 16:12 (47th place)

2026 Outlook: The Panthers return a solid portion of their top-ten state meet team for what could be the best group in a long time at North Central. Senior Keegan Terry certainly could get NC off to a great start in scoring; he performed at close to an All-State level at times last fall and followed that up with a great spring where he ran 4:21 for 1600 meters and 9:18 for 3200 meters. Sophomore Owen Pritchard (4:29 and 9:45) is another candidate for a big performance jump. Senior Dawson Pikus has been in the varsity mix for years and should be a solid contributor this fall again.

#10 – Yorktown Tigers

Manchester Regional #3

State meet history: 1 appearance (2025)

2025 Results:

Marion Sectional: 1st place (16 points)

New Haven Regional: 3rd place (109 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 16th place (378 points)

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

Wyatt Turner (12) - 16:01 (11th place)

Thomas Loney (11) - 16:09 (14th place)

Isaiah Loney (12) - 16:28 (26th place)

Owen Lamb (12) - 16:40 (37th place)

Louie Pelver (10) - 16:40 (38th place)

Cal Shanayda (12) - 16:46 (41st place)

2026 Outlook: The Tigers had their two best teams in school history in consecutive years with six of seven returning from the first state finals team. Yorktown could be harboring hope of making the next step and contending for medals this fall and why not? Senior Wyatt Turner appears at the peak of his powers entering his final year of high school after running 4:16 for 1600 meters and 9:16 for 3200 meters last spring. Sophomore Louie Pelver is a prime candidate for the “sophomore jump” after running 4:32 for 1600 meters in track, and the Tigers had three others under 10:00 for 3200 meters.

#11 – Avon Orioles

Brownsburg Regional #4

State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2025)

2025 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 2nd place (52 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 2nd place (105 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 12th place (335 points)

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

Quinn Murray (12) - 15:24 (9th place)

Simon Gerber (11) - 16:15 (53rd place)

Maxwell Hunter (12) - 16:17 (57th place)

2026 Outlook: The Orioles have qualified for the last three state meets after the restructuring of the tournament. This year’s group brings back four from the state meet, and Avon still looks likely to make it back to Terre Haute. Senior Quinn Murray(4:15 and 9:07 last spring) gives the Orioles one of the most formidable frontrunners in the state; he should give Avon its first All-Stater in school history. Senior Aedan Aspaas (4:20 and 9:49) had a big track season and should be ready for a bigger role in cross country this fall while junior Simon Gerber (9:33 for 3200 meters) made huge performance jumps last year.

#12 – Penn Kingsmen

New Prairie Regional #1

State meet history: 16 appearances (last in 2025), 1 podium finish (1999)

2025 Results:

New Prairie Sectional: 1st place (27 points)

New Prairie Regional: 2nd place (97 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 13th place (340 points)

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

Brody Lederer (12) - 15:57 (7th place)

Garrett Probst (12) - 16:43 (32nd place)

Abhijay Masetty (10) - 16:50 (36th place)

Ethan Schafer (12) - 16:52 (38th place)

Nathaniel Hannah (12) - 16:59 (45th place)

2026 Outlook: The Kingsmen weathered the storm of graduation last year, qualifying for a sixth consecutive state meet. Now, Penn brings back five of seven and look to be the top team in the New Prairie Regional. Senior Brody Lederer (9:30 over 3200 meters in the track season) gives Penn frontrunning at the regional level. Beyond him, the Kingsmen have some of the best depth in the state with 20 individuals ranked on inccstats’ preseason projections. This could be a regional championship team and top ten at the state meet.

#13 – Westfield Shamrocks

Franklin Regional #4

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

2025 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 4th place (105 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 6th place (176 points)

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

Bryce Pittman (12) - 16:00 (19th place)

Nathan McKeever (12) - 16:12 (33rd place)

Carson Ackley (12) - 16:19 (41st place)

Luke Moulder (12) - 16:24 (51st place)

Deagan Imel (12) - 16:42 (67th place)

2026 Outlook: The Shamrocks have been shut out of the state meet since 2015, but this year’s group provides the best chance to qualify in over a decade. Senior Luke Moulder could turn into a frontrunner this fall; he ran 4:17 for 1600 meters in the spring. Senior Bryce Pittman ran 9:39 for 3200 meters in the track season and could be solid as the team’s top runner again after qualifying for the state meet individually in cross country last fall. It’s also now or never for the ‘Rocks with the top seven returners entering their senior year.

#14 – Floyd Central Highlanders

Crawford County Regional #2

State meet history: 28 appearances (last in 2025), 1 podium finish (1991), 1 state championship (1991)

2025 Results:

Crawford County Sectional: 1st place (42 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 3rd place (168 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 19th place (474 points)

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

Gannon Mays (11) - 16:07 (27th place)

Luke Baylor (11) - 16:11 (29th place)

Hudson Everett (10) - 16:25 (42nd place)

Hunter Schultheis (11) - 16:46 (52nd place)

Caleb Hartlage (10) - 16:58 (53rd place)

Liam Borchers (12) - 16:59 (70th place)

2026 Outlook: The Highlanders have a lot of returners on paper with a group that projects even better in 2027, but there is a lot of uncertainty with the lineup heading into the season.

