Who are the top indoor track athletes in the Charlotte area? What about the top teams?
Here are team-by-team previews and players to watch for schools that provided information. Previews are divided by county.
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Preseason All-Observer boys team
PRESEASON ALL-OBSERVER BOYS INDOOR TRACK TEAM
Liam Kinken, South Mecklenburg, Sr., 300/500:Won the 8A 500 in a state-record 1:01.17; 300 best of 33.97; also won the 8A outdoor 400 (46.54).
James Freeman, Myers Park, Sr., 1,600:8A indoor 1,600 champion in 4:16.30.
Grady Anderson, Hickory Ridge, Sr., 1,600:Won the 7A indoor 1,600 (4:21.58) and the 7A outdoor 1,600 (4:18.61).
Dorian Dailey, Mallard Creek, Sr., long jump/triple jump:8A indoor long jump champion with a PR of 23-4.5; triple jump PRs of 46-11 indoors and 48-3 outdoors.
Tommy Pringle II, Cuthbertson, Sr., high jump:2025 NCHSAA 4A outdoor champion (6-10); 7A indoor and outdoor runner-up at 7-0 last season; PR of 7-0.5.
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Ryder Sgheiza, Cuthbertson, Sr., pole vault:7A indoor champion at 14-0; 7A outdoor runner-up.
Julian Williams, Northwest Cabarrus, Sr., triple jump:5A indoor champion; triple jump best of 47-0.75; also won the 5A outdoor title at 50-1.25.
Bryant Moore, West Iredell, Sr., 1,000/1,600:4A indoor 1,000 champion (2:36.29); third in the 1,600 and fourth in the 3,200.
Amare Alsobrooks, Weddington, Sr., long jump:7A outdoor long jump champion; 7A indoor runner-up at 22-2.75.
Micah Crenshaw, Metrolina Christian, Sr., long jump/triple jump:NCISAA Division I champion in the long jump (21-8.5) and triple jump (42-8).
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Others to watch
Leyton Guhl, Metrolina Christian, Sr., 55/300:NCISAA Division I runner-up in the 300 and third in the 55; ran on two medal-winning relays.
Jaden Tolliver, Northwest Cabarrus, Sr., 300:5A indoor runner-up (35.13).
William Clark, Myers Park, Soph., 1,000:8A indoor runner-up (2:30.86) as a freshman.
Christopher Burns, Myers Park, Sr., 3,200:Third at the 8A indoor meet (9:19.60).
Chaven Rucker, Statesville, Soph., 300:Fourth in the 6A indoor 300 (35.42); ran on the runner-up 4x200.
Ethan Roesch, South Mecklenburg, Sr., 300:Fourth in the 8A indoor 300.
Mason Short, Northwest Cabarrus, Sr., pole vault:Fourth at the 5A indoor meet; 14-0 best.
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Josh Palmer, Cuthbertson, Jr., distance:Fifth in the 7A outdoor 1,600 (4:28.57).
Boys' indoor track notes
— Three area teams return as NCHSAA indoor champions: Cuthbertson (7A), Mallard Creek (8A) and Union Academy (3A). Metrolina Christian won its first state track title in any season, edging Charlotte Christian 123-119.5 for the NCISAA Division I crown.
— South Mecklenburg's Liam Kinken set a state record of 1:01.17 in winning the 8A 500 meters, the third-fastest time in U.S. history at the time, according to his coach.
— Cuthbertson coach Dustin Allen says this "could be one of the best boys teams that we have had at Cuthbertson." The Cougars return high jumper Tommy Pringle II (PR 7-0.5) and pole vault champion Ryder Sgheiza.
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— Other returning NCHSAA indoor champions include Myers Park's James Freeman (8A 1,600), Hickory Ridge's Grady Anderson (7A 1,600), Mallard Creek's Dorian Dailey (8A long jump), Northwest Cabarrus' Julian Williams (5A triple jump) and West Iredell's Bryant Moore (4A 1,000).
— Central Academy coach Nathan Stewart expects seniors Parker Jones (45 feet) and Mac Bolen (42 feet) to contend for the state shot put title.
— Ballantyne Ridge (first-year coach Braxton Jones) and Ardrey Kell (first-year coach Bradley James) are under new leadership.
Boys' team previews
ARDREY KELL
Coach:Bradley James (first season)
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2025-26 results:Scored 17 points at the NCHSAA 8A indoor meet (15th), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A (coach expects 25-30 athletes after tryouts)
Key returnees:Khylieb Rodriguez, Destin Branch, Brecken Olander, Lucas Chiang, Ethan Liu and Adam Dreier, all of whom scored at the 8A indoor meet last season.
Key newcomers:To be determined after the first week of practice.
Outlook:James expects the Knights to stay strong in the 55 meters, 55-meter hurdles, pole vault, long jump, 4x200 and 4x800 relays, and to expand their event presence as the season goes on.
BALLANTYNE RIDGE
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Coach:Braxton Jones (first season)
2025-26 results:Scored 4 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:0
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Jones summed up his team in four words: "Youth for strength, youth for weakness."
