Girls Class B Distance Preview

Kirstin Sandreuter of Greely will be one to watch in the mile and the two mile. Her anticipated match up against Aleta Looker of Ellsworth could be one for the ages.

800

Record: Abby Chapman Greely 2:15.28 2003

Aleta Looker of Ellsworth is the overwhelming favorite to take the 800 meter title on Monday as she currently holds the fastest time in the state regardless of class running 2:13.87 which is just off her own all-time Maine record. The Georgetown University commit should be able to win this event with relative ease, but expect her to try and chase down the record which is currently held by Abby Chapman of Greely who ran 2:15.28 back in 2003. Last week at the EMITL, Looker won the 800 by an astonishing fifteen seconds running a time of 2:20.88. Other runners to watch in this event include Hailey Petsinger of Cape Elizabeth.  She won the 800 at the WMC Championships running a time of 2:30.51. Expect her to challenge for the runner up spot. The 800 field isn’t remarkably deep, but Petsinger has two teammates in Hayle Doss and Eva Brysdon who could potentially give the Capers some extra points for the team competition if they can both place in the top eight. Other runners to watch for in this event will be Fern Morrison of Foxcroft, and Haley Steckler of Freeport.

Mile

Record: Bethanie Brown Waterville 5:00.31 2013

Bethanie Brown’s record will likely be safe this year, but the showdown between Kirstin Sandreuter of Greely and Aleta Looker of Ellsworth will be the most exciting race of the day tomorrow. Both runners have been on a tear this winter. Sandreuter comes into the meet with the second fastest time in Class B in 5:11.93. Last week at the WMC Championships, Sandreuter won both the mile and the two mile in league record times. The pace of the race could determine the victor as Looker has superior leg speed, but Sandreuter has the ability to grind out races. It will be interesting to see the diverse running styles between them. Heather Evans of York is another runner to watch in this event. She’s been one of the most consistent runners in the WMC this year, and with Looker and Sandreuter likely setting a fast pace, look for Evans to run a fast time as well. Other runners to watch will be Emily Mason of Greely, Brittany Bowman of Camden Hills and Anna Lastra of Fryeburg.

2 Mile

Record: Bethanie Brown Waterville 10:46.95

The aforementioned Kirstin Sandreuter of Greely should be able to win the two mile with relative ease. While she’s the overwhelming favorite, she might try to run a very fast time in order to get into one of the fastest heats at the New England Championships. She comes in with a season best time of 11:07.26. Aleta Looker comes into this race with the fourth fastest time in Class B in 11:54.65. Expect her to battle for second with runners such as Heather Evans of York, Brittany Bowman of Camden Hills and Hannah Austin of NYA. They all have broken the 12 minute barrier this winter, and will look to run even faster tomorrow. Other runners to watch for will be Emily Mason of Greely, Abby Hersom of Oceanside and Caroline Driscoll of MDI.

Girls Team Rankings Week 5

1. MDI
Pre: 1 Meet: FOC Place: 1st
MDi showed they are the toughest team in the state by easily defeating the sixty plus teams at the Festival of Champions for the third straight year. Maggie Painter led the way for them as she placed fifth overall. Look for MDI to go unchallenged at the Hancock Invitational on Friday.

2. Falmouth
Pre: 5 Meet: FOC Place: 2nd
Falmouth showed they are the favorites in Class A after they placed second at the Festival of Champions as they were led by Madeline Roberts who placed 13th overall. Falmouth faces a tough challenge when they head to Greely on Friday.

3. Massabesic
Pre: 7 Meet: FOC Place: 5th
Massabesic placed fifth at FOC behind Gabby Johnson's 31st place finish. Massabesic races at Gorham on Friday.

4. Greely
Pre: 4 Meet: N/A Place: N/A
Greely hold the four spot for the time being as they head towards the post season with Kirstin Sandreuter leading the way. Greely hosts Falmouth on Friday.

5. Cape Elizabeth
Pre: UR Meet: FOC Place: 4th
Cape Elizabeth had a breakout race at the Festival of Champions as they were led by Rhoen Fiutak who placed 21st overall. Cape heads to Kennebunk on Friday.

6. Bonny Eagle
Pre: 4 Meet: FOC Place: 16th
Bonny Eagle was running without Mary Szatkowski on Saturday as they placed 16th overall behind Kialeigh Marston's first place victory. Bonny Eagle races in their home course on Friday.

7. Yarmouth
Pre: UR Meet: FOC Place: 7th
Yarmouth placed seventh at FOC behind strong performances from the Teare sisters as they both placed in the top 60. Yarmouth heads to Merriconeag on Friday.

8. South Portland
Pre: UR Meet: FOC Place: 8th
South Portland nabbed 8th place at the Festival of Champions behind top ten finishes from Shannon Conley and Casey Loring. South Portland heads to Scarborough on Friday.

9. Windham
Pre: UR Meet: FOC Place: 10th
Windham placed tenth at the Festival of Champions behind Mackenzie Joy's 37th place finish. Windham races on their home course this Friday.

10. Camden Hills
Pre: 2 Meet: FOC Place: 24th
Camden Hills was running without number one runner Emma Trapani on Saturday as they placed 24th overall. Brittany Bowman was their top finisher placing 22nd. Camden races at the Mt. Blue relays on Friday.