#15 – Fishers Tigers

Franklin Regional #5

State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 2024), 10 podium finishes (last in 2024), 3 runner-up titles (2015, 2017, 2023), 1 state championship (2007)

2025 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 3rd place (77 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 3rd place (129 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 11th place (317 points)

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

Reece Torres (12) - 15:37 (6th place)

Kale Ormes (12) - 16:25 (52nd place)

2026 Outlook: The Tigers have been decimated by graduation over the last two years and bring back just two again this fall. Senior Reece Torres has competed in the state cross country meet the last two years and ran 4:17 over 1600 meters this past spring; he could certainly earn All-State honors this fall. Beyond him, Fishers still has a stable of capable runners to help the team return to Terre Haute for a 13th consecutive season. It won’t be easy, going through the state’s toughest regional, but our committee (of one) has learned over the years not to underestimate Fishers.

#16 – Evansville Reitz Panthers

Crawford County Regional #3

State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2024)

2025 Results:

Mater Dei Sectional: 4th place (124 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 7th place (299 points)

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

Carter Zieren (12) - 15:01 (4th place)

Caleb Hammonds (12) - 16:26 (43rd place)

Robert Searcy (10) - 17:16 (91st place)

Isaac Goedde (12) - 17:27 (103rd place)

Noah Brievogel (11) - 18:32 (191st pace)

2026 Outlook: The Panthers might enter the season with the biggest discrepancy between where the advanced stats of inccstats.com and our committee (of one) rank. Reitz has potentially an all-time great 1-2 in seniors Carter Zieren and Will Dierlam, the latter of which is not factored into the preseason rankings. Zieren had an all-time great spring, finishing third in the 1600 and fourth in the 3200 at the state meet in absolutely loaded fields. Dierlam, after missing nearly all of the cross country season, was impressive as well with a fifth-place finish in the 3200. Those two at the top of the lineup means the Panthers are essentially scoring three, but with just 10 participants in 2025, that might be a more difficult proposition than it seems.

#17 – Zionsville Eagles

Brownsburg Regional #5

State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2024), 2 podium finishes (last in 2023), 1 runner-up title (2022)

2025 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional: 3rd place (74 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 6th place (192 points)

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

Nate Corcoran (12) - 16:01 (33rd place)

Jackson Meneeley (12) - 16:04 (38th place)

Jack Albright (11) - 16:22 (69th place)

2026 Outlook: The Eagles snapped a nine-year state meet streak last fall and looks to be in a good position to start a new run again. Zionsville doesn’t have a true frontrunner, but it does enjoy some of the best depth in the state. It’s possible that sophomore Isaac Lindsay could go from outside the top seven to the Eagles’ top runner immediately; he ran 9:46 for 3200 meters this spring, a great time for a freshman. Senior Nate Corcoran, the only returning state meet participant for the Eagles, as well as senior Jackson Meneeley and junior Jack Albright also dipped under 10:00 last spring. 

#18 – Bloomington North Cougars

Crawford County Regional #4

State meet history: 39 appearances (last in 2025), 8 podium finishes (last in 2025), 2 state championships (1980, 2024)

2025 Results:

Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 1st place (15 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 2nd place (44 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 4th place (169 points)

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

Jackson Walker (12) - 15:43 (13th place)

Tucker Inman (10) - 16:12 (30th place)

Shep Jackson (11) - 16:18 (36th place)

2026 Outlook: The Cougars are transitioning between eras but have a solid base while moving into this new age of their team. North has three potential stars in their returners. Senior Jackson Walker has run some great cross country races and ran 9:35 over 3200 meters this past spring. Junior Shep Jackson ran 4:15 for 1600 meters and 9:23 for 3200 meters, easily the times of a potential All-State cross country runner. Sophomore Tucker Inman had some promising results in the cross country season at times and did run under 10:00 for the 3200 in track. Obviously, the Cougars will need more than three, but finding at least two more should not be too difficult.

#19 – Crown Point Bulldogs

New Prairie Regional #2

State meet history: 30 appearances (last in 2025), 4 podium finishes (last in 1981), 3 runner-up titles (1975, 1976, 1977)

2025 Results:

Highland Sectional: 1st place (42 points)

New Prairie Regional: 3rd place (140 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 18th place (455 points)

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

Jackson Zona (12) - 16:25 (24th place)

Dylan Ryder (12) - 16:51 (37th place)

Kuba Nurek (11) - 17:02 (46th place)

2026 Outlook: The Bulldogs brim with potential, if they can put it together. Despite some inconsistency and unavailability last fall, CP still qualified for the state meet with ease. The ‘Dogs return just three of the seven that ran in Terre Haute. Sophomore Jackson Barnes could be the team’s top runner, and a frontrunner on a regional level. He was a solid scorer to start the season but did not race in September or October before running 4:33 for 1600 meters in the track season. Junior Kuba Nurek, listed twice on inccstats’ team page, ran 9:54 for 3200 meters in the spring. Sophomore Dominic Buonadonna (4:46 and 10:08) would be a great addition to the cross country team.

