Sami Staples

LEXINGTON, Ky. – The Kentucky track and field teams announced an initial 2014-15 signing class of eight to join the teams next season, on Thursday. 

The theme of the season could be "The Lady Fox Trot" or how about "Chasing the Lady Foxes?" Regardless of what anyone decides to call Yorkville they are going to need to add the word "Dynasty" next to their name. The Lady Foxes indeed are poised to defend their state championship a fourth time. In fact, Coach Chris Muth and company have finished first or secord every year since 2009. Some people are taking about 2015 when then junior class is expected to be even more lights out. But first thing first, there are a few teams lurking in the weeds waiting for an opportunity to dethrone the 2A queens of cross country.

The annual UK High School Invitational will take place tomorrow in Lexington. Typically multiple new US #1's are set in this event with tremendous talent in attendance.  Below are some of the top athletes and events to look out for.

Katie Knight, Amy-Eloise Neale & Ella Donaghu recorded major victories for the girls and Joe Hardy, Patrick Gibson & Matthew Maton scored for the guys this week.  Of course there was plenty of action around the nation.

We take a look at the top 25 girls in 2A based on season best times from the 2011 cross country season. Crystal Lake sophomore Sami Staples leads the list with a time of 17:07.92. The top twenty girls on the list have broken the 18 minute barrier.

Crystal Lake Central freshman Sami Staples is making big waves across Illinois in her first high school season. Staples won the Illinois Cross Country State Championship then the 1500 and 3000 meter runs at USATF Nationals. See how she got started in the sport, what typical training week is like, her goals for the outdoor season, and much more.

The McHenry County area was treated to one of the most amazing girls track and field seasons by a runner in Illinois in 2011, as Woodstock’s Kayla Beattie launched an assault on every record possible. (via www.mchenrycountysports.com)

The goals are similar for every participant – run your best race against the best competition in the state.(via www.mchenrycountysports.com)