The wait is finally over. Today, we kick off the COROS MileSplit50 Preseason Boys Cross Country National Rankings countdown, one of the most anticipated projects of the cross-country season.
Each year, the MileSplit team dives deep into returning talent, championship experience, depth charts and rising stars to evaluate the very best high school programs across the nation. After weeks of research and discussion, we've compiled our list of the Top 25 boys squads heading into the 2026 cross country season.
Over the next several days, we'll reveal the rankings one step at a time, counting down from No. 25 all the way to the No. 1 team in the country.
| Rank | Team (Location) |
|---|---|
| 25 | Bentonville (AR) |
| 24 | Mead (WA) |
| 23 | Carrollton (GA) |
| 22 | St. Louis University High (MO) |
| 21 | Mountain Vista (CO) |
| 20 | William S. Hart (CA) |
| 19 | Riverton (UT) |
| 18 | Christian Brothers Academy (NJ) |
| 17 | Columbus North (IN) |
| 16 | Summit (CO) |
| 15 | Austin Vandegrift (TX) |
| 14 | State College (PA) |
| 13 | Jesuit (CA) |
| 12 | La Salle College HS (PA) |
| 11 | Broughton (NC) |
| 10 | Crater (OR) |
| 9 | Summit (OR) |
| 8 | Coeur d'Alene (ID) |
| 7 | Southlake Carroll (TX) |
| 6 | Campolindo (CA) |
| 5 | American Fork (UT) |
| 4 | Niwot (CO) |
| 3 | San Clemente (CA) |
| 2 | Belen Jesuit (FL) |
| 1 | Christ School (NC) |
No. 25 Bentonville (Bentonville, AR)
Analysis: No Brian Burns? No problem. Even in the first year without their superstar, the Tigers are far and away the team to beat in Arkansas. As they chase their sixth consecutive title, the next Burns brother, Sean, is set to lead the charge in 2026. Burns, Alex Wagner, Vini Pimentel, Remington Morland, and Camden McClellan enter the year with sub-16 PBs of 15:22, 15:38, 15:44, 15:45, and 15:47, adding up to just a 25-second split. Bentonville is also in a prime position in case someone somehow challenges them, with both Daniel Furlano and Dean Pickett running 15:59 if they need a tiebreaker.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sean Burns (JR) | 15:22 | 4:09.57 | 9:08.22 |
| Alex Wagner (SR) | 15:38 | 4:23.85 (Mile) | 9:29.00 |
| Vini Pimentel (SR) | 15:44 | 4:31.25 | 9:44.77 |
| Remington Morland (SO) | 15:45 | 4:26.38 | 9:31.99 |
| Camden McClellan (JR) | 15:47 | 4:18.25 | 9:16.28 |
| Daniel Furlano (SR) | 15:59 | 4:26.74 | 9:33.16 |
| Dean Pickett (SR) | 15:59 | 4:19.86 | 9:31.47 |
No. 24 Mead Senior (Spokane, WA)
Analysis: Mead enters the season with a balanced attack, with Stejer Franklin and Aaron Pooler leading the way at 15:16.70 and 15:29.30, respectively. Brendan Smart, Drew Dinges, and Andersen Williams round out a scoring five that averages 15:58.58 with a projected 1:18.90 1-5 split. Oliver Holden and Carter Edwards add depth behind the pack that could tighten that spread even further.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stejer Franklin (JR) | 15:16 | 4:12.58 | 8:57.80 |
| Aaron Pooler (SR) | 15:29 | 4:25.85 | 1:53.35 (800m) |
| Brendan Smart (JR) | 16:12 | 4:48.02 | 10:10.10 |
| Drew Dinges (JR) | 16:19 | 4:33.65 | 9:50.03 |
| Andersen Williams (SR) | 16:35 | 4:31.27 | 9:48.43 |
| Oliver Holden (SO) | 16:42 | 4:42.42 | 10:05.76 |
| Carter Edwards (SR) | 16:47 | 4:35.53 | 10:11.37 |
No. 23 Carrollton (Carrolton, GA)
Analysis:
