FACA Preseason XC State Rankings *Update2*


As we kick off the 2017 cross country season, we will once again will be showcasing the FACA Cross Country State Rankings! This year we will be back to featuring these subjective rankings with bi-weekly articles leading all the way up until the State Championship!

Here are this year's pollsters:
1A Boys: Waiting on confirmation...
2A Boys: Jorge Fleitas, Bishop Verot HS, jfleitas28@gmail.com (10th year)
3A Boys: Kerry Mowlam, Ponte Vedra HS, kmowlam@yahoo.com (2nd year)
4A Boys: Ryan Lowe, Lake Nona HS, ryan.lowe@ocps.net (2nd year)

1A Girls: Sue O'Malley, Father Lopez Catholic HS, sueomalley15@gmail.com (1st year)
2A Girls: Jesus Batista, Gulliver Prep, jesusbatista0516@gmail.com (2nd year)
3A Girls: Steve Farnsworth, Lecanto HS, farnsworthfarm@yahoo.com (3rd year)
4A Girls: Paul Opitz, Sarasota Riverview HS, paul.opitz65@gmail.com (2nd year)

Here are this year's release dates:
1) August 25th (Friday) = Preseason
2) September 13th (Wednesday) = Early-season
3) September 27th (Wednesday) = Mid-season (pre flrunners)
4) October 11th (Wednesday) =  Late-season (post FSU)
5) October 25th (Wednesday) = Pre-State Series
6) November 8th (Wednesday) = Pre-State Championship

Important Notes:
- Please remember that all of these rankings are done by volunteer coaches and are meant to increase the overall enjoyment of the sport for athletes, coaches, parents, and fans. They are just for fun and should not have a lot of weight put on them. But if you have issues (such as a missed athlete or team), please email the individual pollster for your classification & gender.

- Also keep in mind that most of our pollsters are doing these preseason rankings based off of last year's results for cross country and track, and not everyone is up to date with incoming freshmen or major transfers. So like always, take everything lightly and please free feel to email the pollsters if you have the inside scoop on any teams or individuals!


Now without further ado, here are your 2017 Preseason Cross Country State Rankings!

GIRLS STATE RANKINGS

1A Girls Preseason Rankings

by Anonymous, Ghost Writer HS, ryanraposo@gmail.com

Team Rankings:

Commentary: This is probably a first for Class 1A Rankings. A school that has never had a cross country team enters the 2017 season as the prohibitive favorites to win the Class 1A State Title. Citrus Park Christian from Tampa brings together some top level talent that has transferred in from 3 different area schools along with an influx of talent from a Middle School Club Team that includes the #1, 3, and 4 runners from last years 4A State Championship team, the #1 runner from two other area high schools, and one of last year's top middle school runners. Look for Oak Hall and Circle Christian, last year's State Champs and runners-up to give chase late but both are struggling early with injuries and depth concerns. Providence School and The First Academy both shows promise with a strong top 3 looking to battle for the Top 5.

Rank. (Previous Rank) School = Comments

1. (NR) Citrus Park Christian = First year program loaded with transfer talent

2. (NR) Oak Hall = Defending State Champions returning 5 of their Top 7

3. (NR) Circle Christian = 2016 State Runner-up returning Top 4 but looking for depth

4. (NR) Providence = A healthy Audrey Woods helps lead with solid talent up front

5. (NR) First Academy = A perennial Top 5 team with a strong returning top 3.

6. (NR) Maclay School = Lost their Top 3 from last year's 3rd place team but will look to reload

7. (NR) Father Lopez = Returns an improved Top 4 with some talented new additions

8. (NR) Canterbury School = Top 6 returns lead by one of the State's best in Jessica Edwards.

9. (NR) P.K. Yonge = Finished 10th last year and returns most of team with a strong #1

10. (NR) Lakeland Christian = A good strong pack looking to improve upon 17th place State Finish

11. (NR) St. Joseph Academy = 9th at 2017 State and off to good start with a 4th at Cecil Field

12. (NR) Westminster Christian = A consistent Top 10 program with a strong 1-2

13. (NR) Tampa Bay Heat = A program on the rise with one of the State's best up front.

14. (NR) Westminster Academy = Jasmine Hincapie leads one of South Florida best programs

15. (NR) Holy Trinity = New coaches looking to build upon last year's 5th place State finish.

