DELTA SECTIONAL PREVIEW 2020:
ECIRunner takes a look at the upcoming Delta Sectional meet and the teams and individuals to keep track of on Saturday.
GIRLS:
What to watch for at this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet in the Girl's Race
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Delta Eagles: The Delta Girls have spent the majority of the season at the top of the ECI Top Teams rankings. Also, the Eagles have rounded into form at exactly the right time, having performed well in their last several meets, including beating the Yorktown Tigers (their main Sectional competition) at the New Haven Invite as well as the Hoosier Heritage Conference Meet. The Delta team has undoubtably the best top-4 of any team. Led by the 1-2 punch of Nicki Southerland and Makayla Robles, which almost all race simulations have finishing 1-2 on Saturday, and then add in the fantastic 3-4 runner of Shannyn Cox and Ashleigh Brelage not that far behind. These 4 Lady Eagles are all ranked in the top 10 overall of the Delta Sectional. The Eagles will be looking to Camryn Eldridge and Olivia Bohanon to finish out the scoring low enough to earn a 2020 Sectional Title.
Yorktown Tigers: The Yorktown Girls are the defending Delta Sectional champions. This year they have ran very well in stretches, at times even challenging the Delta Eagles at the top of the ECI Team standings. Their leaders, Grace Huisman and Elizabeth Reece, have been amazingly consistent through the season. The Tigers strength, and main hope for a Sectional title, may be their 3-7 runners. Sara Barnhizer, Natalie Moulton, Ali Smith, Rachael Stagge, and Izzie Brown have battled together all year to provide the depth that has kept this team in the hunt for a repeat Sectional title. The Tigers ran well enough to beat the Eagles at the Delaware County Meet this season, but will have to put together a great 1-7 run to do something similar this Saturday.
CONTENDERS:
Monroe Central Golden Bears: The only team outside of The Yorktown Tigers and Delta Eagles that may have a shot at a Sectional title is the Monroe Central Golden Bears. A young nucleus of underclassmen have stepped into leadership roles this season and taken the Bears to heights they have not seen in recent years. The freshmen duo of Addison Coe and Katie Osborne, along with sophomore Karly Puckett could make a huge statement that Monroe Central will be the ECI girls team to beat for the foreseeable future if they were able to upset the Tigers and Eagles this Saturday for a Sectional Title. But, even if not they look to be in a great position to advance to the Delta Regional next week, a feat they failed to accomplish a year ago.
Jay County Patriots: The Patriots have battled a bit of inconsistency all season. But look to be in a position to fight for a top-5 advancing spot on Saturday. Once again led by a solid Patriot trio of Lydia Keihn, Sophia Fugiett, and Lindy Wood the Patriots will undoubtably make some noise in the final team standings. The Lady Patriots will need a 4th and 5th runner to provide them with solid races to ensure the ladies from Jay County will survive and advance for another week of running at next Saturday’s Delta Sectional.
The CRAZINESS for the 5th spot:
This may be the most entertaining thing to watch during the Girl’s Delta Sectional race on Saturday! If things shake out as predicted in spots 1-4, SEVERAL teams may be fighting for the lone remaining advancing spot. Cowan’s Lauren Smith is fresh off an individual MEC champion run, and teammates Brynn Wright and McKenna Minton might make Cowan’s 1-3 the difference maker in earning it. But the Wes-Del warriors have a mix of youth and experience, as they are led by sophomore Emmy Justin, who has had a breakout season in 2020 and junior Jaci Knott, who advanced to Regional as an individual last year. The Wapahani Raiders could also make a claim for the 5th spot by having Kendyl Thrasher leading by being ranked in the top 15 overall. Also Muncie Central and Winchester could be in the hunt for the the 5th team spot by their respective leaders. Winchester Senior Ella Baldwin is a top-10, individual advancing stud, while a strong Muncie Central Bearcat pack led by Maya Coggenshall and Delaney Strage might have just enough firepower to make some noise come Saturday. One thing is for sure, it will be a wild ride, but only 5 teams will advance on to the next round of XC action at the Delta Regional
Top ECI Individuals heading into the Delta Sectional:
1.Nicki Southerland DELT
2.Makayla Robles DELT
3.Grace Huisman YORK
4.Elizabeth Reece YORK
5.Ashleigh Brelage DELT
6.Lydia Keihn JAY
7.Shannyn Cox ` DELT
8.Lauren Smith COW
9.Addison Coe MOCE
10.Brynn Wright COW
11.Olivia Keesling RAND
12.Ella Baldwin WIN
13.Katie Osborne MOCE
14.Sydney Fellers BRV
15.Sara Barnhizer YORK
16.Kendyl Thrasher WAP
17.Natalie Moulton YORK
18.Emerson Justin W-D
19.Jaci Knott W-D
20.Karly Puckett MOCE
What to watch for at this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet in the Girl's Race
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Delta Eagles: The Delta Girls have spent the majority of the season at the top of the ECI Top Teams rankings. Also, the Eagles have rounded into form at exactly the right time, having performed well in their last several meets, including beating the Yorktown Tigers (their main Sectional competition) at the New Haven Invite as well as the Hoosier Heritage Conference Meet. The Delta team has undoubtably the best top-4 of any team. Led by the 1-2 punch of Nicki Southerland and Makayla Robles, which almost all race simulations have finishing 1-2 on Saturday, and then add in the fantastic 3-4 runner of Shannyn Cox and Ashleigh Brelage not that far behind. These 4 Lady Eagles are all ranked in the top 10 overall of the Delta Sectional. The Eagles will be looking to Camryn Eldridge and Olivia Bohanon to finish out the scoring low enough to earn a 2020 Sectional Title.
Yorktown Tigers: The Yorktown Girls are the defending Delta Sectional champions. This year they have ran very well in stretches, at times even challenging the Delta Eagles at the top of the ECI Team standings. Their leaders, Grace Huisman and Elizabeth Reece, have been amazingly consistent through the season. The Tigers strength, and main hope for a Sectional title, may be their 3-7 runners. Sara Barnhizer, Natalie Moulton, Ali Smith, Rachael Stagge, and Izzie Brown have battled together all year to provide the depth that has kept this team in the hunt for a repeat Sectional title. The Tigers ran well enough to beat the Eagles at the Delaware County Meet this season, but will have to put together a great 1-7 run to do something similar this Saturday.
