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Season Preview: Top 50 boys Teams

Updated: Aug 9, 2021

We'll be counting down our preseason top 50 boys teams below! Check back regularly as we'll reveal 5 new teams every two-three days...counting down all the way to our preseason #1 team! Where will your team rank?


#1 – Brebeuf Braves

Shelbyville Semi-state #1

Noblesville Regional #1


State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2020), 4 podium finishes (last in 2020)


2020 Results:

Brebeuf Sectional: 1st place (23 points)

Noblesville Regional: 1st place (41 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 1st place (68 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 3rd place (126 points)


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

Krishna Thirunavukkarasu (12) – 15:49 (6th place)

Cameron Todd (10) – 15:54 (8th place)

Ezra Burrell (11) – 15:57 (12th place)

Matteo Rosio (11) – 16:19 (23rd place)

Collin Stevens (12) – 16:26 (27th place)


2021 Outlook: The Braves have an incredible team coming back after the two best years in program history. This is absolutely the team to beat in 2021. Senior Krishna Thirunavukkarasu is a two-time All-Stater in cross country and added to that total by earning a medal this past track season over 3200 meters. Sophomore Cameron Todd finished All-State last fall and had a good spring as well, running 9:27 over 3200 meters in mid-April. Junior Ezra Burrell, nearly All-State in the fall and seventh in the 1600 at the state meet this spring, has established himself as a state elite frontrunner. It is not inconceivable that the Braves could put three in the top ten at the state meet this fall. In addition to those three stars, junior Matteo Rosio (9:30 for 3200 meters and state meet qualifier) and senior Collin Stevens (9:36 for 3200 meters) had excellent track seasons as well. Brebeuf could put five in the top 25, a feat not accomplished on the boys side since 2009. If there are any potential cracks in the armor for the Braves, it’s depth: Brebeuf has just seven listed on inccstats’ preseason individuals that goes 852 deep, less than half of the other top five teams and a third of the deepest squad.


#2 – Columbus North Bull Dogs

Brown County Semi-state #1


State meet history: 25 appearances (last in 2020), 12 podium finishes (last in 2020), 2 runner-up titles (2001, 2013), 6 state championships (2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2020)


2020 Results:

Brown County Sectional: 2nd place (46 points)

Columbus North Regional: 1st place (20 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 1st place (34 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 1st place (63 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Reese Kilbarger-Stumpff (12) – 15:31 (2nd place)

Evan Carr (12) – 15:57 (9th place)

Matthew Newell (12) – 16:00 (10th place)

Will Kiel (12) – 16:26 (27th place)


2021 Outlook: The Bulldogs were a heavy favorite and capitalized on their great team last fall, outdueling the number two team twice in close regular season meets before dominating the state meet while nearly putting five in the top 25. Since then, senior Reese Kilbarger-Stumpff (1:52 over 800 meters and 4:07 over 1600 meters) has established himself as a nationally elite distance runner. A healthy Matt Newell, 14th in the state cross country meet as a sophomore and an important scorer despite injuries last fall, could mean the ‘Dogs are scoring fewer than ten points through two runners at the state meet plus CN is bringing in one of the potential impactful freshmen. If CN is going to challenge for a second consecutive state championship (and seventh in school history), they’ll need to continue the momentum from last year’s win and incredible state meet performance.


#3 – Hamilton Southeastern Royals

New Haven Semi-state #1


State meet history: 15 appearances (last in 2020), 3 podium finishes (last in 2012)


2020 Results:

Pendleton Heights Sectional: 1st place (21 points)

Delta Regional: 2nd place (58 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 1st place (109 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 6th place (228 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Nolan Satterfield (12) – 15:58 (8th place)

Bennett DuBois (12) – 16:05 (13th place)

Will Marquardt (12) – 16:11 (17th place)

Garrett Hicks (12) – 16:25 (25th place)

Ash Caylor (11) – 17:09 (72nd place)

Connor Sarkovics (12) – 17:15 (83rd place)


2021 Outlook: The Royals are absolutely a contender for the state title. They bring back six of seven from a team that was sixth at the state meet last fall, and then they added senior Andrew Knight who had been competitive for past Noblesville teams but competed for HSE in the track season. Of all the teams on this list, the Royals got perhaps the best track season out of their returners with seniors Nolan Satterfield (1600), Garrett Hicks (1600) and Bennett DuBois (800) qualifying for the state meet individually out of the most competitive regional in the state and senior Will Marquardt running 9:25 for 3200 meters with senior Connor Sarkovics running 9:45 for the same distance. This is likely the strongest year in state history in terms of boys teams; in a more typical year, this HSE team is a heavy preseason favorite.


#4 – Carmel Greyhounds

Shelbyville Semi-state #2

Noblesville Regional #2


State meet history: 47 appearances (last in 2020), 42 podium finishes (last in 2020), 13 runner-up titles (1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1989, 1992, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2014, 2016, 2019, 2020), 16 state championships (1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1987, 1988, 1993, 1996, 2008, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018)


2020 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 2nd place (58 points)

Noblesville Regional: 2nd place (46 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 2nd place (75 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 2nd place (112 points)


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

Kole Mathison (11) – 15:18 (1st place)

Charlie Schuman (12) – 16:08 (17th place)

Charlie Leedke (11) – 16:26 (26th place)


2021 Outlook: The Greyhounds finished in the top two for a ninth consecutive time last fall, a streak that looks to be at its highest degree of peril in the last decade this year despite Carmel returning a potentially great team. Junior Kole Mathison scored just one point in every meet and took another step forward with his track season that included 8:55 for 3200 meters (#13 all-time) and two runner-up finishes at the state finals in the spring (4x8 and 3200) that helped his school to its fourth track title in six seasons. State meet veteran Charlie Schuman was All-State in cross country and qualified for the state track meet over 1600 meters while junior Charlie Leedke was solid in the spring (9:44 for 3200). The ‘Hounds have always enjoyed great depth; besides the three that ran in the state meet, Carmel had three more returners run 10:00 or faster over 3200 meters at its new showcase. Still, a quest for an unprecedented tenth straight ring will be challenging.