Other teams to watch out for:

Miami Country Day; St. Stephens Academy; Boca Raton Christian; Benjamin School, and Indian Rocks;

Individual Rankings:

Commentary: One of the most highly decorated runners in 1A history, Grace Blair of Oak Hall, enters her final year as the Pre-Season favorite. The talented Senior comes in with 5 individual Cross Country and Track & Field titles, has finished in top 6 in the Cross Country State Meets 4 out of the last 5 years, and returns with the fastest time from last year and is the reigning State Champion for Class 1A. In the chase pack should be a trio of talented transfers from last year's 4A State Championship team, George Steinbrenner HS, (Lydia Friedman, Brooke Santiesteban, and Alexandra Perri) who will wear the Citrus Park singlet and seek to challenge for the top spot along with a pair of top 10 Class 1A State Meet medalists from Circle Christian (Sinkenesh Parker and Brooke McEwen), Baker High's Maya Espinosa, and Westminister Academy's Jasmine Hincapie.

Rank. (Previous Rank) Name, Grade -- School = Comments

1. (NR) Grace Blair, 12 - Oak Hall = 18:22 PR and Defending XC, 800, 1600, & 3200 State Champion

2. (NR) Lydia Friedman, 10 -- Citrus Park = 18:45 PR / 7th at 2016 4A State Meet / 11:18 PR 3200

3. (NR) Jasmine Hincapie, 10 -- Westminster Academy = 19:11 PR / 3rd at State 3200 in 11:16

4. (NR) Brooke Santiesteban, 12 -- Citrus Park = 19:18 PR / 24th at 4A State XC Meet

5. (NR) Sinkenesh Parker, 9 -- Circle Christian = 19:18 PR / 3rd at 1A State XC Meet / 11:22 PR for 3200

6. (NR) Alexander Perri, 12 -- Citrus Park = 19:21 PR / 28th at 2016 4A State XC Meet

7. (NR) Brooke McEwen 10 -- Circle Christian = 19:33 PR / 7th at 1A State XC Meet / 11:22 PR for 3200

8. (NR) Maya Espinosa, 10 -- Baker High School = 19:17 PR / 8th at 2016 State Meet in 19:36

9. (NR) Claire Kennedy, 9 -- Westminster Christian = Ran impressive 11:20 / 5:20 Double at State Meet

10. (NR) Jacquel Abanses, 9 -- Citrus Park = One of States Best in MS with an 11:21 PR for 3200

11. (NR) Sydnee Calder, 8 -- Boca Raton Christian = 10th at 2016 State XC Meet in 19:40

12. (NR) Juliette Palechor, 9 -- P.K. Yonge = 11th at 2016 at State XC Meet in 19:43

13. (NR) Viola Barquilla, 8 -- Providence = 13th in 2016 at State XC Meet in 19:55

14. (NR) Josie Garba, 11 -- Tampa Prep = 21st at State XC Meet in 20:07 / 11:49 PR in 3200

15. (NR) Emma McLaughlin -- Tampa Bay Heat = 18th at State XC Meet in 20:06 / 11:56 PR in 3200

Other individuals to watch out for:

Jessica Edwards (Canterbury School); Mia Rodriguez (Kings Academy); Caroline Crist (First Academy); Courtney Barber (Pine School); Harrison Grooms (Oak Hall); Emma Rember (Oak Hall)


2A Girls Preseason Rankings

by Jesus Batista, Gulliver Prep, jesusbatista0516@gmail.com                                  

Team Rankings:

Commentary: Here are the preseason team state rankings!

Rank. (Previous Rank) School

1. (NR) Pine Crest HS 

2. (NR) Bolles HS 

3. (NR) Satellite HS

4. (NR) Montverde Academy

5. (NR) Tavares HS 

6. (NR) St. Brendan HS   

7. (NR) Trinity Prep

8. (NR) Eastside HS

9. (NR) Montverde Academy

10. (NR) Cardinal Gibbons

11. (NR) Ransom Everglades

12. (NR) Suncoast HS

13. (NR) Titusville HS

14. (NR) Edgewood HS

15. (NR) Bishop Kenny HS

Individual Rankings:

Commentary: The top 4 in this division are also in top 10 overall in all Florida this XC season. I would say if you combine the top 5 in each division, 2A will come out on top.

Rank. Name, Grade - School = Comments

1. Caitlin Collier, 12 - Bolles HS = The Lebron James of the running world in Florida. 2:03.32 in 800 plus being the back to back XC champ. She is proven and poised for big year, might not run fastest time leading into states but she has earned the number 1 spot all season long until she is dethroned.  And with an 800 PR of 2:03, if it becomes a footrace, she is winning.

2. Tsion Yared, 10 - Pine Crest HS = State runner up in 16 constantly on the top of her game shows up during XC a proven champ. 2014 state individual champ. 10:45 (3200) 4:54 (1600)

3. Natalie Varela 10 - Gulliver Prep HS = 17:46.6 PR and only getter better tremendous range 58 in 400, 2:15 in 800, 4:54 in 1600, 10:51 in 3200. Look for her to be in the mix come the end of season.

