IR TOP 50 GIRLS TEAMS PRESEASON COUNTDOWN!!

Our annual tradition continues! IR has ranked the preseason top 50 teams in the state for each gender. Check back frequently as we update our list every few days!

#1 – Fort Wayne Concordia Cadets

New Haven Regional #1

State meet history: 17 appearances (last in 2024), 4 podium finishes (last in 2024), 2 runner-up titles (2023, 2024), 1 state championship (1983)

2024 Results:

New Haven Sectional: 1st place (20 points)

New Haven Regional: 1st place (39 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 2nd place (92 points)

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

Mallory Weller (12) - 17:36 (1st place)

Daphne Weller (10) - 17:58 (2nd place)

Lilly Schlicker (12) - 18:50 (10th place)

Maddie Gentz (11) - 18:50 (12th place)

Hannah Clark (12) - 18:59 (18th place)

Riley Zent (10) - 19:49 (37th place)

2025 Outlook: The Cadets have been very close to the state championship the last two years, finishing second both seasons. With the top six returning, all of whom were in the first 70 finishers at state, Concordia has its best chance coming into this fall. Senior Mallory Weller is the clear top distance runner in the state after winning the triple crown (cross country, 1600 and 3200) last year. Sophomore Daphne Weller was eighth at the state cross country meet as a freshman then ran 2:11/4:57/10:42 this spring. That level of frontrunning means the Cadets are essentially scoring three, though Concordia is unlikely to get meaningful separation from Carmel in the first two scorers. The rest of the potential scorers were very good in the spring: juniors Brylee Crass and Maddie Gentz qualified for the state meet over 800 meters while sophomore Natalie Cordes (5:16 and 11:24) seems primed for a varsity spot after rapid improvement in track. Beyond the Wellers, Concordia had four returners well under 12:00 for 3200 meters, and that doesn’t include Crass who ran 10:55 as a freshman. Concordia has everything coming back to slay the giant and climb the top of the mountain, but a strong incoming freshman class could make the Cadets that much tougher to handle.

#2 – Carmel Greyhounds

Brownsburg Regional #1

State meet history: 44 appearances (last in 2024), 39 podium finishes (last in 2024), 9 runner-up titles (1981, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2009, 2021), 20 state championships (1982, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2020, 2024)

2024 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional: 1st place (27 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 1st place (26 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 1st place (76 points)

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

Sadie Foley (12) - 17:50 (2nd place)

Annabel Pollert (11) - 17:51 (3rd place)

Larkin Taylor (11) - 17:53 (4th place)

Margo Halle (10) - 18:24 (13th place)

2025 Outlook: The Greyhounds have an historic top trio, return the top four from last year’s title team and yet enters the season second in the state. Such is the strength of the race entering this fall. Junior Larkin Taylor is the number one retuner for Carmel from the state meet where she finished. Larkin enjoyed a very strong season; she split 2:10 at the state finals in the 4x8, ran close to 4:50 for a converted 1600 at a national meet and covered 3200 meters in 10:38 in less-than-ideal conditions. Senior Sadie Foley, twice All-State in cross country, broke the school record and set a top-25 all-time mark in the 1600. Junior Annabel Pollert came very close to pulling a massive upset in the 3200, her primary event where her 10:28 also ranks in the top 25 in state history. Sophomore Margo Halle, 37th in the state cross country meet as a freshman, should be solid once again. Strangely enough for the school’s largest state, depth could be a question. Senior Kaitlyn Oshimura (5:14 for 1600 meters indoors) is the top candidate to end scoring. Senior Arden Finely (5:29 for 1600), senior Lilliana Cate (11:58 for 3200) or sophomore Ella Weaver could impact scoring as well.

#3 – Fort Wayne Homestead Spartans

New Haven Regional #2

State meet history: 24 appearances (last in 2024), 4 podium finishes (last in 2024), 1 state championship (2023)

2024 Results:

Woodlan Sectional: 1st place (30 points)

New Haven Regional: 2nd place (53 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 4th place (177 points)

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

Lindsey Arnold (11) - 18:50 (11th place)

Caterina Perego (12) - 18:52 (13th place)

Avalyn Goldstone (10) - 18:56 (14th place)

Kaitlynn Hansen (11) - 19:10 (19th place)

Lucy Kramer (11) - 19:11 (20th place)

Daisy Niezer (12) - 19:24 (25th place)

Brier Saddington (12) - 20:12 (42nd place)

2025 Outlook: The Spartans won the state championship two seasons ago and bring back all seven from last year’s team that finished on the podium for a third straight season. Despite any surefire frontrunner, Homestead’s depth makes a fourth consecutive podium ascension a likely outcome. In addition to five that finished in the top 75 at last fall’s state cross country meet, the Spartans added sophomore Claire Labrija who very well might be the team’s number one this fall after moving from Logansport. Homestead doesn’t have a true frontrunner, putting the Spartans significantly behind our top two teams. However, this may be the deepest team in the state, which could be meaningful through the course of a long season of cross country.

#4 – Lake Central Indians

New Prairie Regional #1

State meet history: 18 appearances (last in 2024), 3 podium finishes (last in 2024), 2 runner-up titles (2007, 2008)

2024 Results:

Highland Sectional: 1st place (22 points)

New Prairie Regional: 1st place (76 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 3rd place (156 points)

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

Macey Thompson (11) - 17:46 (1st place)

Lana Bruggeman (10) - 18:26 (5th place)

Chloe Neal (11) - 18:53 (6th place)

Aubrey Neal (10) - 19:54 (26th place)

Roxann Martinez (10) - 20:39 (54th place)

Katelyn Smith (10) - 21:11 (72nd place)

2025 Outlook: Lake Central ran six underclassmen at last year’s state meet, portending a bright future that could end with a title in the next two seasons. LC had three returners finish All-State last fall, headlined by junior Macey Thompson who was fourth in cross country then earned three medals at the state track meet across her events. Concentration on the 4x8 likely impacted LC’s times in individual events, though four still ran under 11:40 for 3200 meters and under 5:30 for 1600 meters. In a more typical year, a third-place team with essentially everyone back would merit consideration as preseason number one; this is not a typical year, although ‘26 could regress to the mean and give LC a better chance at a state championship.