#5 – Center Grove Trojans

Shelbyville Semi-state #3


State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 2020), 1 podium finish (2020)


2020 Results:

Franklin Sectional: 1st place (27 points)

Franklin Regional: 1st place (28 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 4th place (110 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 4th place (191 points)


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

Griffin Hennessy (11) – 16:04 (14th place)

Raef Sauer (12) – 16:16 (22nd place)

Jarret Rockwell (11) – 16:29 (32nd place)

Parker Mimbela (11) – 16:32 (38th place)

Kyle Montgomery (10) – 16:39 (47th place)

Gavin Rockwell (10) – 17:12 (98th place)


2021 Outlook: Even with two state meet appearances in the last two seasons, the only two in program history, the Trojans are still a young team entering this fall. Though they haven’t lost many runners over the last two years to graduation, strangely enough the Trojans’ top runner in each of the last two cross country seasons has moved out of state. Still, CG could be a podium team this year, even in perhaps the strongest year in boys cross country history, and perhaps the favorite for 2022. The Trojans don’t have a surefire All-State-caliber frontrunner due to those aforementioned moves, but junior Griffin Hennessy (1600) and junior Parker Mimbella (3200) did qualify for the state track meet as individuals. CG also has five athletes back that finished in the top 100 at last year’s state finals in cross country, one of only two teams that can make that claim.


#6 – Bloomington North Cougars

Brown County Semi-state #2

Bedford North Lawrence Regional #1


State meet history: 34 appearances (last in 2020), 6 podium finishes (last in 2006), 1 state championship (1980)


2020 Results:

Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 1st place (27 points)

Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 1st place (50 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 3rd place (133 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 11th place (335 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Nolan Bailey (12) – 15:45 (4th place)

Kyle Clark (11) – 16:09 (13th place)

Eli Norrick (12) – 16:34 (34th place)

Quincy Slaper (12) – 16:48 (48th place)

Jack Nelson (12) – 16:51 (50th place)

John Rushton (12) – 17:03 (65th place)

Liam Arthur (12) – 17:11 (82nd place)


2021 Outlook: The Cougars have everyone back from an 11th place state meet team, giving them a legitimate chance at the podium this fall. Junior Kyle Clark was All-State last fall in cross country. In addition to all those returners, the Cougars had an incredible spring. If they can translate that success to the hill and dale, this is a possible podium team (and the fringest of contenders) given the team’s depth. Senior Griffin Bruce qualified for the state meet in the open 800 with senior Ethan Taske advancing in the 3200, neither of which ran in the state meet last fall but did participate in cross country. The state among the top is loaded with elite talent or a deep history of success at the state meet, but the Cougars certainly could get into the mix.


#7 – Fishers Tigers

New Haven Semi-state #2


State meet history: 10 appearances (last in 2020), 7 podium finishes (last in 2020), 2 runner-up titles (2015, 2017), 1 state championship (2007)


2020 Results:

Pendleton Heights Sectional: 2nd place (34 points)

Delta Regional: 1st place (26 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 3rd place (124 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 5th place (196 points)


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

Tate Meaux (11) – 16:24 (24th place)

Nick Pulos (12) – 16:45 (43rd place)

Alec Foster (12) – 17:30 (99th place)


2021 Outlook: On paper, the Tigers don’t seem to be returning what constitutes a podium team in 2021. Fishers brings back just three from last year’s fifth-place team, including graduating the top three from that race. It’s unwise to count the Tigers out from podium contention, though, with Fishers having earned medals in five of the last six seasons. In addition to solid returning depth, as usual, the Tigers also could have one of the most impactful freshmen in the state. In terms of depth, Fishers is just one behind Carmel with 20 runners in inccstats preseason rankings.


#8 – Fort Wayne Concordia Cadets

New Haven Semi-state #3

West Noble Regional #1


State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2020), 3 podium finishes (last in 2019), 1 state championship (2019)


2019 Results:

Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 1st place (47 points)

West Noble Regional: 1st place (49 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 2nd place (124 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 8th place (257 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Karsten Schlegel (12) – 15:35 (3rd place)

Gabriel Connelly (12) – 16:28 (29th place)

Daniel Adair (12) – 16:35 (32nd place)

Zachary Shaw (12) – 17:33 (107th place)


2021 Outlook: The Cadets could ascend the podium for a third time in four years. Concordia certainly has the experience and talent to do it with two back who ran on the Cadets’ state title team a couple of years back. Senior Karsten Schlegel, sixth at the state last fall and a qualifier to the state finals in the 3200 this past spring, gives Concordia a great start. Senior Charlie Fikes, 9:56 over 3200 meters this spring, and sophomore Ben Bentz, 4:39 over 1600, could be contributors as well. Senior Daniel Adair may have turned the corner after finishing All-State individual this spring, though it came in the 800 which is the toughest distance event to translate into cross country success.


#9 – Noblesville Millers

Shelbyville Semi-state #4

Noblesville Regional #3


State meet history: 10 appearances (last in 2020), 1 podium finish (2010), 1 runner-up title (2010)


2020 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 1st place (16 points)

Noblesville Regional: 3rd place (59 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 3rd place (107 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 7th place (235 points)


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

Asher Propst (11) – 16:22 (24th place)

Caden Click (10) – 16:28 (31st place)

Joel Mumaw (12) – 16:46 (54th place)


2020 Outlook: The Millers are one of the most intriguing teams in the state entering 2021. They have three back from last year’s seventh-place state meet team, and all three could be great this year. Sophomore Caden Click was one of the best freshmen in the state last fall, while junior Asher Propst and senior Joel Mumaw both qualified for the state meet in the 1600 this past spring. Beyond that trio, Noblesville should have a deep team, though one of the Millers’ potential scorers moved in the second semester of last school year which will make fielding a podium team a little more challenging.


#10 – Goshen RedHawks

New Haven Semi-state #4


State meet history: 8 appearances (last in 2020), 1 podium finish (1976)


2020 Results:

Elkhart Sectional: 2nd place (61 points)

Elkhart Central Regional: 1st place (60 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 5th place (188 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 13th place (150 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Drew Hogan (12) – 16:04 (11th place)

Cole Johnston (12) – 16:13 (18th place)

Tommy Claxton (11) – 16:49 (45th place)

Tyler Wiese (12) – 17:39 (112th place)

Logan Harkenrider (12) – 17:42 (115th place)

Adrian Mora (12) – 18:32 (163rd place)


2021 Outlook: The RedHawks may be a victim of unfortunate timing with their best team in school history coming in perhaps the deepest year in state history for the boys. Goshen has two great frontrunners in Cole Johnson (All-State in cross country) and Drew Hogan (All-State in the 1600 during the track season. Junior Tommy Claxton gives the ‘Hawks an excellent number three. This is a likely state meet team; to become a podium contender, certainly a possibility, Goshen will need to develop its depth beyond those three.