Team of the Week: Falmouth

Teams Knocking: Washburn, Hampden, Maranacook, Lewiston, Brunswick

Girls Team Rankings Week 4

1. MDI
Pre: 1 Meet: Sectional Invitational Place: 1st
MDI cruised to an easy victory at the Sectional Invitational behind strong runs from Waylon Henggeler and Isabel Erickson as they placed second and third respectively. MDI is the heavy favorite heading into the festival of Champions on Saturday.

2. Camden Hills
Pre: 2 Meet: at Cony Place: 1st
Camden Hills was victorious at Cony as they were led by Emma Trapani's impressive second place finish. Look for Camden to challenge MDI for the win at FOC on Saturday.

3. Greely
Pre: Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 2nd (small schools race)
The Rangers placed second in the small schools race behind Kirstin Sandreuter's victory. They were also running without Eva Bates. Greely heads to Freeport this Friday.

4. Bonny Eagle
Pre: 4 Meet: at Noble Place: 1st
Bonny Eagle took home the victory at Noble as they were led by Mary Szatkowski's first place finish. Look for Bonny Eagle to challenge MDI and Camden Hills for the top spot at FOC.

5. Falmouth
Pre: 5 Meet: at Kittery Place: 1st
Falmouth picked up another victory this time at Kittery as Madeline Roberts was their top finisher placing second overall. Look for Falmouth to challenge for a top three finish at FOC on Saturday.

6. Massabesic
Pre: 7 Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 5th (large schools race)
Massabesic placed fifth in the large schools race as they were led by Angel Waters who placed 14th overall. Look for Massabesic to contend for a top three finish at FOC.

7. Brunswick
Pre: 6 Meet: Home Place: 1st
Brunswick was victorious on their home course as their duo of Teresa Murphy and Tessa Cassidy led the way for them placing first and second respectively. Look for Brunswick to contend for a top five at FOC.

8. Washburn
Pre: 9 Meet: Sectional Invitational Place: 2nd
Washburn placed second to MDI at the sectional invitational. Carsyn Koch was their top runner as she took home the victory running 19:55. Look for Washburn to contend for a top ten finish at FOC on Saturday.

9. Orono
Pre: UR Meet: Sectional Invitational Place: 3rd
Orono was without their two of their top runners yet they still placed third at the Sectional Invitational and were only five points behind Washburn. Look for Orono to contend for a top ten finish at FOC.

10. Freeport
Pre: UR Meet: at Yarmouth Place: 1st
Freeport edged one of their top rivals in Yarmouth as Sydney Ambrose took home the victory. Freeport races on their home course on Friday.

Team of the Week: Greely

Teams Knocking: Lewiston, Yarmouth, Maranacook, Windham

Girls Team Rankings Week 3

1. MDI
Pre: 1 Meet: at Orono Place: 1st
MDI held off a feisty Orono squad by placing five runners in the top nine overall. Leading the way for them was Maggie Painter who covered the 2.76 mile course in 19:00.36. Look for MDI to win the Sectional Invitational on Saturday.

2. Camden Hills
Pre: 2 Meet: at Medomak Place: 1st
The absence of Brittany Bowman didn't faze Camden as they won at Medomak Valley in convincing fashion. Emma Trapani was the individual winner. Camden races at Cony on Friday.

3. Greely
Pre: 3 Meet: at Sacopee Place: 1st
The Rangers easily came out victorious despite running without Kirstin Sandreuter and Eva Bates. Look for Greely to challenge for a top finish at the Manchester Invitational this Saturday.

4. Bonny Eagle
Pre: 4 Meet: at South Portland Place: 1st
Bonny Eagle responded to a tough challenge from Massabesic as they held on for a ten point victory behind Mary Szatkowski's second place finish. Bonny Eagle races at Noble on Friday.

5. Falmouth
Pre: 5 Meet: Home Place: 1st
Falmouth showed why they are a serious threat in Class A after they took advantage of a depleted Yarmouth squad. Madeline Roberts led the way for them as she placed first overall. The Yachtsmen race at York on Friday.

6. Brunswick
Pre: 8 Meet: at Mt. Ararat Place: 1st
Brunswick easily dispatched rival Mt. Blue as they were led by Teresa Murphy and Tessa Cassidy who placed second and third respectively. Brunswick races on their home course this Thursday.

7. Massabesic
Pre: 6 Meet: at South Portland Place: 2nd
Massabesic placed second at South Portland behind Gabby Johnson's fifth place finish. Massabesic is host to four SMAA teams this Friday.

8. Maranacook
Pre: 6 Meet: at Leavitt Place: 2nd
Marnacook lost to Lewiston via the sixth runner tie breaker as they were led by Hannah Depres who won the race running a time of 22:03. Maranacook races at Cony on Friday.

9. Washburn
Pre: 9 Meet: All Aroostook Invite Place: 1st
Washburn easily outdistanced themselves from their top foes in the Aroostook county behind Carsyn Koch's first place finish. Washburn races at the Seacoast Invitational on Friday.

10. Yarmouth
Pre: 10 Meet: at Falmouth Place: 2nd
Yarmouth placed second at Falmouth as they were racing without many of their top runners due to illness. Yarmouth races on their home course this Friday.

Team of the Week: Bonny Eagle

Teams Knocking: Windham, Freeport, Hampden, Cape Elizabeth, Messalonskee

Girls Team Rankings Week 2

1. MDI
Previous: 1 Meet: Presque Isle Invitational Place: 1st
MDI won in dominating fashion at the Presque Isle invitational as they placed five runners in the top seven overall. Maggie Painter led the way with her first place finish. MDI races at Orono this Friday.