#5 – Bloomington South Panthers

Mater Dei Regional #1

State meet history: 26 appearances (last in 2024)

2024 Results:

Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 1st place (24 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 2nd place (82 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 9th place (289 points)

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

Lexi Kollbaum (11) - 18:22 (3rd place)

Aurelia Martoglio (12) - 18:58 (9th place)

Jasmine Martoglio (12) - 19:14 (14th place)

Mary Asplund (11) - 19:42 (26th place)

Julia Polit (10) - 20:15 (41st place)

Julianne Hoover (12) - 20:31 (47th place)

2024 Outlook: After a record-setting spring, the Panthers enter this fall as fringe contenders for the title. Junior Lexi Kollbaum along with seniors Aurelia and Jasmine Martoglio give South three potential, perhaps even likely, All-Staters. Kolbaum ran 4:54 for 1600 meters and 10:53 for 3200 meters outdoors despite concentrating on the 4x800 relay where the Panthers set an all-time state record. Aurelia (10:34 for 3200 meters) and Jasmine (10:43) Martoglio displayed equal promise for being among the state’s best in the cross country season. Junior Mary Asplund should be a consistent scorer and possibly immensely improved from last fall after running 5:04 for 1600 in track. That gives the Panthers four runners more than capable of hanging with any team in the state. The runners to finish up scoring like sophomore Julia Polit (5:22 and 11:54) or Julianne Hoover (5:25 and 12:08) are on the team. Getting some tournament meets from 800 state record holder Ellie Barada certainly wouldn’t hurt…

#6 –Chatard Trojans

Brownsburg Regional #2

State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2024)

2024 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional: 2nd place (58 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 4th place (106 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 12th place (322 points)

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

Julia Score (12) - 17:17 (1st place)

Ceci Jackson (12) - 18:38 (17th place)

Grace Leppert (11) - 18:40 (19th place)

Macy Betz (10) - 19:24 (34th place)

Maisie Chesebrough (11) - 19:30 (37th place)

Frannie Jackson (10) - 20:21 (63rd place)

Emmerson Bloede (11) - 21:11 (102nd place)

2025 Outlook: The Trojans have potentially their best team ever with all seven back from last fall. Senior Julia Score has been among the top athletes in the state consistently since entering high school; she’s been tenth, third and fifth at state the last three years then ran 4:58 and 10:28 this spring, in addition to helping Chatard to a fourth-place finish in the 4x8 at the state meet. Senior Ceci Jackson was the breakout star of the track season for Chatard, running under 5:00 for 1600 meters and under 11:00 for 3200 meters. Junior Grace Leppert was awesome in the spring as well, going 5:14 and 11:10. That top trio paired with a solid fourth and fifth could vault Chatard into the first podium finish of school history.

#7 – Penn Kingsmen

New Prairie Regional #2

State meet history: 24 appearances (last in 2024), 6 podium finishes (last in 2014)

2024 Results:

New Prairie Sectional: 1st place (18 points)

New Prairie Regional: 2nd place (80 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 6th place (257 points)

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

Shreya Nayee (10) - 18:21 (3rd place)

Lila Van Hoveln (11) - 19:05 (7th place)

Ari Balinnang (12) - 19:34 (16th place)

Gabby Smith (12) - 19:52 (24th place)

Sami Pentelow (10) - 20:20 (43rd place)

2025 Outlook: The Kingsmen used a mix of good returners and a strong freshman class to finish sixth at the state meet, just a handful of points out of the medals. Five of last year’s seven back, including the top four from state, gives Penn a strong chance to be at the same level this season. Sophomore Shreya Nayee, 13th at the state meet, gives the Kingsmen security at the top of the lineup for years; she ran on Penn’s 4x8 at the track state finals and also qualified in the 1600. Junior Lila Van Hoveln was equally as impressive in the spring, winning the regional 3200 in 10:41. Senior Ari Balinnang (5:19 over 1600 meters) also had a good spring.

#8 – North Central Panthers

Brownsburg Regional #3

State meet history: 21 appearances (last in 2024), 9 podium finishes (last in 2023)

2024 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional: 3rd place (61 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 3rd place (99 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 11th place (317 points)

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

Elizabeth Rocchio (12) - 18:26 (14th place)

Kelsey Rehmel (12) - 18:28 (15th place)

Aislinn Biesecker (10) - 19:09 (30th place)

Ruby Brown (11) - 19:11 (32nd place)

Valerie Fernhaber (11) - 19:59 (48th place)

Tatum Houle (12) - 20:27 (67th place)

2025 Outlook: The Panthers are on a real heater, qualifying for the state meet for five consecutive years with three podium finishes after a ten-season gap. This could be four podium seasons in six years with six returning Senior Kelsey Rehmel (5:04 and 10:39 this spring) has ascended to reliable frontrunner status, and classmate Elizabeth Rocchio (All-State in ‘23) gives NC potentially two in the top 25 in Terre Haute. Beyond those two, the Panthers should be one of the deepest teams in Indiana, a perfect formula for finishing in the top five at the state meet. Junior Valerie Fernhaber (5:28 and 11:45) should play a bigger role this fall than previous seasons. 

#9 – Brebeuf Jesuit Braves

Brownsburg Regional #4

State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2024), 1 podium finish (2017)

2024 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 1st place (21 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 2nd place (68 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 8th place (268 points)

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

Lucy Wood (12) - 17:55 (5th place)

Isabel Garcia (11) - 18:23 (12th place)

Madison Riggins (10) - 18:31 (16th place)

Kennedy Riggins (10) - 21:00 (95th place)

Talia Sicuso (12) - 21:11 (103rd place)

2025 Outlook: The Braves brings back a group with a very strong top three and some potential for big improvement in the rest of the lineup. Senior Lucy Wood was All-State in both sports, 14th in cross country and seventh in the 3200 (10:36 at the state meet). She gives Brebeuf the opportunity essentially to score four runners each meet. Junior Isabel Garcia was very good in the spring as well, 5:07 over 1600 meters. Sophomore Madison Riggins rounds out the Braves’ big three and should be a dependable scorer at minimum this fall. To challenge for the podium or even cement their place in the state meet, Brebeuf will need to develop its depth outside that trio. That could be challenging without any newcomers making a difference this season.

#10 – Zionsville Eagles

Brownsburg Regional #5

State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2024), 6 podium finishes (last in 2019), 2 runner-up titles (2018, 2019), 1 state championship (2017)

2024 Results:

North Central (Indy) Sectional: 4th place (84 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 5th place (131 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 14th place (348 points)

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

Cailyn Murphy (12) - 18:51 (21st place)

Letty Banwart (10) - 18:54 (22nd place)

Megan Race (11) - 19:06 (27th place)

Jane Porzel (11) - 19:31 (39th place)

Kathryn Green (12) - 19:34 (41st place)

Allison Bruggers (11) - 20:06 (52nd place)

2025 Outlook: The Eagles survived perhaps the state’s toughest regional for a third straight trip to Terre Haute. This year’s team will navitage an even stronger tournament path to state, but also could finish significantly higher than last year. Seniors Cailyn Murphy and Katy Green have shown great potential in previous performances and just need to put it together at the right time. In particular, Green enjoyed an excellent track season, covering 1600 meters in 5:01 and finishing All-State in the open 800 for a second straight year. Sophomore Letty Banwart (11:09 for 3200) could be the number one runner at times this fall also. Using Murphy’s times from indoors, the Eagles have four returners under 12:00 for 3200 and five returners under 5:30 for 1600. Zionsville will have a very strong eighth-grade class in the middle school feeder programs this fall and should get a great influx of talent next year. Longtime boys coach Gabe Porras takes over as girls coach this season.