Carrollton has the makings of a dangerous front three, with Dash Brackin (15:13.04), Drew Woznicki (15:20.61), and Camp Jennings (15:32.20) capable of controlling a race from the gun. Stephen Woznicki (15:50.16) keeps the pack tight through four, and Will Rogers (16:50.51) rounds out a scoring five that averages 15:45.30. If the Trojans can bring that 1:37.47 1-5 split down, they become a much more difficult team to beat. Carson Haley and Jet Richardson provide the depth backing that up.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dash Brackin (JR) | 15:13 | 4:19.04 | 9:15.37 |
| Drew Woznicki (JR) | 15:20 | 4:16.81 | 9:13.97 |
| Camp Jennings (JR) | 15:32 | 4:19.21 | 1:57.81 (800m) |
| Stephen Woznicki (JR) | 15:50 | 4:31.55 | 9:45.10 |
| Will Rogers (SR) | 16:50 | 4:44.48 | 10:18.49 |
| Carson Haley (SR) | 16:54 | 4:39.53 (Mile) | 10:31.78 |
| Jet Richardson (JR) | 17:17 | 4:58.60 | 19 |
No. 22 St. Louis University High (St. Louis, MO)
Analysis:
SLUH's calling card is pack running, and the numbers back it up. Jackson Miller leads the way at 15:07.00, and the rest of the scoring five follows within 58 seconds, with Warnicke Beatty (15:50.26), Michael Luna (15:55.30), Benjamin Yoffie (15:57.66), and Nathan Khouri (16:05.20) bunched tight behind him. That 58.20 1-5 split is the kind of compression that wins championships, and John Paul Wildermuth (16:09.74) and Joe Talleur (16:36.28) add meaningful depth to an already well-constructed roster.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson Miller (SR) | 15:07 | 4:04.56 | 8:53.49 |
| Warnicke Beatty (JR) | 15:50 | 4:14.37 | 1:56.06 (800m) |
| Michael Luna (SR) | 15:55 | 4:25.61 | 9:14.60 |
| Benjamin Yoffie (SR) | 15:57 | 4:16.05 | 9:21.76 |
| Nathan Khouri (SR) | 16:05 | 4:30.16 | 9:46.60 |
| John Paul Wildermuth (SR) | 16:09 | 4:25.64 | 9:54.55 |
| Joe Talleur (SR) | 16:36 | 4:40.65 | 2:01.18 (800m) |
No. 21 Mountain Vista (Highlands Ranch, CO)
Key Transfer: Riley Kiziah (Hoggard, NC to Mountain Vista)
Analysis: Mountain Vista's ceiling hinges largely on Benjamin Adams, who sits in a class of his own at 14:32.30. Chase Beebe (15:31.94), Kenneth Bolthouse (15:36.27), and Charles Watts (15:39.00) form a tight three-man cluster behind him, but George Van Otten at 16:12.81 creates a 1:40.51 1-5 split that the Golden Eagles will need to tighten to maximize Adams' front-running ability.
A big boost to this team is the transfer of 2025 North Carolina 8A State Champion Riley Kiziah who moved to Mountain Vista for his senior year where he was originally from. Kiziah holds a 15:13 5K PR and a 4:04.61 1600m PR. He should slide in as Mountain Vista's #2 to form potentially the best 1-2 punch in the country with Ben Adams.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ben Adams (SR) | 14:32 | 4:01.19 | 8:46.55 |
| Riley Kiziah (SR) | 15:13 | 4:04.61 | 9:07.60 |
| Chase Beebe (SR) | 15:31 | 4:28.46 | 10:00.22 |
| Kenneth Bolthouse (SR) | 15:36 | 4:37.57 | 9:45.80 |
| Charles Watts (JR) | 15:39 | 4:45.31 | 1:58.19 9 |
| George Van Otten (SO) | 16:12 | 4:32.97 | 9:49.52 |
| Andrew Archer (SR) | 16:33 | 4:51.27 | N/A |
No. 20 William S. Hart (Newhall, CA)
Analysis: Hart's front three is as tight as it gets, with Josiah Himsl (15:22.80), Jameson Wiley (15:24.20), and Samuel Aina (15:24.50) separated by less than two seconds. Miles Prante (15:47.80) holds the four spot, and Joshua Jimenez (16:54.80) rounds out the scoring five. Bringing that 1:32.00 1-5 split down is the clear area of growth for the Indians. Mateo Ortega (17:09.50) and Jacob Gamboa (17:31.50) round out the squad.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Josh Himsl (SR) | 15:22 | 4:19.58 | 9:17.43 |