CONTENDERS:
Monroe Central Golden Bears: The only team outside of The Yorktown Tigers and Delta Eagles that may have a shot at a Sectional title is the Monroe Central Golden Bears. A young nucleus of underclassmen have stepped into leadership roles this season and taken the Bears to heights they have not seen in recent years. The freshmen duo of Addison Coe and Katie Osborne, along with sophomore Karly Puckett could make a huge statement that Monroe Central will be the ECI girls team to beat for the foreseeable future if they were able to upset the Tigers and Eagles this Saturday for a Sectional Title. But, even if not they look to be in a great position to advance to the Delta Regional next week, a feat they failed to accomplish a year ago.
Jay County Patriots: The Patriots have battled a bit of inconsistency all season. But look to be in a position to fight for a top-5 advancing spot on Saturday. Once again led by a solid Patriot trio of Lydia Keihn, Sophia Fugiett, and Lindy Wood the Patriots will undoubtably make some noise in the final team standings. The Lady Patriots will need a 4th and 5th runner to provide them with solid races to ensure the ladies from Jay County will survive and advance for another week of running at next Saturday’s Delta Sectional.
The CRAZINESS for the 5th spot:
This may be the most entertaining thing to watch during the Girl’s Delta Sectional race on Saturday! If things shake out as predicted in spots 1-4, SEVERAL teams may be fighting for the lone remaining advancing spot. Cowan’s Lauren Smith is fresh off an individual MEC champion run, and teammates Brynn Wright and McKenna Minton might make Cowan’s 1-3 the difference maker in earning it. But the Wes-Del warriors have a mix of youth and experience, as they are led by sophomore Emmy Justin, who has had a breakout season in 2020 and junior Jaci Knott, who advanced to Regional as an individual last year. The Wapahani Raiders could also make a claim for the 5th spot by having Kendyl Thrasher leading by being ranked in the top 15 overall. Also Muncie Central and Winchester could be in the hunt for the the 5th team spot by their respective leaders. Winchester Senior Ella Baldwin is a top-10, individual advancing stud, while a strong Muncie Central Bearcat pack led by Maya Coggenshall and Delaney Strage might have just enough firepower to make some noise come Saturday. One thing is for sure, it will be a wild ride, but only 5 teams will advance on to the next round of XC action at the Delta Regional
Top ECI Individuals heading into the Delta Sectional:
1.Nicki Southerland DELT
2.Makayla Robles DELT
3.Grace Huisman YORK
4.Elizabeth Reece YORK
5.Ashleigh Brelage DELT
6.Lydia Keihn JAY
7.Shannyn Cox ` DELT
8.Lauren Smith COW
9.Addison Coe MOCE
10.Brynn Wright COW
11.Olivia Keesling RAND
12.Ella Baldwin WIN
13.Katie Osborne MOCE
14.Sydney Fellers BRV
15.Sara Barnhizer YORK
16.Kendyl Thrasher WAP
17.Natalie Moulton YORK
18.Emerson Justin W-D
19.Jaci Knott W-D
20.Karly Puckett MOCE
BOYS:
What to watch for at this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet in the Boy's Race.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Monroe Central Golden Bears: Coach Braun’s squad is coming off their best meet of the year at the MEC Championship last Saturday that saw 5 out of the top 6 Bears running a PR to best Wapahani on the sixth-man tiebreaker. Leading the charge this weekend for Monroe Central will be Tucker Burris who will also be the prohibitive favorite to win the meet outright. Burris has only not finished 1st once all season (the only blemish on his record this year is a 2nd place finish at New Haven) and will be looking to run ahead of the field again this weekend. Next in line for the Bears is Carter Miller who ran an impressive 16:31 at Blue River last week to give him a 2nd place overall finish behind his teammate Tucker Burris at the MEC. Behind these lead runners the Bears have a solid 3-6 in Caden Landis, Eli Chamberlin and brothers Kyler and Caden Shumaker who will be looking to be the difference makers for Monroe Central to come out with a win on Saturday.
Wapahani Raiders: The Raiders are riding one of their best seasons in school history and will be looking to avenge a loss to Monroe Central last week at the MEC. Leading the way for Wapahani this year has been any one of a quartet of harriers including seniors Andrew Shrock and Griffen Miller, junior Brandon Ellis and freshman Nick Cook. When all four of these runners are “on” these Raiders are capable of beating anyone. Also looking to turn the tide in Wapahani’s favor will be sophomores Colton Boggs and Landon Hutchens. These runners have been in the thicket of racing against quality ECI competition all season long and will need impressive runs for the Raiders to come away with a Sectional Championship.
CONTENDERS:
Yorktown Tigers: This Tiger team has been dealing with the injury bug all-season long and is hoping to become healthy just at the right time to make some noise in the tournament. Leading the way for Yorktown this year has been Ryan Bade and Wiley Close but close behind recently have been runners Cole Whitehead, Gannnon Crosser, Dray Caldwell and Luke Harber as they all have shown steady improvement the last few weeks. One runner to keep an eye on in particular is Luke Harber as he will be looking to continue to improve the next few weeks as he tries to return to the same semi-state form where he was a year ago.
Delta Eagles: Led by Clay Batio and Lucas Fox, who both will have top 10 individual aspirations this weekend, this Eagles team looks primed to earn a qualifying spot for next week’s Regional. To get there however they will need solid runs from pack runners Clay Bragg, Jarren Haggard and Caden Clark as they look to wart of several other ECI teams who will want a regional bid as well.
Muncie Burris Owls: The Burris team has a solid 1-2 punch in Michael Canfield and Josh Stephenson that will definitely put the Owls in the hunt for a regional birth on Saturday but they will need huge performances in their 3-5 runners Max Davis, Henry Cooper and Westin Clay to make it happen.
Muncie Central Bearcats: This Muncie squad has quietly been improving all season long and will be looking to snatch one of the last regional qualifying spots this weekend. Leading the way for the Bearcats is freshman Gabriel Reynolds who will definitely need to post a low stick at Sectionals to help his teams’ cause for a regional birth.
Daleville Broncos: With a team of a lot of quality pack runners the Broncos will hope to steal the last ticket to Regional by running some big races when it matters most. Up front for Daleville will be senior Khoa Westin who will be eyeing his own individual goals as well as trying to lead his squad to a team berth to next week’s Regional.
Top ECI Individuals heading into the Delta Sectional:
What to watch for at this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet in the Boy's Race.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Monroe Central Golden Bears: Coach Braun’s squad is coming off their best meet of the year at the MEC Championship last Saturday that saw 5 out of the top 6 Bears running a PR to best Wapahani on the sixth-man tiebreaker. Leading the charge this weekend for Monroe Central will be Tucker Burris who will also be the prohibitive favorite to win the meet outright. Burris has only not finished 1st once all season (the only blemish on his record this year is a 2nd place finish at New Haven) and will be looking to run ahead of the field again this weekend. Next in line for the Bears is Carter Miller who ran an impressive 16:31 at Blue River last week to give him a 2nd place overall finish behind his teammate Tucker Burris at the MEC. Behind these lead runners the Bears have a solid 3-6 in Caden Landis, Eli Chamberlin and brothers Kyler and Caden Shumaker who will be looking to be the difference makers for Monroe Central to come out with a win on Saturday.
