1. Winthrop boys: The Ramblers finished fourth in the Mountain Valley Conference last year and were the runner-up to Dirigo at the South regionals. They return one of the best runners in Class C, junior Alfie Cognata, who had top-five outings throughout the regular season and could challenge Dirigo’s William Morris as the best male runner in the class. The Ramblers also return junior Sam St. Germain, who had a top-10 performance at MVCs.

2. Mt. Blue boys: Entering her 33rd season, coach Kelley Cullenberg always puts together a competitive team, and this fall should be no exception. The Cougars graduated three athletes, including top runner Henri McCourt, but have some strong returners, including seniors Ben Hatch, Nick Bell, Luke Doscinski and Tyler Rackliff. The group has already shown some early season progress and should be competitive in the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference.

3. Mt. Blue girls: It’s a similar situation on the girls side in Farmington, as the Cougars lost five to graduation, including top runner Nora McCourt. Senior Elizabeth Strickland leads the squad, along with juniors Elsa Feegel and Lily Jackson and sophomore Karoline Gonzales. The team has added a strong group of newcomers, including senior Eliza Stinson. Like the boys, the Mt. Blue girls should be competitive in the conference.

4. Messalonskee boys: The Eagles finished third at the KVAC championships last fall. They graduated Beckett Cote and Pierce Coughlin, their two top runners, but return junior Evan Crockett and senior Noah Oliver, who should pace the team. If Messalonskee can develop its depth, it should have a strong season in the conference.

5. Madison girls: The Bulldogs return several top runners and could be among the teams in the thick of the MVC title race. Junior Leah Harper, who finished eighth (21:03.13) at the Class C championships, and senior Bryanna Hagopian (16th at states) are the top returnees. If the team can round out its depth, it could have a shot at a conference crown.