4. Nicole Matysik, 11 - Key West HS = 18:20 PR, there is something about Nico this past track season she capped an amazing track season which saw her go 10:35 (3200).  And has been training hard this summer watch for the top 4 in this 2Adivision

5. Mahdere Yared, 9 - Pine Crest HS = Little Yared has a tough week 18:25 PR plus some of the best running teamamtes in the state lead by her sister Tsion learning from the best.

6. Maya Beleznay, 10 - Pine Crest HS = 18:36 and a year training under this program is helpful 18:36 PR.

7. Rachel Shapiro, 12 - Bolles HS = 18:58 at states and now a senior look for her and collier to lead the bulldogs.

8. Rebecca Clark, 12 - Villages HS = Idk but I feel this is a dark horse had early success in her career got injured, transferred, but medaled twice during track finals.

9. Emily Faulhaber, 10 - Pine Crest HS = 19:16 enough said 4th Pine Crest in the top 10. WOW

10. Noemi Kerjean, 10 -- St. Brendan HS = 19:47 to close out at state meet and had a great summer will make top 10. Also been Natalie Varela long run partner and she holding her own.

11. Kendyl Cardwell, 9 - Monteverde HS = One of the youngest I the division should improve on last year top 20 finish.

12. Hannah Mcauliffe, 12 -- Lakewood HS = on average drops a minute a year 19:04 at states last year could break top 10 if she wins district and region 3 and roll into state confident.

13. Grace Gerry, 11 - Bishop Kenny = 19:10 at states last year now in her senior year look for Katie Caples meet and other to determine what type summer she had.

14. Marie Groppel, 10 - Satellite HS = Leading Coach Butler team but there 1-5 spread under 20 sec so anyone of her teammate can grad this spot.

15. Maddison Welsh, 12 -- Lemon Bay HS -- This staff knows how to create a number 1 runner nice depth. 19:31 PR


3A Girls Preseason Rankings

by Steve Farnsworth, Lecanto HS, farnsworthfarm@yahoo.com                    

Team Rankings:

Commentary:  The rankings are based largely on returning runners and 2016 team times, as not all incoming freshmen and transfers are known at this time, and jamboree results are sparse. 

Rank, Team, Region = Comments

1. Tie - Niceville, R1, and Chiles, R1.  The defending state champs, the Eagles lost some of their overwhelming depth to graduation, while the runner-up Timberwolves return their entire top seven.  There is not enough difference between these two teams to declare a top team at this time.

3.  Ponte Vedra, R1.  The Sharks tend to start the season fast and often fade later in the season.

4.  Ft. Myers, R3.  The Green Wave are a perennial top-10 team, but never seem to have enough depth to claim a podium spot.

5.  Creekside, R1.  The Knights will live or die based on the season the Openshaw sisters have.

6.  Osceola (Seminole), R3.  The Warriors will need to avoid a late season slump this year to maintain their ranking.

7.  Lincoln, R1.  The Trojans have a solid team led by the top runner in 3A, Alyson Churchill.

8.  Naples, R3.  The Eagles have a strong squad led by Jillian Dempsey.

9.  Nease, R1.  The Panthers' ability to get out of tough Region 1 will depend on Lena Caramagno returning.

10.  Charlotte, R3.  The Tarpons will hang on to this ranking only if Isabella Coogan runs and returns to 2016 form.

11.  Ft. Walton Beach, R1.  The Vikings will have to fight to get out of tough Region 1.

12.  Merritt Island, R4.  Despite graduation losses, the Mustangs look to be the top team again in Region 4.

13.  Leon, R1.  The Lions have a good team, but may never get out of their region.

14.  Land O'Lakes, R2.  The Gators appear to be the top team in a weaker than normal Region 2.

15.  Estero, R3.   The Wildcats should be able to get back to the state meet again from Region 3.

Other teams to watch out for:

16.  Gulf Breeze, R1.  Not completely sure about this team as they ran on some very fast courses in 2016.

17.  Ocala Vanguard, R2.  The Knights graduated their top two runners, but still have enough depth to get back to the state meet.