Wapahani Raiders: The Raiders are riding one of their best seasons in school history and will be looking to avenge a loss to Monroe Central last week at the MEC. Leading the way for Wapahani this year has been any one of a quartet of harriers including seniors Andrew Shrock and Griffen Miller, junior Brandon Ellis and freshman Nick Cook. When all four of these runners are “on” these Raiders are capable of beating anyone. Also looking to turn the tide in Wapahani’s favor will be sophomores Colton Boggs and Landon Hutchens. These runners have been in the thicket of racing against quality ECI competition all season long and will need impressive runs for the Raiders to come away with a Sectional Championship.
CONTENDERS:
Yorktown Tigers: This Tiger team has been dealing with the injury bug all-season long and is hoping to become healthy just at the right time to make some noise in the tournament. Leading the way for Yorktown this year has been Ryan Bade and Wiley Close but close behind recently have been runners Cole Whitehead, Gannnon Crosser, Dray Caldwell and Luke Harber as they all have shown steady improvement the last few weeks. One runner to keep an eye on in particular is Luke Harber as he will be looking to continue to improve the next few weeks as he tries to return to the same semi-state form where he was a year ago.
Delta Eagles: Led by Clay Batio and Lucas Fox, who both will have top 10 individual aspirations this weekend, this Eagles team looks primed to earn a qualifying spot for next week’s Regional. To get there however they will need solid runs from pack runners Clay Bragg, Jarren Haggard and Caden Clark as they look to wart of several other ECI teams who will want a regional bid as well.
Muncie Burris Owls: The Burris team has a solid 1-2 punch in Michael Canfield and Josh Stephenson that will definitely put the Owls in the hunt for a regional birth on Saturday but they will need huge performances in their 3-5 runners Max Davis, Henry Cooper and Westin Clay to make it happen.
Muncie Central Bearcats: This Muncie squad has quietly been improving all season long and will be looking to snatch one of the last regional qualifying spots this weekend. Leading the way for the Bearcats is freshman Gabriel Reynolds who will definitely need to post a low stick at Sectionals to help his teams’ cause for a regional birth.
Daleville Broncos: With a team of a lot of quality pack runners the Broncos will hope to steal the last ticket to Regional by running some big races when it matters most. Up front for Daleville will be senior Khoa Westin who will be eyeing his own individual goals as well as trying to lead his squad to a team berth to next week’s Regional.
Top ECI Individuals heading into the Delta Sectional:
- Tucker Burris MOCE
- Carter Miller MOCE
- Clay Batio DELT
- Brandon Ellis WAP
- Nick Cook WAP
- Andrew Shrock WAP
- Kyler Shumaker MOCE
- Lucas Fox DELT
- Griffen Miller WAP
- Caden Shumaker MOCE
- Ryan Bade YORK
- Colton Boggs WAP
- Caden Landis MOCE
- Eli Chamberlin MOCE
- Michael Canfield MUBU
- Cole Whitehead YORK
- Landon Hutchens WAP
- Luke Harber YORK
- Gabe Reynolds MUCE
- Gannon Crosser YORK
DELTA SECTIONAL PREVIEW 2019:
BOYS: What to watch for at this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet in the Boy's Race
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Wapahani Raiders: The Wapahani Raiders are on a roll, they seem to be getting stronger as the last few weeks of the season, which has included a New Haven Invite Division A title and a Mid-Eastern Conference title. This team is rolling right now. Their strength is undoubtably their tight 1-4 pack of Brandon Ellis, Andrew Shrock, Griffen Miller, and Colton Boggs along with a consistent 5th man, usually Joey Dickinson, that always seems to be under 19 minutes. The lack of a dominant #1 runner may hurt them in the later rounds of the tournament, but in this Sectional does not seem to cost them much in terms of placement. The emergence of Brandon Ellis in the last couple weeks could actually give them that true #1 before its all said and done. Even though this is one of the closest Sectional team races in years, In both Athletic.net and Milesplit IN simulated meets, as well as the ECI coach's poll, Wapahani seems to be the team to beat this Saturday at the Muncie Sportsplex.
Yorktown Tigers: The Tigers have had a lot of success this entire season against Sectional competition. But, lately they have not looked as dominant. They will still likely have the #1 overall finisher in Matthew Mitsch as well as another low stick provided by Luke Harber. But, after that the Tigers 3 and 4 runners have been inconsistent as of late. Ryan Bade and Gannon Crosser both have shown the ability to run in the low 18s, but both had season best times that came in August. If those 2 runners can have a great showing on Saturday, combined with a true #5 that has emerged in Sam Brumley, the Tigers could easily be the team hoisting the Delta Sectional trophy for the 2nd year in a row.
Monroe Central Golden Bears: The last 2 weeks have made it clear that the Golden Bears from Monroe Central intend to throw their hat in the ring for a Delta Sectional Championship as well. With strong pack running, similar to Wapahani, that has reached new heights with the return of Carter Miller the Golden Bears can compete with any team in the field on Saturday. Along with Miller, teammates Caden Shumaker, Tucker Burris, Caden Landis, Chris Nunez, and Kyler Shumaker are all battling for scoring positions on this highly competitive Monroe Central squad. If all of them run like they have been in the last 2 weeks, they have the fire power to secure their first Sectional title in school history.
Muncie Central Bearcats: This squad has had a roller coaster season, but it may all be coming together at the right time for them. After a North Central Conference meet that saw Jon Jones breakout into the low 18s, showing he could be the Robin to Isaiah Strong’s Batman, the Bearcats look to be major contenders come Saturday. After Strong and Jones there is some major experience on this Muncie Central team. A.J. Martinez, Dylan Bradford, and Robert Thomma all bring veteran experience to this big meet. Don’t be surprised to see the Bearcats right near the front, if not in THE Front of this race.
CONTENDERS:
Delta Eagles: The script of a season that seemed to have been ravaged by injuries to many of their top runners could be completely flipped with a Sectional title for the Eagles. And make no mistake, they have the weapons to do it. With more depth than possibly any team in the field and health returning to a few key runners, could be just the recipe for a huge surprise Delta win at their home course on Saturday. Even though Lucas Fox does not look to be healthy enough to return, teammates Cody Bivens, Clay Batio, Sam Campbell, Jaren Haggard, and Clay Bragg have all broke 19 minutes and some point this season and look to secure the Eagles a Regional advancing spot if not more.