#11 – Floyd Central Highlanders

Brown County Semi-state #3


State meet history: 23 appearances (last in 2020), 1 podium finish (1991), 1 state championship (1991)


2019 Results:

Crawford County Sectional: 2nd place (74 points)

Crawford County Regional: 1st place (49 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 2nd place (128 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 19th place (423 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Will Conway (10) – 16:30 (29th place)

Joseph Meier (12) – 16:38 (39th place)

Adam Heitz (12) – 16:50 (49th place)


2020 Outlook: The Highlanders are on a three-year state meet streak that seems likely to continue. Sophomore Will Conway proved himself to be a big-race performer, finishing 38th in the state cross country meet and fifth in the 1600 at the state track meet, in his first high school season. In addition to the listed returners, senior Weston Naville comes back for his senior year with two state meets of experience plus qualifying for the state track meet in the 800. We deem the ‘Landers a longshot podium team.


#12 – Fort Wayne Carroll Chargers

New Haven Semi-state #5

West Noble Regional #2


State meet history: 12 appearances (last in 2020), 5 podium finishes (last in 2016), 2 runner-up titles (2008, 2012), 1 state championship (2016)


2020 Results:

Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 2nd place (66 points)

West Noble Regional: 2nd place (79 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 4th place (165 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 20th place (423 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Preston Sloffer (12) – 15:53 (6th place)

Robert Lohman (12) – 15:59 (9th place)

Nicholas Kiplinger (12) – 16:43 (39th place)

Blake Niefert (11) – 17:11 (75th place)

Jackson Million (12) – 17:13 (79th place)


2021 Outlook: The Chargers had a two-year hiatus from the state meet, notable only because of the program’s lofty standards over the past decade, but they returned to Terre Haute last fall. The frontrunning duo of Preston Sloffer and Robert Lohman give Carroll a great start, both starting the season seemingly in striking distance to an All-State finish this fall. Beyond those two, the Chargers have some good depth, including six with state finals experience in cross country.


#13 – Zionsville Eagles

Shelbyville Semi-state #5


State meet history: 9 appearances (last in 2020)


2020 Results:

Ben Davis Sectional: 1st place (42 points)

Ben Davis Regional: 1st place (45 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 6th place (153 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 9th place (301 points)


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

Matthew Helton (11) – 16:30 (36th place)

William Nobbe (11) – 16:42 (50th place)

Decatur Dell (12) – 16:51 (59th place)

Samuel Spees (10) – 16:59 (73rd place)

Ryan Handy (11) – 17:24 (109th place)


2021 Outlook: The Eagles are on a five-year state meet streak that seems likely to continue this fall despite losing their top duo from last year since they return the other five. Zionsville could have a good top duo with juniors Matthew Helton and William Nobbe, both of whom broke ten minutes over 3200 meters. Junior Skyler Cole could be a difference maker as well after a good spring track season. This is a likely state meet team that’s probably a year away from being a major contender for a podium finish, which would be a first in school history.


#14 – Jasper Wildcats

Brown County Semi-state #4


State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2020)


2020 Results:

Jasper Sectional: 1st place (39 points)

Crawford County Regional: 2nd place (65 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 5th place (181 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 14th place (375 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Abe Eckman (12) – 15:41 (3rd place)

Jaryn Weinel (11) – 16:10 (16th place)

Harrison Hulsman (11) – 16:16 (21st place)

Will Gubbins (11) – 17:04 (68th place)

Kyler Wehr (11) – 17:39 (118th place)

Wylee Kippenbrock (10) – 18:07 (145th place)


2021 Outlook: The Wildcats have qualified for the last two state finals as a team and bring back a longshot medal team for this fall. Senior Abe Eckman, 12th at the state cross country meet and 9:14 over 3200 meters as a junior, gives Japer the requisite frontrunning to make a podium push. Beyond Eckman, the ‘Cats have all of their scorers back from a 14th place state meet team, a rarity for any boys team that qualified and finished that high, and with Eckman the only senior in the projected top seven, Jasper could be just as competitive next year as well.


#15 – Westfield Shamrocks

Shelbyville Semi-state #6 Noblesville Regional #4


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


2020 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 3rd place (62 points)

Noblesville Regional: 4th place (109 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 9th place (208 points)


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

Kai Connor (12) – 15:52 (7th place)

Josh Barnett (12) – 16:54 (64th place)


2021 Outlook: The Shamrocks are a tough team to have a handle on this early. Certainly, senior Kai Connor provides a formidable frontrunner; he’s been an individual qualifier to the state meet in cross country the last two years and had an incredible track season over all three distances, including anchoring Westfield to a fourth-place 4x8 finish. Westfield only has two runners back from the semi-state, but the ‘Rocks had one of the deepest groups in the state last year so they shouldn’t have too much trouble finding depth. One such runner could be sophomore Owen Ferreri who finished tenth in a competitive sectional meet. Senior Josh Barnett had a good track season also, running 9:49 over 3200 meters.


#16 – Northridge Raiders

New Haven Semi-state #6


State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2015), 4 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 state championship (2004)


2020 Results:

Elkhart Sectional: 1st place (37 points)

Elkhart Central Regional: 3rd place (77 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 7th place (214 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Jaxon Miller (11) – 16:17 (19th place)

Jack Moore (12) – 16:27 (26th place)

Jon Spicher (11) – 17:07 (70th place)

David Gingerich (10) – 17:24 (92nd place)

Trevin Schlabach (10) – 17:31 (103rd place)

Will Knox (11) – 17:32 (106th place)


2021 Outlook: The Raiders are still a young team after missing the state meet by just eight points with a roster that featured two freshmen and three sophomores at the semi-state. The lone senior in this season’s projected line-up could be the key to Northridge returning to Terre Haute as a team for the first time in five years after Jack Moore’s track season culminated in a sixth-place state meet finish in the 3200 in June. Beyond Moore’s star rising in the track tournament, the Raiders got promising track seasons from some of their younger athletes. This will be a tough team in 2021.


#17 – Bloomington South Panthers

Brown County Semi-state #5

Bedford North Lawrence Regional #2


State meet history: 49 appearances (last in 2020), 7 podium finishes (last in 2018)


2020 Results:

Bedford North Lawrence Sectional: 2nd place (28 points)

Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 3rd place (75 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 4th place (179 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 15th place (383 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Zander West (12) – 16:31 (32nd place)

Jack Gildea (11) – 16:40 (41st place)

Reid Hubbard (12) – 17:09 (79th place)

Dante Valentino (12) – 17:35 (112th place)


2021 Outlook: The Panthers have qualified for the state finals four consecutive years and a fifth seems likely. South has four returning that competed in last year’s state meet, and senior Zander West has run in two of those in high school. The sophomore class is the biggest reason for optimism as the Panthers could get regular scoring contributions from three different athletes in that class. Sophomore Ryan Rheam didn’t compete beyond the sectional for the Panthers in cross country, but he ran 9:43 over 3200 meters and qualified for the state track finals as a freshman, a rare feat. He seems a likely frontrunner even this early in his high school career.