#20 – Franklin Central Flashes

Franklin Regional #6

State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2024), 4 podium finishes (last in 2006), 2 runner-up titles (2000, 2006), 1 state championships (1998)

2025 Results:

Mt. Vernon Sectional: 2nd place (45 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 7th place (197 points)

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

Ian Tharp (12) - 16:15 (37th place)

Jason Decker (12) - 16:30 (58th place)

Cole Rigler (11) - 16:53 (77th place)

Miles Kitts (11) - 16:55 (82nd place)

2026 Outlook: The Flashes have return four of seven from a team that finished seventh at the regional, snapping a four-year state meet streak. FC harbors reasonable hope of starting a new streak this fall. A strong freshman class last year provides hope for the Flashes to make it back to Terre Haute, especially if one can make a big jump as a sophomore. Julius Lucero, not in cross country results last year, could be a big addition to the team after running 4:33 for 1600 as a freshman while FC should also get one incoming freshman capable of running in the top seven this fall.

#21 –Franklin Community Grizzly Cubs

Franklin Regional #7

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

2025 Results:

Shelbyville Sectional: 3rd place (83 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 9th place (232 points)

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

Liam Fennig (12) - 15:35 (3rd place)

Luca Doyle (12) - 16:21 (45th place)

Luke Dougherty (11) - 16:53 (76th place)

Brooks Huddleston (12) - 16:53 (78th place)

2026 Outlook: The Grizzly Cubs have four back from a team that finished ninth at the regional, including one of Indiana’s top runners in senior Liam Fennig who should help Franklin to score four nearly every meet. Geography might be the biggest opponent as the Grizzly Cubs would be favored to advance in just about any other regional, though that’s a moot point as Franklin is now the host of one of the five state-qualifying sites. To contend for advancement to Terre Haute, Franklin will need to develop its roster behind Fennig.

#22 – Greenfield-Central Cougars

Franklin Regional #8

State meet history: Never qualified

2025 Results:

Mt. Vernon (Fortville) Sectional: 3rd place (83 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 11th place (340 points)

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

Bryce Cotterman (12) - 16:02 (21st place)

Braylon Mumaugh (12) - 16:24 (50th place)

Otto Sickels (11) - 17:18 (105th place)

John Wait (11) - 17:42 (138th place)

Michael Peterson (12) - 17:56 (148th place)

Maeson Robinson (10) - 18:09 (163rd place)

2026 Outlook: The Cougars are quickly approaching designation of best boys’ program never to make the state meet, a drought that won’t be easy to end given the current alignment of the tournament. This is a roster capable of getting into the mix for advancement in the Franklin Regional, however. Seniors Braylon Mumaugh (1:55, 4:13, 9:32) and Bryce Cotterman (4:16 and 9:21) give Greenfield two legitimate frontrunners at the regional, perhaps even two potential All-Staters for this fall. This is a very good team, but the depth behind those two stars will be the limiting factor. The Cougars do have two other returners who have broken 10:00 for 3200 meters, but Greenfield is competing against larger schools with much more depth, making the margin of error at the regional very thin if advancement is the goal.

#23 – Lawrence North Wildcats

Franklin Regional #9

State meet history: 9 appearances (last in 2025), 4 podium finishes (last in 2010)

2025 Results:

Mt. Vernon Sectional: 1st place (31 points

Shelbyville Regional: 5th place (137 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 14th place (342 points)

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

Xavier Little (12) - 15:58 (18th place)

Josh Gamble (12) - 16:23 (48th place)

Grady Toussant (12) - 16:43 (69th place)

2026 Outlook: The Wildcats qualified for the state meet for the first time since 2013 and did so the hard way, through the Shelbyville Regional. After graduating four of those seven, LN will find it much tougher for a repeat trip, though the ‘Cats do return a competitive roster. Senior Xavier Little should be able to fill the role of the top runner, vacated by the graduated Conrad Schumacher. Little ran 4:23 for 1600 meters and 9:46 for 3200 meters this past spring. With just three back from last year’s varsity, everyone will play a more important part in team success. Sophomore Joel Bustamente looks to be ready to contribute after a solid freshman year.

#24 – Fort Wayne Concordia Cadets

Manchester Regional #4

State meet history: 12 appearances (last in 2025), 3 podium finishes (last in 2019), 1 state championship (2019)

2025 Results:

New Haven Sectional: 2nd place (69 points)

New Haven Regional: 4th place (201 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 23rd place (579 points)

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

Connor Cruetz (11) - 16:23 (18th place)

Karsten Sheets (12) - 16:29 (29th place)

Ethan Loggins (11) - 17:37 (93rd place)

Tascol Poteete (10) - 17:47 (108th place)

Ian Maluchnik (10) - 18:22 (168th place)

2026 Outlook: The Cadets return five of seven from a group that made the state meet. In the Manchester Regional, that makes Concordia close to a lock to qualify for an 11th state finals in the last 12 years. Junior Connor Cruetz and senior Karsten Sheets should be two frontrunners at the regional level. Sophomore Austin Panning, not listed in regional results but ran in the state cross country meet for the Cadets, could be a third frontrunner. If Concordia has three in the top 25 at the regional, the fourth and fifth runners don’t need to be that high up for the Cadets to advance.