| Jameson Wiley (SR) | 15:24 | 4:19.90 | 9:45.05 |
| Samuel Aina (SR) | 15:24 | 4:17.64 | 9:22.52, 1:53.00 800m |
| Miles Prante (SR) | 15:47 | N/A | N/A |
| Joshua Jimenez (JR) | 16:54 | 4:49.91 | 10:13.70 |
| Matae Ortega (SO) | 17:09 | 4:42.53 | 10:14.98 |
| Jacob Gamboa (SR) | 17:31 | 4:57.71 | 10:45.23 |
No. 19 Riverton (Spokane, WA)
Analysis: Riverton has looked elite through three races to open the 2026 campaign, with the Silverwolves posting dominant wins at the Region 2 Pre-Region meet and Park City Twilight, and a runner-up finish against nationally ranked American Fork.The depth is what stands out. Led by Carson Stafford (14:54), Riverton has all seven of its scorers under 16:05 with a 58-second spread. Kurt Perry (15:38), Harrison Allen (15:42), David Oman (15:43), Adam Moody (15:53), Boston Rindlisbacher (15:56), and Isaac Sharp (16:01) give the Silverwolves one of the deepest lineups in the country.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Oman (SR) | 15:28 | 4:19.19 | 9:17.23 |
| Kurt Perry (JR) | 15:31 | 4:27.19 | 9:19.76 |
| Isaac Sharp (SR) | 15:45 | 4:35.63 | 9:42.01 |
| Boston Rindlisbacher (SR) | 15:49 | N/A | 9:52.84 |
| Caden Heninger (SR) | 16:11 | 5:09.94 | 10:44.31 |
| Marko Jovanovic (JR) | 16:14 | 4:30.93 | 9:52.75 |
| Harrison Allen (SO) | 16:32 | 4:46.13 | 9:50.24 |
No. 18 Christian Brothers Academy (Lincroft, NJ)
Analysis: For decades, CBA has been the cream of the crop on the East Coast, winning practically every meet they travel to while breaking records and producing elite distance runners. In 2026, they'll unsurprisingly be led by yet another superstar in Gavin Schmitt, who enters the year with a 14:50 PR. The Colts are less than a year removed from a third-place finish at Nike Cross Nationals but lost five of their top seven to graduation. Most programs would take a brutal hit after losing four of their five scorers, but CBA will simply look for Liam Schmitt, Max Kemp, Nicholas Marx, and Michael Romero to step up and keep the dynasty alive.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gavin Schmitt (SR) | 14:50 | 4:08.81 | 8:47.96 |
| Luke Schmitt (JR) | 15:58 | 4:16.72 | 9:11.34 |
| Max Kemp (JR) | 16:13 | 4:29.58 | 9:38.01 |
| Nicholas Marx (SR) | 16:18 | 4:29.33 | 9:46.79 |
| Michael Romero (SR) | 16:18 | 4:30.03 | 10:02.33 |
| Dominic Moscatello (SO) | 16:36 | 4:21.87 | 9:34.26 |
| Lucas Scrivanic (SR) | 16:41 | 4:22.00 | 9:38.01 |
No. 17 Columbus North (Columbus, IN)
Analysis: The seven-time state champions and reigning champs return a bulk of their core from a year ago but lose their 1-2 punch in Jace Works and Denton Sluder, both sub-15 runners. That won't keep them from contending in 2026, with Justin Reckers (15:17), Joseph Day (15:22), Graham Pumphrey (15:32), and Roohan Norris (15:45) all returning with strong season bests from last fall. Based on last year's results, they're capable of posting a sub-60-second spread, but that number could shrink to under 40 seconds if their No. 5 runner, Garrett Perfetto, closes the gap on his teammates. Still a junior, that's more than likely what we'll see as the Bulldogs chase another top-10 finish at Nike Cross Nationals.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Justin Reckers (SR) | 15:17 | 4:17.61 | 9:15.17 |
| Joseph Day (JR) | 15:22 | 4:26.80 | 9:20.29 |
| Graham Pumphrey (SR) | 15:32 | 4:20.90 | 9:26.75 |
| Rohan Norris (JR) | 15:45 | 4:33.12 | 9:41.01 |
| Garrett Perfetto (JR) | 16:14 | 4:26.49 | 10:07.17 |