#18 – North Central Panthers

Shelbyville Semi-state #7

Noblesville Regional #5


State meet history: 31 appearances (last in 2018), 11 podium finishes (last in 2010), 2 runner-up titles (1967, 1968), 1 state championship (1969)


2020 Results:

Brebeuf Sectional: 2nd place (60 points)

Noblesville Regional: 6th place (160 points)


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

Nate Killeen (11) – 15:45 (9th place)

Hayden Monk (12) – 16:33 (34th place)

Andrew Charbonneau (11) – 16:46 (43rd place)

Henry DeRyke (12) – 16:56 (50th place)


2021 Outlook: The Panthers bring back a great frontrunner in junior Nate Killeen, 15th at the state finals in the fall and nearly All-State over 800 meters in the spring. In addition to the returners listed, NC has two high upside boys in senior Sawyer Hussain and junior Xavier Guarneros. If the Panthers can get contributions from those two, they could find themselves back to the state finals after a two-year hiatus. If not, Killeen should get a second medal as an individual. NC will be with a new coach as former head coach Taylor Marshall left for Carmel following the track season.


#19 – Penn Kingsmen

New Haven Semi-state #7


State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2020), 1 podium finish (1999)


2020 Results:

South Bend Riley Sectional: 1st place (27 points)

Elkhart Central Regional: 2nd place (60 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 6th place (206 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 18th place (409 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Mariano Retzloff (12) – 15:34 (2nd place)

Jason Juarez (11) – 17:09 (73rd place)

Nicholas Probst (11) – 17:17 (88th place)

Carter Kaser (12) – 17:29 (96th place)


2020 Outlook: The Kingsmen made the state finals last fall (by a scant eight points) after a two-year lay off from Terre Haute. Penn certainly returns a group capable of making a return trip. Senior Mariano Retzloff, fifth at the state cross country meet and 9:17 over 3200 meters in the spring, gives the Kingsmen a surefire frontrunner. Senior Carter Kaser, 9:48 over 3200 in the spring and a leg on Penn’s 4x8 at the state meet that nearly earned medals, may have turned the corner as a distance runner and could be a big difference maker this fall. Penn has a formidable team returning a year after making the state meet, but their route back to Terre Haute certainly isn’t easy.


#20 – Homestead Spartans

New Haven Semi-state #8

West Noble Regional #3


State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2019)


2020 Results:

Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 4th place (97 points)

West Noble Regional: 3rd place (100 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 8th place (219 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Ethan Baitz (12) – 16:01 (10th place)

Chase Molden (12) – 17:03 (63rd place)

Bryson Leffers (10) – 17:11 (74th place)

Grayson Welch (11) – 17:32 (105th place)


2021 Outlook: The Spartans were close to a third consecutive state meet after the best season in program history in 2019. Four of those seven return, including senior Ethan Baitz who was 18th in the state finals after qualifying individually. A team with these returners is certain to be a difficult contestant for about anyone to deal with in the tournament, but the path to Terre Haute through Fort Wayne is a challenging route as Homestead learned last fall.


#21 – Chesterton Trojans

New Prairie Semi-state #1


State meet history: 37 appearances (last in 2020), 4 podium finishes (last in 2009), 1 runner-up title (2009)


2020 Results:

New Prairie Sectional: 1st place (25 points)

Chesterton Regional: 1st place (36 points)

New Prairie Semi-state: 1st place (92 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 17th place (395 points)


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

Cole Dolson (12) – 16:32 (15th place)

Evan O’Connor (10) – 16:53 (35th place)

Jackson Tuck (11) – 16:58 (41st place)

Josh Tuck (11) – 17:11 (54th place)

Reece Errow (12) – 17:47 (104th place)


2021 Outlook: The Trojans bring back five from last year’s semistate-winning squad, certainly enough for us to dub them a state meet lock for this season. Sophomore Evan O’Connor could pair with senior Cole Dolson to provide Chesterton with two frontrunners on a more local level with the standard improvement after a year of high school training, and the rest of the team should be deep enough to be as competitive as last season.


#22 – Northview Knights

Brown County Semi-state #6

Bedford North Lawrence Regional #3


State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2020)


2020 Results:

Terre Haute North Sectional: 1st place (35 points)

Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 2nd place (65 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 6th place (197 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 21st place (541 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Stuart Bennett (12) – 16:26 (26th place)

Jcim Grant (10) – 16:41 (42nd place)

Douglas Dillman (10) – 17:05 (70th place)

Hank Slater (11) – 17:15 (87th place)


2021 Outlook: The Knights are coming off the best season in program history and could be close to the same level this fall as well. This should be a relatively deep team that also returns four with state finals experience. Sophomore Jcim Grant could progress into a borderline All-Stater. A third straight trip to the state meet seems possible, if not likely. The Knights also got more state meet experience this past spring with a 4x800 qualifying.


#23 – Franklin Central Flashes

Shelbyville Semi-state #8


State meet history: 9 appearances (last in 2012), 4 podium finishes (last in 2006), 2 runner-up titles (2000, 2006), 1 state championships (1998)


2020 Results:

Mt. Vernon Sectional: 1st place (19 points)

Rushville Regional: 1st place (32 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 7th place (165 points)


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

Brayden Henkle (11) – 16:33 (39th place)

Nolan Reuille (12) – 17:09 (92nd place)


2021 Outlook: The Flashes were painfully close to the state meet last year, just 12 points back as their hiatus from Terre Haute extends to eight. FC brings just two back from last year’s seven, but it was a deep JV team last fall. Matt Sweetman also takes over as the head coach. He will be pulling double duty as the girls and boys coach, and he coached the boys distance runners this previous spring with great results. With an easier route to the semi-state, the Flashes can also pinpoint a specific meet for top performance, certainly an advantage through the tournament.