#25 – Chesterton Trojans

New Prairie Regional #3

State meet history: 39 appearances (last in 2022), 4 podium finishes (last in 2009), 1 runner-up title (2009)

2025 Results:

Chesterton Sectional: 1st place (27 points)

New Prairie Regional: 6th place (206 points)

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

Ryan Nix (12) - 16:08 (16th place)

Spencer Martin (12) - 16:49 (35th place)

Nick Jakel (12) - 17:22 (73rd place)

Nolan Harrington (12) - 17:23 (76th place)

2026 Outlook: The Trojans are on a long hiatus from the state meet, by the own lofty standards of their tradition. That seems very likely to end this fall. Chesterton has two frontrunners in seniors Ryan Nix and Spencer Martin. Nix qualified for the state finals individually last fall while Martin had an up-and-down fall but seems to be back to form after running 4:23 and 9:39 in the track season. In addition to the Nix/Martin combination, Chesterton has one of the deepest teams in the regional with nine individuals ranked in Inccstats’ preseason rankings.

#26  - Barr-Reeve Vikings

Crawford County Regional #5

State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2025)

2025 Results:

Jasper Sectional: 1st place (34 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 4th place (195 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 24th place (596 points)

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

Paxton Traylor (12) - 15:56 (20th place)

Pierce Yoder (12) - 16:06 (25th place)

Alton Klopfeinstein (12) - 16:32 (46th place)

Luke Underwood (10) - 17:01 (72nd place)

Graham Colvin (10) - 17:03 (75th place)

Nicholas Wright (12) - 17:16 (89th place)

Landon Gaither (10) - 18:16 (168th place)

2026 Outlook: The Vikings return all seven from a team that made the state meet for the second time in school history. With the whole varsity back, including three sophomores that earned state meet experience, it would be surprising not to see this group back in Terre Haute this fall. Barr-Reeve is an exceptionally small school, however, just 282 students, and the southern regional looks to be tougher than usual. One of the three sophomores making a big jump and joining the team’s top three seniors would further solidify Barr-Reeve’s status among the likely state meet teams.

#27 – Northview Knights

Brownsburg Regional #6

State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2021)

2025 Results:

Terre Haute North Sectional: 1st place (31 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 9th place (248 points)

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

Landon Propst (11) - 16:00 (32nd place)

Aaron Pryce (12) - 16:10 (45th place)

Daniel Russell (12) - 16:18 (49th place)

Will Harms (11) - 16:24 (70th place)

Jacob Dalton (11) - 16:38 (82nd place)

2026 Outlook: The Knights return five very solid runners from last season’s seven, looking to make a push for the state meet. Junior Landon Propst qualified for the state meet individually last cross country season and could solidify his status as a frontrunner even more after running 4:33 and 9:44 in the spring. Senior Aaron Pryce wasn’t too far behind Propst last fall. Senior Daniel Russell and junior Jacob Dalton both broke 10:00 over 3200 meters this past spring, and junior Will Harms went 10:01. The Knights have everything they need returning this season to make a serious push for the state meet, but the gap after their top five will make that challenging.

#28 – Terre Haute South Braves

Brownsburg Regional #7

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

2025 Results:

Terre Haute North Sectional: 2nd place (43 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 12th place (324 points)

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

Aiden Miller (12) - 15:43 (15th place)

Landon Crawn (10) - 15:53 (26th place)

Decker Hansel (11) - 16:58 (106th place)

Griffin Hughes (11) - 17:03 (113th place)

Grant Keilman (10) - 17:04 (121st place)

Noah Price (12) - 17:26 (152nd place)

2026 Outlook: The Braves have an exciting mix of experience and youth on a roster capable of qualifying for the state meet out of the challenging Brownsburg Regional. Senior Aiden Miller and sophomore Landon Crawn give THS the requisite frontrunning needed to emerge from the competitive tournament path; both qualified for the state finals individually in cross country last fall, and they ran 9:31 and 9:32, respectively, over 3200 meters this past spring. To emerge from the regional, the Braves will need to be deeper. No matter how high the top two finish, no team can score multiple boys over 17:00 minutes and hope to finish in the top five. Developing that depth will be the Braves’ key to the season.

