Rising Stars: Top Five Girls to Watch in 2025 Cross Country

Another athlete to keep an eye on is Emma James, a junior from Genoa-Kingston. Last fall, she placed 25th during sectionals with a time of 20:05.1. In the spring, she set a new indoor 3200 run school record, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the sport.

From Sycamore, Layla Janisch is another top contender. As a senior, Janisch ran a personal best of 18:34.91 at the Class 2A state finals last year, finishing in 61st place. She is set to be the Spartans’ leading runner once again this season, bringing experience and determination.

The Kaneland team will also feature promising newcomer Macey Jug, a freshman who has already made her mark in middle school competitions. Jug finished 11th and 12th in the Illinois Elementary School Association Class 4A state finals two-mile race, with times of 12:18.8 and 12:08.14 respectively, demonstrating her potential for high school competition.

Lastly, Alex Schwantes, a junior from DeKalb, is another athlete to watch. Schwantes achieved a personal record of 18:18 during the Class 3A Lake Park sectional, which was crucial in securing her spot at the state competition last fall. Her consistent performance could position her as a key player in this year’s events.

As the season unfolds, these runners will not only strive for personal bests but also aim to contribute to their teams’ successes. The excitement surrounding the 2025 cross country season is palpable, with these athletes leading the charge for their respective schools. Fans and coaches alike will be watching closely as they compete for top honors in upcoming meets.