#24 – Crown Point Bulldogs

New Prairie Semi-state #2


State meet history: 28 appearances (last in 2020), 4 podium finishes (last in 1981), 3 runner-up titles (1975, 1976, 1977)


2019 Results:

Hebron Sectional: 1st place (53 points)

Crown Point Regional: 1st place (49 points)

New Prairie Semi-state: 3rd place (119 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 12th place (344 points)


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

Nathan Murphy (11) – 16:55 (38th place)

Anthony Saberniak (12) – 17:01 (43rd place)

Evan Turner (11) – 17:14 (55th place)

Weston Hulen (10) – 17:17 (60th place)

Cameron Zimmerman (12) – 17:31 (81st place)


2021 Outlook: The Bulldogs have been among the best teams in the northwest for a few years now, and that is likely to continue this fall. CP has an eight-year state meet streak that is very likely (82.3% per inccstats) to extend in 2021. The ‘Dogs are without a true frontrunner, but their depth and pack potential could be the envy of the New Prairie Semi-state for at least another year.


#25 – Angola Hornets

New Haven Semi-state #9

West Noble Regional #4


State meet history: 1 appearance (1954)


2020 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 2nd place (65 points)

West Noble Regional: 7th place (159 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the West Noble Regional)

Izaiah Steury (12) – 15:20 (1st place)

Sam Yarnell (10) – 17:29 (36th place)

Alex Burney (12) – 17:59 (52nd place)

Landon Herbert (11) – 18:09 (56th place)

Oliver Koch (10) – 18:10 (58th place)

Gavin Hinkley (10) – 19:45 (86th place)


2021 Outlook: The Hornets are a longshot to make the state meet. Obviously, defending state champion Izaiah Steury gives Angola the ultimate frontrunner. Sophomore Sam Yarnell could be a great number two after improving through the season last fall then running under 10:00 for 3200 meters in the spring. Development of depth behind those two will be the difference between being ousted in the regional and qualifying for the state meet as a team.



#26 – West Lafayette Red Devils

New Prairie Semi-state #3


State meet history: 18 appearances (last in 2019), 5 podium finishes (last in 2015), 1 runner-up title (1963) 2 state championships (1964, 2014)


2020 Results:

Harrison (West Lafayette) Sectional: 2nd place (67 points)

Harrison (West Lafayette) Regional: 1st place (44 points)

New Prairie Semi-state: 11th place (310 points)


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

Henry Balagtas (12) – 16:46 (29th place)

Albert Rajwa (10) – 17:31 (82nd place)

Jackson Fry (10) – 17:32 (84th place)

Jacob Wright (11) – 17:50 (108th place)

Elijah Stenberg (11) – 17:59 (120th place)

Yian Koh (11) – 19:12 (169th place)


2021 Outlook: The Red Devils broke an eight-year state meet streak by missing out in 2020, but they’re likely to get back this fall. West Side should see a performance jump from the two freshmen that scored for them in the tournament last year, and senior Henry Balagtas and junior Elijah Stenberg, should also provide the Devils with a strong 1-2 punch in the semi-state.


#27 – Columbia City Eagles

New Haven Semi-state #10

West Noble Regional #5


State meet history: 1 appearance (2019)

2020 Results:

Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 5th place (138 points)

West Noble Regional: 6th place (148 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the West Noble Regional)

Austin Hall (12) – 16:29 (8th place)

Seth Mills (12) – 17:12 (24th place)

Ian Harrold (12) – 17:32 (38th place)

Jack Mills (12) – 17:52 (48th place)

Zachary Pletcher (11) – 18:29 (64th place)

Isaac Rentschler (11) – 18:57 (76th place)


2021 Outlook: The Eagles were ousted in the state’s second toughest regional last yearl, but they return six of those seven. Senior Austin Hall, an individual qualifier in both the cross and track seasons, gives Columbia City a frontrunner. Sophomore Marcus Ridge, who scored for the Eagles in every race he ran but did not compete in the tournament, could be a big difference maker.. This is a team that could make the state meet, or it could struggle to advance out of the regional. Such in life on this tournament path.


#28 – Valparaiso Vikings

New Prairie Semi-state #4


State meet history: 46 appearances (last in 2019), 20 podium finishes (last in 2017), 1 runner-up title (2005), 6 state championships (1966, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1997, 2000)


2020 Results:

New Prairie Sectional: 2nd place (69 points)

Chesterton Regional: 4th place (93 points)

New Prairie Semi-state: 8th place (244 points)


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

Joel Bryant (11) – 16:41 (26th place)

James Dillabaugh (11) – 16:56 (39th place)

Nathaniel Malchow (11) – 17:23 (73rd place)

Riley Clark (11) – 17:27 (77th place)

Charles Moye (12) – 17:38 (94th place)

Gavin Ellis (12) – 18:43 (158th place)


2021 Outlook: The Vikings snapped a long (12 years) streak of state finals appearance, but they seem likely to start a new streak this year with six back from an 8th place semi-state team. This may be a team a year away from getting back to where Valpo has become accustomed over the last few decades as the top four scorers were sophomores last year in a team that already wasn’t far from the state meet. The Vikes were competitive in the track season also.


#29 – Oak Hill Golden Eagles

New Haven Semi-state #11


State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2005)


2020 Results:

Marion Sectional: 1st place (45 points)

Marion Regional: 2nd place (71 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 17th place (385 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Solomon O’Blenis (12) – 16:29 (30th place)

Landon Ashley (12) – 17:44 (122nd place)

Lucas Cates (12) – 17:58 (137th place)

Landon Biegel (11) – 17:59 (141st place)

Owen Jackson (10) – 18:35 (164th place)

Kaleb Westgate (10) – 19:33 (175th place)


2021 Outlook: The Golden Eagles seem a bit away from a state finals berth, but with multiple seniors and a quickly improving young back of the roster, this could be Oak Hill’s year even in a really tough semi-state. The Eagles had a poor semi-state, but their earlier performances demonstrate an ability to be highly competitive. Oak Hill did have a very good freshman class last year so expected improvement among those runners could really help make this a potential state meet team.


#30 – Chatard Trojans

Shelbyville Semi-state #9

Noblesville Regional #6


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


2020 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 5th place (134 points)

Noblesville Regional: 8th place (245 points)


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

Max Bourgeois (10) – 16:21 (22nd place)

Connor Moriarty (12) – 16:51 (46th place)

Ben Leising (10) – 17:59 (74th place)

Ian Kolbus (10) – 18:00 (75th place)

Nicholas Mates (12) – 18:02 (76th place)


2021 Outlook: The Trojans are a team to keep an eye on in 2021 (and beyond). They don’t return an eye-popping roster based on cross country tournament results. However, Chatard has tremendous upside this fall. Sophomore Max Bourgeois is a potential frontrunner after advancing out of the regional individually in cross country and running 4:29 over 1600 meters in the track tournament. Junior Davis Falcon didn’t compete in the tournament but did run cross country last fall and went 10:09 in the 3200 at the sectional. The Trojans may also be getting one of the state’s best freshman; this is a group probably a year away from getting to the state meet, and even elongating the time frame with a young roster doesn’t guarantee anything with this tournament path.