BUTLER
Coach:Gerrod Rivers (14th season)
2025-26 results:Scored 8 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results. Butler won the 7A outdoor 4x100 relay title (41.61), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:About 90 percent of last season's team
Key returnees:Jr. Miles Hicks (hurdles; one of the state's top returning hurdlers); Jr. Jabril Gandy and Jr. Isaac Robinson (members of the state champion 4x100 relay); Sr. Chaise Carter (ran on the 4x400 relay that took third in the state); Jr. Elijah Ham (jumps).
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Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Rivers lists sprints, jumps, hurdles and relays as strengths and throws as the weakness.
CENTRAL ACADEMY OF TECHNOLOGY AND ARTS
Coach:Nathan Stewart (sixth season)
2025-26 results:Scored 12 points at the NCHSAA 4A indoor meet, according to state meet results, including a runner-up finish in the 4x400 relay.
Returning starters:25
Key returnees:Sr. Parker Jones (shot put, 45 feet; regional qualifier); Sr. Mac Bolen (shot put, 42 feet; regional qualifier); Jr. Logan Mauro (pole vault, 11-6); Sr. Landon Thomas (1,600, 1,000, 500 and relays; 4:45 mile; ran on the 4A indoor runner-up 4x400 relay); Jr. Aviv Dubey (3,200, 1,600, 1,000; 4x800 state qualifier); Sr. Nathan Suarez (55 and 300; 6.79 in the 55); Sr. Dylan Marks (55, 300, relays).
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Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Stewart says the Cougars should be able to score in every event and that Jones and Bolen should contend for the state shot put title.
CHARLOTTE CATHOLIC
Coach:Evan Georges (fifth season)
2025-26 results:Scored 19 points at the NCHSAA 6A indoor meet (13th), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Sr. Brennan Hay (1,000 meters, 2:41); Sr. Andrew Moritz (pole vault, 13-6); Soph. Noah Guidry (500 meters, 1:10).
Key newcomers:Fr. Patrick Seeley (5K, 17:15).
Outlook:Georges says middle distance and the pole vault are the strengths; depth is the concern.
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CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN
Coach:Ralph Jones (sixth season)
2025-26 results:Runner-up at the NCISAA Division I indoor meet (119.5 points), a half-point behind Metrolina Christian, according to the NCRunners Independent Schools Championships recap.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Sr. Clete Saylor; Jr. Kingsley Meililo.
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Jones says the Knights will be strong in the throws and sprints.
CHARLOTTE COUNTRY DAY
Coach:Alvin Reggie Pearman (38th season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:1
Key returnees:Jr. Eric Soloway (fifth in the 3,200 at the Independent Schools indoor meet; one of two returners from that race).
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Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Pearman says the boys are hoping to develop into contenders.
CUTHBERTSON
Coach:Dustin Allen (11th season)
2025-26 results:Won the NCHSAA 7A indoor title with 81 points, 36 ahead of runner-up Weddington, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Sr. Tommy Pringle II (high jump; 2025 NCHSAA 4A outdoor champion at 6-10 and 7A indoor and outdoor runner-up at 7-0 last season, according to state meet results; PR of 7-0.5); Sr. Ryder Sgheiza (pole vault; 7A indoor champion at 14-0, according to state meet results); Jr. Josh Palmer (distance; fifth in the 7A outdoor 1,600 at 4:28.57, according to state meet results).
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Key newcomers:Jr. Maxton Pennies (sprinter coming over from baseball).
Outlook:Allen calls this "the perfect match of heavy hitters and depth" and says it could be one of the best boys teams in school history. "We are strong across event groups, but we are going to have to work to achieve our lofty goals," he said.
FOREST HILLS
Coach:Kevin Feaster (15th season)
2025-26 results:Scored 4 points at the NCHSAA 5A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:4
Key returnees:Christopher Baker (shot put; all-conference); Tyler Rushing (55, 300, 4x200); Gasper Son Romirez (500, 4x800).
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Key newcomers:Cedric Ford, Jadian Butris.
Outlook:Feaster says experienced athletes help motivate younger teammates, but limited numbers make it hard to compete in every event.
GARINGER
Coach:Tanya Filmore (20th season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:4 returning state finalists, per the coach
Key returnees:Josiah Daniels and London DeLancey (both class of 2027) and Zack Peebles and Delorance Henderson (both class of 2028), all in the 300 meters.
Key newcomers:Ahreon Stephenson (2028), Quinten Bonasera (2029).
Outlook:Filmore lists field events as the strength.
HICKORY RIDGE
Coach:Stephanie Bridwell (third season)
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2025-26 results:Tied for eighth at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet (20 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:15 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Sr. Grady Anderson (7A indoor 1,600 champion in 4:21.58 and 7A outdoor 1,600 champion in 4:18.61, according to state meet results); Sr. Jayce Curtis (300, 35.83); Sr. Jeremiah Holdbrook (55, 7.08; 300, 38.15; 500, 1:18.39); Benjamin Rheinecker (1,600 and 3,200; 2026 indoor state qualifier).