2. Camden Hills
Previous: 3 Meet: at Belfast Place: 1st
Camden Hills easily dispatched the seven other competing teams at Belfast as they were led by their duo of Emma Trapani and Brittany Bowman. They placed first and second respectively. Camden heads to Medomak Valley on Friday.

3. Greely
Previous: 2 Meet: at Yarmouth Place: 1st
The Rangers placed second at Yarmouth as they were without Kirstin Sandrueter and Eva Bates. They had a strong run from Kristina Smith who won running a time of 19:13 over the 2.8 mile course. Greely races at Sacopee Valley on Friday.

4. Bonny Eagle
Previous: 4 Meet: at McAuley Place: ?
Results have yet to be shown from Bonny Eagle's meet at McAuley last friday. This shouldn't affect their ranking for the time being. Bonny Eagle races at South Portland on Friday.

5. Falmouth
Previous: 6 Meet: at Fryeburg Place: 1st
Falmouth cruised to an easy victory at Fryeburg as they were led by Madeline Roberts who placed first overall. Falmouth hosts four WMC teams on Friday.

6. Maranacook
Previous: 5 Meet: at Leavitt Place: 1st
Maranacook held off a strong Lewistion squad for the win as they were led by Hannah Depres' individual victory. Maranacook heads to Leavitt on Friday.

7. Massabesic
Previous: 7 Meet: at Portland Place: 1st
Massabesic took home the victory at Portland as they were led by Gabby Johnson's individual victory. Massabesic heads South Portland on Friday.

8. Brunswick
Previous: 8 Meet: at Lawrence Place: 1st
The Dragons were victorious at Lawrence as they placed four runners in the top ten overall. Brunswick races at Mt. Ararat on Friday.

9. Washburn
Previous: UR Meet: Presque Isle Invitational Place: 2nd
Washburn finds themselves at the number nine spot after they placed second at the Presque Inivtational behind Carsyn Koch's fourth place finish.

10. Yarmouth 
Previous: UR Meet: at Lake Region Place: 2nd
Yarmouth placed second in a very competitive early season meet that saw the top three teams separated by two points. They were led by Caitlin and Ellie Teare who placed second and third respectively.

Team of the Week: MDI

Teams Knocking: Windham, Freeport, John Bapst, Hampden, Messalonskee, Cape Elizabeth

Girls Team Rankings Week 1

1. MDI

Previous: 1 Meet: Ellsworth Invitational Place: 1^st

MDI dominated the Ellsworth Invitational behind the runner up performance of Maggie Painter. MDI heads to the Presque Isle invitational on Saturday where they should go unchallenged.

2.       Greely

Previous: 2 Meet: Home Place: 1^st

The Rangers took advantage of their home course as they placed four runners in the top six overall. Kirstin Sandrueter took home the victory as she cruised to a fast time of 18:46. Greely heads to Lake Region on Friday.

3.       Camden Hills

Previous: 3 Meet: @ Winslow Place: 1^st

The Windjammers were victorious at Winslow behind the strong duo of Emily Trapani and Brittany Bowman. They placed second and third respectively. Camden heads to Belfast on Friday.

4.       Bonny Eagle

Previous: 4 Meet: SMAA Relays Place: 1^st

Bonny Eagle came out on top at the SMAA Relays behind Kialeigh Marston’s first place finish. She covered the 1.5 mile course in 9:41. Bonny Eagle heads to McCauley on Friday.

5.       Maranacook

Previous: UR Meet: Home Place: 1^st

Maranacook edged rival Brunswick by a score of 47-49 behind Hannah Depres’s third place finish. Maranacook heads to Lewiston on Friday.

6.       Falmouth

Previous: 7 Meet: @ Cape Place: 1^st

Falmouth topped rival Cape Elizabeth last Friday as they placed four runners in the top six overall. The Yachtsmen head to Fryeburg on Friday.

7.       Massabesic

Previous: 6 Meet: SMAA Relays Place: 2^nd

Massabesic placed second at the SMAA Relays as they were led by Gabby Johnson who placed sixth overall. Massabesic will race at Portland on Friday.

8.       Brunswick

Previous: 5 Meet: at Maranacook Place: 2^nd

Brunswick placed second at Maranacook as Teresa Murphy and Tessa Cassidy placed first and second overall. The Dragons race next Thursday at Lawrence.

9.       Mt. Ararat

Previous: 9 Meet: @ Maranacook Place: 3rd

Mt. Ararat placed third at Maranacook last Friday as they were paced by Kelly Lynch who placed fourth overall. Mt. Ararat heads to Lewiston next Friday.

10.   Messalonskee

Previous: UR Meet: @ Mt. Blue

Messalonskee narrowly edged host Mt. Blue as they were led by Olivia Poulin who placed second overall. They will head to Waterville next Friday.