#29 – Castle Knights

Crawford County Regional #6

State meet history: 1 appearance (2000)

2025 Results:

Mater Dei Sectional: 2nd place (75 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 9th place (303 points)

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

Austin Carlile (11) - 15:43 (12th place)

Ethan Morris (12) - 16:36 (49th place)

Austin Monroe (12) - 17:09 (79th place)

Nathan Whitacre (12) - 17:17 (92nd place)

Mason Schottel (11) - 18:05 (154th place)

Blake Metzer (12) - 18:51 (204th place)

2026 Outlook: The Knights find themselves in a familiar position, entering the season with a group that looks capable of ending a lengthy state meet drought. Castle certainly has the personnel to make it happen, if this veteran roster can translate track success to hill and dale. Junior Austin Carlile gives the Knights great frontrunning; he was 31st at the state meet in cross country as a sophomore and ran 4:22 for 1600 meters in the track season. Getting senior Charlie Smith back on the cross country roster would be huge after he ran 4:25 for 1600 meters last spring; he ran as a freshman and sophomore but did not appear in results last fall.

#31 – Chatard Trojans

Brownsburg Regional #8

State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2005), 1 podium finish (2005)

2025 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional:

Brownsburg Regional: 13th place (368 points)

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

Damian Cain (10) - 16:14 (50th place)

Quinn Hostetler (12) - 16:25 (72nd place)

Dylan Comforth (11) - 16:46 (89th place)

Marcus Pivec (12) - 16:55 (102nd place)

Quinn Anderson (11) - 16:57 (103rd place)

2026 Outlook: The Trojans return an exciting team this fall that could push for the school’s first state meet in two decades. Damian Cain served as the team’s number one runner all of his freshman campaign and looks to be a prime candidate for the anticipated sophomore jump; he ran 4:30 over 1600 meters and 9:42 over 3200 meters in the spring and should be a frontrunner at the regional level. Chatard enjoyed a great season on the track: seniors Marcus Pivec and Quinn Hostetler both ran 4:37 for 1600 meters and junior Quinn Anderson broke 2:00 in the 800 while running competitively in the 1600 as well. If the Trojans can transition this progress on the longer distance on the grass, they will be a very tough out in October. 

#32 – Harrison (West Lafayette) Raiders

Brownsburg Regional #9

State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2019)

2025 Results:

Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 1st place (20 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 8th place (232 points)

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

Logan Breon (11) - 16:03 (36th place)

Jonathan King (12) - 16:20 (65th place)

Jango Lane (12) - 16:25 (71st place)

Jacob Tilton (11) - 16:31 (78th place)

2026 Outlook: The Raiders have yet to advance since the restructured tournament sent them to the Brownsburg Regional, but they have always been competitive and figure to be this season as well. Junior Logan Breon was just short of qualifying for the state meet individually and could do so this fall if the team does not join him in Terre Haute. Senior Jonathan King ran 4:24 over 1600 meters and broke 10:00 in the 3200; he figures to be a key contributor again. While the regional will still be one of the two toughest in the state, the last advancing spot could be more manageable this season, giving Harrison a very realistic opportunity to qualify for Terre Haute.

#33 – LaPorte Slicers

New Prairie Regional #5

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

2025 Results:

New Prairie Sectional: 3rd place (101 points)

New Prairie Regional: 18th place (432 points)

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

Caleb Rose (11) - 16:27 (26th place)

Reagan Buchanan (12) - 17:06 (51st place)

Luke Romine (12) - 18:10 (139th place)

Cameron Ericson-Moffett (11) - 18:20 (153rd place)

Brody Griffin (11) - 18:42 (186th place)

Andrew McKie (12) - 18:56 (202nd place)

Evan Howes (12) - 18:58 (206th place)

2026 Outlook: The Slicers had a disastrous end to last season with an 18th-place finish at the regional, but with all seven back from that race plus senior Jack Miscowicz who served as the number one runner nearly all season before missing the regional, LaPorte could find itself back in the state meet. In addition to Miscowicz, junior Caleb Rose qualified for the state meet individually last fall and ran 4:30 for the 1600 this past spring, giving LaPorte two possible frontrunners at the regional level. Beyond them, the depth needed to emerge from New Prairie is certainly on the roster this season.

#34 – West Lafayette Red Devils

Brownsburg Regional #10

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

2025 Results:

Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 2nd place (56 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 11th place (295 points)

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

Luca Reynolds (12) - 16:11 (46th place)

Ryan Kelley (12) - 16:30 (76th place)

Grant Johnson (11) - 16:42 (85th place)

Daniele Caviglia (12) - 16:43 (87th place)

Aiden Graves (12) - 16:58 (107th place)

Kevin Liu (11) - 17:20 (143rd place)

2026 Outlook: The Red Devils are on a bit of a state meet skid after qualifying nine out of ten years in the previous decade. With six of last year’s seven back, this season presents West Side with its most realistic path to Terre Haute since the tournament restructuring in 2023. The Devils’ depth could help manage the lack of true frontrunning, though senior Luca Reynolds is likely to be around 16:00 on the lightning-fast Brownsburg course, and the first two runners outside of the top seven last year were freshmen. This is a team with an outside chance of making it to the state meet.