Key newcomers:Patrick Riedinger, Travis Taylor
Outlook:Bridwell says the team is young, but its strength is a shared vision: "Run with Pride, Compete with Purpose and leaving a Legacy at Hickory Ridge."
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HOUGH
Coach:Pierre Browne (third season)
2025-26 results:Scored 12 points at the NCHSAA 8A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:15 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Grant Collum (2026 outdoor 3,200 state qualifier); Quinn Notte (2026 outdoor 800 state qualifier).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Browne expects distance and the 4x800 relay to be strengths and says the 4x400 relay "has a chance to be very good."
LAKE NORMAN
Coach:Ken Zimmerman (sixth season)
2025-26 results:Scored 8 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
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Key returnees:Jr. Paxton Lawver (1,600, 4:24); Jr. Ben Scharsu (1,600, 4:24; 800, 2:02); Theilan Bellamy (100, 11.30).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Zimmerman lists distance depth and returning sprinters as strengths and field events as the weakness.
MALLARD CREEK
Coach:Antoine Sanders (14th season)
2025-26 results:Won the NCHSAA 8A indoor title with 55 points, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:6
Key returnees:Sr. Dorian Dailey (8A indoor long jump champion with a personal-best 23-4.5, according to state meet results; also triple jump PRs of 46-11 indoors and 48-3 outdoors, plus the 55 and sprint relays).
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Key newcomers:Fr. Levi Brooks (short sprints and relays; "a gifted young sprinter," says Sanders; currently playing football).
Outlook:Sanders lists the jumps and sprint relays as strengths and middle and long distance as the weakness, and says the Mavericks lost leadership from the class of 2026 that "cannot be replaced."
MARVIN RIDGE
Coach:Freddy Moore (20th season)
2025-26 results:Fourth at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet (42 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:40 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:N/A
METROLINA CHRISTIAN
Coach:Brett Honeycutt (18th season)
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2025-26 results:Won the NCISAA Division I indoor title, 123-119.5 over Charlotte Christian, the school's first state track championship, according to the NCRunners Independent Schools Championships recap.
Returning starters:10 from the state championship team (8 scored at state)
Key returnees:Sr. Micah Crenshaw (NCISAA Division I champion in the long jump and triple jump); Sr. Leyton Guhl (runner-up in the 300, third in the 55, ran on the runner-up 4x200 and third-place 4x400; Wofford baseball commit); Sr. Jacob Seamon (fifth in the 55, ran on the runner-up 4x200; LSU baseball commit and N.C. Gatorade Player of the Year); Sr. Levi Little (third in the 500, ran on the runner-up 4x200 and third-place 4x400); Sr. Seth Roberts (fourth in the shot put); Sr. Pablo Ocasio (third in the high jump); Sr. Aiden McCormick (fifth in the long jump, fourth in the triple jump).
Key newcomers:Sr. Joey Johnson (500, 1,000, 4x400 and 4x800).
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Outlook:Honeycutt says senior leadership is the strength of the defending champions.
MONROE
Coach:Mike Engelhard (eighth season)
2025-26 results:Scored 4 points at the NCHSAA 5A indoor meet, according to state meet results. Monroe won the 5A outdoor 4x200 relay (1:27.97), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:6
Key returnees:Sr. Ty Allen (55 hurdles, 4x400; 4x400 state qualifier in 2024 and 2025); Sr. Angel Gonzalez-Suastegui (mile, 2 mile); Sr. Andrew Duran Falcon (mile, 4x800); Sr. Jaden Stokes (55, 300, 4x200; member of the 2026 outdoor state champion 4x200).
Key newcomers:Devin Bowen.
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Outlook:Engelhard lists sprints, long distance and relays as the strengths.
MOORESVILLE
Coach:Deja Burks (seventh season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:45-plus (boys and girls)
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Burks says the Blue Devils lost key seniors but have "another strong group of seniors this year" who understand the program's expectations and can lead younger athletes.
MOUNT PLEASANT
Coach:Michael Johns (25th season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:40 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Connor Ballard (distance); Grant Miller (sprints); Jackson Fabricius (jumps); Sawyer Medlin (middle distance).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Johns: "Looking forward to a great season!"
MYERS PARK
Coach:Lamont Hayes (24th season)
2025-26 results:Ninth at the NCHSAA 8A indoor meet (27 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Sr. James Freeman (8A indoor 1,600 champion, 4:16.30); Soph. William Clark (8A indoor 1,000 runner-up, 2:30.86); Sr. Christopher Burns (third in the 8A indoor 3,200, 9:19.60).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:The Mustangs return a state champion and two other state medalists in the distance events.
NORTHWEST CABARRUS
Coach:Tyrone Pierce (sixth season)
2025-26 results:Fifth at the NCHSAA 5A indoor meet (37 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:14
Key returnees:Sr. Julian Williams (5A indoor triple jump champion; long jump 21-1, triple jump 47-0.75; also won the 5A outdoor triple jump at 50-1.25, according to state meet results); Sr. Jaden Tolliver (55, 6.96; 300, 35.13; 5A indoor 300 runner-up); Sr. Mason Short (pole vault, 14-0; 300, 39.60; fourth at the 5A indoor meet); Sr. Messiah Davis (55, 6.61; 300, 35.80; seventh in the 5A indoor 55).