#11 – Westfield Shamrocks

Shelbyville Regional #1

State meet history: 17 appearances (last in 2024), 6 podium finishes (last in 2008), 1 runner-up title (2004), 4 state championships (1998, 2005, 2006, 2007)

2024 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 3rd place (76 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 4th place (148 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 16th place (369 points)

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

Alivia Lozier (11) - 18:10 (4th place)

Mackenna Condon (10) - 19:40 (33rd place)

Gianna Ferreri (12) - 19:41 (34th place)

Carly Davis (10) - 20:01 (45th place)

Jordyn Landrum (12) - 20:19 (66th place)

Sam Foster (10) - 20:20 (67th place)

2025 Outlook: The Shamrocks are in an enviable position for the next couple of years. Junior Alivia Lozier, 16th at the state cross country meet last fall, had a strong spring (5:06 and 10:43) to cement her place among the state’s best. Sophomore Mackenna Condon (5:16 and 11:32) could be a solid number two, although it is possible she could be a little further down the depth chart with a strong trio of incoming freshmen. In addition to Lozier, Condon and the new runners, Westfield had three returners under 12:00 for 3200 last spring. This is a well-coached team with tradition, a frontrunner and one of the best depth charts in the state. That formula could absolutely have the ‘Rocks rolling onto the podium in the next two years.

#12 – Columbus North Bull Dogs

Mater Dei Regional #2

State meet history: 40 appearances (last in 2024), 21 podium finishes (last in 2022), 4 runner-up titles (1986, 2010, 2011, 2022), 2 state championships (2009, 2021)

2024 Results:

Brown County Sectional: 1st place (22 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 1st place (49 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 10th place (314 points)

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

Tristan Works (11) - 18:52 (8th place)

Emma Lowther - (11) - 19:31 (18th place)

Rendy Zhong (11) - 19:36 (24th place)

Adira Sluder (11) - 19:42 (29th place)

2025 Outlook: The Bull Dogs bring four back from a top-ten team that should be in mix for that same finish, maybe even on the fringes of contention for the podium. This is still a young team with just one senior in the projected top five heading into the fall. That senior, Ainsley Sherlock, has run in two cross country state meets and went 5:33 over 1600 meters and 11:49 over 3200 meters this spring. Junior Tristan Works looks ready to be a frontrunner after running 5:12 for 1600 meters and classmate Emma Lowther (5:14) could be pretty close. In addition, junior Adira Sluder had perhaps the strongest spring for long-distance races, covering 3200 meters in 11:30. Sophomore Kodi Smith (5:34 and 11:52) could be primed for a breakout season, helping the already deep Dogs to an even stronger lineup.

#13 – Columbia City Eagles

New Haven Regional #3

State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2024)

2024 Results:

Manchester Sectional: 1st place (35 points)

New Haven Regional: 3rd place (123 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 17th place (409 points)

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

Kenya Leitch (11) - 18:10 (3rd place)

Riley Myers (10) - 19:15 (22nd place)

Samantha Lickey (12) - 19:26 (26th place)

Madelyn Shively (10) - 20:10 (41st place)

Lillian Ralston (10) - 20:28 (50th place)

Lorin Stoddard (11) - 21:57 (126th place)

2025 Outlook: The Eagles ended a 13-year drought from the state finals last fall and starts the season in a great position for a second straight qualification. Junior Kenya Leitch has thrice been All-State individually (once in cross country, twice in the 3200) in her first two full years; she also led Columbia City to a fifth-place finish in the 4x8 this spring. The Eagles scored three freshman in most meets last year and ran two sophomores in the varsity through the tournament. Continued development of those to classes could ultimately vault the Eagles to their first ever podium appearance in the next two seasons.

#14 – Franklin Central Flashes

Shelbyville Regional #2

State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2024), 5 podium finishes (last in 2023)

2024 Results:

Mt. Vernon Sectional: 1st place (17 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 1st place (73 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 7th place (264 points)

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

Natalie Vandesteene (10) - 18:42 (11th place)

Camryn Simons (12) - 19:06 (21st place)

Makenna Bowling (10) - 19:15 (24th place)

Kaitlyn Pettet (12) - 19:41 (35th place)

2025 Outlook: The Flashes return four from a seventh-place team at the state meet that could finish in the top ten for a third consecutive season. Sophomore Natalie Vandesteene, 44th at the state meet her freshman year, should provide FC with frontrunning again. The other three varsity returners from last fall all ran under 11:40, helping to form the foundation of a very likely state meet. Sophomore McKenna VanVleet and sophomore Ella Matlock were both just outside the varsity last year and had good performances this track season; they should be in line for varsity positions with an opportunity to make a difference in the fall.

#15 – Valparaiso Vikings

New Prairie Regional #3

State meet history: 37 appearances (last in 2024), 13 podium finishes (last in 2023), 3 runner-up titles (2001, 2005, 2006), 5 state championships (1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004)

2024 Results:

Chesterton Sectional: 1st place (28 points)

New Prairie Regional: 3rd place (125 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 18th place (421 points)

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

Whitney Anderson (11) - 18:26 (4th place)

Ena Gilliana (12) - 19:54 (27th place)

Eavan Daly (11) - 20:00 (29th place)

Lydia Becker (12) - 21:33 (92nd place)

2025 Outlook: Graduation has besieged the Vikings over the last couple of years, but this is still a team likely to make the state meet a 12th consecutive season. Junior Whitney Anderson, twice All-State in as many attempts in cross country, gives Valpo a secure frontrunner for two more seasons. Ena Gilliana, who comes from a longline of great Valpo runners, could be ready for a big senior year; she ran 5:07 for 1600 meters this spring, qualifying for state in that event in addition to running on the Vikings’ 4x8. Amber Johnson (12:03), Lydia Becker (12:04) and Ingrid Danger (12:05) were all good over 3200 meters this past spring and should add to Valpo’s typical great depth this fall.

#16 – Hamilton Heights Huskies

Shelbyville Regional #3

State meet history: Never qualified

2024 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 6th place (139 points)

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

Allie Bushey (11) - 18:46 (10th place)

Anna Monnin (12) - 19:09 (16th place)

Amira Leer (11) - 20:01 (30th place)

Ayla Madara (11) - 20:40 (38th place)

Kendall Moe (12) - 21:02 (45th place)

Hattie Graham (11) - 22:10 (55th place)

Selah Heuer (10) - 25:56 (61st place)

2025 Outlook: Our committee (of one) is putting a lot of proverbial chips behind the Huskies being the surprise team in the state. Heights fell out of the sectional last year, still 20 points behind a Fishers’ squad that nearly made the state meet the next week. The Huskies still got two individuals, junior Allie Bushey and senior Anna Monnin, to Terre Haute individually. Those two get Heights off to a good start, and the addition of sisters from the middle school that finished second and fifth in the Hamilton County meet could take the Huskies from sixth in the sectional to a contender for the top ten at the state meet. Of course, given the difficulty of the path, it could also end in the sectional once again. Such is life for a small school on the north side of Indianapolis.

