Fall Sports Season Kicks Off: Key Storylines Unveiled Now

UPDATE: The 2023 fall sports season is officially upon us, and local teams are gearing up for an exhilarating array of competitions. As athletes prepare to take the field, court, and pool, several compelling storylines are emerging that fans need to watch closely.

Girls Flag Football: The Bradley-Bourbonnais Boilermakers are aiming to build on their historic inaugural season in IHSA Girls Flag Football. Last fall, they made headlines by placing fourth at the state finals held at Willowbrook High School. With key players like junior running back Nevaeh Brown and sophomore quarterback Elise Munsterman returning, the Boilermakers look poised for another strong run. Their local rivals, the Kankakee Kays, are also gearing up after winning a regional title last year, seeking a deeper run this season.

Girls Cross Country: Watch for Manteno’s Klarke Goranson, a freshman star who is already making waves after a remarkable middle school career. Goranson placed second at the Morris Early Bird Invite and clinched first at both the Herscher Invite and Illinois Central Eight Conference Championships. With a personal best of 17:08.16 in the three-mile, she is a strong contender for state success as she embarks on her high school journey.

Boys Golf: Peyton Serafin of Beecher is aiming for even greater heights following his third-place finish at the Class 1A State Tournament, just three strokes away from the title with a score of 146. As he heads into his senior season, Serafin will rely on returning teammates including Ben Anaclerio and Charlie Nowak to help maintain their competitive edge after the graduation of key players.

Girls Tennis: The Bradley-Bourbonnais girls tennis team is set to continue its dominance in the All-City championship, though they faced stiff competition last season from the Kankakee Kays. After narrowly edging Kankakee 17-13 for the title, the Boilermakers are determined to hold their ground with senior Mary Claire Dwyer, the reigning All-City singles champion, leading the charge.

Girls Swimming: In an exciting revival, the Bishop McNamara swimming program returns this fall after more than a decade-long hiatus. As the girls’ season begins later this month, all three All-City schools—Bradley-Bourbonnais, Kankakee, and Bishop McNamara—will have swimmers ready to compete. The return of the Irish is set to shake up the local swimming scene as they aim to build a competitive program.

As the fall sports season heats up, fans can expect thrilling matchups and inspiring performances. Stay tuned for live updates and highlights as these local athletes strive for excellence. This season promises to be one of the most memorable yet, with every game and meet bringing new excitement to the community.