#31 – Jennings County Panthers

Brown County Semi-state #7


State meet history: 3 appearances (last in 2018)


2019 Results:

Austin Sectional: 1st place (25 points)

Columbus North Regional: 2nd place (67 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 9th place (234 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Brenden Baker (12) – 16:45 (45th place)

Lane Elsner (12) – 16:58 (62nd place)

Logan McIntosh (12) – 17:06 (71st place)

Ian Campbell (12) – 17:07 (77th place)

Eli Wahlman (11) – 17:17 (91st place)

Aidan Ernstes (12) – 17:44 (123rd place)


2020 Outlook: After making its first three state finals in consecutive years, the Panthers have missed out on the last two. That mini-drought could definitely end this year with six of last year’s top seven returning. JC definitely returns a team capable of making that push, even if it will do so without a typical frontrunner. This is a solid team: experienced and senior-laden; they will be a tough out in the tournament with proper preparation this summer.


#32 – Morgan Township Cherokees

New Prairie Semi-state #5


State meet history: Never qualified


2020 Results:

Rensselaer Central Sectional: 1st place (33 points)

Chesterton Regional: 3rd place (91 points)

New Prairie Semi-state: 12th place (323 points)


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

Owen Thomas (12) – 16:45 (28th place)

Ty Ivanyo (11) – 17:04 (46th place)

Keagen Holder (10) – 17:35 (89th place)

Josh Kutkiewicz (12) – 18:01 (125th place)

Aidan Ilic (11) – 18:05 (132nd place)

Harrison DePorter (11) – 18:18 (146th place)


2021 Outlook: The Cherokees will be a really tough team out of the New Prairie Semi-state this fall, given a 67.8% chance of advancing to the state meet by inccstats for 2021 (though that number may be inflated by a scoring runner duplicated). Still, Morgan Township brings back their top six from a team that was 12th last year. It’s a small school (enrollment: 245) though not a tiny team last fall (13 participants) given the size of the school. The track season was also good for the Cherokees, a good sign heading into what could the program’s best year ever.



#33 – Fort Wayne Dwenger Saints

New Haven Semi-state #12

West Noble Regional #6


State meet history: 9 appearances (last in 2013), 1 podium finish (1977)


2019 Results:

Fort Wayne Northrop Sectional: 3rd place (77 points)

West Noble Regional: 4th place (107 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 11th place (256 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Brendan Nix (11) – 16:55 (56th place)

Pablo Sutter (11) – 16:59 (59th place)

Evan Smith (12) – 17:16 (86th place)


2020 Outlook: The Saints have three back from a team that finished 11th at the semi-state. The known, all three of those that competed in last year’s semi-state, is definitely good. The trio were competitive in the cross country season and had good track seasons this past spring. The unknown, like where Dwenger will get the rest of its depth for the final remaining scoring places, is more of the issue. The New Haven Semi-state continues to challenge for the best of the four so this is likely a team more in the top ten than the top six this fall.


#34 – Guerin Catholic Golden Eagles

Shelbyville Semi-state #10

Noblesville Regional #7


State meet history: 1 appearance (2020)


2020 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 4th place (123 points)

Noblesville Regional: 5th place (121 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 5th place (152 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 10th place (302 points)


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

Ethan Hines (11) – 16:37 (44th place)

Evan McNeany (12) – 17:41 (126th place)


2021 Outlook: Last year, our committee (of one) deemed the Golden Eagles to be a potential “surprise team.” Bingo. Despite entering the season with an 8.1% chance of qualifying for the state finals and just a 3.3% chance of finishing in the top ten per inccstats’ preseason ratings, Guerin did just that for the first time in school history on the boys’ side. Five of those seven graduate, but this feels like a program that has turned an important corner. The Eagles very likely won’t make it a repeat trip. It’s not even probable that they will even advance from the state’s most competitive regional, the previous stumbling block, but this is a team likely to be better than preseason analytics project.


#35 – Mt. Vernon (Fortville) Marauders

Shelbyville Semi-state #11


State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2015)


2020 Results:

Mt. Vernon Sectional: 2nd place (56 points)

Rushville Regional: 2nd place (72 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 12th place (347 points)


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

Austin Rush (12) – 16:48 (56th place)

Reyce Morgan (12) – 17:04 (81st place)

Colin Strachman (10) – 17:07 (86th place)

Sam Wilson (12) – 17:39 (124th place)

Joseph Blagrave (12) – 17:43 (129th place)


2021 Outlook: The Marauders return five of last year’s seven from a 12th place semi-state team. Mt. Vernon also had a competitive track season with good individual performances by some of their top cross country returners that included a trip to the state finals in the 4x800 relay. Certainly, this team would need a good amount of incoming talent or a ton of improvement through the roster to challenge for a trip to Terre Haute this fall as a team, but a top ten finish in this very competitive semi-state seems possible.


#36 – NorthWood Panthers

New Haven Semi-state #9


State meet history: 2 appearances (last in 1987)


2020 Results:

Elkhart Sectional: 3rd place (74 points)

Elkhart Regional: 4th place (137 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 13th place (163 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Brady Hunsberger (12) – 16:39 (38th place)

Grady Stevenson (12) – 17:06 (69th place)

Owen Allen (10) – 17:42 (117th place)

Jordan Burden (11) – 17:55 (134th place)

Owen Miller (11) – 18:06 (147th place)


2021 Outlook: The Panthers had a solid fall campaign last year and a great spring, returning five runners from a team that could become a fringe contender for a state finals spot, even in a loaded semi-state. Senior Brady Hunsberger was especially competitive in the spring, qualifying for the state meet over 1600 meters and breaking 2:00 for 800. Junior Jordan Burden seems to have turned the corner as well, running 9:54 for 3200 meters in the track tournament. Those two by themselves aren’t enough to get the team to the state meet, but it’s certainly a good start.


#37 – Munster Mustangs

New Prairie Semi-state #6


State meet history: 6 appearances (last in 2020), 1 podium finish (2014)


2020 Results:

Highland Sectional: 2nd place (66 points)

Crown Point Regional: 3rd place (99 points)

New Prairie Semi-state: 6th place (222 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 23rd place (563 points)


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

Maxwell Lindenmayer (12) – 16:50 (33rd place)

Korey Allen (12) – 17:08 (49th place)

Gabriel Tienstra (12) – 17:22 (68th place)

Anthony Young (12) – 17:29 (79th place)

Jacob Cipowski (12) – 17:54 (114th place)


2021 Outlook:

The Mustangs appear to be in a great position to qualify for the state finals again with a veteran and experienced line-up this fall. Munster has five back from last season’s team that made a trip to Terre Haute. If anything might detract from the likelihood of back-to-back trips to Terre Haute, it would be that most of the returners seemed absent from track results. Still, five back from a state meet team in the New Prairie Semi-state will be hard for too many teams to match.