#17 – Noblesville Millers

Shelbyville Regional #4

State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 2024), 6 podium finishes (last in 2024), 1 state championship (2022)

2024 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 1st place (53 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 2nd place (90 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 5th place (244 points)

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

Ansley Applegate (12) - 18:51 (13th place)

Jayde Stamm (11) - 19:02 (19th place)

Kate Mumaw (11) - 19:53 (41st place)

Gretchen Graham (12) - 20:08 (53rd place)

2025 Outlook: The Millers raced well throughout the fall, culminating in a podium finish. Last year’s edition featured an incredibly strong front four but graduated four of the seven who competed at the state meet. Senior Ansley Applegate is the last remaining athlete from Noblesville’s title team in 2022, and she should provide the Millers with good frontrunning. She has finished no lower than 52nd in the three states meets in which she has competed and ran 5:05 for 1600 meters this spring. Junior Jayde Stamm, 11:19 over 3200 meters, should be a solid scorer as well. The Millers have developed into a consistent top program in the state with podium finishes in three of the last four years. To continue that, they will need to develop depth; the Hamilton County cross country champion coming in this school year should help jump start that process in Noblesville.

#18 – Floyd Central Highlanders

Mater Dei Regional #3

State meet history: 28 appearances (last in 2022), 7 podium finishes (last in 1992), 1 runner-up title (1987), 4 state championships (1989, 1990, 1991, 1992)

2024 Results:

Crawford County Sectional: 1st place (19 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 3rd place (109 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 13th place (346 points)

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

Adeline Shultz (11) - 18:46 (6th place)

Noel Nifong (10) - 19:04 (11th place)

Emma Campbell (11) - 19:23 (17th place)

Isabella Milliner (10) - 20:01 (37th place)

Avery Furhmann (12) - 20:45 (53rd place)

Jenna Wheatley (11) - 21:06 (66th place)

Georgia Atzinger (12) - 21:36 (89th place)

2025 Outlook: The Highlanders snapped a ten-year state meet streak in 2023 but started a new run by qualifying last season. With all seven back this fall, Floyd looks nearly a lock to qualify to Terre Haute again. Junior Adeline Shultz was nearly All-State in cross country, finishing 29th last fall, and sophomore Noel Nifong was not too far behind at any of the tournament meets. The Highlanders had a very strong track season: the 4x800 relay nearly finished on the podium and Nifong qualified for state individually in the 1600 and 3200. Sophomore Bella Milliner did not run cross country but made the state meet in the 1600; she would be a gigantic addition to the roster if she were to run this fall.

#19 – Fishers Tigers

Shelbyville Regional #5

State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2020), 1 podium finish (2019)

2024 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 5th place (119 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 7th place (175 points)

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

Caitlin Hawkins (10) - 19:12 (23rd place)

Mia Quagliaroli (10) - 19:56 (43rd place)

Allie Belush (12) - 20:04 (47th place)

Lorelai Polk (10) - 20:18 (64th place)

Eve Ziino (10) - 20:43 (85th place)

Melanie Perez (10) - 21:00 (100th place)

2025 Outlook: The Tigers enjoyed a massive one-year turnaround, going from out in the sectional to nearly making the state finals from a competitive regional. They very well might have pulled it off too if not for top runner Abby Lotter missing each race starting in mid-September. The return of Lotter with a strong sophomore class puts Fishers into a good position this fall to end a four-year state meet drought. Sophomore Caitlin Hawkins (5:15 and 11:01) could be the Tigers’ top runner for much of this upcoming season, and classmate Mia Quagliaroli (5:20 and 11:41) should contribute at a high level again. While it seems unlikely the Tigers have a potential All-Stater, Fishers will have some of the best depth in the state with six returners under 5:35 for 1600 meters last spring.

#20 – Harrison (WL) Raiders

Brownsburg Regional #6

State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2023)

2024 Results:

Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 1st place (19 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 6th place (137 points)

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

Kaitlyn Manfra (12) - 18:18 (11th place)

Gabrielle Converse (11) - 19:07 (28th place)

Isabella Burgess (11) - 19:08 (29th place)

Lacie Cooley (12) - 20:31 (72nd place)

Claire Cahee (10) - 20:51 (85th place)

Sophia Schultheiss (10) - 20:59 (92nd place)

2025 Outlook: The Raiders missed the state meet by a very slim margin–six points while holding a better team time–last fall. Despite being in the most competitive regional and graduating an All-Stater, Harrison should contend to advance this fall again. Senior Kaitlyn Manfra could push for an All-State finish; she ran 5:05 over 1600 meters in the spring despite having relay duty prior to that race, and she played an instrumental role in Harrison’s sixth-place 4x8 at the state meet. Junior Gabrielle Converse (5:20 and 11:22) should be an excellent second runner, and senior Carla Rodriguez showcased tremendous improvement in track. 

#21 – Morgan Township Cherokees

New Prairie Regional #4

State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2024)

2024 Results:

Chesterton Sectional: 2nd place (44 points)

New Prairie Regional: 4th place (175 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 19th place (458 points)

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

Isabella Bryan (12) - 19:35 (18th place)

Shae Bucher (11) - 19:42 (21st place)

Peyton Bucher (12) - 20:01 (31st place)

Jenna Abbring (11) - 21:37 (100th place)

Ella Buchko (10) - 21:37 (102nd place)

2025 Outlook: The Cherokees enter the season in an excellent position to make a fourth consecutive state finals. Senior Isabella Bryan has run in three cross country state meets, and junior Shae Bucher raced well in her first state finals last fall. Both are returning from top-100 finishes and ran under 5:30 for 1600 meters this past spring. Morgan Township (enrollment of 252 last school year with 14 participants in cross country) is the smallest school consistently contending for a state meet berth. Still, the Cherokees should be able to replace some of the depth lost to graduation with incoming freshmen after the middle school won the small school team championship at that state meet last fall.

#22 – Warsaw Tigers

New Haven Regional #4

State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2024)

2024 Results:

Manchester Sectional: 2nd place (50 points)

New Haven Regional: 4th place (190 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 22nd place (483 points)

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

Samantha Rastrelli (12) - 18:49 (9th place)

Eden Metz (12) - 20:06 (40th place)

Hannah Fisher (12) - 21:09 (78th place)

Stephanie Malagon-Juarez (11) - 21:39 (107th place)

2025 Outlook: The Tigers have qualified for five consecutive state meets, bring back four from last year and could add a trio of incoming freshmen that will help maintain that streak of qualifying to Terre Haute. Senior Samantha Rastrelli was Warsaw’s top runner all of last fall, ultimately finishing 56th at the state finals. Senior Eden Matz could provide the Tigers with another frontrunner after emerging in the spring with performances of 5:14 for 1600 meters and 11:23 for 3200 meters as well as qualifying for the state meet in the 800. In addition to the three who finished in the top 30 at the middle school state meet big school race, senior Abi Marsh (5:27 and 11:40) could contribute if she ran cross country this fall.

