Chicago Sun-Times All-State

Class 4A

First team

Jewell Loyd 5-10 sr. G Niles West

Megan Podkowa 6-1 sr. F Trinity

Janee Thompson 5-7 sr. G Young

Morgan Tuck 6-2 sr. F Bolingbrook

Haley Videckis 6-0 sr. F Bartlett

Second team

Meredith Boardman 6-1 sr. F Fenwick

Linnae Harper 5-8 jr. G Young

Emmonnie Henderson 6-2 jr. F Edwardsville

Maggie Lyon 6-1 sr. F New Trier

Becca Smith 5-8 sr. G South Elgin

Class 3A

First team

Shannise Heady 5-11 sr. G Hillcrest

Sarah Livingston 6-1 jr. F Morton

Katie Meador 5-11 sr. F Salem

Zahna Medley 5-6 sr. G Springfield

Brooke Schulte 5-10 sr. F Breese Mater Dei

Second team

Samirah Ali 5-2 sr. G Hillcrest

Tianna Brown 6-0 sr. F Montini

Maggie Cunningham 5-9 sr. F Peoria Richwoods

Devan Griffin 6-0 sr. F Geneseo

Briya Wilborn 5-8 sr. G St. Joseph

Class 2A

Tyra Buss 5-6 so. G Mount Carmel, Ill.

Nikki Dizon 5-8 sr. G Latin

Jordan Frericks 6-1 jr. F Quincy Notre Dame

Kassidy Gengenbacher 5-10 jr. F Quincy Notre Dame

Jessie Wendt 5-11 sr. F Teutopolis

Class 1A

Sophie Brunner 6-0 jr. F Freeport Aquin

Micah Jones 6-1 jr. C Cowden-Herrick/ Beecher City

Taylor McClintock 5-10 jr. G Illini Bluffs

Kaitlin Phillips 5-6 sr. G Hinckley-Big Rock

Celina VanHyfte 6-0 so. F Annawan

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Title: Chicago Sun-Times All-State: Honoring Excellence in Illinois High School Sports

Introduction

In the world of Illinois high school sports, few accolades carry as much prestige as being named to the Chicago Sun-Times All-State team. This annual recognition highlights the most exceptional student-athletes across various sports, celebrating their achievements, dedication, and talent. In this article, we will delve into the Chicago Sun-Times All-State program, exploring its history, significance, selection process, notable athletes, and answering frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of this esteemed honor in the realm of high school sports.

The History and Significance

The Chicago Sun-Times All-State program has a rich history that dates back decades. It is a testament to the newspaper's commitment to recognizing and celebrating the outstanding talent and achievements of Illinois high school athletes.

Celebrating Excellence:

Sports Coverage: The Chicago Sun-Times has been a leading source of sports coverage in Illinois, and the All-State program is a natural extension of this dedication.

Tradition of Excellence: Over the years, the program has celebrated the achievements of countless athletes who have gone on to excel in collegiate and professional sports.

Significance:

Prestigious Honor: Being named to the Chicago Sun-Times All-State team is a prestigious honor that signifies an athlete's exceptional talent and dedication to their sport.

College Recruitment: For many student-athletes, this recognition can play a pivotal role in their college recruitment process, opening doors to scholarship opportunities.

The Selection Process

The process of selecting athletes for the Chicago Sun-Times All-State team is meticulous and thorough. It involves several key steps:

1. Nominations:

Coaches, sports writers, and readers of the Chicago Sun-Times nominate student-athletes who have demonstrated exceptional skill and performance during the season.

2. Review and Evaluation:

A panel of sports experts and journalists reviews the nominations and evaluates the athletes based on their statistics, performance, and contributions to their teams.

3. Verification:

The information provided in the nominations is verified to ensure accuracy and fairness in the selection process.

4. Announcement:

Once the selection is finalized, the Chicago Sun-Times announces the All-State team for each sport, celebrating the selected athletes in print and online.

Notable Chicago Sun-Times All-State Athletes

Throughout the years, numerous athletes who were named to the Chicago Sun-Times All-State team have gone on to achieve great success in their respective sports. Here are a few notable examples:

1. Derrick Rose (Basketball):

Before becoming an NBA superstar, Derrick Rose was a Chicago Sun-Times All-State selection during his high school career at Simeon Career Academy.

2. Candace Parker (Basketball):

Candace Parker, a prominent figure in women's basketball, received All-State honors during her time at Naperville Central High School.

3. Rashard Mendenhall (Football):

The former NFL running back was a Chicago Sun-Times All-State selection during his high school football career at Niles West High School.

4. Dee Brown (Basketball):

Dee Brown, known for his time with the University of Illinois and the NBA, was an All-State honoree during his days at Proviso East High School.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which sports are included in the Chicago Sun-Times All-State program?

The program covers a wide range of high school sports, including basketball, football, soccer, baseball, softball, volleyball, wrestling, and more.

How many athletes are typically selected for the All-State team in each sport?

The number of athletes selected can vary depending on the sport and the level of talent in a given year. Typically, it includes a first team, second team, and honorable mentions.

Is the Chicago Sun-Times All-State recognition limited to specific regions of Illinois?

No, the program is not limited to specific regions. It aims to recognize outstanding athletes from across the state of Illinois.

Do athletes receive physical awards or certificates for being named to the All-State team?

While the specific recognition may vary, athletes typically receive certificates or plaques commemorating their All-State selection.

Conclusion

The Chicago Sun-Times All-State program stands as a testament to the excellence and dedication of Illinois high school athletes. It is a platform that not only celebrates their accomplishments but also provides well-deserved recognition for their hard work and talent. For many student-athletes, being named to the All-State team is a highlight of their high school sports careers, and it often paves the way for future success in collegiate and professional sports. As the tradition continues, it will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of athletes to strive for greatness on the field, court, or track, with the hope of one day earning a spot among the Chicago Sun-Times All-State elite.