Key newcomers:Rinish Mohan, Aiden Brome, Akshat Choudhri.
Outlook:Pierce says returning starters, with their experience and leadership, are the team's greatest strength.
OLYMPIC
Coach:Jeffery Osborne (second season)
2025-26 results:Scored 10 points at the NCHSAA 6A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:7 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Zyon Green (team MVP, running); Connor Lewis (team MVP, field); Michael Anderson and Isaiah Ford (coaches award); Amir Boulware (most improved); Diego Miller (academic award).
Key newcomers:Jakir Smith, Yeudiel Castro.
Outlook:Osborne lists sprints as the strength and distance as the weakness.
PIEDMONT
Coach:Kristopher Head (fourth season)
2025-26 results:Scored 5 points at the NCHSAA 6A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:19 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Seniors Xander Leavens, Kevin Colin Loredo, Eli Hasty, Landon Young, Eli Chambers, Nate Thompson and Brett Alaimo; juniors Lincoln Garver and Elijah White; sophomores Julian Nowak and Trentin Chambers.
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Head says team culture is the Panthers' strength: "We have fun, we lift up and support each other, but we work harder than anyone else."
SOUTH IREDELL
Coach:Marcus Chambers (20th season)
2025-26 results:Scored 3 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:20 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:CJ Haines
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Chambers points to a strong number of returners and a hardworking freshman class.
SOUTH MECKLENBURG
Coach:Mish Gilliam (sixth season) and co-head coach Garret Roberts (first season)
2025-26 results:Scored 15 points at the NCHSAA 8A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:14 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Sr. Liam Kinken (300, 33.97; 8A indoor 500 champion in a state-record 1:01.17, the third-fastest time in U.S. history at the time, according to his coach; also won the 8A outdoor 400 in 46.54, according to state meet results); Sr. Ethan Roesch (55, 300, 500; fourth in the 8A indoor 300).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:The coaches say the team combines "experienced, elite talent" with young athletes they expect to grow into bigger roles as the season goes on.
STATESVILLE
Coach:David Rucker (seventh season) and Alexis Holt (fifth season)
2025-26 results:Scored 13 points at the NCHSAA 6A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:12 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Soph. Chaven Rucker (55, 300 and sprint relays; 6.64 in the 55; 300 PR of 35.37; fourth in the 6A indoor 300 in 35.42; ran on the 6A runner-up 4x200 relay).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:The coaches say the bulk of the team returns, bringing the experience indoor track demands.
UNION ACADEMY
Coach:Ashley Grant (12th season)
2025-26 results:Won the NCHSAA 3A indoor title (64 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:N/A
WEDDINGTON
Coach:Rick Spencer (20th season)
2025-26 results:Runner-up at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet (45 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Sr. Amare Alsobrooks (7A outdoor long jump champion; 7A indoor long jump runner-up at 22-2.75, according to state meet results); Sr. Vedant Rai (sixth in the 7A outdoor 3,200).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:N/A
WEST CABARRUS
Coach:Darla Jones and Timothy Carter (sixth season each)
2025-26 results:Tied for eighth at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet (20 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:25 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Sean Williams (2027; long jump, triple jump; top eight in 7A); Thomas Strickland (2027; shot put; top eight); Kiran Duncan (2027; shot put); Drew Wilson (2027; 55, 300, relays); Elijah Jones (2028; 55, 300, relays); Jaiden Reid (2028; 55, 300, relays); Christian Hill (2028; hurdles, 300, relays); Nasir Plummer (2028; hurdles, 55, 300, triple jump); Cole Canipe (2028; 1,000, 1,600, 3,200); Zion Dickerson (2028; long jump, triple jump).
Key newcomers:Adriel Santos (2030; 500, 1,000, 1,600).
Outlook:The coaches list depth in the field events and experienced sprinters as strengths.
WEST IREDELL
Coach:Dan Brown (fifth season)
2025-26 results:Tied for 10th at the NCHSAA 4A indoor meet (23 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:12 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Sr. Bryant Moore (4A indoor 1,000 champion in 2:36.29, also third in the 1,600 and fourth in the 3,200, according to state meet results; can also run on the 4x800 relay); Jr. Aaron Moore, Sr. Matt MacFall and Jr. Braxon Setzer (4A state qualifiers in the 4x800 relay); Jr. Kymani Lyons-Dickens (55, long jump; outdoor regional qualifier in the 4x100 relay, 200 and long jump).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Brown says numbers are the weakness, with fewer than 20 athletes on the team, but that means more one-on-one coaching for a group with "enough seasoned veterans to improve on last season."
WEST MECKLENBURG
Coach:Fawzia Kheir (second season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:N/A (no roster yet)
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Kheir describes a dedicated group with a strong work ethic and says the program is building depth across all event groups while emphasizing academics and eligibility.
