McHenry County Sports

Brian Taege, a Jacobs graduate who played soccer and baseball for the Golden Eagles, has been named the school's next head boys soccer coach. Taege replaces Colin Brice, who led the program to two regional titles and a sectional title over the last eight seasons.

High school football practice officially starts Wednesday, and the Northwest Herald will run team previews next week. In the meantime, here are five storylines to watch in 2026.

Adam Anwar, who ranks second on McHenry basketball's all-time scoring list, is headed to a prep school in New Hampshire after graduating from high school in May. The 6-foot-8 forward recently received a Division-I offer from Vermont.

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With junior quarterback Colin Hernon and key senior leaders in Max Kinney, Mike Schmid, Wilson Jakubowicz and George Kordopitoulas all returning, Marian Central will look to end a nine-year playoff drought under first-year coach Dirk Stanger.

Huntley football players prepare for the upcoming football season during a football scrimmage against Belvedere North on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Huntley High School.

Sam Vandello will look to lead Marengo to more wins and passing yards in his second season as the Indians' starting QB. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound senior threw for over 1,500 yards as a junior, helping Marengo to its most wins since 2019.

Prairie Ridge football players prepare for the upcoming football season during a football scrimmage against Saint Viator on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Grant High School, in Fox Lake.

Prairie Ridge wingback Jesse Kautz missed all but five plays of his junior season after tearing up his right knee. He's healthy this year and is expected to be a key player for the defending Fox Valley Conference champions.