Cowan Blackhawks: The strong front-running of Ezra Daniel Wright looks to give Cowan a fighter’s chance at advancing to the Regional round of the tournament on Saturday. They may not have enough behind Wright to win the Sectional, but Nathaniel Kirby, Perrin Belcher, and Logan Walker could get them ahead of one team ranked above them on paper and extend their team’s season.
Wapahani Raiders: The Wapahani Raiders are on a roll, they seem to be getting stronger as the last few weeks of the season, which has included a New Haven Invite Division A title and a Mid-Eastern Conference title. This team is rolling right now. Their strength is undoubtably their tight 1-4 pack of Brandon Ellis, Andrew Shrock, Griffen Miller, and Colton Boggs along with a consistent 5th man, usually Joey Dickinson, that always seems to be under 19 minutes. The lack of a dominant #1 runner may hurt them in the later rounds of the tournament, but in this Sectional does not seem to cost them much in terms of placement. The emergence of Brandon Ellis in the last couple weeks could actually give them that true #1 before its all said and done. Even though this is one of the closest Sectional team races in years, In both Athletic.net and Milesplit IN simulated meets, as well as the ECI coach's poll, Wapahani seems to be the team to beat this Saturday at the Muncie Sportsplex.
Yorktown Tigers: The Tigers have had a lot of success this entire season against Sectional competition. But, lately they have not looked as dominant. They will still likely have the #1 overall finisher in Matthew Mitsch as well as another low stick provided by Luke Harber. But, after that the Tigers 3 and 4 runners have been inconsistent as of late. Ryan Bade and Gannon Crosser both have shown the ability to run in the low 18s, but both had season best times that came in August. If those 2 runners can have a great showing on Saturday, combined with a true #5 that has emerged in Sam Brumley, the Tigers could easily be the team hoisting the Delta Sectional trophy for the 2nd year in a row.
Monroe Central Golden Bears: The last 2 weeks have made it clear that the Golden Bears from Monroe Central intend to throw their hat in the ring for a Delta Sectional Championship as well. With strong pack running, similar to Wapahani, that has reached new heights with the return of Carter Miller the Golden Bears can compete with any team in the field on Saturday. Along with Miller, teammates Caden Shumaker, Tucker Burris, Caden Landis, Chris Nunez, and Kyler Shumaker are all battling for scoring positions on this highly competitive Monroe Central squad. If all of them run like they have been in the last 2 weeks, they have the fire power to secure their first Sectional title in school history.
Muncie Central Bearcats: This squad has had a roller coaster season, but it may all be coming together at the right time for them. After a North Central Conference meet that saw Jon Jones breakout into the low 18s, showing he could be the Robin to Isaiah Strong’s Batman, the Bearcats look to be major contenders come Saturday. After Strong and Jones there is some major experience on this Muncie Central team. A.J. Martinez, Dylan Bradford, and Robert Thomma all bring veteran experience to this big meet. Don’t be surprised to see the Bearcats right near the front, if not in THE Front of this race.
CONTENDERS:
Delta Eagles: The script of a season that seemed to have been ravaged by injuries to many of their top runners could be completely flipped with a Sectional title for the Eagles. And make no mistake, they have the weapons to do it. With more depth than possibly any team in the field and health returning to a few key runners, could be just the recipe for a huge surprise Delta win at their home course on Saturday. Even though Lucas Fox does not look to be healthy enough to return, teammates Cody Bivens, Clay Batio, Sam Campbell, Jaren Haggard, and Clay Bragg have all broke 19 minutes and some point this season and look to secure the Eagles a Regional advancing spot if not more.
Cowan Blackhawks: The strong front-running of Ezra Daniel Wright looks to give Cowan a fighter’s chance at advancing to the Regional round of the tournament on Saturday. They may not have enough behind Wright to win the Sectional, but Nathaniel Kirby, Perrin Belcher, and Logan Walker could get them ahead of one team ranked above them on paper and extend their team’s season.
GIRLS: What to watch for at this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet in the Girl's Race
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Yorktown Tigers: The Yorktown Girls have been steady all year long at the top of the ECI Team standing. They have had tremendously consistent seasons from all of their top runners. Amberleigh Sorensen and Elizabeth Reece have been the veteran heartbeat of this team. They have always provided the front runners that any Sectional title contender needs. But, other top ECI teams have strong front runners as well, maybe just as strong if not more-so than the Tigers. But, the Lady Tigers 3-7 runners have been the difference. Sara Barnhizer, Natalie Moulton, Ali Smith, Grace Huisman, Maddy Stagge, and Rachael Stagge have battled together all year to provide the depth that has kept this team on top most of the season. They go into Saturday as the team with the targets on their backs.
Delta Eagles: The Delta girls have championship pedigree, winning the Delta Sectional over the Tigers just a year ago. And there is no doubt they have the team to make it a back-to-back on Saturday. MaKayla Robles and Ashleigh Brelage, along with Freshman Shannyn Cox have provided the Eagles with a top 3 that may be the best in ECI. The key point for the Eagles on Saturday will be the back of their top 5. Can Camryn Eldridge, Olivia Bohanon, and Haley Honey break up Yorktown’s pack of 5-7? That will be the question that may determine the Delta Sectional title on the Girl’s side.
CONTENDERS:
Jay County Patriots: The Patriots have broken out in the 2019 season. Led by freshman Lydia Keihn and the been-there-done-that savviness of Sophia Fugiett, The Patriots will undoubtably make some noise in the final team standings. Raven Weaver and Lindy Wood will also be able to mix it up with the 3rd and 4th runners of any ECI team (as you can see already the 3-5 runners are going to have a lot to say in who wins this Girl’s Delta Sectional) If Jay County has a #5 runner breakout on Saturday they might just send upset shockwaves through the entire field.
Muncie Central Bearcats: The Bearcats have had a resurgent season on the Girl’s side this year. Led by Paris Turner and Jenna O’Donohue, the Bearcats have a Wapahani Invite championship to their name and look to be a likely candidate to advance to a team Regional birth on Saturday at the Muncie Sportsplex. With Turner, O’Donohue, Delaney Strange, Maya Coggenshall, and Sayla McIntosh ALL running PRs last weekend at the NCC meet this team is peaking at EXACTLY the right time.
