The men’s and women’s cross country teams hosted their season opener at Hayden Park, with three runners from both teams finishing in their teams’ respective top six, despite an overall defeat by nearby Great Midwest Athletic Conference rival Findlay University. This five-kilometer dual meet at Hayden Park was the first home meet Hillsdale has hosted in four years. 

Senior Richie Johnston placed third and Lansing Community College transfer junior Gabriel Phillips placed fifth. Only three seconds behind Phillips, senior Ross Kuhn placed sixth. 

“We have a strong top five and some really promising freshmen,” Kuhn said. “Next week, at Wayne State University, we will see exactly what the team is made of.” 

The women’s team placed two freshmen runners in the top five.

Freshman Evyn Humphrey won her first collegiate meet, and freshman Allison Kuzma placed fifth. Sophomore Savannah Fraley finished sixth, bringing a third runner across the line in the top six for the Chargers. 

“I think this dual meet is a great start to my career as a collegiate athlete,” Humphrey said. “I was proud to represent my school and my team.” 

Junior Anna Roberts reflected on the race with gratitude for the opportunity to be on the team.

“I really enjoyed racing on the new course alongside my teammates,” Roberts said. “I feel even more motivated for the upcoming season after the race this past Friday.” 

The Charger men’s and women’s teams will compete at the Wayne State University Warrior Challenge in New Boston, Michigan, on Sept. 13.