#38 – Warsaw Tigers

New Prairie Semi-state #7


State meet history: 11 appearances (last in 2020), 1 podium finish (2012)


2020 Results:

Culver Academies Sectional: 1st place (27 points)

Culver Academies Regional: 1st place (38 points)

New Prairie Semi-state: 2nd place (118 points)

IHSAA State Finals: 16th place (386 points)


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

Harrison Phipps (12) – 16:42 (27th place)

Garrett Hall (11) – 17:22 (71st place)

Luke Nier (12) – 17:23 (72nd place)

Samuel Slough (12) – 17:49 (106th place)


2021 Outlook: The Tigers ended a six-year hiatus from the state meet as a team in 2020. Even though Warsaw lost its top three runners from last year to graduation and didn’t see much from any returners during the track season, nothing is off the table in the New Prairie Semi-state this season. This is absolutely a group capable of making consecutive state finals trips for the first time since 2013. The Tigers were solid last year in the tournament, running better in the state meet than nearly any other point in the season.


#39 – LaPorte Slicers

New Prairie Semi-state #8


State meet history: 21 appearances (last in 2015), 2 podium finishes (last in 2007), 1 runner-up title (2007)


2020 Results:

New Prairie Sectional: 3rd place (101 points)

New Prairie Regional: 2nd place (87 points)

New Prairie Semi-state: 9th place (252 points)


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

Cole Raymond (12) – 16:13 (3rd place)

Janan Pillai (11) – 16:58 (42nd place)

Tyler Troy (11) – 17:51 (110th place)

Johnathon Groth (12) – 17:58 (118th place)

Stephen Klimczak (11) – 18:41 (157th place)


2021 Outlook: The Slicers are looking to end a five-year drought from the state meet and just may have the squad to do it this fall. Senior Cole Raymond, nearly All-State in the fall and fourth in the 1600 this spring, gives LaPorte an excellent start. Sophomore Brayden Sobecki—10:05 over 3200 meters this track season—could provide a valuable number two and bolster the Slicers’ depth, which could be the key to getting back to Terre Haute as a team.


#40 – Terre Haute South Braves

Brown County Semi-state #8

Bedford North Lawrence Regional #4


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


2020 Results:

Terre Haute North Sectional: 3rd place (51 points)

Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 5th place (101 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 8th place (229 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Matt Gambill (12) – 15:54 (7th place)

Ethan Aidoo (10) – 17:03 (64th place)

Eric Haworth (12) – 17:11 (81st place)

Mason Cranford (12) – 17:36 (113th place)

Isaac Hults (12) – 17:51 (129th place)

Tate Alcorn (12) – 18:01 (140th place)


2021 Outlook: The Braves were relatively close to the state meet last fall, though they were a top-heavy team with two frontrunners, and one has graduated. With senior Matt Gambill, a potential All-Stater, back THS will get off to a good start. Sophomore Ethan Aidoo seems a logical candidate for a jump in performance after running 10:10 over 3200 meters in the spring, and senior Eric Haworth also had a good track season. Those three certainly give the Braves the beginnings of a potential state meet team so it is just a matter of developing the depth after that.




#41 – Pendleton Heights Arabians

New Haven Semi-state #13


State meet history: 4 appearances (last in 2017)


2020 Results:

Pendleton Heights Sectional: 3rd place (89 points)

Delta Regional: 3rd place (109 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 15th place (369 points)


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

Avry Carpenter (12) – 16:54 (55th place)

Andrew Blake (11) – 17:13 (78th place)

William Coggins (10) – 17:47 (127th place)

Gabriel Holland (12) – 18:27 (160th place)

Elijah Creel (12) – 18:53 (170th place)


2021 Outlook: The Arabians return five from a semi-state team that was competitive last fall. Senior Avry Carpenter—4:30 over 1600 meters in the track season—could give Pendleton a frontrunner at the semi-state, and the rest of the roster should be enough to around the same level this year. This is a squad quite a bit away from a state finals berth but equally as far away from not making it out of the regional.


#42 – Castle Knights

Brown County Semi-state #9


State meet history: 1 appearance (2000)


2020 Results:

Evansville Mater Dei Sectional: 1st place (43 points)

Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 1st place (43 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 12th place (310 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Trevor Monroe (12) – 16:27 (28th place)

Jackson Kramer (10) – 17:06 (73rd place)

Andrew Mangum (12) – 17:38 (117th place)

Ben Whitacre (11) – 17:58 (136th place)


2021 Outlook: The Knights are a potential state finals team, which would be a second in program history. With four coming back from last year’s sectional and regional championship teams, Castle had a banner season on the track that included an All-State 4x8 relay and great individual races like a 9:34 over 3200 meters for senior Trevor Monroe and a 4:40 for sophomore Jackson Kramer. The depth is a little wanting for a team to make a push for advancement from the semi-state, but Castle isn’t a tiny school by any means.


#43 – West Noble Chargers

New Haven Semi-state #14

West Noble Regional #7


State meet history: 13 appearances (last in 2019), 2 podium finishes (last in 1993)

2020 Results:

West Noble Sectional: 4th place (95 points)

West Noble Regional: 9th place (75 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the West Noble Regional)

Grant Flora (11) – 16:45 (11th place)

Isaac Campos (12) – 18:36 (68th place)

Isaac Silva (11) – 18:39 (69th place)

Logan Schuller (11) – 18:52 (75th place)

Adrian Garcia (12) – 19:41 (85th place)

Evan Rodriguez (10) – 20:38 (87th place)


2021 Outlook: The Chargers had a rare down year for their program, which is tough in perhaps the state’s second most difficult regional. West Noble does bring back six of those seven, but the tournament path continues to be difficult and may make advancing to the semi-state challenging this fall as well. The Chargers do have high upside potentially: Senior Austin Cripe ran just one race last fall and senior Coy Wolheter ran 4:30 over 1600 meters (though he didn’t run cross country last fall). Those two in combination with junior Grant Flora could give WN a very competitive top trio.