Cowan Blackhawks: Speaking of resurgent seasons…The Cowan Blackhawks are in the middle of a historically successful Girl’s season! They just claimed their first Mid-Eastern Conference title in a decade and have tons of momentum going into this weekend. Lauren Smith, McKenna Minton, and Brynn Wright have all had outstanding individual seasons, but they have also led a pair of talented seniors, Alexis Quirk and Reanne Brinker to great seasons as well. This group should add to their accomplishments with a Regional birth on Saturday.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Yorktown Tigers: The Yorktown Girls have been steady all year long at the top of the ECI Team standing. They have had tremendously consistent seasons from all of their top runners. Amberleigh Sorensen and Elizabeth Reece have been the veteran heartbeat of this team. They have always provided the front runners that any Sectional title contender needs. But, other top ECI teams have strong front runners as well, maybe just as strong if not more-so than the Tigers. But, the Lady Tigers 3-7 runners have been the difference. Sara Barnhizer, Natalie Moulton, Ali Smith, Grace Huisman, Maddy Stagge, and Rachael Stagge have battled together all year to provide the depth that has kept this team on top most of the season. They go into Saturday as the team with the targets on their backs.
Delta Eagles: The Delta girls have championship pedigree, winning the Delta Sectional over the Tigers just a year ago. And there is no doubt they have the team to make it a back-to-back on Saturday. MaKayla Robles and Ashleigh Brelage, along with Freshman Shannyn Cox have provided the Eagles with a top 3 that may be the best in ECI. The key point for the Eagles on Saturday will be the back of their top 5. Can Camryn Eldridge, Olivia Bohanon, and Haley Honey break up Yorktown’s pack of 5-7? That will be the question that may determine the Delta Sectional title on the Girl’s side.
CONTENDERS:
Jay County Patriots: The Patriots have broken out in the 2019 season. Led by freshman Lydia Keihn and the been-there-done-that savviness of Sophia Fugiett, The Patriots will undoubtably make some noise in the final team standings. Raven Weaver and Lindy Wood will also be able to mix it up with the 3rd and 4th runners of any ECI team (as you can see already the 3-5 runners are going to have a lot to say in who wins this Girl’s Delta Sectional) If Jay County has a #5 runner breakout on Saturday they might just send upset shockwaves through the entire field.
Muncie Central Bearcats: The Bearcats have had a resurgent season on the Girl’s side this year. Led by Paris Turner and Jenna O’Donohue, the Bearcats have a Wapahani Invite championship to their name and look to be a likely candidate to advance to a team Regional birth on Saturday at the Muncie Sportsplex. With Turner, O’Donohue, Delaney Strange, Maya Coggenshall, and Sayla McIntosh ALL running PRs last weekend at the NCC meet this team is peaking at EXACTLY the right time.
Cowan Blackhawks: Speaking of resurgent seasons…The Cowan Blackhawks are in the middle of a historically successful Girl’s season! They just claimed their first Mid-Eastern Conference title in a decade and have tons of momentum going into this weekend. Lauren Smith, McKenna Minton, and Brynn Wright have all had outstanding individual seasons, but they have also led a pair of talented seniors, Alexis Quirk and Reanne Brinker to great seasons as well. This group should add to their accomplishments with a Regional birth on Saturday.
DELTA SECTIONAL PREVIEW 2018:
Boys: ECI teams looking towards this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Muncie Central Bearcats: The Bearcats look to be the favorites heading into Saturday's Delta Sectional. The defending Sectional champs are firing on all cylinders late in the season, which is very similar to a year ago when they ran away with the title behind their strong depth. The depth seems to be the difference maker this year as well. The Bearcats have been led by Isaiah Bennett this year, and he looks to provide them with a low stick on Saturday. But, not far behind are a slew of teammates running some of their best performances of the year in recent weeks. Kavan Byrd, Robert Thomma, A.J. Martinez, and Dylan Bradford make up the rest of the Bearcats top 5, and they look motivated to make it 2 in a row for Muncie Central Saturday at the SportsPlex
Monroe Central Golden Bears: The Golden Bears from Monroe Central could easily be one of the teams that challenge Muncie Central on Saturday. The Golden Bears are another team that seems to be putting it together at the right time. Monroe Central has won the Randolph County Meet and the MEC meet leading into this Saturday and seem to have regained a little bit of the swagger that seemed absent in the early part of the year. Plus, remember, coming into the season Monroe Central may have been the pick to win the Delta Sectional with all of their seniors getting so close in recent years, it seemed like they were ready to break the door down in 2018. But, with the season-long loss of Conner Miller things changed a bit. Carter Miller has filled in nicely and had a tremendous Freshman campaign, the question is...can this group of seniors (Winans, Kear, Moulton & Co.) will their team to the top of the standings on Saturday?
Yorktown Tigers: Yorktown has been near the top of the ECIRunner Top 5 teams poll all year long. With a Delaware County Championship this season, they have definitely look to be able to spar with the top teams at this meet, and possibly even come out victorious. But, the Tigers have not been running at the level of Muncie Central late this season, and they look very evenly matched with Monroe Central and Delta heading into Saturday. To win they will need great performances from their top 3: Matt Mitsch, Caleb Bonsack, and Sean Weiss, who have all had great seasons this year. But, Most importantly will need runners to step up and fill the gap after those top 3. That seems to be the area that will be the difference for the Tigers on Saturday
Delta Eagles: The Eagles are yet another ECI team that is running its best late in the season. The Eagles had been running so poorly earlier in the season that they completely dropped out of the ECIRunner Top-5 teams poll at a couple points. But, after a very strong HHC meet, in which several Eagles ran their best times of the season, they seem as ready as any team for Saturday's showdown. This looks to be a very fun year for the Delta Sectional on the Boys side, where Muncie Central, Monroe Central, Yorktown, and Delta all have a very good shot to take home the hardware. It should be fun!
CONTENDERS:
Wapahani Raiders: The Raiders look to be barely on the outside looking in on the team championship race, but are definitely a contender to finish in the Top 5 and advance on to the Delta Regional as a team. Blake Ellis, who is running well and having a breakout season looks to be eyeing a top 5 individual finish to lead the Raiders to a team advancing spot.
Winchester Falcons: The Falcons of Winchester could definitely grab a top-5 team spot with a good run on Saturday. Camden Abernathy will look to be at the front of the individual race pack and start the Falcons out right, but will they have enough behind him to punch a ticket to Regional as a team?