18.  Matanzas, R2.  The Pirates looked impressive winning the Cecil Field jamboree with a 21:59 team average.

19.  Viera, R4.  The Hawks' new freshmen put up a surprising 22:08 team average at the Wickham Park jamboree.

20.  Sunlake, R2.  The Seahawks won the Dreadnought preseason meet on a very fast and possibly short Lake Bonny course.

21.  Ocala Forest, R2.  The Wildcats return a team that started slow in 2016 but came on strong at the end.  

22.  Mater Academy, R4.  The Lions will be a ranked team only if Valerie Lastra runs for them.

23.  Cape Coral, R3.  The Seahawks should be able to claim the sixth spot in Region 3.

24.  South Fork, R4.  The Bulldogs always seem to be able to stay among the top teams in Region 4.

25.  Lecanto, R2.  The Panthers will need to avoid a late season slump to make it to the state meet this year.

Individual Rankings:

Commentary: The rankings are based on an index of 2016 season best XC times, state XC meet times, and 2017 3200-meter track times.  In some cases, 3200 times were estimated from 1600-meter times.  2016 season bests are listed for reference only and are not the main factor in rankings as other factors are considered.

Rank, Name, Grade, Team, 2016 XC SB / Comments

1.  Alyson Churchill, 10, Lincoln, 17:55.  Defending state champ should repeat as long as she stays healthy.

2.  Valerie Lastra, 10, Mater Academy, 18:00.  2016 state runner-up, but did not run track and her current status is uncertain.

3.  Ana Wallace, 12, Chiles, 18:33.   Always runs strong on her home course at Apalachee Regional Park.

4.  Claire Openshaw, 10, Creekside, 18:28.  Looking to build on a superb freshman year.

5.  Hannah Schneidewind, 12, Niceville, 18:41.  The new leader of the Eagle pack had a strong track season.

6.  Emily Culley, 11, Chiles, 18:40.  Also got a bump from a strong track season.

7.  Claire Moritz, 12, Ponte Vedra, 18:26.  Looking to rebound from an up and down 2016 XC season.

8.  Natalie Abernathy, 11, Land O'Lakes, 18:50.  A consistent runner that gets better every year.

9.  Ally Woodward, 12, Niceville, 18:55.  Expected to be a key runner for the Eagles again this year.

10.  Fiona Kurland, 12, Fort Myers, 18:52.  Will be the leader of the Green Wave after a strong track season.

11. Claire Coger, 12, Niceville, 18:57.  Got a big boost from a strong track season.

12.  Chelsea Oliver, 12, Riverdale, 19:11.  Also got a big boost in the rankings from strong track times.

13.  Jinah Mickens-Malik, 9, Mater Academy, 18:40.  A talented but inconsistent runner that may be better at shorter distances.

14.  Alayna Goll, 12, Estero, 19:11.  A steady runner that has shown consistent improvement.

15.  Jillian Dempsey, 10, Naples, 19:18.  An up-and-coming runner with great potential.

Other individuals to watch out for:

16.  Erin Phelps, 12, Chiles, 19:08.  Has been a reliable runner for the top-ranked Timberwolves.

17.  Taylor Stone, 10, Osceola (Seminole), 18:45.  Started strong but faded toward the end of the 2016 XC season.

18.  Vanessa Bolen, 11, Harmony, 18:56.   Continues to improve, but suffers from being on a weak team.

19.  Bridget Morse, 12, Columbia, 19:08.  Won Cecil Field jamboree easily, hoping to rebound from disappointing junior year.

20.  Erin Eubanks, 11, Niceville, 19:19.  Has been a steady runner for the top-ranked Eagles.

21.  Estefania Acosta, 11, Land O'Lakes, 19:12.  Better suited to running the XC 5K than shorter distances.

22.  Parker Valby, 10, East Lake, 19:08.  Has benefitted from running on some fast mostly asphalt courses.

23.  Mary Kate Maloney, 12, Nease, 19:20.  Has emerged as the leader of the resurgent Panther squad.   

24.  Caitlin Wilkey, 10, Chiles, 19:10.  A weaker track season has pulled her down in the rankings.

25.  Tara Openshaw, 12, Creekside, 19:36.  Will be trying to regain her freshman year times.


4A Girls Preseason Rankings

by Paul Opitz, Sarasota Riverview HS, paul.opitz65@gmail.com                

Team Rankings:

Commentary: 4A Region 2 looks tough, any chance we can send seven to the state meet?

Rank. (Previous Rank) School = Comments

1. (NR) Newsome = with the transfer of the best runner in the state not named Collier,and the middle school state champ  coming in, plus  great coaching by Orlando, maybee, they can challenge Niceville and Pine Crest for best time in the state.

2. (NR) Winter Park = always in contention for a podium spot, as long as Miss Gibbons is around.

3. (NR) Steinbrenner = led by Alex Strauman-fast, and Pinnela coming of early season 5k of 19:42

4. (NR) OLOL = they just keep reloading

5. (NR) Lake Brantley = the first of the great Lakes. Those ladies had a strong track season. I hope Ashley recovers from her injury; very talented runner

6. (NR) George Jenkins = new freshman wins her 1st race in 19:24, followed by Anna Senter in 19:24 nice on two punch.