| Levi Carothers (SR) | 16:23 | 4:28.70 | 9:41.03 |
| Drew Hoeflinger (SR) | 16:28 | 4:57.88 | 10:33.19 |
No. 16 Summit (Frisco, CO)
Analysis: One of the top teams in the Centennial State looks incredibly strong heading into the fall, especially considering they're led by Jay McDonald, the sixth-fastest runner in Colorado history. Their top five features a 1:30 spread and a 15:25 average, with McDonald leading the way at 14:39, followed by Lukas Remeikis (15:16), Johnny Ryan (15:24), Owen Fallon (15:35), and Crosby Hume (16:10). If this group runs to their potential, the Tigers will be a serious threat when the postseason arrives.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jay McDonald (SR) | 14:39 | 4:06.61 | 8:45.46 |
| Lukas Remeikis (SR) | 15:15 | 4:16.97 | 9:32.07 |
| Johnny Ryan (SR) | 15:24 | N/A | N/A |
| Owen Fallon (SR) | 15:35 | 4:30.14 | 9:53.06 |
| Crosby Hume (SO) | 16:10 | N/A | N/A |
| John McDonald (SR) | 16:33 | 4:42.90 | N/A |
| Cooper Levi (JR) | 16:59 | 4:33.73 | 10:19.32 |
No. 15 Austin Vandegrift (Austin, TX)
Analysis: The Vipers finished just 19 points behind Carroll at NXR South in 2025, going on to finish seventh at Nike Cross Nationals. While they return five of their top seven, the two they lost, Kai McCullough and Miles Nutt, were their top two frontrunners last fall. On the bright side, Collin Goodwin, Avinash Dewagan, Anderson Mills, Atticus Reyes, and Devin Celkis come into 2026 with PBs of 15:30.6, 15:32.7, 15:54.0, 16:01.4, and 16:07.0. They've already got one race under their belt, an intersquad scrimmage where Dewagan won in 8:59.4 for 3,000m.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collin Goodwin (SR) | 15:30 | 4:19.72 | 9:14.46 |
| Avinash Dewagan (SO) | 15:32 | 4:31.34 | 9:04.83 |
| Andersen Mills (JR) | 15:54 | 4:22.08 | N/A |
| Atticus Reyes (JR) | 16:01 | 4:32.52 | 9:46.92 |
| Devin Celkis (SO) | 16:07 | 4:33.79 | 9:52.77 |
| Ryan Lee (JR) | 16:20 | 4:29.07 | 9:45.88 |
| Jaeo Rotondaro (JR) | 16:36 | 4:39.41 | 10:27.35 |
No. 14 State College (State College, WA)
Analysis: Theo Opperman and the Little Lions are a team to watch this fall, especially in the Northeast region. Opperman (15:19.8) is one of four returners under 16:00, joined by Luke Bradbury (15:19.8), Kyle Frische (15:43.9), and Dexter Walker (15:57.0). Posting a 41-second spread among their top five, they're one of the better-constructed rosters in the country, with Thomas Ruffing rounding out that group in 16:01.0. Heading into the season, they're the top team in Pennsylvania on paper, though La Salle College is close behind.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theo Oppermann (SR) | 15:19 | 4:21.62 | 9:12.67 |
| Luke Bradbury (SR) | 15:19 | 4:11.79 | 8:59.83 |
| Kyle Fritzsche (SR) | 15:43 | 4:12.78 | N/A |
| Dexter Walker (JR) | 15:57 | 4:20.78 | 9:31.12 |
| Thomas Ruffing (JR) | 16:101 | 4:34.91 | 9:32.82 |
| Teon Kidd (SR) | 17:43 | 5:08.29 | N/A |
| Cole Hutchinson (JR) | 17:45 | 4:49.89 | 9:55.94 |
No. 13 Jesuit (Carmichael, CA)
Analysis: The top team in California a year ago returns a deep squad, averaging 15:39.44 through seven runners with a 65-second gap from first to seventh. In one of the most talent-loaded states in the country, the Marauders stand out, though Campolindo and San Clemente will push them. Connor Bilodeau, the team's top runner, ran 15:02.6 as a junior and is joined under 15:30 by Lucas Alberts (15:17.6) and Matthew Ogilvie (15:22.9).