Cowan Backhawks: A greatly improved Cowan squad is knocking on the door of something it has not done in years, which is make to the Regional as a team. The Blackhawks will be led by Daniel Wright, and Wright has raced very well in important races this year.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Muncie Central Bearcats: The Bearcats look to be the favorites heading into Saturday's Delta Sectional. The defending Sectional champs are firing on all cylinders late in the season, which is very similar to a year ago when they ran away with the title behind their strong depth. The depth seems to be the difference maker this year as well. The Bearcats have been led by Isaiah Bennett this year, and he looks to provide them with a low stick on Saturday. But, not far behind are a slew of teammates running some of their best performances of the year in recent weeks. Kavan Byrd, Robert Thomma, A.J. Martinez, and Dylan Bradford make up the rest of the Bearcats top 5, and they look motivated to make it 2 in a row for Muncie Central Saturday at the SportsPlex
Monroe Central Golden Bears: The Golden Bears from Monroe Central could easily be one of the teams that challenge Muncie Central on Saturday. The Golden Bears are another team that seems to be putting it together at the right time. Monroe Central has won the Randolph County Meet and the MEC meet leading into this Saturday and seem to have regained a little bit of the swagger that seemed absent in the early part of the year. Plus, remember, coming into the season Monroe Central may have been the pick to win the Delta Sectional with all of their seniors getting so close in recent years, it seemed like they were ready to break the door down in 2018. But, with the season-long loss of Conner Miller things changed a bit. Carter Miller has filled in nicely and had a tremendous Freshman campaign, the question is...can this group of seniors (Winans, Kear, Moulton & Co.) will their team to the top of the standings on Saturday?
Yorktown Tigers: Yorktown has been near the top of the ECIRunner Top 5 teams poll all year long. With a Delaware County Championship this season, they have definitely look to be able to spar with the top teams at this meet, and possibly even come out victorious. But, the Tigers have not been running at the level of Muncie Central late this season, and they look very evenly matched with Monroe Central and Delta heading into Saturday. To win they will need great performances from their top 3: Matt Mitsch, Caleb Bonsack, and Sean Weiss, who have all had great seasons this year. But, Most importantly will need runners to step up and fill the gap after those top 3. That seems to be the area that will be the difference for the Tigers on Saturday
Delta Eagles: The Eagles are yet another ECI team that is running its best late in the season. The Eagles had been running so poorly earlier in the season that they completely dropped out of the ECIRunner Top-5 teams poll at a couple points. But, after a very strong HHC meet, in which several Eagles ran their best times of the season, they seem as ready as any team for Saturday's showdown. This looks to be a very fun year for the Delta Sectional on the Boys side, where Muncie Central, Monroe Central, Yorktown, and Delta all have a very good shot to take home the hardware. It should be fun!
CONTENDERS:
Wapahani Raiders: The Raiders look to be barely on the outside looking in on the team championship race, but are definitely a contender to finish in the Top 5 and advance on to the Delta Regional as a team. Blake Ellis, who is running well and having a breakout season looks to be eyeing a top 5 individual finish to lead the Raiders to a team advancing spot.
Winchester Falcons: The Falcons of Winchester could definitely grab a top-5 team spot with a good run on Saturday. Camden Abernathy will look to be at the front of the individual race pack and start the Falcons out right, but will they have enough behind him to punch a ticket to Regional as a team?
Cowan Backhawks: A greatly improved Cowan squad is knocking on the door of something it has not done in years, which is make to the Regional as a team. The Blackhawks will be led by Daniel Wright, and Wright has raced very well in important races this year.
Girls: ECI teams looking towards this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Delta Eagles: The Delta Eagle girls team, much like the Muncie Central Boys, look to be the favorite to repeat as Delta Sectional Champions on Saturday. They looked more than impressive at this past Saturday's HHC meet, beating Yorktown by a commanding 26 points. The Eagles are led by 2 strong underclassmen, Ashleigh Brelage and Makayla Robles. But the real strength of Delta has revealed itself over the past few weeks and that is the emergence of freshman Camryn Eldridge, to go along with Sarah Whitesel and Miranda Hart....which really solidifies Delta's top 5 to the point that any other team will have a hard time matching it. The Delta Eagles look strong, and will be on their home course to try and gain some IHSAA hardware for the 2nd year in a row.
Yorktown Tigers: The Tigers are new to the Delta Sectional, they have spent the last several years at the Pendleton Heights Sectional. But, due to realignment, they will make their first appearance in the Delta Sectional this year. The Tigers are actually the reigning Pendleton Heights Sectional and Delta Regional champs, but this is a new-look Tiger team this year. They are led by Amberleigh Sorensen and Elizabeth Reece which are both looking to be in the top 10 individuals, possibly even top 5. And Sophomore Sara Barnhizer has come along very nicely as their #3 runner. But, as stated above, the Delta Eagles looked very strong a week ago and outdistanced them easily. Will the Tigers bounce back and run like the team that took down the Eagles at the Delaware County meet? We will see on Saturday!
Wapahani Raiders: The Wapahani Raiders are riding a real wave of momentum into Saturday's Delta Sectional. The Raiders have had a real taste of team success this year, and may be the most improved Girls squad in East-Central Indiana this season. But, they have not been able to quite reach the Tigers and Eagles this year. But, this Saturday could definitely be the time they turn that narrative completely around. The front duo of Lexi Wulff and Olivia Neal will lead the charge to try and pull of the team upset and snatch the Sectional trophy out of the Eagles or Tigers hands.
CONTENDERS:
Jay County Patriots: The Lady Patriots from Jay County have been a fixture in the ECIRunner Top 5 team poll all year long. While they lack the fire power to contend for a team title, they definitely look to be in the driver's seat for a top-5 position at the Delta Sectional as a team. And it definitely helps to be led by a great individual like Sophia Fugiett, who was a Semi-State qualifier as an individual a year ago.
Muncie Central Bearcats: The Beatcats are projected in that last team-advancing spot on Saturday. They have a top-ten potential individual in Janelle Woods-Barnes and have also been a constant figure in the ECIRunner Top-5 team poll. Can the Bearcats advance on to Regionals as a team on the Girls side to compliment the Boys side, which will advance as well? we will find out on Saturday!
Daleville Broncos: The Daleville Broncos might just have the weapons to spoil somebody's day at the Delta Sectional. They are on the outside loooking in at the top 5 teams....but just BARELY! Audrey Shepler and Brooke Pritchett will lead the Broncos with probably top-20 finishes as individuals. It is all about how many spots they can gain on whether those two advance as individuals or the Broncos will run another week as a team.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Delta Eagles: The Delta Eagle girls team, much like the Muncie Central Boys, look to be the favorite to repeat as Delta Sectional Champions on Saturday. They looked more than impressive at this past Saturday's HHC meet, beating Yorktown by a commanding 26 points. The Eagles are led by 2 strong underclassmen, Ashleigh Brelage and Makayla Robles. But the real strength of Delta has revealed itself over the past few weeks and that is the emergence of freshman Camryn Eldridge, to go along with Sarah Whitesel and Miranda Hart....which really solidifies Delta's top 5 to the point that any other team will have a hard time matching it. The Delta Eagles look strong, and will be on their home course to try and gain some IHSAA hardware for the 2nd year in a row.