Girls' All-Observer preseason team
Colby McCollum, Cuthbertson, Jr., 1,600:Four-time state 1,600 champion; won the 7A indoor 1,600 in 4:51.22.
Isabella Kartsonis, Cuthbertson, Soph., pole vault:7A indoor champion at 12-0 as a freshman; 7A outdoor runner-up at 12-6.
Sofia Whitaker, West Cabarrus, Sr., shot put:7A indoor champion in a 7A-record 38-9.5; Adidas national champion.
Cecilia Luzarraga, Weddington, Sr., shot put:7A outdoor champion at 41-8.25; 7A indoor runner-up at 38-4.
A'riyanna Battle, Mallard Creek, Sr., triple jump:8A indoor and outdoor triple jump champion; bests of 37-3 indoors and 38-3 outdoors.
Bella Black, Mallard Creek, Jr., 55/300:8A indoor 55 champion with a PR of 6.90; third in the 300; 8A outdoor 100 champion.
Kiri Campbell, Metrolina Christian, Sr., 300/55 hurdles:NCISAA Division I indoor athlete of the year; won the 300 (40.51) and the 55 hurdles (8.28); runner-up in the 55; Naval Academy commit.
Christina Hall, Cannon School, Soph., long jump/sprints:NCISAA Division I long jump champion (17-1); third in the 55 and 300; anchored the meet-record 4x200; four state titles outdoors.
London Cromartie Patterson, Charlotte Country Day, Sr., 55/300:Independent Schools indoor champion in the 55; runner-up in the 300.
Kylia Sylvester, Butler, Sr., triple jump:7A outdoor runner-up at 37-10.5; fourth at the 7A indoor meet.
Others to watch
Amber Kropman, Cuthbertson, Sr., shot put:Third at the 7A indoor meet; podium finishes indoors and outdoors.
Jala Webster-Jackson, Mallard Creek, Soph., high jump/hurdles:8A outdoor high jump runner-up as a freshman; AAU club nationals meet record of 5-9.5.
Jessie Wrenholt, Cannon School, Jr., 500:NCISAA Division I runner-up (1:20.45).
Shai Ambroise, South Mecklenburg, Soph., 300:Fifth in the 8A indoor 300 as a freshman.
Laila Branch, Northwest Cabarrus, Sr., triple jump:Third in the 5A indoor triple jump (34-2.25).
Maya Carrickhoff, Northwest Cabarrus, Jr., pole vault:Third at the 5A indoor meet (8-6).
Ava Privette, Piedmont, Sr., shot put:Fourth at the 6A indoor meet.
Mary Rinehart, Charlotte Country Day, Jr., distance:Independent Schools runner-up in the 1,000 and third in the 1,600.
Girls' indoor track notes
KEY NOTES FROM FORMS (GIRLS)
— Cuthbertson (7A), Mallard Creek (8A) and Union Academy (3A) return as NCHSAA indoor team champions. Marvin Ridge (7A) and Myers Park (8A) were runners-up, and Charlotte Country Day was NCISAA Division I runner-up, three points behind Providence Day.
— Cuthbertson junior Colby McCollum is a four-time state 1,600 champion, and sophomore Isabella Kartsonis won the 7A pole vault as a freshman.
— Metrolina Christian's Kiri Campbell, a Naval Academy commit, was the NCISAA Division I indoor athlete of the year.
— Cannon sophomore Christina Hall won the NCISAA Division I long jump as a freshman and four state titles outdoors. Coach Darren Biehler expects the Cougars' 4x400 relay to be one of the best in the state, private or public.
— Mallard Creek adds Jala Webster-Jackson, who set an AAU club nationals meet record of 5-9.5 in the high jump this summer.
— Statesville lost the two throwers its coaches call the best in the state: Promise Lovelace (UNC Charlotte) and Iyona Reid (Howard). Northwest Cabarrus lost 5A triple jump champion Mariah Logan.
Girls' team previews
ARDREY KELL
Coach:Bradley James (first season)
2025-26 results:Eighth at the NCHSAA 8A indoor meet (31 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A (coach expects 25-30 athletes after tryouts)
Key returnees:Mikayla Coates, Tessa Tinge, Jani Carr, Stella Dailey and Jamey Hightower, all of whom scored at the 8A indoor meet last season.
Key newcomers:To be determined after the first week of practice.
Outlook:James expects the Knights to stay strong in the 55 meters, 55-meter hurdles, pole vault, long jump, 4x200 and 4x800 relays.
BALLANTYNE RIDGE
Coach:Braxton Jones (first season)
2025-26 results:Scored 6 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:0
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Jones summed up his team in four words: "Youth for strength, youth for weakness."
BUTLER
Coach:Gerrod Rivers (14th season)
2025-26 results:Scored 7 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:About 90 percent of last season's team
Key returnees:Sr. Kylia Sylvester (triple jump; 7A outdoor runner-up at 37-10.5 and fourth indoors, according to state meet results); Sr. Shae Marshall; Jr. Grayson Peters; Soph. Bailey Faggart (one of the top hurdlers in her class); Soph. Kaiyla Joseph.