Team of the Week: Maranacook

Teams Knocking: Hampden Academy, Cheverus, Washburn, Mt. Blue, South Portland, Freeport

Preseason Rankings: Girls Teams

1. MDI
   Last Year's Finish: 1^st Class B
   Top Returners: Maggie Painter, Olivia Erickson, Isabel Erickson, Nora Hubbell
   MDI returns their entire top five from a team that won the state championship last year. Painter is one of the individual favorites to win Class B and their depth is spectacular. They are the early favorite to take their third straight Class B title.
2. Greely
   Last Year's Finish: 4^th Class B
   Top Returners: Kirstin Sandrueter, Eva Bates, Kristina Smith
   Leading the Rangers this fall will be the individual favorite Kirstin Sandrueter who has had a fantastic year of running. Along with Eva Bates, and the addition of Kristina Smith from Poland, Greely forms one of the most formidable trios in the state. Look for them to make a run at MDI for the title in Class B.
3. Camden Hills
   Last Year's Finish: 2^nd Class B
   Top Returners: Brittany Bowman, Sam Morse, Jacqueline Russell, Willow Parker
   Camden Hills brings back front runner Brittany Bowman who is one of the early favorites to win in Class B. Camden also brings back a strong nucleus which includes Willow Parker who was one of the top runners in the state before injuries caused her to have a set back. Look for Camden Hills to challenge for a top three finish in Class B.
4. Bonny Eagle
   Last Year's Finish: 1^st Class A
   Top Returners: Mary Szatkowski, Kristen Glennie, Audrey Weyland
   Last year's Class A state champions bring back three of their top five including the early favorite to win the individual title, Mary Szatkowski. They are the early favorite to win the Class A state championship.
5. Brunswick
   Last Year's Finish: 4^th
   Top Returners: Tessa Cassidy, Tiffany Turner, Teresa Murphy
   Brunswick brings back one of the strongest trios in the state which makes them one of the favorites to win the Class A state title. Sophomore Tessa Cassidy is there number one returner as we saw her place ninth at the state meet last fall. If their four and five runners can step up, look for them to challenge Bonny Eagle for top gun in Class A.
6. Massabesic
   Last Year's Finish: 2^nd
   Top Returners: Gabby Johnson, Emily Wasina, Angel Waters
   Massabesic brings back one of the top runners in Class A in Gabby Johnson. Johnson placed tenth at the state meet last fall. Much of Massabesic's fate depends on their 2-5 runners. Emily Wasina was one of the top freshmen in the state. A year of training should make her even stronger. Massabesic should be in the running for a top three finish in Class A.
7. Falmouth
   Last Year's Finish: 5^th Class B
   Top Returners: Madeline Roberts, Vishva Nalamalapu, Alta Farrell
   This fall will start a new era for Falmouth as they made the move from Class B to Class A. Leading the way for the Yachtsmen will me Vishva Nalamalapu who placed 17^th at the state meet last year. Falmouth has very solid depth which will be key if they hope to make a run at a top three finish.
8. Yarmouth
   Last Year's Finish: 6^th Class B
   Top Returners: Caitlin Teare, Ellie Teare, Gabby Beaulieu
   Yarmouth brings back three of their top five, including sisters Caitlin and Ellie Teare. They lead a very young squad who hopes to make a run at a top five finish this year.
9. Mt Ararat
   Last Year's Finish: 7^th Class A
   Top Returners: Kelly Lynch, Olivia Swan, Emmie Cox
   Mt. Ararat brings back one of the top duos in the KVAC in Lynch and Swan as they hope to make a run at a top five finish in Class A. The development of their 3-5 runners will be critical if they hope to achieve that.
10. Freeport
    Last Year's Finish: 8^th Class B
    Top Returners: Elly Bengtsson, Nina Davenport, Bethanie Knighton
    Freeport will hope to improve upon their 8^th place finish last year as they bring back Elly Bengtsson and Nina Davenport who are amongst the top returners in the WMC this fall. Look for them to contend for a top five finish in Class B.

Knocking on the Door: Cheverus, Washburn, Marshwood, Windham, Hampden Academy

The Summer and Marissa Award

The Summer and Marissa Award is given annually to the top female duo in the state

 

Summer: I was being sarcastic.

Marissa: So was I.

Summer: Which we never were before Cohen showed up and introduced us to irony.

 

 

And the winner is….

 

Samantha Cox and Mary Szatkowski Bonny Eagle

Samantha Cox and Mary Szatkowski were the two biggest components in leading Bonny Eagle to the Class A state title. While Cox had already established herself as one of the top runners in the state, it was Szatkowski’s emergence this fall that led them to the promised-land. They both placed in the top ten at the Festival of Champions to lead their team to a runner up finish. Samantha Cox assumed the number one spot that day as she placed fourth running a time of 18:59.38 while Szatkowski placed seventh running a time of 19:07.46. At the state meet, it was Mary’s time to shine as she placed fourth running a time of 19:09.76 while Cox was sixth running 19:16.15. With Samantha Cox graduating next spring, look for Mary to assume the leadership role for Bonny Eagle and make a serious run at the Class A title.

 

2. Shannon Conley and Kiera Murray Cheverus

3. Kirstin Sandrueter and Eva Bates Greely

4. Charlotte Pierce and Katie LeBlanc Thornton Academy

5. Kylee Parker and Elizabeth Labun Hampden Academy

Week 4 Power Rankings: Girls Teams

 

1.      MDI

Last Week: 1

Meet: Sectional Invitational

Place: 1^st

MDI further cemented their number one ranking as they dominated the field at the Sectional Invitational. Nora Hubbell led the way for them as she placed third running a time of 20:17.53. MDI will be the team to beat at the Festival of Champions this weekend.