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connor Bilodeau (SR) | 15:02 | 4:07.83 | 9:21.64 |
| Lucas Alberts (SR) | 15:17 | 4:07.61 | 1:49.59 (800m) |
| Matthew Ogilvie (JR) | 15:22 | 4:09.25 | 9:01.02 |
| Ryan Tait (SR) | 15:40 | 4:26.93 | 9:42.63 |
| Rafa Jopson (SR) | 15:58 | 4:20.62 | 9:30.16 |
| John Kelly (JR) | 16:06 | 4:22.35 | N/A |
| Griffin Smith (SR) | 16:44 | 4:40.05 | 10:27.62 |
No. 12 La Salle College HS (Wyndmoor, PA)
Analysis: After finishing five points away from a state title last November, the Explorers flexed a 43-second spread among their top five at NXR Northeast. While they lose Marshall Vernon, one of their top runners, the seven they're rolling with this fall are among the best in the region. Led by Bobby Franklin (15:38.9), La Salle brings a 29-second spread among their top five and a 39-second split from 1-7. The Explorers head into the season as a deep, competitive squad with a Nike Cross Nationals berth in their sights.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bobby Franklin (SR) | 15:38 | 4:06.63 | 1:50.12 |
| Ben DiCola (SR) | 15:47 | 4:17.04 | 9:35.34 |
| Seamus O'Connell (SR) | 16:00 | 4:43.18 | 1:57.77 (800m) |
| Gregory Hock (SR) | 16:03 | 4:18.79 | 9:29.71 |
| Casimir Bartlomiejus (JR) | 16:08 | 4:28.76 (Mile) | 9:29.23 |
| Liam Reynolds (SR) | 16:16 | 4:32.20 (Mile) | 9:27.47 |
| Matthew Tate (SR) | 16:18 | 4:17.42 | 1:51.93 (800m) |
No. 11 Broughton (Raleigh, NC)
Analysis: Broughton's front three sets the tone, with Cam Kuss (15:22.50), Charlie Slawinski (15:23.21), and Tyler Burke (15:35.37) capable of putting pressure on any field. Jacob Urben (16:26.36) and Logan McKay (16:27.35) close out the scoring five in near lockstep, and that 64-second 1-5 split gives the Cardinals a well-rounded profile heading into the season. Jack Slawinski (16:48.50) and Jackson Burke (16:56.00) provide solid depth behind them. The Captials also add in transfer Gavin Clewley who was a 15:39 guy last year and finished 21st at the NCHSAA 8A XC State Championships which will help a lot in the teams depth from 4-7.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cam Kuss (SR) | 15:22 | 4:08.65 | 9:02.39 |
| Charlie Slawinski (SR) | 15:23 | 4:10.25 | 9:03.92 |
| Tyler Burke (JR) | 15:35 | 4:16.03 | 9:14.64 |
| Gavin Clewley (JR) | 15:39 | 4:26.88 | 9:30.65 |
| Jacob Urben (JR) | 16:26 | 4:29.35 | 9:38.57 |
| Logan McKay (JR) | 16:27 | 4:36.20 | 10:21.83 |
| Jack Slawinski (SO) | 16:48 | N/A | N/A |
No. 10 Crater (Central Point, OR)
Analysis: Crater placed fourth at NXN Northwest a year ago returning their top 3 in Garret Faught, Ryder White and Maxwell Miracle. Faught took second in the region as a sophomore and placed 24th at Nationals. Faught and White will be a strong 1-2 for the Oregon squad looking to lead Crater to team success over the next two years.
Miracle and Reece Hvall are strong 800m runners with 1:51.20 and 1:55.02 PRs respectively. The two seniors bringing their track success to the XC course will be key to the program this fall. Crater also looks to have added Sawyer Hutton from Nevada who holds personal bests of 4:13.44, 9:05.88 and a 15:23 5K PR.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1500m | 2026 3000m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garrett Faught (JR) | 14:38 | 3:53.49 | 8:15.58 |
| Ryder White (SO) | 15:27 | 3:59.70 | 8:26.57 |
| Maxwell Miracle (SR) | 15:36 | 3:52.50 | 1:51.20 (800m) |
| Reece Hvall (SR) | 15:51 | 3:57.03 | N/A |
| Nathan Goode (SR) | 16:04 | 4:00.76 | 8:54.72 |
| Braeden Ford (JR) | 16:48 | 4:20.67 | 9:34.22 |
| Colton Hvall (JR) | 16:51 | N/A | N/A |
No. 9 Summit (Bend, OR)
Analysis: Summit returns their top 6 from last years 5th place team at NXN Northwest. Bjorn Blankenship and Clayton Jero could be in contention for the best 1-2 in the country with 3200m PRs of 8:43 and 8:45 from the track season if that success can translate to the cross country course.
They'll be in a battle with #10 Crater for the OSAA 5A XC Team title as well as a NXN Northwest Top 2 finish. Summit has a strong third through sixth of Charlie English, Landon Kjorstad, Hudson Boaz and Irving Stoller. English and Kjorstad return with sub-16 5K credentials. This groups improvement with be key to their team success this fall.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1500m | 2026 3000m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bjorn Blankenship (SR) | 15:28 | 3:52.97 | 8:43.41 (3200m) |
| Clayton Jero (JR) | 15:31 | 3:53.47 | 8:45.98 (3200m) |
| Charlie English (SR) | 15:45 | 3:58.39 | 8:50.85 |
| Landon Kjorstad (JR) | 15:49 | 4:21.97 | 9:16.85 |
| Hudson Boaz (SR) | 16:11 | 4:07.75 | 8:51.79 |
| Irving Stoller (SR) | 16:14 | 4:12.32 | 8:58.99 |
| Kai Blankenship (SO) | 16:32 | 4:19.37 | 9:23.15 |
No. 8 Coeur d'Alene HS (Coeur d'Alene, ID)
Analysis: The Vikings return six of their top seven as they look to represent Idaho on the national level this fall. Last year they were sixth at NXN Northwest led by senior Wyatt Carr who placed 8th overall.
