Cross Country Ready to Begin 2024 Season at Kenyon

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – The Mount Vernon Nazarene University men's and women's cross-country teams are ready to begin their 2024 season this Friday, August 31, at the Port Kenyon Opener in Gambier, Ohio.

The women's team will set off at 7:00 pm, while the men will start at 7:30 pm.

Simon Taylor, the head coach for the men's and women's cross-country teams, had this to say about his team entering the new season. "I am excited to see what God has in store for our men's and women's team this season. We are focusing on the process and doing the little things." Taylor, who is in his fifth year of coaching at MVNU, also had this to say about his team's growth. "I have seen a lot of change in a positive way from our returners. We are a very young team overall and our upperclassmen have really stepped into their leadership roles. We are focusing on worshiping God with the talents He has given us".

The women's cross-country team is bringing a dynamic and enthusiastic group of athletes to the starting line. With a blend of experienced runners and promising new talent, the Lady Cougars are looking forward to having a strong 2024 season. Seniors, Elly Coe, Macy Thorne, and Julia Kanagy are ready to help lead their team on and off the course this season.

The men's cross-country team is also excited about what is ahead in 2024. Taylor is focused on building this team and working with all the new faces on the roster. MVNU graduated six seniors from last year's roster and has six freshmen coming in who are looking to fill the void. Juniors, Alex Hayden and Mason Hendrickson are the upperclassmen competing in the fall and are looking to provide leadership for the team. Evan Hodkinson is redshirting for the 2024 cross-country season.

Both the men's and women's teams are looking forward to a season full of challenges and opportunities in a loaded Crossroads League. With strong leadership and dedicated athletes, MVNU cross-country is ready for an exciting 2024 campaign.

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students, and working adults. With a 327-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education both in-seat and online to nearly 2,000 students from 25 states and 11 foreign countries.