Yorktown Tigers: The Tigers are new to the Delta Sectional, they have spent the last several years at the Pendleton Heights Sectional. But, due to realignment, they will make their first appearance in the Delta Sectional this year. The Tigers are actually the reigning Pendleton Heights Sectional and Delta Regional champs, but this is a new-look Tiger team this year. They are led by Amberleigh Sorensen and Elizabeth Reece which are both looking to be in the top 10 individuals, possibly even top 5. And Sophomore Sara Barnhizer has come along very nicely as their #3 runner. But, as stated above, the Delta Eagles looked very strong a week ago and outdistanced them easily. Will the Tigers bounce back and run like the team that took down the Eagles at the Delaware County meet? We will see on Saturday!
Wapahani Raiders: The Wapahani Raiders are riding a real wave of momentum into Saturday's Delta Sectional. The Raiders have had a real taste of team success this year, and may be the most improved Girls squad in East-Central Indiana this season. But, they have not been able to quite reach the Tigers and Eagles this year. But, this Saturday could definitely be the time they turn that narrative completely around. The front duo of Lexi Wulff and Olivia Neal will lead the charge to try and pull of the team upset and snatch the Sectional trophy out of the Eagles or Tigers hands.
CONTENDERS:
Jay County Patriots: The Lady Patriots from Jay County have been a fixture in the ECIRunner Top 5 team poll all year long. While they lack the fire power to contend for a team title, they definitely look to be in the driver's seat for a top-5 position at the Delta Sectional as a team. And it definitely helps to be led by a great individual like Sophia Fugiett, who was a Semi-State qualifier as an individual a year ago.
Muncie Central Bearcats: The Beatcats are projected in that last team-advancing spot on Saturday. They have a top-ten potential individual in Janelle Woods-Barnes and have also been a constant figure in the ECIRunner Top-5 team poll. Can the Bearcats advance on to Regionals as a team on the Girls side to compliment the Boys side, which will advance as well? we will find out on Saturday!
Daleville Broncos: The Daleville Broncos might just have the weapons to spoil somebody's day at the Delta Sectional. They are on the outside loooking in at the top 5 teams....but just BARELY! Audrey Shepler and Brooke Pritchett will lead the Broncos with probably top-20 finishes as individuals. It is all about how many spots they can gain on whether those two advance as individuals or the Broncos will run another week as a team.
DELTA SECTIONAL PREVIEW 2017:
ECIRunner takes a look at the upcoming Delta Sectional meet and the teams and individuals to keep track of on Saturday.
Boys: ECI teams looking towards this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Wapahani Radiers: The Raiders have been riding a huge wave of momentum throughout this season. They are the clear favorite coming into this weekend to win their 2nd consecutive Delta Sectional Title. They have relied on the front running of Nathan and Alex Herbst all year, and will definitely need solid races from those two again this Saturday. But, the real surprise is how well their supporting cast has stepped up throughout this season, specifically junior Evan Galbraith. The Raiders no doubt have eyes set on a deep tournament run, but it all starts Saturday at the Muncie Sportsplex
Muncie Central Bearcats: The Bearcats may be the best story we have in ECI this year. A year ago they barely advanced to Regional as a team by finishing 5th as a team, and this year they look to challenge for the top spot. The Bearcats depth has been their main strength all season. With several runners who have shown they can break out a stellar race at any given moment, the challenge for them will be to have their entire team d it on the same day. If that happens....watch out! the Bearcats could challenge the Raiders hopes of back-to-back championships
Delta Eagles: The Eagles are only 2 years removed from sweeping the Delta Sectional titles on both the girls and boys side. But, last year they were denied the Boy's Championship by a shocking team performance by the Wapahani Raiders. The Delta Eagles undoubtedly will have revenge on their minds this Saturday on their Home course. Cade Orchard showed this past Saturday at the HHC meet that he is ready for the post season. He ran a fantastic 16:24 on the fast Shelbyville course and showed the in-race moxy that took him to the State meet 2 years ago. Will the Eagles supporting cast be up to the task of competing with the Raiders and Bearcats depth? We will see!
CONTENDERS:
Monroe Central Golden Bears: The Golden Bears from Monroe Central could easily be in the championship conversation as well, but will need to rebound from a tough outing at Saturday's MEC meet in which they took a backseat to Wapahani and Blue River Valley. Monroe Central definitely has the horses to do it. Conner Miller, Dalton Winans, and Zane Kear are a top trio that can run with any teams top 3 in this meet. But, the Bears will have to show the consistency and depth of a championship team if they hope to mix it up with the rest of the very densely packed Sectional competition.
Muncie Burris Owls: Muncie Burris looks to be a team clearly fighting for a top 5, Regional qualifying spot. The Owl's Elliot Whiteside has been burning up courses lately in the ECI area and seems to be ready for a top 10, if not top 5 individual finish.
Top Individuals from ECI heading into Saturday
Boys: ECI teams looking towards this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Wapahani Radiers: The Raiders have been riding a huge wave of momentum throughout this season. They are the clear favorite coming into this weekend to win their 2nd consecutive Delta Sectional Title. They have relied on the front running of Nathan and Alex Herbst all year, and will definitely need solid races from those two again this Saturday. But, the real surprise is how well their supporting cast has stepped up throughout this season, specifically junior Evan Galbraith. The Raiders no doubt have eyes set on a deep tournament run, but it all starts Saturday at the Muncie Sportsplex
Muncie Central Bearcats: The Bearcats may be the best story we have in ECI this year. A year ago they barely advanced to Regional as a team by finishing 5th as a team, and this year they look to challenge for the top spot. The Bearcats depth has been their main strength all season. With several runners who have shown they can break out a stellar race at any given moment, the challenge for them will be to have their entire team d it on the same day. If that happens....watch out! the Bearcats could challenge the Raiders hopes of back-to-back championships
Delta Eagles: The Eagles are only 2 years removed from sweeping the Delta Sectional titles on both the girls and boys side. But, last year they were denied the Boy's Championship by a shocking team performance by the Wapahani Raiders. The Delta Eagles undoubtedly will have revenge on their minds this Saturday on their Home course. Cade Orchard showed this past Saturday at the HHC meet that he is ready for the post season. He ran a fantastic 16:24 on the fast Shelbyville course and showed the in-race moxy that took him to the State meet 2 years ago. Will the Eagles supporting cast be up to the task of competing with the Raiders and Bearcats depth? We will see!