With Carr, Rowan Henry and Wyatt Morgenstern the Vikings have a strong 1-2-3. All three ran 15:00 or faster twice last season. Between Gabe Heule, Blaise Howard and Andrew Grady they should have a strong group from four to six. Heule and Howard hold 15:07 and 15:25 5K credentials, and Grady showed improvement during his freshman track season running a 4:31.80 1600m.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wyatt Carr (SR) | 14:31 | 4:11.80 | 8:56.58 |
| Rowan Henry (JR) | 14:38 | 4:18.92 | 9:01.10 |
| Wyatt Morgenstern (JR) | 14:48 | 4:12.69 | 9:11.47 |
| Gabe Heule (SR) | 15:07 | 4:42.19 | 9:33.25 |
| Blaise Howard (JR) | 15:25 | 4:30.93 | 9:30.62 |
| Andrew Grady (SO) | 16:11 | 4:31.80 | 10:20.37 |
| David Dance (SR) | 16:40 | 4:54.13 | 10:46.07 |
No. 7 Southlake Carroll (Southlake, TX)
Analysis: Carroll placed fourth at NXN last year led by a Caden Leonard who placed third overall and a really strong day from Kai Gutierrez who placed 12th. While Leonard is a hard one to replace, Gutierrez had his best day of the season at Nationals and will be a strong #1 for the Dragons this fall.
Behind Gutierrez looks to be a strong of seniors from #2 through #6. Claudio Auns had a strong year on the track running 1:52 and 4:14 and will combine with Jaxon Glenn, Evan O'Donnell, Grant Norgart and Adhavan Palanivelrajan who all ran in the 4:19 to 4:23 range for 1600m on the track last spring to round out the Dragons scoring lineup.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kai Gutierrez (JR) | 14:37 | 4:15.21 | 8:56.48 |
| Claudio Auns (SR) | 15:11 | 4:14.93 | 1:52.43 (800m) |
| Grant Norgart (SR) | 15:14 | 4:23.36 | 9:29.45 |
| Jaxon Glenn (SR) | 15:17 | 4:19.19 | N/A |
| Evan O'Donnell (SR) | 15:35 | 4:22.08 | 9:25.73 |
| Adhavan Palanivelrajan (SR) | 15:42 | 4:22.43 | 9:44.90 |
| Cameron Perez (SO) | 15:59 | 4:40.08 | 10:12.60 |
No. 6 Campolindo (Moraga, CA)
Analysis: Campolindo returns its top six from last year's team that scored 96 points to win the CIF Division III state championship and finished 7th in the overall CIF State Meet Merge. Clark Gregory leads the returning group after running 14:57 for 5K and 9:14.69 for 3200m, while Caden Ehrhorn made a major jump during the track season with a 4:10.61 for 1600m and 9:15.39 for 3200m.
The Cougars return six runners who broke 15:50 last fall, including five seniors from their championship lineup. Nikola Van Delft, Gavin Gunn and Jack Durden give Campolindo an experienced group behind its top two, while Samuel Hearn and Taiyo Chiba provide even more depth. With nearly their entire lineup returning and Ehrhorn's track breakthrough raising their ceiling, Campolindo will be positioned to defend its Division III title and climb higher in the CIF merge to earn a top 2 automatic berth to Portland.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clark Gergory (SR) | 14:57 | 4:22.68 | 9:14.69 |
| Caden Ehrhorn (JR) | 15:19 | 4:10.61 | 9:15.39 |
| Nikola Van Delft (SR) | 15:24 | 4:27.70 | 9:38.74 |
| Gavin Gunn (SR) | 15:35 | 4:21.49 | 9:27.35 |
| Jack Durden (SR) | 15:40 | N/A | 9:45.56 |
| Samuel Hearn (SR) | 15:46 | 4:32.13 | 9:54.71 |
| Taiyo Chiba (SR) | 16:00 | 4:24.86 | 10:09.19 |
No. 5 American Fork (American Fork, UT)
Analysis: American Fork returns four of its top seven from last year's team that placed 5th at NXN. After finishing 4th in the Southwest, they earned an at-large bid and validated that selection with an impressive performance on the national stage. Their lineup was led by then-sophomores David Webb and Chase Hejny, who return after running 14:48 and 15:09 for 5K.