2.      Camden Hills

Last Week: 4

Meet: at Cony

Place: 1^st

Camden Hills cruised to an easy victory at Cony as they were led by superstar Brittany Bowman who placed second running 20:21.59. Look for the Windjammers to contend for the win at the Festival of Champions.

3.      Bonny Eagle

Last Week: 3

Meet: at Kennebunk

Place: 1^st

Bonny Eagle proved they are the team to beat in the SMAA as they cruised to a win at Kennebunk. Their duo of Mary Szatkowski and Samantha Cox placed first and second respectively. Look for Massabesic to contend for the win at FOC.

4.      Massabesic

Last Week: 2

Meet: at Kennebunk

Place: 3rd

Massabesic wasn’t at full strength last Friday at Kennebunk as four of their top five runners elected to run at Manchester the next day. Jocelyn Acheson showed us she’s in great shape as seventh at Kennebunk on Friday, and then placed 11th in the Large School race on Saturday. Look for Massabesic to contend for the win at FOC.

5.      Greely

Last Week: 5

Meet: Manchester Invitational

Place: 4^th (Small School Race)

The Rangers were the top Maine team in the small school race as they were led by their tremendous duo of Kirstin Sandrueter and Eva Bates. They placed second and third respectively. Greely won’t be competing at the Festival of Champions, but look for them to cruise on their home course on Oct. 5^th.

6.      Cheverus

Last Week: 6

Meet: at Kennebunk

Place: 2^nd

The Stags placed second at Kennebunk behind their dynamic duo of Shannon Conley and Kiera Murray. They placed third and fourth respectively. Look for Cheverus to contend for a podium finish at FOC.

7.      Mt. Ararat

Last Week: 7

Meet: at Brunswick

Place: 1^st

Mt. Ararat dispatched one of their arch rivals- Brunswick- by a score of 29-48. Kelly Lynch led the way for them as she placed second running a time of 20:21.27. Look for Mt. Ararat to contend for a podium finish at FOC.

8.      Falmouth

Last Week: 10

Meet: Home

Place: 1^st

The Yachtsmen cruised to an easy victory on their home course as they were led by individual winner Madeline Roberts as she ran a fine time of 20:39. Look for Falmouth to contend for a top five finish at FOC.

9.      Caribou

Last Week: 8

Meet: Sectional Invitational

Place: 2^nd

Caribou placed second at the Sectional Invitational behind Mackenzie Belyea’s runner up finish. Look for Caribou to contend for a top five finish at FOC.

10.  Brunswick

Last Week: 9

Meet: Home

Place: 2^nd

Brunswick placed second on their home course as they were led by individual winner Tiffany Turner who ran a great time of 20:13.88. Look for the Dragons to contend for a top five finish at FOC.

 

Team of Week: Greely

 

Teams Knocking on the Door: Cape Elizabeth, Maranacook, Hampden, Thornton Academy, Merriconeag, Waterville

 

 

Week 1 Power Rankings: Girls Teams

 

1. MDI

Top Returners: Isabel Erickson, Olivia Erickson, Nora Hubbell, Caroline Driscoll, Maggie Painter

Last Year’s Finish: 1^st Class B

Last year’s Class B state champs look poised to defend their title this year as they bring back their entire top five. Nora Hubbell was the top finisher for them last fall as she placed 9^th overall. Their tight pack makes them the favorite this year.

2. Massabesic

Top Returners: Jocelyn Acheson, Gabby Johnson, Marie Harrington

Last Year’s Finish: 3^rd Class A

Massabesic brings back two of the top runners in the SMAA in Acheson and Johnson which makes them the early favorite in Class A. These two should contend for top ten finished in Belfast. With a strong duo up front, and a reliable 3-5 group, Massabesic should be in great position.

3. Camden Hills

Top Returners: Brittany Bowman, Willow Parker, Emily Lopez

Last Year’s Finish: 2^nd Class B

The duo of Bowman and Parker make Camden Hills one of the favorites in Class B this fall. Both of these talented runners have legitimate title hopes. If Camden Hills hopes to contend with MDI their 3-5 runners will have to bring on a bigger role this year.

4. Greely

Top Returners: Kirstin Sandrueter, Eva Bates, Emily Mason, Jordan Ouellette

Last Year’s Finish: 5^th Class B

The Rangers will be led by junior Kirstin Sandrueter who is looking for her first individual state title. Expect Sandrueter to take the WMC by storm this fall. This isn’t just a one woman show for Greely. Sophomore Eva Bates looks poised to have an outstanding year. She placed tenth in Class B last year, and should contend for a top five finish this year.

5. Bonny Eagle

Top Returners: Samantha Cox, Mary Szatowski, Kristen Glennie

Last Year's Finish:  8th Class A

Bonny Eagle showed why they will be one of the favorites in Class A this year as they cruised to a dominating victory at the SMAA relays. Samantha Cox led the way for them as she placed second running a time of 9:58.

6. Cheverus

Top Returners: Shannon Conley, Kiera Murray, Georgia Caso

Last Year’s Finish: 1^st Class A

This is an unfamiliar spot for the Stags as for once they won’t be the favorite to defend their title. That doesn’t mean they won’t be competitive though. The bring back two of the states finest runners in Conley and Murray. Both of these girls should contend for top five finishes at Belfast. Their 3-5 will have to take a big step this year if they hope to defend their title.