Key newcomers:Fr. Olivia Young (last year's CMS middle school 100-meter champion); Fr. Kaia Forbes (ranked No. 1 in the conference in cross country).
Outlook:Rivers lists sprints, jumps, hurdles and relays as strengths and throws as the weakness.
CANNON SCHOOL
Coach:Darren Biehler (11th season)
2025-26 results:Fourth at the NCISAA Division I indoor meet, per the coach. Cannon's 4x200 relay won in a meet-record 1:46.42, according to the NCRunners Independent Schools Championships recap.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Soph. Christina Hall (NCISAA Division I indoor long jump champion at 17-1; anchored the winning 4x200; third in the 55 in 7.21 and the 300 in 41.16; won four state titles outdoors: long jump at 18-2, 100, 200 and anchor of the winning 4x100); Jr. Jessie Wrenholt (Division I runner-up in the 500 in 1:20.45 and the top returner in the event); Sr. Victoria Marion (CISAA outdoor 300 hurdles champion; Appalachian State signee; moving to the 55 hurdles); Jr. Taylar Gordon and Fr. Sakeenah Odom-Pollard (ran on the winning 4x200 and, with Wrenholt, Odom-Pollard on the winning 4x400 in 4:10.63); Jr. Jade Adams (59.68 in the 400 outdoors).
Key newcomers:8th-grader Brielle Duré (1:01.04 in the 400 as a seventh-grader).
Outlook:Biehler says Cannon returns most of the team and should be one of the favorites, and he expects the Cougars to be favored in both the 4x200 and 4x400 relays. Freshman Saadiya Davis, who ran a 1:00.25 in the 400 meters as an eighth-grader last outdoor season, also is in the mix for the 4x400 relay. Biehler said she is one of five Cannon girls who should break 60 seconds this winter, and he expects the relay to be one of the best in the state, private or public. Behind those athletes, he says, Cannon has great depth in the sprints and jumps.
CENTRAL ACADEMY OF TECHNOLOGY AND ARTS
Coach:Nathan Stewart (sixth season)
2025-26 results:Scored 2 points at the NCHSAA 4A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:25 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Soph. Katie Mayes (1,600, 1,000, 500 and relays; 5:43 in the 1,600; 4x400 state qualifier).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Stewart says the women's team is young, with a lot of multisport athletes competing in track for the first time.
CHARLOTTE CATHOLIC
Coach:Evan Georges (fifth season)
2025-26 results:Scored 14 points at the NCHSAA 6A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Sr. Virginia Gaston (1,600 meters, 5:28).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Georges lists depth as the concern.
CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN
Coach:Ralph Jones (sixth season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Sr. Gabrielle Emerson; Soph. Maile Jones.
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Jones says the Knights should be strong in the jumps and hurdles.
CHARLOTTE COUNTRY DAY
Coach:Alvin Reggie Pearman (38th season)
2025-26 results:Runner-up at the NCISAA Division I indoor meet, 109-106 behind Providence Day, according to the NCRunners Independent Schools Championships recap.
Returning starters:7
Key returnees:Sr. London Cromartie Patterson (Independent Schools indoor champion in the 55 and runner-up in the 300); Sr. Harless Lane (fourth in the 500); Jr. Mary Rinehart (runner-up in the 1,000, third in the 1,600); Sr. Anne Wyche (fourth in the 3,200); Sr. Lillian Youakim (third in the shot put); Sr. Maya Pal (runner-up in the high jump); Sr. Layla Hill (Independent Schools outdoor triple jump champion).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Pearman calls it "a veteran team that has been successful both indoors and outdoors."
CUTHBERTSON
Coach:Dustin Allen (11th season)
2025-26 results:Won the NCHSAA 7A indoor title with 83 points, six ahead of Marvin Ridge, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Jr. Colby McCollum (four-time state 1,600 champion; won the 7A indoor 1,600 in 4:51.22, according to state meet results); Soph. Isabella Kartsonis (7A indoor pole vault champion at 12-0 as a freshman and 7A outdoor runner-up at 12-6, according to state meet results); Sr. Amber Kropman (throws; third in the 7A indoor shot put and podium finishes indoors and outdoors); Sr. Ava Jones (one of the top returning jumpers in the state).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Allen says the girls will be led by "heavy hitters in each event group," but the Cougars need to develop depth in case of injuries and to build quality relays.
FOREST HILLS
Coach:Kevin Feaster (15th season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:4 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Ja'Siyah Leary (55 hurdles, 300, 4x200; all-conference).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Feaster says limited numbers make it hard to compete in every event.
GARINGER
Coach:Tanya Filmore (20th season)
2025-26 results:Scored 8 points at the NCHSAA 8A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Filmore lists field events as the strength.
HICKORY RIDGE
Coach:Stephanie Bridwell (third season)
2025-26 results:Scored 7 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:15 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Sr. Tauryn Thompson (team captain; 55, 7.73; 300, 43.44); Sr. Victoria Simulcik (55 hurdles, 9.12; long jump, 17-2.5; injured during the 2026 indoor season).
Key newcomers:Emily Crutchfield.