Hejny carried that momentum onto the track, running 4:14.56 for 1600m and 9:04.49 for 3200m, while Bennett Jensen emerged as another potential scorer with marks of 4:26.19 and 9:15.02. American Fork has seven returners who ran 16:05 or faster last fall, giving them several options to rebuild the back of their lineup. With Webb and Hejny now entering their junior seasons, the Cavemen once again have the front-end talent and depth to contend in the Southwest and return to NXN.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Webb (JR) | 14:48 | 4:31.21 | N/A |
| Chase Hejny (JR) | 15:09 | 4:14.56 | 9:04.49 |
| Bennett Jensen (SO) | 15:36 | 4:26.19 | 9:15.02 |
| Roy Jones (SR) | 15:41 | 4:28.51 | 9:42.96 |
| Logan Wagstaff (JR) | 15:59 | 4:27.65 | 9:35.91 |
| Will Thresher (JR) | 16:04 | 4:45.20 | 10:11.73 |
| Cayden Vukich (SR) | 16:05 | 4:27.20 | 9:36.22 |
No. 4 Niwot (Niwot, CO)
Analysis: Last years NXN Champions Niwot loses four of their top seven including 6th place finisher Hunter Robbie and Rocco Culpepper who placed 9th at Brooks XC Nationals. They will bring back Quinn Sullivan who was 5th at NXN and Jude Ritzenhein who had a crazy track season over 1600m running 4:06.36 as a freshman.
Garrett Sherrard was their sixth man at Nationals last year placing 94th overall giving them a strong veteran as their #3. While they were outside of the top seven a year ago, Noah Barrios, Lucas Trimm, Braylon Brown and Praveen Bopearachchigedon ran between 15:56 and 16:00 for 5K in 2025 as Niwot reloads. Even beyond they have sophomore Nicholas Renault who ran 16:02 and 4:32 last year as well as Arden Gikas who ran 9:39 showing Niwot has the depth to reload and figure out their 4th and 5th scorers over the season.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quinn Sullivan (SR) | 14:34 | 4:02.32 | 8:41.68 |
| Jude Ritzenhein (SO) | 15:04 | 4:06.36 | N/A |
| Garrett Sherrard (SR) | 15:33 | 4:20.99 | 9:21.52 |
| Noah Barrios (JR) | 15:56 | 4:34.04 | 10:03.28 |
| Lucas Trimm (SO) | 15:57 | 4:37.10 | N/A |
| Braylon Brown (SR) | 15:59 | 4:27.70 | 9:31.21 |
| Praveen Bopearschchigedon (SR) | 16:00 | 4:31.38 | 9:45.09 |
No. 3 San Clemente (San Clemente, CA)
Analysis: San Clemente returns their entire top seven from a team that placed 15th at NXN and 3rd in the CIF State Meet Merge last fall. Their lineup will be led by seniors Yohan Anderson and Mattheus Dos Santos, who both broke 15:05 for 5K. Dos Santos displayed impressive range during the track season, running 4:11.35 for 1600m and 1:51.83 for 800m, while Anderson added a 4:15.94 personal best.
The Tritons return five runners who ran 15:35 or faster last cross country season, including Erik Troester, Conner Jaurigue and Magnus Johansson. With all seven returners entering their senior seasons, San Clemente will have one of the most experienced lineups in the country. After gaining their first NXN experience last year, they have the talent and continuity to improve significantly on their 15th-place finish and contend for a CIF state championship.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yohan Anderson (SR) | 14:59 | 4:15.94 | 9:26.46 |
| Mattheus Dos Santos (SR) | 15:03 | 4:11.35 | 1:51.83 (800m) |
| Erik Troester (SR) | 15:29 | N/A | N/A |
| Conner Jaurigue (SR) | 15:30 | 4:31.65 | 9:47.90 |
| Magnus Johansson (SR) | 15:35 | 4:36.38 | 9:33.11 |
| Gabriel Sech (SR) | 15:42 | 4:40.58 | 9:54.18 |
| Ben Wyman (SR) | 16:04 | N/A | N/A |
No. 2 Belen Jesuit (Miami, FL)
Analysis: Marcelo Mantecon returns for his senior season in what looks to be Belen's strongest squad yet. He is the favorite looking ahead at the postseason to be national champion after a runner-up finish at Brooks and fourth place finish Nike last fall. Armando Cruz is as strong of a #2 as you can ask for with many strong performances as a junior placing fourth at Great American and 12th at RunningLane.