7. Mt. Ararat

Top Returners: Kelly Lynch, Olivia Swan, Lauren McNett

Last Year’s Finish: 2^nd Class A

Lynch, Swan, and McNett form arguably the best trio in the state which makes them the favorite in the KVAC. Mt. Ararat has placed second in Class A for the past two years, and if they hope to improve upon their placing, their four and five runners will have to take on bigger roles.

8. Brunswick

Top Returners: Teresa Murphy, Madsy Schneider, Brooke Escoe

Last Year’s Finish: 4^th Class A

Brunswick brings back three runners from their top five which makes them one of the favorites in the KVAC. Teresa Murphy will lead the charge for the Dragons. She placed 8^th at the state meet last year and should contend for a top five finish.

9. Caribou

Top Returners: Mackenzie Belyea, Nerissa Larrabee, Robyn Larrabee

Last Year’s Finish: 3^rd Class B

Belyea and company will look to lead Caribou top a podium finish this year. Belyea had a fantastic season last fall as we saw her place seventh overall. With her leading the charge and the Larrabee sisters close behind look for Caribou to be one of the favorites in Eastern Maine this year.

10. Falmouth

Top Returners: Madeline Roberts, Abby Payson, Molly Ryan

Last Year’s Finish: 11^th Class B

Last year’s state meet finish wasn’t indicative of the type of season Falmouth had. Falmouth was the runner up at the Western Maine Regional with Madeline Roberts leading the charge. They key for the Yachtsmen will be their 3-5 runners. If they breakout this fall, watch out. They could challenge Greely in the WMC.

 

Teams Knocking on the door: Cape Elizabeth, York, Windham, Mt. Blue, Lawrence

Boys XC Individual Rankings: 6. Nate Madeira Greely

SB: 16:58.00
Place at Regionals: 3rd 17:16.24 Class B West
Place at States: 5th 17:10.53 Class B

The Sophomore from Greely had a breakout season last fall, as we saw him emerge as the number runner towards the end of the season. Madeira proved that he was a force to be reckoned with in the WMC after his fifth place finish in the Small School race at the Manchester Invitational. Madeira ran 17:00 that day. As the postseason rolled around, Madeira proved to everybody that he could thrive under pressure. At the Western Maine Regionals, he placed third running a time of 17:16.24. The following week at the state meet, Madeira led the Rangers to a runner up finish as he placed fifth overall running a time of 17:10.53. At the New England Championships Madeira ran a personal best time of 16:58 and placed 82nd overall. Look for Madeira to be a top three runner in the WMC next fall.

Girls XC Individual Rankings: 20-17

20. Isabel Erickson MDI

    SB: 20:38

    Erickson had a great season this fall highlighted by her 11^th place finish at the Class B State Championships running a time of 20:38. Look for Isabel to lead her team to another state title next fall.

19. Eva Bates Greely

    SB: 20:19

    Eva Bates had a great freshmen campaign highlighted by her 10^th place finish at the Class B State Championships running a time of 20:47. Expect Bates to make a big jump from Freshmen to Sophomore year, and contend with the top runners in the WMC.

18. Maggie Painter MDI

    SB: 20:16

    Maggie Painter proved that she is one of the top runners in the PVC this fall as we saw her place fourth at the PVC Championships running a time of 20:35.8. Look for Painter to brook her talents to another level next fall.

17. Laura Broderick Kennebunk

    SB: 19:57

    Broderick often played second fiddle to Abbey Leonardi this fall, but her season was nothing short of outstanding. Her breakout race came at the Festival of Champions where she placed 13^th overall running a time of 20:41.01. Look for Broderick to contend with the top runners in the SMAA next fall.

    
    

    
    

    

    HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

Boys XC Power Rankings Week 1

TEAM

1. Scarborough
Last Meet: SMAA Relays
Finish: 1st
Scarborough dominated the SMAA Relays on Thursday as their overall time of 57:31 was over forty seconds ahead of second place team South Portland. Scarborough has a tough challenge when the head to Massabesic on Friday where they will also face seventh ranked South Portland.

2. Falmouth
Last Meet: Home vs. NYA, York, Lake Region
Finish: 1st
Falmouth won easily on their home course behind a very strong race from Senior Tim Follo. Falmouth also had strong races from Jay Lesser and Connor McGrory. The Yachtsmen will head to Merriconeag on Friday where it looks like they could go unchallenged.

3. Greely
Last Meet: Home vs. Boothbay, Merriconeag, Fryeburg, Wells
Finish: 1st
Greely dominated on their home course behind Stefan Sandrueter's third place finish (17:30). Greely will have a tough to challenge when they head to NYA his Friday.

4. Caribou
Last Meet: Ellsworth Invitational
Finish: 1st
Caribou obliterated the field at the Ellsworth Invitational behind Caleb Chapman’s fifth place finish (17:21). Caribou will head to the Presque Isle invitational on Saturday.

5. NYA
Last Meet: at Falmouth
Finish: 2nd
NYA had a strong second place finish last Friday as they were lead by Cam Regan who placed second overall (17:20). NYA will have a huge test on Friday as they host Greely and Poland.

6. York
Last Meet: at Falmouth
Finish: 3rd
York placed third at Falmouth behind Mitchell Finitz’ third place finish (17:23). York will have a tough test on Friday when they head to Fryeburg.