7. (NR) Ferguson = two fast freshman last year, rumor is they're getting another fast one

8. (NR) HB Plant = coached by the legend Coach Harrison, enough said; I think their entire varsity graduated

9. (NR) Lake Minneola = Another lake, led by Kunze and Rowe tough to beat

10. (NR) Winter Springs = led by Bahr and superior coaching of Ocky Clark

11. (NR) Wharton

12. (NR) Spruce Creek (almost forgot you ladies)

13. (NR) Lakewood Ranch

14. (NR) Lake Mary = they have new fast freshman tore it up a Warrior running camp

15. (NR) St Thomas = now that Trish Butler is back, glad she doesn't have any eligibility left

Individual Rankings:

Commentary: Please excuse any spelling errors!

Rank. (Previous Rank) Name, Grade -- School = Comments

1. (NR) Bailey Hertenstein, 12 - Newsome = Going for her 3rd state championship in a row

2. (NR) Rafella Gibbons, 12 - Winter Park

3. (NR) Rylee Pustlink, 10 - Spanish River = under 11:00 for 3200 at state meet

4. (NR) Alyssa Hendrix, 10 - Riverview = under 11:00 for 3200 at state meet

5. (NR) Alexander Del Re, 10 - Jupiter = appears to made a full recovery under 11:00 for 3200 at the state meet.

^Hard to believe there were 3 freshman that fast, but there are more!

6. (NR) Elayna Bahr, 10 - Winter Springs

7. (NR) Alexandra Strauman, 11 - Steinbrenner

8. (NR) Ashley Klingenberg, 10 - Lake Brantley

9. (NR) Bridget Alex, 12 - St Thomas = sub 19 at the state meet

10. (NR) Natlie Bress - Melbourne = early season 19:14

11. (NR) Alica Ruiz, 09 - George Jenkins = wins Warrior invite 19:23

12. (NR) Anna Senter, 10 - George Jenkins = 2nd Warrior invite 19:24

13. (NR) Juliana Lazzari, 12 - Palm Harbor Univ. = great track season, all kinds of school records

14. (NR) Isabella Bartczak, 12 - Dr Phillips

15. (NR) Cadi Rowe, 11 - Lake Minneola

Other individuals to watch out for:

16. (NR) Mya Bodrato, 09 - Lake Mary = won pre-season classic in 19;58

17. (NR) Elle Kunze, 10 - Lake Minneola

18. (NR) Samantha Guyton - Spruce Creek

19. (NR) Shelby Jenkins - Winter Park

20. (NR) Sophia Pinnela - Steinbrenner = early season, 19:42


BOYS STATE RANKINGS

1A Boys Preseason Rankings

by Anonymous, Ghost Writer HS, ryanraposo@gmail.com

Team Rankings:

Commentary: Looks like a repeat battle for 2017 between the top 2 teams from last year. While Westminster Academy took the title last Fall, Mount Dora Christian showed impressive improvement through track and looks focused coming into 2017 for a run at the Title. Westminster Academy lost their top runner to graduation but returns most of their State Championship team. Looking forward to Round 2. Maclay still has enough talent despite some recent loses and will look to get back in the championship picture while Providence School returns a young and talented group up front and enough depth and experience to make a run at the Top 3. Citrus Park Christian starts a Cross Country program for the first time with standout transfer Trevor Foley from Hernando High and a slew of young talented runners from the Hillsborough Harriers club program that could surprise many.

Rank. (Previous Rank) School = Comments

1. (NR) Mount Dora Christian = Returns 6 / 2016 State Runner-up / Solid Track season improvement

2. (NR) Westminster Academy = Lost #1 but returns remain team that won the State Title

3. (NR) Maclay School = Program is a consistent Top 5 finisher with enough talent and depth.  

4. (NR) Providence School = Good start to a promising season with 2nd place finish at Cecil Field

5. (NR) Citrus Park Christian = New program with a State contender and young talent

6. (NR) St. Joseph Academy = Solid 4th place showing at Cecil Field with added depth

7. (NR) Pine School = Lost a couple from last years 4th place State Team but a good 5 remains

8. (NR) Indian Rocks = A consistent top program lead by one of the state's best at #1

9. (NR) Palmer Trinity = Top 5 all returns from 15th place finish at 2016 State Championships

10. (NR) Bishop Snyder = Consistently a Top 10 State Team looking to move up

11. (NR) Trinity Christian Jacksonville = Core group returns to improve upon 14th place State result

12. (NR) Oak Hall = 2 of the best in the Class 1A and great coaching will move them back up quickly

13. (NR) P.K. Yonge = Consistent pack group 1-5 should help

14. (NR) Father Lopez = Always a hard working program that builds a Top 10 team each year

15. (NR) Lakeland Christian = Strong up front through the Top 3 gives hope for a great year

Other teams to watch out for:

St. Stephens Episcopal; St. John's Country Day; The Kings Academy; Windermere Prep; Brevard Heat.

