In 2016, Minnesota boys cross country possessed an extremely talented senior class, including two sub-15 5k runners in Seth Eliason and Alex Miley, with the latter going on to earn All-American status at Nike Cross Nationals. Despite the graduation of such talented runners, the 2017 season should surely provide the state with great excitement.
While there remains a heavy favorite this year, there's also a huge pack of athletes ready for their opportunity to take the crown this fall, and plenty more who will surprise and outperform expectations. Out of last year's 25 All-State runners, only 7 are returning, leaving the door wide open for runners to make the leap up to being among Minnesota's best. With the extremely strong sophomore class growing into the upperclassmen role, there are many who could potentially step up to provide a tight showdown in November. The class of 2019 could be an interesting storyline to watch, as no non-senior has won the State title since 2009. We can't wait for competition to start, as there will surely be thrilling duels, upsets, and sprints to the line.
Best of luck to these ten runners, and to the numerous others prepared for the chance to beat them on November 4th...