Outlook:Bridwell says the team is young, but its strength is a shared vision: "Run with Pride, Compete with Purpose and leaving a Legacy at Hickory Ridge."
HOUGH
Coach:Pierre Browne (third season)
2025-26 results:Scored 2 points at the NCHSAA 8A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:15 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Jenna Beyerle, Addy Bamford and Juliana Mills-Zacapa (returners from the state-qualifying 4x800 relay); McKenzie Kamara (sprints).
Key newcomers:Stella Stromberger (distance).
Outlook:Browne expects distance and the 4x800 relay to be strengths.
LAKE NORMAN
Coach:Ken Zimmerman (sixth season)
2025-26 results:Scored 10 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Jr. Claire Zimmerman (1,600, 5:11; 3,200, 11:10).
Key newcomers:Fr. Kinsley Finley (5K, 18:56).
Outlook:Zimmerman lists distance depth as a strength and field events as the weakness.
MALLARD CREEK
Coach:Antoine Sanders (14th season)
2025-26 results:Won the NCHSAA 8A indoor title with 81.5 points, 32.5 ahead of Myers Park, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:6
Key returnees:Sr. A'riyanna Battle (8A indoor and outdoor triple jump champion; bests of 37-3 indoors and 38-3 outdoors; 5-5 high jump); Jr. Bella Black (8A indoor 55 champion with a PR of 6.90, ranked in the top 10 nationally; third in the 300 at 39.8; ran on the winning 4x200; 8A outdoor 100 champion).
Key newcomers:Soph. Jala Webster-Jackson (didn't compete indoors last season; 8A outdoor high jump runner-up; won the freshman 100 hurdles at Adidas nationals, was second in the freshman 100 hurdles at New Balance nationals in 14.10, and set an AAU club nationals meet record of 5-9.5 in the high jump); Sr. Londyn Campbell (sprints and relays; played basketball last winter); Jr. Londyn Carter (sprints and relays; outdoor most improved award).
Outlook:Sanders lists the triple and high jumps and the sprint relays as strengths and middle and long distance as the weakness.
MARVIN RIDGE
Coach:Freddy Moore (20th season)
2025-26 results:Runner-up at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet (77 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:40 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:N/A
METROLINA CHRISTIAN
Coach:Brett Honeycutt (18th season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:18 girls who competed at the state meet (15 scored)
Key returnees:Sr. Kiri Campbell (NCISAA Division I indoor athlete of the year and Naval Academy commit; won the 300 in 40.51 and repeated as 55 hurdles champion in 8.28, according to the NCRunners Independent Schools Championships recap; runner-up in the 55; ran on the runner-up 4x400).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Honeycutt says senior leadership is a strength.
MONROE
Coach:Mike Engelhard (eighth season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:15
Key returnees:Soph. Jerusalen Garcia Juarez (1,000, 4x800; part of a school-record 4x800 in 2025); Soph. NyAsia Martin (55, 300, 4x200; 2025 Rocky River Conference champion in the 55 and 300; 2026 outdoor state qualifier in the 4x200); Soph. ZyAsia Martin (55, 300, 4x200, high jump; 2026 outdoor state qualifier in the 4x200 and high jump); Passion Greene (4x400, high jump, triple jump); Sr. Melani Alfaro (500, 4x400; team captain); Jr. Rosa Perez-Flores (4x800, 4x400, triple jump; school-record 4x800); Soph. Miriam Perez-Flores (4x800, 55 hurdles).
Key newcomers:Helenith Pineda, Elizabeth Mejia Melgar.
Outlook:Engelhard lists sprints, middle distance, jumps and relays as strengths.
MOORESVILLE
Coach:Deja Burks (seventh season)
2025-26 results:Scored 3 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:45-plus (boys and girls)
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Burks says a strong senior group should help fill gaps where the team is inexperienced.
MOUNT PLEASANT
Coach:Michael Johns (25th season)
2025-26 results:Scored 6 points at the NCHSAA 4A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:40 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Kelsey Gordon and Kensley Thomas (shot put; Thomas was sixth at the 4A indoor meet as a freshman, according to state meet results); Ava Caldwell and Reece Parnell (sprints); Chloe and Zoe Dailey (jumps); Harper and Lila Smith (hurdles).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Johns: "Looking forward to a great season!"
MYERS PARK
Coach:Lamont Hayes (24th season)
2025-26 results:Runner-up at the NCHSAA 8A indoor meet (49 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Jr. Micaela Henry (ninth in the 8A indoor 500, 1:19.35); Sr. Alaina Zabel (seventh in the 1,600, 5:07.68); Sr. Langston Koppang (10th in the 3,200, 11:46.86).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:N/A
NORTHWEST CABARRUS
Coach:Tyrone Pierce (sixth season)
2025-26 results:Seventh at the NCHSAA 5A indoor meet (31 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:14
Key returnees:Jr. Maya Carrickhoff (pole vault, 8-6; long jump, 14-2; third in the 5A indoor pole vault); Sr. Laila Branch (triple jump, 34-2.25; long jump, 16-0; third in the 5A indoor triple jump); Sr. Jordan McGee (55 hurdles, 300, triple jump; 300, 46.65; triple jump, 32-11; eighth in the 5A indoor triple jump); Jr. Cydney Atwood (triple jump, 30-9; 4x200 and 4x400); Sr. Isabella Di Benedetto-Wilson (pole vault, 7-0; 4x200 and 4x400).