#35 – Guerin Catholic Golden Eagles

Franklin Regional #10

State meet history: 1 appearance (2016)

2025 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 6th place (166 points)

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

Cole Eckstein (12) - 16:23 (17th place)

Ashton Sommer (12) - 17:20 (34th place)

Austin Rankin (11) - 17:33 (38th place)

Timmy Galvin (10) - 17:36 (40th place)

Brady Linn (12) - 18:15 (53rd place)

2026 Outlook: The Golden Eagles were the best team not to advance to the regional level last year and are looking to avoid the same fate this fall. Senior Cole Eckstein qualified for the state finals in cross country individually and showed continued progression in the spring, running 4:23 for 1600 meters and 9:35 in the 3200. It is still a somewhat young group behind him. While this certainly doesn’t project as a group capable of advancing to Terre Haute, this year’s team stands a much better chance of qualifying for the regional behind the frontrunning of Eckstein at the sectional level.

#36 – Northridge Raiders

New Prairie Regional #6

State meet history: 18 appearances (last in 2025), 6 podium finishes (last in 2025), 1 state championship (2004)

2025 Results:

Goshen Sectional: 1st place (29 points)

New Prairie Regional: 1st place (50 points) 

IHSAA State Finals: 5th place (183 points)

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

Milo Bullaro (12) - 15:59 (11th place)

Fernando Gutierez (11) - 16:29 (27th place)

Landon Swathwood (11) - 18:17 (150th place)

Connor Yutzy (12) - 18:24 (158th place)

2026 Outlook: The Raiders had its best team in school history by the advanced stats, finishing on the podium for a second consecutive season. This year’s team is hit hard by graduation but could still be competitive enough to advance from the New Prairie Regional. Senior Milo Bullaro should be a frontrunner at the regional level, and junior Fernando Gutierez improved a lot last year while also running his best race at the state finals to help the Raiders claim medals. Northridge will bring in one of the best freshman in the state who looks to make an instant impact, and junior Zach Haygood (4:45 over 1600 meters this spring) could be a scorer if he were to run this fall.

#37 - Northwestern Tigers

Brownsburg Regional #11

State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 1971), 2 podium finishes (last in 1971), 2 runner-up titles (1970, 1971)

2025 Results:

Logansport Sectional: 2nd place (61 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 14th place (373 points)

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

Mason Broeker (12) - 16:18 (62nd place)

Bryan Burkhalter (12) - 16:41 (84th place)

Isaac Everson (12) - 16:48 (93rd place)

Colen Lechner (10) - 16:51 (96th place)

Mitchell Schmidt (10) - 17:46 (175th place)

Henry Neher (12) - 17:50 (180th place)

2026 Outlook: The Tigers had their best team in school history last year by a wide margin and return six of those seven, setting the stage for a potentially memorable season. It is possible that senior Mason Broeker continues to progress and gets in the mix to qualify individually out of the brutally competitive Brownsburg Regional. It is also in the realm of possibility–1.5% chance, per inccstats’ preseason rankings–that Northwestern breaks its 35-year drought from the state meet. Realistically, the Tigers look to be one runner shy of making a more serious push for Terre Haute; perhaps that athlete is already on the roster and getting in a great summer.

#38 – Evansville Memorial 

Crawford County Regional #7

State meet history: Never qualified

2025 Results:

Mater Dei Sectional: 3rd place (93 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 12th place (352 points)

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

Landon Hartman (12) - 16:01 (23rd place)

Andrew Foster (12) - 16:25 (41st place)

Samuel Foster (10) - 17:47 (133rd place)

Mason Scroggins (10) - 17:53 (138th place)

Lucas Hirsch (12) - 17:57 (143rd place)

Meyer Hermann (10) - 17:59 (146th place)

2026 Outlook: The Tigers bring back a very solid with six of the seven from a group that raced three freshman at the regional level. With the typical sophomore jump from that trio–and it’s possible that Memorial races four sophomores in the top seven this fall–and good leadership from seniors Landon Hartman and Andrew Foster, the Tigers should be right in the mix to advance in the new Crawford County Regional. Given the resurgence of running talent, it is possible that the Evansville area gets multiple boys’ teams to Terre Haute this season.

#39 – Ben Davis Giants

Brownsburg Regional #12

State meet history: 26 appearances (last in 2025), 7 podium finishes (last in 1996), 1 runner-up title (1996), 4 state championships (1961, 1989, 1990, 1995)

2025 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 3rd place (74 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 5th place (164 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 17th place (382 points)

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

Lewis Claxon (12) - 16:29 (74th place)

Tsenat Hailu (11) - 17:21 (146th place)

Salama Bitwenge (12) - 17:36 (167th place)

2026 Outlook: The Giants have made the state finals the past two years, the most recent of which seemed unlikely after losing a key athlete to a nearby school as a transfer. Advancing out of the brutally competitive Brownsburg Regional this year would be BD’s greatest feat in this current era. While highly unlikely–inccstats.com gives the Giants less than a 1% chance based on projections of each team’s returners–Ben Davis has shown a great ability to develop runners over time and find scoring from both improvement and newcomers. 