#23 – Roncalli Royals

Shelbyville Regional #6

State meet history: Never qualified

2024 Results:

Shelbyville Sectional: 1st place (59 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 10th place (279 points)

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

Tessa Mize (11) - 19:24 (28th place)

Charlie Fletter (12) - 19:53 (40th place)

Ava Shirley (12) - 20:05 (49th place)

Marygrace Rykowski (12) - 20:41 (81st place)

Madelyn Kitchens (12) - 21:48 (135th place)

Ellie Littell (10) - 23:00 (188th place)

2025 Outlook: The Royals enter this season with perhaps their best chance to make the state finals in school history. It won’t be easy in the Shelbyville Regional, but Roncalli at least has a less treacherous path in the first round. Junior Tessa Mize has qualified for the state cross country meet individually in both of her first two years and senior Ava Shirley joined her in 2023. Senior Charlie Fletter was the Royals’ top runner at the start of last fall but has missed time each of the previous three seasons. A great season from that top trio could lead Roncalli to its first state meet ever.

#24 – Crown Point Bulldogs

New Prairie Regional #5

State meet history: 16 appearances (last in 2022), 1 podium finish (2013)

2024 Results:

Highland Sectional: 2nd place (72 points)

Crown Point Regional: 6th place (237 points)

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

Everly Pycraft (11) - 19:45 (22nd place)

Sophia Brezden (10) - 20:03 (32nd place)

Mia Sargent (10) - 20:32 (49th place)

Livia Nowaczyk (10) - 20:59 (66th place)

Genevieve St. Clair (11) - 21:17 (81st place)

2024 Outlook: The Bulldogs have been heartbreakingly close to the state meet in both of the last two years. With five back, including two individual state qualifiers, this young team could turn the corner this fall. Sophomore Mia Sargent raced sub-par in the cross country tournament but was otherwise CP’s top distance runner in ninth-grade; she ran 5:14 for 1600 meters, qualifying for the track regional in that event as well as the 4x800 relay. The ‘Dogs progressed well through the spring. Junior Everly Pycraft ran 5:29 for 1600 meters and 11:43 for 3200 meters, qualifying for the latter to the regional in addition to 4x8 duty. 

#25 – Brownsburg Bulldogs

Brownsburg Regional #7

State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2023)

2024 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 2nd place (21 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 7th place (221 points)

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

Scout Newman (12) - 19:17 (33rd place)

Savannah Dyer (11) - 19:43 (43rd place)

Lucy Tolliver (12) - 20:06 (53rd place)

Sofia Bragg (12) - 20:23 (65th place)

Mya Richer (11) - 20:36 (76th place)

Sophia Lone (12) - 21:16 (111th place)

2025 Outlook: The Bulldogs have enjoyed their new tournament path with the road to Terre Haute running through their home course. In 2023, Brownsburg qualified for state, ending a five-year drought. Last year, the ‘Dogs had two individual qualifiers with senior Scout Newman and junior Savannah Dyer, both back this fall. Those two should get Brownsburg off to a competitive start, although the ‘Dogs are in the most competitive regional. Three with state meet experience–senior Lucy Tolliver qualified with the team two seasons ago–and six of seven returning is the foundation of a solid team.

#26 – East Central Trojans

Shelbyville Regional #7

State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2024)

2024 Results:

Rushville Sectional: 1st place (32 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 5th place (157 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 21st place (481 points)

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

Callie Bentley (12) - 18:20 (6th place)

Jena Weiler (11) - 18:58 (15th place)

Alyssa Donawerth (10) - 20:08 (52nd place)

Faith Harmeyer (12) - 21:29 (117th place)

2025 Outlook: The Trojans have qualified for the only two state meets in program history over the last three years. With four back from last year’s squad, including two established frontrunner, EC figures to be in the mix for three trips to Terre Haute in four seasons. The easier route to the regional does give the Trojans a bigger margin of error. Senior Callie Bentley provides great security at the top of the lineup as well; she was very good in the track season (5:01 and 11:02 in addition to qualifying individually in the open 800) and has thrice finished in the top 30 at the state cross country meet.

#27 – East Noble Knights

New Haven Regional #5

State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2023), 1 podium finish (1994)

2024 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 2nd place (55 points)

New Haven Regional: 6th place (218 points)

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

Chloe Gibson (12) - 18:44 (7th place)

Johanna Carpenter (12) - 20:13 (43rd place)

Macey Colin (12) - 20:21 (46th place)

Gracyn Koons (11) - 20:48 (66th place)

Lynden Boese (10) - 21:31 (98th place)

Daira Ibarra (12) - 23:17 (189th place)

2025 Outlook: The Knights had five back from a state finalist team last fall but just missed the state meet, which would have been four in a row. Senior Chloe Gibson was 27th at the state meet in cross country and has demonstrated a penchant for racing well on the LaVern Gibson course. Senior Johanna Carpenter enjoyed a strong track season, running 5:23 for 1600 meters. East Noble has typically run better in the fall than the spring, and that seems likely to continue into this next school year. Based on the make-up of this season’s roster, this could provide the Knights with their last great shot at the state meet.

#28 – Edgewood Mustangs

Mater Dei Regional #4

State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2023)

2024 Results:

Brown County Sectional: 2nd place (62 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 6th place (221 points)

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

Hannah Crain (12) - 18:27 (4th place)

Ellie Vagedas (12) - 19:35 (21st place)

Ally Bland (12) - 20:48 (54th place)

Maggie McCormack (10) - 21:34 (85th place)

Ava Grile (10) - 21:53 (102nd place)

Greta Vagedes (10) - 22:27 (136th place)

2025 Outlook: The Mustangs return six from a team that just missed the state finals. A strong senior class that includes All-Stater Hannah Crain could lead Edgewood back to Terre Haute where four of the last eight seasons have ended. In addition to Crain, the Mustangs had four more girls under 12:10 for 3200 meters. That combination of frontrunning and depth should be good enough to advance from the southern regional in which many of the top programs were hit hard by graduation. While much of the roster will remain the same, the Mustangs will have a new coach this fall.

#29 – Guerin Catholic Golden Eagles

Shelbyville Regional #8

State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2023)

2024 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 7th place (163 points)

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

Taylor Tragesser (10) - 18:55 (14th place)

Keira Hines (12) - 19:48 (26th place)

Delaney Gould (12) - 20:56 (43rd place)

Kara Van Woerkom (11) - 21:13 (47th place)

Brinna Wolf (11) - 21:46 (50th place)

2025 Outlook: The Golden Eagles were ousted at the state’s toughest sectional after consecutive state meet trips the previous two years. This year’s group has potential to get back to the state finals but could fail to advance out of the first round again, given the difficulty of the tournament path. Sophomore Taylor Tragesser was an individual qualifier for the state meet. Senior Katie Kolb was a scorer on two state meet teams previously but missed the tournament last fall. With a good incoming freshman class and bounce-back seasons from Kolb and junior Brinna Wolf, the Eagles should be a tough out.