Individual Rankings:

Commentary: For Pre-Season ranking's we begin with the defending State Champion, Gabriel Curtis, the Junior from Mount Dora Christian. Last year Curtis easily took the State title by 14 seconds and returns to the Top Spot as we begin the new season. He will be pursued by a talented group of Seniors that includes Citrus Park's Trevor Foley, Highlands Christian's Ryan Szklany, Jupiter Christian's Joshua Skielnik, and St. Joseph Academy's Sean Snyder. Each have posted impressive times over the last year and will look to be in the thick of the battle for the Individual Championship on November 11. Stay tuned.

Rank. (Previous Rank) Name, Grade -- School = Comments

1. (NR) Gabriel Curtis, 11 -- Mount Dora Christian = Defending State XC Champ. Enough said.

2. (NR) Trevor Foley, 12 -- Citrus Park = Hard to ignore 9:23 / 4:15 from last year's track season

3. (NR) Ryan Szklany, 12 -- Highlands Christian = 16:24 PR / 3rd at State XC Meet / 9:34 PR in 3200

4. (NR) Joshua Skielnik, 12 -- Jupiter Christian = 16.05 PR / 4th at State XC Meet / 9:48 PR in 3200

5. (NR) Sean Snyder, 12 -- St. Joseph Academy = 16:46 PR / 5th at State XC Meet / 9:48 PR in 3200

6. (NR) Austin Montini, 9 -- Oak Hall = 10th at State XC Meet in 17:03 / State 3200m Champ in 9:47

7. (NR) Ted Twyman, 11 -- Benjamin School = 7th at State XC Meet in 16:57

8. (NR) Cooper LaBrant, 12 -- Indian Rocks = 8th at State XC Meet in 16:57

9. (NR) Mitchell Curtis, 9 -- Mount Dora Christain = 27th at State XC Meet / 3rd at State 3200 in 9:48

10. (NR) Collin Kane, 12 -- Oak Hall = 17:05 PR / 11th at State XC Meet / 8th at State 3200 in 10:04

11. (NR) Edouard Saahr, 12 -- Westminster Academy = 16:52 PR / 12th at State XC Meet

12. (NR) Jake Mazziotta, 12 -- Maclay School = 9:50 / 4:34 Double at FSU Relays

13. (NR) Reed Legg, 10 -- Citrus Park Christian = 10:03 PR in the Florida Relays 3200

14. (NR) Jackson Prium, 11 -- Mount Dora Christian = 10:11 PR in the Royal Invitational 3200

15. (NR) Christopher Textor, 12 -- The Pine School = 16th at State XC Meet in 17:11

Other individuals to watch out for:

Brandan Peralta (Providence School); Paul Mckenzie (Seffner Christian); Fernando Palacios (Bell Creek HS); Aydan Child (Marathon HS);


2A Boys Preseason Rankings

by Jorge Fleitas, Bishop Verot HS, jfleitas28@gmail.com   

Team Rankings:

Commentary: 2A Boys has a crowned champion before the season starts.

Rank.  School - Comments

1. Bolles - Bolles looks to be dominant in the 2017 season. They have one of the most electrifying runners in the country.  I don't see them loosing a meet. I believe NXN might be in there future.

2. Trinity Prep- The powerhouse champs return with a ton of talent. A possibility of placing three runners in the top 10. If Bolles makes a mistake I see Trinity Prep getting the Gold.

3. Satellite - A rebuilding year for Satellite put them just shy of the podium.

4. Bishop Kenny - look for BK to have a breakthrough season they are led by Jubran who had the possibility to finish top 5.

5. South Walton - there's a good chance that Walton opens up the season ranked in the top 5. They had some amazing runs last year the question is consistency from 1-5.

6. Lake Highland Prep - returns with a nice core group and rumors of a couple new freshmen that will make a huge impact early pushes them into #6.

7. Immokalee - A motivated coach with bubbling expectations lands them in the #7 slot. Immokalee feels they will be the team to beat in Region 3.