#44 – Cathedral Fighting Irish

Shelbyville Semi-state #12

Noblesville Regional #8


State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2019), 3 podium finishes (last in 2019), 1 runner-up title (2019)


2020 Results:

Noblesville Sectional: 3rd place (90 points)

Noblesville Regional: 7th place (197 points)


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

Liam Eifert (11) – 16:25 (24th place)

Jack Wajda (12) – 16:39 (40th place)


2021 Outlook: The numbers like Cathedral despite bringing back just two of their seven from a team that wasn’t very close to making it out of the regional last fall. That seems a likely destiny for this year’s squad as well based on geography. Junoir Liam Eifert could make it deeper into the tournament as an individual, potentially even into the state finals, after a strong track season this past spring.


#45 –Greenfield-Central Cougars

Shelbyville Semi-state #13


State meet history: Never qualified


2020 Results:

Mt. Vernon Sectional: 3rd place (79 points)

Rushville Regional: 3rd place (75 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 17th place (465 points)


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

Griffen Wheeler (11) – 17:08 (87th place)

Matthew Whicker (12) – 17:31 (115th place)

Liam Brinkruff (10) – 17:47 (136th place)

Christopher Ross (10) – 17:55 (139th place)

Lucas Tutrow (12) – 20:04 (179th place)


2021 Outlook: The Cougars are one of the team’s that our committee (of one) has its eye on this fall. This isn’t a team on the cusp of a state championship berth, at least certainly not in their semi-state, and the cross country results were not eye-popping. In the spring, Greenfield showed good development among some of their runners with junior Griffin Wheeler running 4:36 for 1600 and 9:59 for 3200 and rising sophomores Liam Brinkruff and Christopher Ross running 10:28 and 10:30 over 3200 meters. Look for this to be a team that improves upon its semi-state placing from last year that could be a longshot to make the state meet in 2022.


#46 – Huntington North Vikings

New Haven Semi-state #15


State meet history: 7 appearances (last in 2009), 1 podium finish (2003)


2020 Results:

Marion Sectional: 2nd place (49 points)

Marion Regional: 4th place (80 points)

New Haven Semi-state: 14th place (368 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the New Haven Semi-state)

Jonathan York (12) – 16:38 (36th place)

Harrison Niswander (12) – 17:00 (61st place)

Gavin Byerly (12) – 17:42 (116th place)

Gatlin Boxell (11) – 18:08 (150th place)

Dane Blackburn (12) – 18:49 (167th place)

Tiler Carr (11) – 18:53 (172nd place)


2021 Outlook: The Vikings bring back six from their middle-of-the-pack semi-state team that possibly could move into the top ten this year. A senior-laden roster is usually a key to an overachieving team. On top of Jonathan York who is back from a successful cross country campaign, teammate Harrison Niswander had a great track season, running 10:00 over 3200 meters in the sectional. Huntington will need to develop its depth to move up the semi-state rankings, but that certainly seems possible given the roster and team history.


#47 – Terre Haute North Patriots

Brown County Semi-state #9

Bedford North Lawrence Regional #5


State meet history: 18 appearances (last in 2014), 4 podium finishes (last in 2010), 1 state championship (1972)

2020 Results:

Terre Haute North Sectional: 2nd place (40 points)

Bedford North Lawrence Regional: 4th place (76 points)

Brown County Semi-state: 10th place (280 points)


Returning Runners: (Based on results from the Brown County Semi-state)

Dylan Zeck (11) – 16:18 (22nd place)

Nerius White (12) – 16:38 (40th place)

Reece Lady (12) – 17:55 (132nd place)


2021 Outlook: The Patriots bring back two really good runners, including a potential All-Stater in junior Dylan Zeck. In the southern semi-state, those two could provide the foundation of a state meet team with proper development of depth. This year that may be tough given the rise of quality among teams in the Brown County Semi-state, but a couple solid newcomers could really tip the scales for the Pats.


#48 – Avon Orioles

Shelbyville Semi-state #14


State meet history: 5 appearances (last in 2018)


2020 Results:

Brownsburg Sectional: 2nd place (65 points)

Ben Davis Regional: 4th place (128 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 14th place (398 points)


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

Griffin O’Neill (12) – 16:59 (72nd place)

Levi Beeler (11) – 17:42 (128th place)

Cullen Broda (11) – 18:27 (161st place)

Sam Sublette (12) – 18:32 (164th place)


2021 Outlook: The Orioles bring four back from a team that comfortably qualified for the semi-state. While Avon seems to be at about the same level this year, given its returners, the team could be helped out a ton if sophomore Sam Clore (4:27 for 1600 and 9:42 for 3200 as a freshman) decides to run this fall after foregoing the opportunity as a freshman. His presence could give the O’s a frontrunner that might vault them closer to the top ten in the semi-state.


#49 – Batesville Bulldogs

Shelbyville Semi-state #15


State meet history: Never qualified


2020 Results:

South Dearborn Sectional: 1st place (27 points)

Franklin Regional: 3rd place (83 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 13th place (363 points)


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

Ben Moster (12) – 16:33 (40th place)

Ean Loichinger (12) – 16:46 (55th place)

Eli Loichinger (10) – 17:48 (138th place)

Will Nuhring (12) – 18:25 (159th place)

Daren Smith (12) – 18:47 (170th place)


2021 Outlook: The Bulldogs are still looking for their first ever state finals appearance. While that looks unlikely this year, they should still be a very competitive team in their area, as usual. Batesville is a very good program, and in possibly any other semi-state, this is a school that would have advanced in past years to the state finals. Moster and Ean Loichinger gives the ‘Dogs a great start at two, and they did have a very competitive track season, narrowly missing the state meet in the 4x8 with Moster qualifying in the 1600.


#50 – Brownsburg Bulldogs

Shelbyville Semi-state #16


State meet history: 1 appearance (2019), 1 podium finish (2019)


2020 Results:

Brownsburg Sectional: 1st place (48 points)

Ben Davis Regional: 2nd place (61 points)

Shelbyville Semi-state: 8th place (176 points)


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

Caedmon Oliger (12) – 16:55 (66th place)

Caedmon Barksdale (12) – 17:04 (82nd place)

Patrick Voglewede (12) – 18:14 (154th place)


2021 Outlook: The Bulldogs are at a high point in program history. Per inccstats.com’s all-time rankings, the ‘Dogs have fielded their three best teams in the last three seasons, reaching their first ever state meet (and first ever podium finish) in 2019. Brownsburg will need to do some developing of their roster after losing so much to graduation the past two years, including Trevor Nolan who qualified individually to the state finals in both cross and track as a senior last school year. With a large enrollment (2802 students) and big roster (47 participants in 2020), fielding a competitive team that can qualify for the semi-state won’t be too tall of a task.

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