#30 – Hamilton Southeastern Royals

Shelbyville Regional #9

State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2024), 5 podium finishes (last in 2021), 1 runner-up title (2013)

2024 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 2nd place (72 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 3rd place (140 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 15th place (353 points)

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

Danika Harris (10) - 20:37 (77th place)

Anissa Lammie (11) - 22:16 (160th place)

2025 Outlook: This is a tough team to get a handle on heading into this season. The Royals graduate six of the seven runners that competed for them in the state championship, the eighth consecutive appearance for the program and a run that included three podium finishes. Junior Anissa Lammie should be the top runner for HSE; she rebounded from a sub-par fall in the spring, finishing second in the open 400 and providing key legs for the Royals’ relays at the state track meet. Senior Raegan Hissong should contribute as well; she did not run in the regional but has scored for Southeastern at the last two state meets in cross country.

#31 – Fort Wayne Carroll Chargers

New Haven Regional #6

State meet history: 22 appearances (last in 2024), 9 podium finishes (last in 2020), 4 runner-up titles (2015, 2016, 2017, 2020), 2 state championships (2018, 2019)

2024 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 1st place (55 points)

New Haven Regional: 5th place (200 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 23rd place (550 points)

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

Natalie Blume (12) - 19:41 (35th place)

Mavee Clark (12) - 20:29 (51st place)

Olivia Conlon (10) - 20:30 (52nd place)

Claire Lane (11) - 21:15 (83rd place)

Audrey Fraser (11) - 21:19 (85th place)

2025 Outlook: The Chargers survived the regional last year to extend the state-meet streak to 21. Though five of those seven return, getting to 22 will be equally as difficult this fall. Sophomore Olivia Conlon served as Carroll’s top distance runner this past spring in the track season and could develop into a frontrunner. In total, the Chargers had eight returners under 6:00 for track. One of Carroll’s feeder middle schools also dominated the middle school state meet, which could boost the Chargers’ chances this fall. History (and insight) tells us that not all of those athletes will compete for Carroll this fall, however.

#32 – Bloomington North Cougars

Mater Dei Regional #5

State meet history: 32 appearances (last in 2024), 4 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 runner-up title (1982)

2024 Results:

Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 2nd place (53 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 5th place (157 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 24th place (557 points)

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

Lila Childers (11) - 19:47 (31st place)

Hayden McGuire (12) - 20:01 (36th place)

Bella Monroe (10) - 20:27 (45th place)

2025 Outlook: The Cougars ended a two-year hiatus from the state meet last fall after snapping a seven-year streak prior to that. This year’s group returns only three of seven but still figures to be in the mix to start a new streak. This is a well-coached team that typically has a lot of depth, as evidenced by last track season in which North had six girls under 5:30 for 1600 meters and 12:00 for 3200 meters. Junior Lila Childers (5:15 and 11:26) could emerge as a frontrunner senior Hayden McGuire improved a lot last year to serve as the Cougars’ number one runner frequently. Track results suggest that sophomore Bella Monroe may be ready for a bigger role as well this year.

#33 – Batesville Bulldogs

Shelbyville Regional #10

State meet history: Never qualified

2024 Results:

Rushville Sectional: 2nd place (35 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 8th place (239 points)

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

Lexiyne Harris (12) - 19:52 (39th place)

Jayla Bedel (10) - 20:07 (51st place)

Paige Allgeier (11) - 20:34 (75th place)

Caitlin Raver (10) - 20:43 (83rd place)

Samantha Adams (12) - 21:05 (103rd place)

Maycee Holtkamp (10) - 21:31 (120th place)

2025 Outlook: The Bulldogs return six of seven from a team that finished eighth at the regional but was not all that close to qualifying in terms of points. Despite consistently fielding strong teams each season, Batesville has never qualified for the state meet as geography continues to be a worthy adversary for a school with an enrollment of just under 700 students. The ‘Dogs continue to improve with all five of the program’s best years coming within the last six seasons, per inccstats’ all-time team page. Senior Lexiyne Harris has cross country state meet experience from her sophomore year, and sophomore Jayla Bedel could get there as well this season after running 5:22 for 1600 meters in track. Batesville should also get at least one difference-maker from the incoming freshman class as well.

#34 – Chesterton Trojans

New Prairie Regional #6

State meet history: 21 appearances (last in 2021), 8 podium finishes (last in 2021), 3 runner-up titles (1995, 1997, 2003)

2024 Results:

Chesterton Sectional: 4th place (83 points)

New Prairie Regional: 7th place (241 points)

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

Jessica Martin (11) - 19:59 (28th place)

Allison Van Kley (12) - 20:19 (42nd place)

Paige Clancy (10) - 20:37 (53rd place)

Lauren Kroft (12) - 21:18 (80th place)

Aubrey Bamber (12) - 21:39 (104th place)

2025 Outlook: The Trojans are on a three-year drought from the state meet after a podium finish in 2021. Chesterton brings back a team that could push to contend for a state meet berth. Junior Jessica Martin has made the state meet in cross country in each of her first two seasons and should be looking to take her team with her this fall. Senior Lauren Kroft displayed great improvement in the spring, running 5:28 for 1600 meters and 11:40 for 3200 meters. Chesterton also got strong spring from sophomore Paige Clancy (5:25 for 1600). While New Prairie projects to be deeper than last fall, Chesterton should be better as well.

#35 – Portage Indians

New Prairie Regional #7

State meet history: 21 appearances (last in 2023), 2 podium finishes (last in 1996), 1 runner-up title (1988)

2024 Results:

Chesterton Sectional: 3rd place (68 points)

New Prairie Regional: 8th place (259 points)

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

Madisyn Mikels (12) - 19:37 (20th place)

Madilynn Fehlman (11) - 20:35 (51st place)

Brooklyn Reed (12) - 21:13 (76th place)

Arabella Sweeney (11) - 21:18 (83rd place)

Kara Krapf (11) - 21:50 (117th place)

2025 Outlook: Portage was short of the state meet last fall after qualifying in 2023 and should be in the mix this season. Senior Madisyn Mikels has twice competed in the state cross country meet, qualifying as an individual as a junior and joined by her team in her sophomore year. She ran 5:17 for 1600 meters this past spring with juniors Madilynn Fehlman (5:21) and Kara Kropf (5:25) also displaying great promise for this fall by virtue of strong track seasons.

#36 – Goshen RedHawks

New Prairie Regional #8

State meet history: 2 appearance (last in 2024)

2024 Results:

Elkhart Sectional: 1st place (39 points)

New Prairie Regional: 5th place (215 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 20th place (469 points)

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

Eliza Herber (12) - 20:14 (36th place)

Jetcimani Cid (12) - 20:37 (52nd place)

Edith Loera-Arambula (12) - 20:42 (57th place)

Emilia Martin (11) - 21:19 (84th place)

Lindsay Rodman (12) - 21:37 (99th place)

2025 Outlook: The RedHawks survived a logjam for the last spot out of New Prairie last year and return five, including four seniors with state meet experience. Goshen could be in the mix for what would be the first back-to-back state meet trip in school history. Seniors Eliza Herber (11:38 for 3200 meters) and Jetcimani Cid (5:32 for 1600 meters) get the ‘Hawks off to a good start. It will be up to the rest of the pack to keep Goshen competitive, and the RedHawks probably return enough to stay competitive in that area.

