Iowa commit Carly Dawson and seniors Kami Barth and Kadie Bishop lead a Washington team that looks to stay strong in Paloma Simundic's second year with the Panthers.

Washington has goals of winning a sectional title and more as the Panthers establish themselves as an area power.

Metamora soccer has potential to be one of the area's biggest dark horses with a team led by 11 seniors.

Metamora volleyball is hoping to get back to a familiar position as key players such as Ella Miller, Mia Stivers and Ava Puntoni lead the Redbirds.

Metamora has a well-rounded team that is eager to be in the mix for a conference title in head coach Nick Delinski's first season.

Dunlap is optimistic that strong line play, several talented rushers, and Mack Sutter can lead them to another postseason appearance.

Dunlap alum Leah Miller returns home in her first year coaching the Eagles, who boast lots of versatility and leadership.

Dunlap soccer has strength up top and on defense as the Eagles have reasons to believe they can break a sectional title drought.

Dee-Mack football will be led by new quarterback Zack Day and multiple key returners at skill positions as they hope to leave their stamp on the program.

After an early postseason loss in 2024, Dee-Mack volleyball has a fire lit under it and returns lots of experience and size.

Returning more than half of its offensive line, PND football carries size, depth and a re-loaded rushing attack as it vies for another playoff berth.

Experience, and hopefully health, will be on Peoria Notre Dame's side this season as the Irish volleyball team gears up behind multiple all-conference returners.

PND soccer is making a big jump up to Class 3A with a new look, but has plenty of defensive experience and belief it can challenge for another state title.

Girls tennis players from the Mid-Illini and Normal lead the way in CSM's series highlighting the top up-and-coming athletes in Central Illinois

Take a look at the best up-and-comers in girls cross country in Central Illinois, including four juniors, four sophomores and a freshman.

Take a look at nine boys cross country standouts in Central Illinois who've shown lots of promise early in their careers.

Washington senior and multi-sport athlete Diya Iyer has an impressive leadership resume and added to it at a recent national conference

Emily Burke takes over as Illini Bluffs' new athletic director, succeding Steve Schaefer who retired after 11 years in the position.

Soccer coach Zach Statham is returning to the Mid-Illini and is getting ready to lead Morton's boys and girls programs.

CSM's "They're Up Next" series continues with nine Central Illinois girls golf standouts who have big things on the horizon.