7. South Portland
Last Meet: SMA Relays
Finish: 2nd
South Portland looked very strong on Thursday as they placed second at the SMAA Relays. They were lead by Darryl Wilkinson’s sixth place finish. South Portland will head to Massabesic on Friday as they will face off against number one ranked Scarborough.

8. Bangor
Last Meet: Home vs. Hampden, Brewer, Waterville
Finish: 1st
Bangor looked very impressive last Friday as they were lead by John Stanhope’s first place finish (14:23.6) on the 2.6 mile course. Bangor will have a very tough test this Friday when they head to Lawrence.

9. Hampden Academy
Last Meet: at Bangor
Finish: 2nd
Hampden Academy nearly pulled off a victory on Friday as they were paced by Junior Nick Kopf who placed second (15:00.60). Hampden heads to Waterville where it looks like they will go unchallenged.

10. John Bapst
Last Meet: Ellsworth Invitational
Finish: 2nd
John Bapst placed second at the Ellsworth Invitational as they were paced by Senior Alex Beals. His time of 17:56 was good enough for an eighth place finish. John Bapst will head to the Presque Isle Invitational on Saturday.

Team of the Week: Scarborough Red Storm

Teams Knocking On The Door: Mt. Blue, Kennebunk, Mt. Ararat, Wayneflete, Brunswick, Ellsworth



INDIVIDUAL

1. Silas Eastman Fryeburg
Last Meet: at Greely
Finish: Idle
Time: Idle
Due to a cut on his toe Eastman decided to pull out of his race on Friday. Never the less, Eastman still deserves the number one spot on this list. He has been undefeated against Maine competition since the beginning of his sophomore year. Fryeburg will host York, Yarmouth, and Sacopee Valley on Friday. If Eastman is ready to go, expect him to run away with the victory.

2. Matt McClintock Madison
Last meet: N/A
Finish: N/A
Time: N/A
I still give McClintock the slight edge over Ladd right now. McClintock pulled away from Ladd at the Festival of Champions last year. Matt will finally get his chance to compete this week when Madison heads to Carrabec on Wednesday.

3. Harlow Ladd Messalonskee
Last Meet: at Mt Blue
Finish: 1st
Time: 17:20
Ladd’s time of 17:20 was a mere three seconds slower than the course record set by former Mt. Blue superstar Kelton Cullenberg. His time was over a minute faster than the second place finisher. Messalonskee heads to Waterville on Friday where it looks like Ladd will go unchallenged.

4. Chase Brown Boothbay
Last Meet: at Greely
Finish: 1st
Time: 17:02
Brown had a very strong race at the challenging Twinbrook course clocking in a fine time of 17:02. His time was nearly 20 seconds faster than second place finisher Jack Pierce of Merriconeag.

5. Tim Follo Falmouth
Last Meet: Home vs. NYA, York, Lake Region
Finish: 1st
Time: 16:54
Follo looked very impressive on the hilly Falmouth course last Friday as his time of 16:54 was over 25 seconds ahead of second place finisher Cam Regan of NYA. Falmouth heads to Merriconeag on Friday where Follo will be challenged by Jack Pierce.

6. Dan Curts Ellsworth
Last Meet: Ellsworth Invitational
Finish: 1st
Time: 16:51
Curts cruised to a victory at the Ellsworth Invitational on Saturday clocking a time of 16:51. He looks poised for a spectacular season this fall. Ellsworth will head to the Presque Isle Invitational on Saturday.

7. Nick Morris Scarborough
Last Meet: SMAA Relays
Finish: 1st
Time: 7:36
Morris started his senior season off with a bang as his time of 7:36 at the SMAA Relays was just enough to hold off Biddeford’s Cameron Nadeau. Scarborough heads to Massabesic on Friday where it looks like Morris will go unchallenged.

8. Andy Reifman-Packett Mt. Ararat
Last Meet: at Oceanside
Finish: 1st
Time: 17:02.45
Andy Reifman-Packett cruised to an easy victory at Oceanside running a fine time of 17:02.45. Reifman-Packett will look to make some serious noise in the KVAC conference this year. He will have a big test when Mt. Ararat heads to Lewiston on Friday.

9. Jack Pierce Merriconeag
Last Meet: at Greely
Finish: 2nd
Time: 17:20
Pierce took second to Boothbay’s Chase Brown last Friday at the tough Twinbrook course running a time of 17:20. Pierce will face off against Falmouth’s Tim Follo this Friday.

10. John Stanhope Bangor
Last Meet: Home vs. Hampden, Brewer, Waterville
Finish: 1st
Time: 14:23.6 (2.6 Miles)
Stanhope had a very impressive performance on Friday as his time of 14:23.6 on his home course was nearly forty seconds faster than the second place finisher. Stanhope will get a tough test on Friday when Bangor heads to Lawrence.

Runner of the Week: Harlow Ladd Messalonskee

Runners Knocking On The Door: Joseph Holt-Andrews Telstar, Abshir Horor Wayneflete, Mitch Finitz York, Will Shafer GNG, Jamie Ross Brunswick, Benson Worthington Brunswick, Bryant Perkins Sanford, Stefan Sandrueter Greely, Cam Regan NYA, Alex Buteel Orono, Cameron Nadeau Biddeford, Chris Dunn Kennebunk

Boys XC Preseason Power Rankings

TEAM

1. Scarborough
Next Meet: SMAA Relays
The defending class A champions return three of their top five runners with top returnee, and 2010 individual champion, Nick Morris, leading the charge. Robby Hall and Wout Moulin round out the Red Storm’s top three which gives them one of the best triple threats in the state. Scarborough looks like the overwhelming favorite going into the fall.