#37 – Avon Orioles

Brownsburg Regional #8

State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2021), 2 podium finishes (last in 2014), 1 runner-up title (2014)

2024 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 3rd place (79 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 8th place (241 points)

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

Lily Hwang (10) - 19:54 (47th place)

Ella Staton (11) - 20:23 (64th place)

Malak Marzak (12) - 20:29 (68th place)

Ava Lillpop (11) - 20:47 (82nd place)

Vivian Ford (10) - 21:39 (130th place)

2025 Outlook: The Orioles bring back five from last year’s team but lose a frontrunner. While Avon doesn’t have anyone ready to replace the graduated Eve Schurr, this should still be a competitive group, albeit in a very tough regional with five of the state’s top ten teas in our preseason rankings. Junior Ella Staton had an excellent track season, running 5:22 for 1600 meters and advancing to the regional; she should serve as Avon’s top runner and could be in contention for individual advancement to the state meet. Sophomore Lily Hwang was solid in cross country last fall, and sophomore Vivian Ford should be a solid contributor this fall.

#38 – Center Grove Trojans

Shelbyville Regional #11

State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2011), 1 podium finish (2006)

2024 Results:

Shelbyville Sectional: 3rd place (81 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 11th place (300 points)

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

Lexi O’Barr (11) - 20:05 (48th place)

Gretchen Meisberger (11) - 20:14 (61st place)

Adriana Rosales (12)  - 20:30 (72nd place)

Andra Veleta (12) - 21:15 (108th place)

Annabelle Kemerling (12) - 21:38 (125th place)

2025 Outlook: The Trojans return five from a group that finished just shy of the top ten at the state’s toughest regional. CG figures to be in a similar position this fall. The Trojans don’t have a true frontrunner but boast a lot of depth. Junior Gretchen Meisberger was very consistent last fall and had a strong track season, running 5:24 for 1600 meters and 2:22 in the open 800 as well as competing at the state meet on CG’s 4x8. While advancing from the Shelbyville Regional is a tall task, the Trojans could realistically finish in the top ten and perhaps earn a top-25 ranking this season.

#39 – Kankakee Valley Kougars

New Prairie Regional #9

State meet history: 1 appearance (2008)

2024 Results:            

Rensselaer Central Sectional: 1st place (23 points)

New Prairie Regional: 9th place (268 points)

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

Jenna Walker (10) - 17:57 (2nd place)

Krista Sytsma (11) - 20:09 (34th place)

Faith Terborg (12) - 20:47 (60th place)

Grayce Stalbaum (10) - 22:20 (141st place)

Lily Culbreth (12) - 23:30 (192nd place)

2025 Outlook: The Kougars have an exciting roster with two young frontrunners that could carry them to the state meet for the first time in 17 years. Sophomore Jenna Walker had an incredible freshman campaign, finishing All-State in both cross country and track. Junior Krista Sytsma had a very strong freshman year as well, finishing 26th at the state cross country meet in 2023, and she rebounded well this spring in qualifying for the state meet over 800 meters while running 5:09 for 1600 and 10:59 for 3200. If both are at peak form in late October, KV could push to make the state meet with two great frontrunners.

#40 – Pendleton Heights Arabians

Shelbyville Regional #12

State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2016)

2024 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 4th place (109 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 6th place (163 points)

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

Anya Zoeller (10) - 17:37 (3rd place)

Maddie Marsh (11) - 20:27 (69th place)

Sadie Rauh (10) - 20:43 (84th place)

Josephine Bell (10) - 21:41 (127th place)

Leni Rauh (10) - 22:06 (154th place)

2025 Outlook: The Arabians very nearly made the state meet last fall, advancing from the strongest sectional to compete very well before ultimately falling just shy of Terre Haute. Making it past the first round will be even more challenging this fall. Still, the Arabians have one of the best individuals in the state in sophomore Anya Zoeller who finished third in the state cross country meet in the fall and second in the state track meet over 1600 meters in the spring. With two of the state’s best runners taking up most of the varsity roster spots in track, spring results are inconclusive for the rest of Pendleton’s returners.

#41 – Whiteland Warriors

Shelbyville Regional #13

State meet history: Never qualified

2024 Results:

Shelbyville Sectional: 2nd place (64 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 9th place (258 points)

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

Lena Shepp (11) - 18:38 (8th place)

Eden Muhlhauser (11) - 20:38 (79th place)

Claire Proctor (11) - 21:07 (105th place)

Marli Woods (10) - 21:17 (110th place)

Rozlin Tomamichel (11) - 22:53 (186th place)

2025 Outlook: The Warriors had a top-ten team in the state’s toughest regional and return their best runner. Last year’s squad was the second best in school history, and very close to number one, per inccstats.com’s advanced analytics. Junior Lena Shepp advanced to the state meet individually in cross country, running solid in all three tournament races, then followed that up with a very strong spring in which she competed in the state meet in the 4x800 and open 800. Whiteland could enjoy an impact freshman as well after an eighth-grader finished top ten at the middle school state meet big school race from a feeder. While the tournament path continues to be rocky, Whiteland should be solid for the foreseeable future.

#42 – Northridge Raiders

New Prairie Regional #10

State meet history: 26 appearances (last in 2021), 7 podium finishes (last in 2005), 2 runner-up titles (1993, 2002)

2024 Results:

Elkhart Sectional: 2nd place (96 points)

New Prairie Regional: 12th place (321 points)

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

Dakotah Moore (12) - 19:29 (14th place)

Hadley Troyer (12) - 20:10 (35th place)

Briene Bernis (11) - 20:34 (50th place)

Rebekah Miller (10) - 22:19 (140th place)

Natalie Gillette (11) - 22:27 (149th place)

Jade Snyder (11)  -23:04 (180th place)

2025 Outlook: The Raiders are a very interesting team heading into the fall of 2025. Northridge hasn’t made the state meet in four seasons, and the Raiders have switched tournament paths from New Haven to New Prairie, though that’s an even trade off in terms of competitive difficulty. This year’s team could be strong enough to get back to Terre Haute with six returning. Senior Dakotah Moore enjoyed a strong track season, finishing on the podium in the 3200, and appears even stronger than her two top-50 finishes at the state cross country meet as a freshman and sophomore. Senior Hadley Troyer also had a good track season, dipping under 5:30 for the 1600. 

#43 – Munster Mustangs

New Prairie Regional #11

State meet history: 1 appearance (2007)

2024 Results:

Highland Sectional: 5th place (118 points)

New Prairie Regional: 14th place (349 points)

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

Elora Bliss (12) - 19:37 (19th place)

Giana Bartusiak (12) - 20:55 (63rd place)

Julia Casey (12) - 21:16 (79th place)

Mary Nyhan (10) - 21:49 (116th place)

Ellis Choi (11)  - 21:55 (119th place)

Olivia Gena (12)  -22:31 (157th place)

2025 Outlook: The Mustangs bring six back from a team that grabbed the last spot out of the sectional and is looking to move up the ranks in the regional. Munster could certainly finish in the top ten this season, though they project quite a ways back from qualifying at this point. Senior Elora Bliss should provide the necessary frontrunning to contend for a state finals berth at least. She ran in both state meets as a junior, advancing through the rounds in track in the 3200, running 5:11 for 1600 meters and 11:00 for the 3200 in the spring. Sophomore Olivia Ahn (5:33 for 1600 meters) could help the depth if she chooses to run this fall.