#40 – Bloomington South Panthers

Crawford County Regional #8

State meet history: 33 appearances (last in 2025), 3 podium finishes (last in 2018)

2025 Results:

Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 2nd place (68 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 5th place (224 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 25th place (638 points)

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

Daniel Damico (11) - 16:54 (63rd place)

Oliver Moore (11) - 17:01 (73rd place)

Garrett Pitkin (12) - 17:12 (82nd place)

Jack Taylor (12) - 17:14 (85th place)

Matthew Zinkan (12) - 17:18 (94th place)

2026 Outlook: The Panthers returned to Terre Haute after a brief absence in 2024. With five of seven back this year, South could be in the mix with a pack-running group, but the athletes they lose at the top of the lineup will make that much more challenging. In addition to the returners listed above, senior Luke Reinhart missed the tournament after serving as a scorer for much of the regular season while senior Isaiah Dilger looked like he returned to his usual form in the track season after an abbreviated fall. The southern regional will be pretty strong this season, but the Panthers could coalesce and advance.

#41 – Silver Creek Dragons

Crawford County Regional #9

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

2025 Results:

Crawford County Sectional: 3rd place (99 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 6th place (226 points)

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

Trey Smith (12) - 16:07 (26th place)

Dane Neafus (11) - 16:49 (55th place)

Owen Tolliver (10) - 17:24 (101st place)

Jacob Baggett (11) - 18:04 (152nd place)

Cooper Day (10) - 18:09 (158th place)

2026 Outlook: The Dragons were so close to the state finals last year, and this year’s team will be harder pressed to advance, though it’s not completely out of the realm of possibility. Senior Trey Smith once again gives Silver Creek frontrunning. He has certainly shown an ability be at an All-State level. Sophomore Owen Tolliver made great progress in the track season, running 10:01 over 3200 meters. With other big improvement through the lineup or some other talented newcomers, the Dragons could find themselves firmly in the mix for advancement.

#42 – Goshen RedHawks

New Prairie Regional #7

State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2025), 1 podium finish (1976)

2025 Results:

Goshen Sectional: 2nd place (79 points)

New Prairie Regional: 4th place (159 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 20th place (512 points)

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

Levi Schlegel (12) - 16:01 (12th place)

Jesse Sawatzky (11) - 17:05 (47th place)

Ciaran Deegan (12) - 17:20 (67th place)

Christian Ramirez (12) - 18:06 (132nd place)

2026 Outlook: The RedHawks qualified for three consecutive state meets then missed two before breaking that mini-skid last fall. Goshen could earn back-to-back trips to Terre Haute this fall. Senior Levi Schlegel is a good frontrunner, and his finish at the regional could aid the ‘Hawks in scoring four. In addition to Schlegel, senior Christian Ramirez displayed a lot of improvement in the track season and could play an increased role as Goshen looks to return to state.

#43 – Valparaiso Vikings

New Prairie Regional #8

State meet history: 50 appearances (last in 2024), 20 podium finishes (last in 2017), 1 runner-up title (2005), 6 state championships (1966, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1997, 2000)

2025 Results:

Chesterton Sectional: 2nd place (42 points)

New Prairie Regional: 9th place (261 points)

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

Layne Galindo (11) - 16:57 (43rd place)

Liam Anderson (12) - 17:16 (64th place)

Owen Anderson (10) - 17:53 (106th place)

Manny Jasicki (10) - 17:57 (117th place)

2026 Outlook: The Vikings bring back a solid group that missed last year’s state meet but could be in the mix in the New Prairie Regional. A young team that projects better a year from now, Valpo has one of the best traditions in the state and one of the larger rosters in the northwest (43 participants last school year). Even without an established frontrunner, a combination of coaching and easier tournament path could get the Vikes back into the state meet after just a one-season hiatus.

#44 - Lakewood Park Christian Panthers

Manchester Regional #5

State meet history: Never qualified

2025 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 3rd place (102 points)

New Haven Regional: 13th place (322 points)

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

Zander Ritenour (12) - 15:29 (2nd place)

Kellen Warner (12) - 17:13 (62nd place)

Jake Dulin (11) - 17:54 (126th place)

Jaden Zeigler (12) - 18:06 (147th place)

Jonny Fike (10) - 19:55 (234th place)

2026 Outlook: The Panthers are one of the most interesting teams entering this fall. Senior Zander Ritenour helps Lakewood to score four every meet; he has been All-State in both the 1600 and 3200 during his high school career while also finishing 12th at last fall’s state cross country meet. That sort of security at the top of the lineup is huge, especially in the Manchester Regional which looks to be open in terms of advancing to the state meet. Unsurprisingly, Lakewood (enrollment: 218) is not a very deep team. A big summer of training among their returners could propel the Panthers to Terre Haute as a group.

#45 – Pendleton Heights Arabians

Franklin Regional #11

State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2017)

2025 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 5th place (151 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 12th place (343 points)

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

Connor Weflen (12) - 16:06 (27th place)

Henry Corbin (12) - 17:28 (117th place)

Luke Sellers (11) - 17:34 (125th place)

Thaxon Carpenter (10) - 17:44 (142nd place)

Ryder Engelhardt (12) - 19:21 (212nd place)

2026 Outlook: The Arabians bounced back from an early exit in the 2024 tournament to advance to the regional last fall. The path will continue to be the most difficult in the state, but Pendleton could potentially advance out of the sectional again this season. Senior Connor Weflen should get the scoring off to a good start; he qualified for the state meet individually in cross country then ran 4:26 over 1600 meters in the spring. Perhaps senior Ryder Engelhardt will see a big jump on the grass after qualifying for the state meet in the 800.