8. Pine Crest - A rebuilding year with new supporting cast mates and great coaching lands Pine Crest in spot #8.

9. Coco Beach - The Beach has all the makings to make a Top 10 run in November.

10. Rockledge - Troy Smith is the biggest reason for my optimism in placing Rockledge at 10. With a consistent 2-5 they may be able to finish higher.

11. Ridge view

12. Dunbar

13. Calvary Christian- Danny Ferro showed flashes of being a star in 2016. He can lead Calvary to a possible top 10 finish in 2017.

14. West Florida Tech

15. Wakulla

Individual Rankings:

Commentary: Here are the individual state rankings!

Rank. Name -- School

1. Charles Hicks - Bolles

2. Trevor Foley- Hernando

3. Danny Ferro- Calvary Christian

4. Kayamo Galloway- Trinity Prep

5. Antonio Gomez- Frostproof

6. Nathan Jubran- Bishop Kenny

7. Chase Rivera- Bolles

8. Troy Smith- Rockledge

9. Paul Stafford- Lake Whales

10. Trent Turbyfill- Trinity Prep

11. Mamush Galloway- Trinity Prep

12. Jacob Hensley- Citrus

13. Walker Hirsch- Satellite

14. John Jessup- Gulf

15. Dylan Branch- Avon Park


3A Boys Preseason Rankings

by Kerry Mowlam, Ponte Vedra High School, kmowlam@yahoo.com                   

Team Rankings:

Commentary: Taking into account some athlete off-season school movement (that aware of) and track season, but for the most part, based on last years XC results

Rank. (Previous Rank) School - Comments

1. Belen Jesuit -- Their team is always mentioned is pre-state rankings as top competitor. With another year finishing just off the podium, will this be their year to make it back to the top?

2. Chiles -- Two 2nd places behind Creekside last 2 years, best 1-2 punch in the State and another speedy transfer could be solution for the 5th runner they need. Never count out this great program not to win States.

3. Niceville -- Great young group all returning with 23 sec 1-5 split. Will be contender for sure but need a no1 runner to be part of 3A lead pack to help get to podium

4. Gulf Coast -- With all their top returners, will be fun to see them stake claims both as a team and individuals. Their 5th runner needs to get closer to the 4th to help lower the points.

5. Naples -- Another strong school with close knit 1-5 runners of 57 secs. School is becoming another strong program every year, but this year they could make a statement

6. Estero -- 2 runners coming into season with sub 17 PR could wreak some havoc in their region and onto States. This is another team if the 5th runner was close to the 4th, they leapfrog up the chart.

7. Creekside - Defending Champions. With only 2 of their top 7 returning but with Nease top runner transferring puts them as a contender. I would not bet against them come post season to podium.

8. Merritt Island -- With a 52 sec gap between 1-5, its pack running at its finest. Could be dark horse for big run up the rankings if work together.

9. Robinson HS -- Another good returning squad, that got better all last season. Never started this high in preseason rankings before but well deserved

10. Bartram Trail -- Always seem to be a perennial top 10 team and with great pack running for 1-5 runners, will be fun to watch them this season.

11. New Smyrna Beach -- Another strong team out of the Region 2 that could make an impact as the season progresses.

12. Fort Walton Beach -- Always in the Region 1 mix and another good pack running team. Always seems to have a runner lead them to the promised post season

13. Choctawhatchee HS -- With top 4 runners 17.25 or faster, the 5th runner will see how well they compete in the season. Hold that coveted last spot in Region 1 to get to States

14. Nease HS -- after not even making it out of very tough districts last year, they have strong young returners so poised for great run in season, but seconds could mean State bound or stopping early

15. Fort Myers -- With 2 strong sophomores leading the squad, they will advance up the rankings as season progresses.

16. Ponte Vedra -- With only 1 senior on the squad, will be young team ready to make a mark. Will see if the younger squad can make it up the rankings

17. Seabreeze HS -- Another young team loaded with underclassmen, will be excited to see them get faster during the year

18. Ocala Vanguard HS -- With their top runner at 15.52, team will benefit greatly from that poise

19. Lincoln -- Will be battling with at least 4 other teams to claim that final coveted spot in 3A Region 1. But this could be the year the young squad makes it to States.