#44 – Cathedral Fighting Irish

Shelbyville Regional #14

State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2015), 2 podium finishes (last in 2015)

2024 Results:

Mt. Vernon (Fortville) Sectional: 2nd place (81 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 15th place (391 points)

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

Addison Field (10) - 20:31 (74th place)

Adalyn Bolin (10) - 20:37 (78th place)

Olivia McDaniel (10) - 21:07 (104th place)

Mary Bradshaw (12) - 21:28 (116th place)

Brooklyn Bolin (12) - 22:01 (148th place)

Camille Spencer (12) - 23:14 (195th place)

2025 Outlook: The Irish had a strong freshman class last school year that helped to qualify for the state’s toughest regional. Cathedral should be back and could improve upon last year’s finish. Sophomore Adalyn Bolin made good progress in the spring, covering 1600 meters in 5:28 with senior Brooklyn Bolin 5:33 for the same distance. With six of seven back plus perhaps some good incoming freshmen, Cathedral might be more competitive than last fall and perhaps on the fringes of a top-ten regional finish.

#45 – Norwell Knights

New Haven Regional #7

State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 1995)

2024 Results:

Delta Sectional: 1st place (68 points)

New Haven Regional: 14th place (399 points)

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

Ashley Tucker (10) - 20:46 (64th place)

Mia Kurtz (10) - 21:04 (74th place)

Macey Oatess (10) - 21:40 (108th place)

Brooklyn Meyer (12) - 21:51 (120th place)

Ashley Waldman (12) - 22:09 (141st place)

Mya Oatess (10) - 22:17 (147th place)

Mariah Kline (11) - 22:58 (179th place)

2025 Outlook: The Knights return all seven of last year’s varsity on a team that ran four freshmen at the regional. With good development among the younger runners, Norwell should move up the regional rankings. Perhaps a second infusion of young talent could make the Knights a threat to advance for the state meet for the first time this century, though preseason numbers show the top five in that regional to be clearly ahead of the rest of the field.

#46 – Mt. Vernon Marauders

Shelbyville Regional #15

State meet history: Never qualified

2024 Results:

Mt. Vernon (Fortville) Sectional: 4th place (122 points)

Shelbyville Regional: 20th place (526 points)

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

Chesnie Willis (11) - 20:10 (56th place)

Lillian Quinn (12) - 22:01 (149th place)

Hannah Hauser (12) - 22:12 (158th place)

Galyn Moore (11) - 22:51 (184th place)

Kendall Cagnet (11) - 23:46 (208th place)

2025 Outlook: The Marauders return five from a team that qualified for the regional last year and had seemingly been in contention for a state meet berth the season before that. This year’s roster certainly has strong upside; senior Hannah Hauser ran 5:21 for 1600 meters and went well under 12:00 for the 3200 with junior Mackenna Laffey close to 5:30 in the 1600. The Marauders have never qualified for the state meet, and unfortunately the new tournament alignment makes that much more difficult being in the most treacherous path to Terre Haute.

#47 – Jasper Wildcats

Mater Dei Regional #6

State meet history: 10 appearances (last in 2024)

2024 Results:

Jasper Sectional: 1st place (38 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 4th place (138 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 25th place (616 points)

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

Andyn Lampert (12) - 19:35 (22nd place)

Molly Isaacs (11) - 19:44 (30th place)

2025 Outlook: The Wildcats are in the midst of one of the best stretches in program history with state finals appearances in four of the last five years. Jasper will take some graduation hits this year, though the ‘Cats should be able to fill some of that void with a strong incoming freshman class that finished fourth at the middle school state meet big school division. A great transition from those incoming ninth-graders could put Jasper into the mix for state in a regional that does not project to be very strong this fall.

#48 – Plainfield Quakers

Brownsburg Regional #9

State meet history: Never qualified

2024 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 4th place (112 points)

Brownsburg Regional: 10th place (326 points)

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

Katherine Campbell (12) - 20:03 (50th place)

Adisyn Gorrell (12) - 20:18 (61st place)

Madison Weaver (11) - 20:26 (66th place)

Reese Woodson (12) - 20:58 (90th place)

Hailey Kelley (10) - 21:15 (109th place)

Hailey Nehring (11) - 21:16 (110th place)

Gabby McHone (11) - 22:07 (151st place)

2025 Outlook: Perhaps the best program in the state never to have qualified for the state meet, the Quakers’ new tournament path could be the change needed to end that drought at some point in the future. That is very unlikely to be this year with five of the state’s top ten teams in the Brownsburg Regional. Plainfield should be better than last year with seven runners back. Senior Katie Campbell could be in the mix for individual qualification to the state meet after a track season that included 5:21 for 1600 meters, and Plainfield had a top 20 finisher in the middle school state meet big school race who is going into her freshman year.

#49 – Corydon Central Panthers

Mater Dei Regional #7

State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2023)

2024 Results:

Crawford County Sectional: 2nd place (59 points)

Mater Dei Regional: 7th place (270 points)

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

Lilli Pavey (12) - 19:42 (28th place)

Ella Taylor (10) - 19:55 (35th place)

Peri Leghart (12) - 20:58 (58th place)

Cora Broom (11) - 21:41 (96th place)

Haelley Shearer (12) - 22:02 (108th place)

Evelyn Sevilla (10) - 22:14 (121st place)

2025 Outlook: The Panthers missed the state meet last fall after the first two appearances in program history prior to that. It is possible Corydon could get back to Terre Haute as a team, though that’s predicated on the Panthers getting production from newcomers. That is possible as Corydon’s junior high team finished third in the small school division at the middle school state meet. Senior Peri Leghart could be much improved after running 5:32 in the track season. 

#50 – West Noble Chargers

New Haven Regional #8

State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2010), 2 podium finishes (last in 1999)

2024 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 3rd place (88 points)

New Haven Regional: 11th place (337 points)

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

Trinity Parson (12) - 20:39 (58th place)

Lanie Martin (12) - 21:06 (76th place)

Karyme Barrientos (10) - 21:14 (82nd place)

Mya Emmert (11) - 21:21 (87th place)

Victoria Mendoza (10) - 21:49 (115th place)

Abigail Ruch (11) - 22:59 (180th place)

Maryanna Troxel (10) - 24:12 (212th place)

2025 Outlook: The Chargers return all seven from an 11th-place regional team that could move into the top ten this fall. Senior Lanie Martin had a strong track season, running 5:27 for 1600 meters. West Noble should have no problems advancing out of the sectional but getting to the school’s first state meet in 14 years would probably require some newcomers making a big difference.