2. Falmouth
Next Meet: Home vs. NYA, Lake Region, York
Falmouth returns four of their top five returners from last year’s runner up squad, which makes the Yachtsmen the early favorite in class B. Leading the way for Falmouth will be Senior Tim Follo. He placed second at last year’s state meet. Look for him to help carry Falmouth to the promise land.

3. Greely
Next Meet: Home vs. Fryeburg, Merriconeag, Traip, Wells
Right on Falmouth’s heels will be the Greely Rangers. Stefan Sandrueter is their top returner; he placed tenth at the state meet last year. If Greely hopes to take down Falmouth runners like, Nathan Maderia, and Issac Emery will have to step up to the challenge.

4. Caribou
Next Meet: Ellsworth Invitational
The loss to Christian Sleeper hurts the Vikings, but they still return four runners from last year’s state championship team. Caleb Chapman will lead the way for Caribou this year. Expect him to have a big year if Caribou wants to repeat.

5. NYA
Next Meet: at Falmouth
NYA has one of the better 1, 2 combinations in the state in Cam Regan and Evan Kendall which is why they are, yet again, the favorites to defend their class C title.

6. York
Next Meet: at Falmouth
York’s top returner this fall will be Mitch Finitz. He had a breakout year last year as we saw him place seventh at the class B state meet. If York hopes to keep up with the big dogs of the WMC then Alec Jordan, Nick Eaton, and Josh Brooks will all have to have big years.

7. South Portland
Next Meet: SMAA Relays
South Portland looked very impressive at the Laliberte Invitational on Saturday winning in convincing fashion behind Thomas Salamones fifth place finish overall. Look for South Portland to make a charge towards a top three finish at the state meet this year.

8. Wayneflete
Next Meet: at Poland
Wayneflete has one of the more impressive triple threats in the state this year which consists of Abshir Horor, Abukar Adan, and Josh Espy. Look for Wayneflete to give NYA a run for their money this fall.

9. Ellsworth
Next Meet: Ellsworth Invitational
Super Soph Dan Curts will lead the charge for Ellsworth this year. He had a spectacular freshmen campaign as we saw him place third at the class B state meet. If Ellsworth hopes to keep up with Caribou in the east, then runners such as Blake Pattengale and Stephen Kirby will have to step up to the challenge.

10. Kennebunk
Next Meet: SMAA Relays
Kennebunk’s top returner this year will be Chris Dunn. He had a breakout year last fall as we saw him place 16th at the class A state meet. Cameron Weiwel and Robert Ekland will both have to have great seasons if Kennebunk hopes for a top three finish this year.




INDIVIDUAL


1. Silas Eastman Fryeburg
Eastman will be gunning for his second state title in a row this fall as he looks to further improve upon his times. Eastman’s time of 16:02.44 last year was the second fastest of all classes. Look for Eastman to not only win the state meet, but to make a strong push for a top ten finish at the New England Championships.

2. Matt McClintock Madison
McClintock really broke through this past year as we saw him post the fastest time of all classes last year at the state meet (16:00.91). Matt has already showed incredible fitness this summer as evidence to his impressive race at Beach to Beacon where he ran 32:15. Look for him to continue to dominate class C once again, and make a strong push for a top ten finish at the New England Championships.

3. Harlow Ladd Messalonskee
An injury during last year’s state meet caused Ladd to run in much pain throughout the race. Despite the pain he still managed to place seventh overall in class A. He had a spectacular outdoor track season as we saw him run 4:27.75 and 9:53.55 at the state meet this past spring. Expect Ladd to bring his talents to another level this fall.

4. Chase Brown Boothbay
Brown had an excellent season last fall topped off by a second place finish at the class C state championships running a time of 16:14.97. Look for Brown to battle Matt McClintock for top dog in class C this year.

5. Tim Follo Falmouth
Follo continued to improve last fall as we saw him place second at the class B state meet running a time of 16:21.30. Look for him to try and close the gap between himself and Silas Eastman this fall.

6. Dan Curts Ellsworth
Curts had an incredible freshmen campaign last fall as we saw him place third at the class B state meet running a time of 16:28.60. With a year of high school training under his belt, look for Curts to bring his talents to another level this fall.

7. Nick Morris Scarborough
The defending class A champion will look to lead his team to another state title this year. Morris’ time of 16:25.15 was the fifth fastest time of all classes. Expect Morris to challenge Ladd for the title in class A this year.

8. Andy Reifman-Packett Mt Ararat
Reifman-Packett placed second at the Laiberte Invitational on Saturday behind Harlow Ladd running a time of 14:09. He is destined for a great season this fall so expect him to challenge Ladd and Morris for the top spot in class A.

9. Joseph Holt-Andrews Telstar
Holt-Andrews had a stellar freshmen campaign last fall as we saw him place third at the class C state meet running a time of 16:33.04. Look for Holt-Andrews to make some noise in class C this year.

10. Jack Pierce Merriconeag
Pierce placed fourth at the class C state meet last fall running a time of 16:45.27. Look for Pierce to close the gap between himself and the other top dogs of class C