20. Osceola HS (Seminole) -- With 3-6 runners within 20 seconds, the pack results will determine how far they get up the rankings

Individual Rankings:

Commentary: Here are the individual state rankings. Purely based on last year end season results with a few extra contenders

Rank. (Previous Rank) Name, Grade -- School = Comments

1. Michael Phillips 12 -- Chiles -- Won States last year and expect same result.

2. Joshua Collins 12 -- Belen Jesuit -- Had huge race at Footlocker South to have fastest 5k returning time.

3. Aidan O'Gorman 11 - New Smyrna Beach -- great last season but 17th in State meet will be motivation to place better this year

4. Diego Lavieri-Sosa 12 - Ocala Vanguard -- great runner who will continue his school legacy of speedsters

5. Payne Myer 11 - New Smyrna Beach -- Phenom race at States last year and looking for more this year

6. Matthew Newland 12 -- Chiles -- 5th last year at States, and part of great school team

7. Alex Normandia 12 -- Land O Lakes -- top runner all last season and expect same this year

8. Sam Skiles 12 -- Stanton Prep -- Tough track season with injury but back at full strength for XC

9. Nicholas Kamen 11 -- Gulf Coast -- Coming off good track and looking strong

10. Matthew Ortiz 12 -- Creekside -- another runner that will keep the Creeks machine moving forward and up

11. Sebastian Kenne 11 -- Stanton Prep -- great 1-2 punch at Stanton to push each other

12. John Robbins 11 -- Tampa Jesuit -- Ramped up perfectly last XC. Expect same for this season

13. Hugh Brittenham 11 -- Estero -- Had awesome track season and expect moving up the chart for XC

14. Sebastian Roa 11 -- Belen Jesuit -- Part of speedy pack that will continue to get faster

15. Sean Popkik 12 -- Bartram Trail -- Part of great BT team and expect big things


4A Boys Preseason Rankings

by Ryan Lowe, Lake Nona High, ryan.lowe@ocps.net                                

Team Rankings:

Commentary: Oviedo was the preseason number one before the Galloway brothers transferred in from Trinity Prep; now they look very formidable. However, the season is long and there are many teams that can vie for a spot on the podium. There are several early season races that will have many of the top teams going head-to-head. As always, it will be exciting as teams move up and down throughout the course of the season. Good luck to all runners and coaches this season!!

Rank. (Previous Rank) School = Comments

1. Oviedo High = Galloway brothers transferring in adds to an already talented team.

2. St. Thomas Aquinas = Defending champs can never be counted out.

3. Wharton = looking to improve on their top 10 finish from last season.

4. George Steinbrenner = nice group returning from their 10th place finish.

5. Lyman = always in the mix, Bell can lead them far.

6. Fleming Island = good 1-2 punch with Miller and Fuller.

7. Buchholz = trying to get back to state after missing last season.

8. Olympia = starts the season where they finished last year.

9. Sarasota = returning 5 runners from a 14th place finish.

10. Spanish River = 5th place finish last season, will they move up?

11. Lakewood Ranch = runner-up last season so they know what to do.

12. St. Cloud

13. Ferguson

14. G. Holmes Braddock

15. Hagerty

Individual Rankings:

Commentary: A lot of the top boys at last year's State Championship are back and I've already got the chance to see half of the top-10 run in the same preseason race.  Competition will be fierce as boys are looking to claim the top prize!

Rank. (Previous Rank) Name, Grade -- School = Comments

1. Bryce Bell, 12 -- Lyman = top returning time in 4A last season, looked good at Lake Mary pre-season race

2. Timothy Doyle, 12 -- Freedom (Orlando) = State Champ in track so he knows how to win

3. Kayamo Galloway, 10 -- Oviedo = 7th place finish in 2A last year, 15:46 at State Championship

4. Deshay Fernandes, 12 -- Columbus = if he stays healthy then he can win it all

5. Isaias De La Puente, 11 -- Forest Hill = runner-up last season, can he make that final step?

6. Tyson Harper, 12 -- Oviedo = having two top transfer teammates will help him get even better.

7. Nicholas Rischar, 12 -- St. Thomas = 3rd place last season and an outstanding 3200 in track.

8. Canaan St. Lewis, 11 -- Lake Mary = great race in the preseason, looks ready to move up

9. Roberto Castro, 12 -- Lake Nona = 6th place last season

10. Mamush Galloway, 10 -- Oviedo = second part of the 1-2 transfer duo which makes Oviedo very deep

11. Nehemiah Rivers, 11 -- Wharton

12. Brandon Flagler, 12 - Monarch

13. Andrew Miller, 12 -- Fleming Island

14. Hunter Dobbs, 12 -- Coral Reef

15. Tristan Montalvo, 12 -- St. Cloud


Reminder:

- Please remember that all of these rankings are done by volunteer coaches and are meant to increase the overall enjoyment of the sport for athletes, coaches, parents, and fans. They are just for fun and should not have a lot of weight put on them. But if you have issues (such as a missed athlete or team), please email the individual pollster for your classification & gender.

- Please direct any major concerns to Site Administrator / FACA Rankings Representative: Ryan Raposo @ ryanraposo@gmail.com