The mounds view guys that impressed me the most are those that weren’t on varsity last year. Like Lelinga and a bunch of juniors like Coleman and Arnold.
But yes, it’s very competitive this year in MN. The loss of Skelly/Otto and McArthur dropping in the class rank definitely negatively impacted this team.
None of the teams that finished in the top 6 at state graduated many people. This is why it’s so much more competitive this year. Mounds View beat Minnetonka but Tonka’s fifth guy died down last year after the first mile. I definitely think they Tonka have made the podium.
Stillwater only returned 2 guys from last year’s state meet but that’s not something to be fooled by. They also returned Degonda/Kilibarda who raced at TCRC, but not this year’s state meet. And a sophomore that stepped up. Those are their top 5, and Christensen is making the most of this group.
I do think Mounds View will be better next year than this year since teams like Lakeville North and Rosemount are losing a bunch of guys and will be mediocre again. Mounds View will only lose McArthur and Lelinga.
Way too early 2023 boys predictions:
I think next year Wayzata will practically be unbeatable. Could have a high finish at NXN. But they will need to develop a low stick to replace Hamza.
For Southwest it will be a hit or miss. It will depend if they find a 5th or not. if they find one they could maybe challenge Wayzata but it will be hard. If they don’t find one, they probably wont podium.
Until Southwest finds a 5th for next year it is looking to look like this:
1. Wayzata
2. Minnetonka
3. Mounds View
4. Minneapolis Southwest
5. Bloomington Jefferson