CONTENDERS:
Monroe Central Golden Bears: The Golden Bears from Monroe Central could easily be in the championship conversation as well, but will need to rebound from a tough outing at Saturday's MEC meet in which they took a backseat to Wapahani and Blue River Valley. Monroe Central definitely has the horses to do it. Conner Miller, Dalton Winans, and Zane Kear are a top trio that can run with any teams top 3 in this meet. But, the Bears will have to show the consistency and depth of a championship team if they hope to mix it up with the rest of the very densely packed Sectional competition.
Muncie Burris Owls: Muncie Burris looks to be a team clearly fighting for a top 5, Regional qualifying spot. The Owl's Elliot Whiteside has been burning up courses lately in the ECI area and seems to be ready for a top 10, if not top 5 individual finish.
Top Individuals from ECI heading into Saturday
- Nathan Herbst (WAP)
- Alex Herbst (WAP)
- Cade Orchard (DELT)
- Camden Abernathy (WIN)
- Kavan Byrd (MUCE)
- Elliot Whiteside (MUBU)
- Conner Miller (MOCE)
- Braedyn Stovall (MUCE)
- Ryan Fox (DELT)
- Zane Kear (MOCE)
- Dalton Winans (MOCE)
- Evan Galbraith (WAP)
Girls: ECI teams looking towards this Saturday's Delta Sectional Meet.
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Delta Eagles: Over the last several weeks the Delta Eagles have sent a clear message that they are the team to beat this year in the Delta Sectional. They have had some youth step up in a major way to fill out a roster that also includes some tested veterans. Brandy Tuttle will lead the Eagles and the talented freshmen duo of Ashleigh Brelage and Sara Whitesel are not far behind. pair that with the fact that Brittany Tuttle has ran the last couple races for the Eagles after missing most of the season, and its a perfect recipe for reclaiming the Delta Sectional Championship that was taken from them a year ago by the Randolph Southern Rebels.
Randolph Southern Rebels: The reigning Delta Sectional champions are also a favorite to challenge for the title on Saturday. The Rebels will almost assuredly score the minimum through 2 runner, as Leah Keesling and sister Emma Keesling will very likely go 1-2. The big question will be: can the Lady Rebels supporting cast stay close enough to challenge the Lady Eagles depth. One very good sign is that Makenzie Phenis ran a very nice race at the MEC this past Saturday and looks ready to do her part.
CONTENDERS:
Monroe Central Golden Bears: Teammates Aubrey Norris and Gabby Beckham always seem to run their best as the postseason begins. Also, the Golden Bears got Hannah Bolton back in the mix at last week's MEC meet. That definitely has chances looking good that the Golden bears secure a top 5 finish to advance to the Delta Regional.
Union City: The Lady Indians are another team that always seems to run their best during the tournament. Reagan Hoggatt, Chloe Wyatt, and Sophia Spence are also 3 Lady Indians who have spent a lot of time on the ECI Top-25 lists this season. Look for them to extend their season another week as well.
Muncie Burris Owls: The Owls have occupied the 5th spot in the ECI Top 5 teams almost all season due to their strong and consistent pack-running mentality. They will be looking to key off frontrunner Kelci Wood to grab an advancing spot to next week's Regional meet
Wapahani Raiders: The Raiders are in contention for a Top-5 advancing spot as well, but some late-season uncertainty has the Lady Raiders possibly on the outside looking in. Lexi Wulff, who had an absolute breakout season this year has not raced the past few races. If she is able to return next to teammates Olivia Neal and Sydney Cook the Raiders might have a shot of advancing as a team.
Top Individuals from ECI heading into Saturday
SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPEFULS:
Delta Eagles: Over the last several weeks the Delta Eagles have sent a clear message that they are the team to beat this year in the Delta Sectional. They have had some youth step up in a major way to fill out a roster that also includes some tested veterans. Brandy Tuttle will lead the Eagles and the talented freshmen duo of Ashleigh Brelage and Sara Whitesel are not far behind. pair that with the fact that Brittany Tuttle has ran the last couple races for the Eagles after missing most of the season, and its a perfect recipe for reclaiming the Delta Sectional Championship that was taken from them a year ago by the Randolph Southern Rebels.
Randolph Southern Rebels: The reigning Delta Sectional champions are also a favorite to challenge for the title on Saturday. The Rebels will almost assuredly score the minimum through 2 runner, as Leah Keesling and sister Emma Keesling will very likely go 1-2. The big question will be: can the Lady Rebels supporting cast stay close enough to challenge the Lady Eagles depth. One very good sign is that Makenzie Phenis ran a very nice race at the MEC this past Saturday and looks ready to do her part.
CONTENDERS:
Monroe Central Golden Bears: Teammates Aubrey Norris and Gabby Beckham always seem to run their best as the postseason begins. Also, the Golden Bears got Hannah Bolton back in the mix at last week's MEC meet. That definitely has chances looking good that the Golden bears secure a top 5 finish to advance to the Delta Regional.
Union City: The Lady Indians are another team that always seems to run their best during the tournament. Reagan Hoggatt, Chloe Wyatt, and Sophia Spence are also 3 Lady Indians who have spent a lot of time on the ECI Top-25 lists this season. Look for them to extend their season another week as well.
Muncie Burris Owls: The Owls have occupied the 5th spot in the ECI Top 5 teams almost all season due to their strong and consistent pack-running mentality. They will be looking to key off frontrunner Kelci Wood to grab an advancing spot to next week's Regional meet
Wapahani Raiders: The Raiders are in contention for a Top-5 advancing spot as well, but some late-season uncertainty has the Lady Raiders possibly on the outside looking in. Lexi Wulff, who had an absolute breakout season this year has not raced the past few races. If she is able to return next to teammates Olivia Neal and Sydney Cook the Raiders might have a shot of advancing as a team.
Top Individuals from ECI heading into Saturday
- Leah Keesling (RAND)
- Emma Keesling (RAND)
- Aubrey Norris (MOCE)
- Brandy Tuttle (DELT)
- Ashleigh Brelage (DELT)
- Sophia Fugiett (JAY)
- Reagan Hoggatt (UNCI)
- Sarah Whitesel (DELT)
- Ella Baldwin (WIN)
- Lexi Wulff (WAP)
- Chloe Wyatt (UNCI)
- Autumn Rice (UNIO)
