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Cortni Kruizenga, Sycamore, jr., MF/F
Kruizenga scored 21 times last year and assisted on five other goals. She was an all-conference selection in the Interstate 8 and was a Daily Chronicle All-Area first-team pick. The Spartans appear to be loaded in the back, so if she and Izzie Segreti make leaps from their sophomore years to their senior seasons, it should be a big year for the Spartans,
Faith Schroeder, Sycamore, sr., D
Starting May 1 last year, the Spartans gave up two goals the rest of the season. And although goalie and Daily Chronicle Player of the Year Tayla Brannstrom graduated, Schroeder is back after making the All-Interstate 8 and All-Area teams.
Zoe Gannon, Kaneland, sr., D/F
The Knights had a great defense last year, and Gannon was a big part of their success. She was an All-Interstate 8 and All-Area selection. This year, she may also see some time at forward.
Kyra Lilly, Kaneland, jr., MF
The Knights will be down a little firepower from last season, so Lilly is poised to improve her numbers from a year ago. She had 12 goals and eight assists and was an All Interstate 8 and All-Area pick.
Izzy Turner, Indian Creek, sr., MF
Indian Creek didn’t field a team last year after a record-setting 2023 campaign. Turner is one of a surprisingly large number of players who played on that senior-laden team two years ago. If the Timberwolves are going to push the heights of 2023 – 17 wins and a regional title – then Turner will be a big factor.