Key newcomers:Dan'eiylah Pickett, Jiya Patel, Joyce Lin, Erin Laney.
Outlook:Pierce says the biggest challenge is depth, especially after losing Mariah Logan, the 5A indoor triple jump champion and long jump runner-up.
OLYMPIC
Coach:Jeffery Osborne (second season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:7 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Sonique Morris (team MVP, running).
Key newcomers:Jordyn Anderson, Alice Barbosa.
Outlook:Osborne lists sprints as the strength and distance as the weakness.
PIEDMONT
Coach:Kristopher Head (fourth season)
2025-26 results:Third at the NCHSAA 6A indoor meet (43.5 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:19 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Seniors Lillian Broadway, Ava Privette (fourth in the 6A indoor shot put, according to state meet results), Delaney Schie, Kennedy Long and Laiykn Privette; juniors Halle Augustine, Amelia Tyson and Mia Plascencia.
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Head says team culture is the Panthers' strength: "We have fun, we lift up and support each other, but we work harder than anyone else."
SOUTH IREDELL
Coach:Marcus Chambers (20th season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:20 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Ava Tiley, Leighton Highley, Serenity Sanders, Ava Sorenson, Adelaide Smith.
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Chambers points to a strong number of returners and a hardworking freshman class.
SOUTH MECKLENBURG
Coach:Mish Gilliam (sixth season) and co-head coach Garret Roberts (first season)
2025-26 results:Scored 13 points at the NCHSAA 8A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:14 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Soph. Shai Ambroise (55, 300, 500; fifth in the 8A indoor 300 as a freshman); Sr. Riley McNamee (1,000, 1,600; "looking to be a force in 8A," her coaches say).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:The coaches say they will focus on developing younger athletes and giving them experience in pressure situations.
STATESVILLE
Coach:David Rucker (seventh season) and Alexis Holt (fifth season)
2025-26 results:Tied for 11th at the NCHSAA 6A indoor meet (18 points), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:12 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Fr. Ja'Miyah Smith (55, 300 and sprint relays; 55 PR of 7.23; ninth in the 6A indoor 55; ran on the 4x200 that was 10th in 6A).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:The coaches say the women lost "the two top throwers in the state" in Promise Lovelace (now at UNC Charlotte) and Iyona Reid (Howard), and are looking for a new identity and a vocal leader.
UNION ACADEMY
Coach:Ashley Grant (12th season)
2025-26 results:Won the NCHSAA 3A indoor title with 116 points, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:N/A
WEDDINGTON
Coach:Rick Spencer (20th season)
2025-26 results:Scored 20 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet (11th), according to state meet results.
Returning starters:N/A
Key returnees:Sr. Cecilia Luzarraga (7A outdoor shot put champion at 41-8.25 and 7A indoor runner-up at 38-4, according to state meet results); Soph. Emma Huggins (seventh in the 7A outdoor 100).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:N/A
WEST CABARRUS
Coach:Darla Jones and Timothy Carter (sixth season each)
2025-26 results:Scored 14.5 points at the NCHSAA 7A indoor meet, according to state meet results.
Returning starters:25 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Sofia Whitaker (2027; shot put; 7A indoor champion in a 7A-record 38-9.5, according to state meet results, and an Adidas national champion); Karimah Chambers (2027; 55, 300, relays, long jump); Alyssa Jenkins (2027; high jump, triple jump; top eight in 7A); Sydney Washington (2027; shot put; top 12 in 7A); Aurora Dennis (2027; shot put); Zaraiah Brown (2028; hurdles, 500, relays); Layla Dodson (2028; 300, 500, relays); Caleigh Seugling (2028; 500, 1,000, 1,600); Kalyn Maldonado (2028; 1,600, 3,200); Chloe Patterson (2029; 300, 500, relays).
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:The coaches list depth in the field events and experienced sprinters as strengths.
WEST IREDELL
Coach:Dan Brown (fifth season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:12 (boys and girls)
Key returnees:Sr. Annie Bailey (55, 55 hurdles, 300, long jump, 4x200, and now the high jump; 55 hurdles state qualifier last season).
Key newcomers:Jr. Dejah Hairston (basketball player who will run the 55 hurdles and 4x200; outdoor regional qualifier in the hurdles and 4x100); Sr. Hailey Tharp (long jump).
Outlook:Brown says numbers are the weakness, with fewer than 20 athletes on the team.
WEST MECKLENBURG
Coach:Fawzia Kheir (second season)
2025-26 results:N/A
Returning starters:N/A (no roster yet)
Key returnees:N/A
Key newcomers:N/A
Outlook:Kheir describes a dedicated group with a strong work ethic and says the program is building depth across all event groups while emphasizing academics and eligibility.