#46 - Norwell Knights

Manchester Regional #6

State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2000), 2 podium finishes (last in 1982), 1 runner-up title (1978)

2025 Results:

Delta Sectional: 1st place (44 points)

New Haven Regional: 7th place (274 points)

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

Maddux Thornton (10) - 17:05 (52nd place)

Gage Reinhard (12) - 17:06 (53rd place)

Hudson Petrie (11) - 17:26 (75th place)

Easton Reinhard (10) - 17:52 (121st place)

Nathan Dupre (12) - 18:32 (181st place)

2026 Outlook: The Knights return five from a team that finished two spots but many points from advancing to the state meet. This year’s group looks capable of contending for a spot in Terre Haute, especially in the Manchester Regional that projects to be wide open among several teams after the top four teams. Norwell doesn’t project to have a stellar frontrunner; a talented newcomer to help with scoring could really turn the tables in the Knight’s favor.

#47 - Oak Hill Golden Eagles

Manchester Regional #7

State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2005)

2025 Results:

Marion Sectional: 2nd place (71 points)

New Haven Regional: 12th place (320 points)

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

Wyatt Hart (12) - 17:07 (56th place)

Joshua Clark (11) - 17:16 (66th place)

Cooper McQuiston (10) - 18:12 (156th place)

Eli Leak (12) - 18:13 (158th place)

Bret Hueston (11) - 18:20 (166th place)

2026 Outlook: The Golden Eagles could make the jump from relative obscurity to contending to advance to the state meet. Oak Hill does return five of seven from a sectional runner-up team, and will almost certainly get a bump from a newcomer whose track times last spring place him at nearly an All-State level as an eighth-grader. The returners seem quite a ways back from pushing for the state meet as a team, but if the Eagles can score four rather than five at most meets next fall that could drastically change the calculus.

#48 – Lake Central Indians

New Prairie Regional #9

State meet history: 18 appearances (last in 2024), 2 podium finishes (last in 1983), 1 runner-up title (1982)

2025 Results:

Highland Sectional: 2nd place (67 points)

New Prairie Regional: 8th place (223 points)

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

Lucca Neves (11) - 16:06 (14th place)

Trevor MacFarlane (10) - 17:42 (92nd place)

Vincenzo Pamilia (10) - 17:56 (116th place)

Patrick Grady (11) - 18:00 (122nd place)

2026 Outlook: Lake Central missed the state meet last year after three consecutive qualifications, and longtime frontrunner Ben Perschon will be missed at the top of the lineup. This is a team capable of making a push out of the New Prairie Regional, though. Junior Lucca Neves, a move-in last school year, had an excellent sophomore season in which he finished 32nd at the state meet in cross country and 11th in the 3200. His frontrunning helps LC to score four at the regional, and a young squad behind him could be ready for Terre Haute a year earlier than projected.

#49 – Fort Wayne Snider Panthers

Manchester Regional #8

State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 2011), 3 podium finishes (last in 2004)

2025 Results:

New Haven Sectional: 5th place (114 points)

New Haven Regional: 8th place (282 points)

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

Darren Palmer (10) - 17:17 (70th place)

Raiden Boone (11) - 17:38 (95th place)

Tzin Quintana (10) - 17:50 (117th place)

Elijah Barton (12) - 17:53 (124th place)

Lucian Sipe (11) - 18:18 (164th place)

2026 Outlook: The Panthers have not qualified for Terre Haute since 2011 but a combination of young talent and an easier tournament path could put Snider in the mix. With five of last year’s seen returning, the Panthers could be led by super sophomores Darren Palmer and Tzin Quintana, both of whom ran under 10:00 for 3200 meters last spring. Assuming a big jump in performance that typically comes in tenth-grade, that duo could lead Snider to contend for one of the five spots out of the Manchester Regional.

#50 – Brebeuf Jesuit Braves

Brownsburg Regional #13

State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2022), 5 podium finishes (last in 2021), 1 state championship (2021)

2025 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 7th place (166 points)

Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Ben Davis Sectional)

Beck Biggerstaff (11) - 16:57 (25th place)

Lance Eble (12) - 17:19 (32nd place)

Ollie Haug (12) - 17:28 (35th place)

Boston Christy (12) - 17:31 (38th place)

Mackie Skinner (12) - 18:03 (48th place)

2026 Outlook: The Braves return a good amount from last year’s team, but they have one of the toughest paths through the tournament, as evidenced by their finish at the sectional level. This season’s group should be more competitive, with junior Beck Biggerstaff and senior Ollie Haug leading the way. Haug had a solid track season, scoring in both the 1600 and 3200 at the sectional level before opting to compete in just the 3200 at the regional.