Juniors Nicholas Veloso and Jack Michalak return as the teams #3 and #4 along with sophomore David Jaramillo as the teams #5. Veloso and Jaramillo ran 9:30 and 9:32 for 3200m in the spring as Michalak was really impressive over 800m running a 1:50.99. These three will be the key to the Wolverines team success this fall.
With the FHSAA State Championship on Nov. 20th and NXN Southeast on Nov. 22nd it'll be interesting to see if Belen looks to run two 5Ks in three days, or hope to prove themselves over the course of the season in hopes of a wildcard spot to Nationals.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marcelo Mantecon (SR) | 14:33 | 4:02.05 | 8:35.33 |
| Armando Cruz (SR) | 14:58 | 4:13.75 | 8:58.29 |
| Nicholas Veloso (JR) | 15:36 | 4:25.45 | 9:30.59 |
| Jack Michalak (JR) | 15:44 | 4:17.91 | 1:50.99 (800m) |
| David Jaramillo (SO) | 15:54 | 4:26.88 | 9:32.98 |
| Liam Salom (SR) | 15:58 | 4:47.03 | 9:59.97 |
| Davi Bodoh (SR) | 16:10 | 4:34.15 | 9:57.35 |
No. 1 Christ School (Arden, NC)
Analysis: Christ School placed 7th last year at NXN and were the Southeast Champions despite an off day from top runner Brooks Barbee. Though Barbee was their top runner a year ago he leveled up in a big way on the track running a 8:40 3200m.
The Greenies have incredible depth across their lineup with 8th returner Carl Baird holding a 9:12 3200m seasons best from the outdoor season. Between Barbee, Reynolds Young, Jack Dennehy, Dallas Reeves and Brody Webb they have a top five of all seniors who ran 9:05 or faster on the track last spring. Christ School got their first experience at Nationals last year returning 6 of their 7 runners and will look to be North Carolina's first NXN Team Champions.
Top 7 Returners
| Name (Grade) | 2025 5K | 2026 1600m | 2026 3200m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks Barbee (SR) | 14:59 | 4:04.68 | 8:40.79 |
| Reynolds Young (SR) | 15:15 | 4:09.15 | 8:50.53 |
| Dallas Reeves (SR) | 15:13 | 4:10.06 | 9:01.29 |
| Jack Dennehy (SR) | 15:24 | 4:14.08 | 8:57.56 |
| Brody Webb (SR) | 15:28 | 4:13.64 | 9:04.98 |
| Timmy McDowell (SR) | 15:36 | 4:24.57 | 9:23.21 |
| Ben Graham (SR) | 15:48 | 4:20.05 | 9:16.26 |
The wait is finally over. Today, we kick off the COROS MileSplit50 Preseason Boys Cross Country National Rankings countdown, one of the most anticipated projects of the cross-country season.
Each year, the MileSplit team dives deep into returning talent, championship experience, depth charts and rising stars to evaluate the very best high school programs across the nation. After weeks of research and discussion, we've compiled our list of the Top 25 boys squads heading into the 2026 cross country season.
Over the next several days, we'll reveal the rankings one step at a time, counting down from No. 25 all the way to the No. 1 team in the country.
| Rank | Team (Location) |
|---|---|
| 25 | Bentonville (AR) |
| 24 | Mead (WA) |
| 23 | Carrollton (GA) |
| 22 | St. Louis University High (MO) |
| 21 | Mountain Vista (CO) |
| 20 | William S. Hart (CA) |
| 19 | Riverton (UT) |
| 18 | Christian Brothers Academy (NJ) |
| 17 | Columbus North (IN) |
| 16 | Summit (CO) |
| 15 | Austin Vandegrift (TX) |
| 14 | State College (PA) |
| 13 | Jesuit (CA) |
| 12 | La Salle College HS (PA) |
| 11 | Broughton (NC) |
| 10 | Crater (OR) |
| 9 | Summit (OR) |
| 8 | Coeur d'Alene (ID) |
| 7 | Southlake Carroll (TX) |
| 6 | Campolindo (CA) |
| 5 | American Fork (UT) |
| 4 | Niwot (CO) |
| 3 | San Clemente (CA) |
| 2 | Belen Jesuit (FL) |
| 1 | Christ School (NC) |