Western Wayne Today

Wayne State University's men's and women's cross country teams are preparing for the GLIAC Championships set to take place in Big Rapids, Michigan. The event will be hosted by Ferris State University at the Katke Golf Course. The men's team will participate in an eight-kilometer race starting at 11:00 AM, while the women's team will compete in a six-kilometer race beginning at 11:45 AM.

The men's team aims to secure the top individual spot again this year, following Ransom Allen's performance last year with a time of 24:19.00. On the women's side, Wayne State is looking to win their first title since Rachelle Malette's victory in 2008.

The women's team features several runners with previous experience in the GLIAC Championships. These athletes include Robin Bresolin, Mattie Drennan, Emily Gordon, Sarah Greb, Reagan Justice, Aubrey Migoski, Annalee Misch, and Briana Vojinov. Additionally, Natalie Davies, Anna Gdowski, Taylor Hopkins, and Emilee Rudlaff will compete for the first time.

For the men’s squad, Tyler Buchanan leads a group that includes Adam Hafeli, Brady Heron, Carson Nicoletti, Jared Platt, and Anthony Vinson who have previously competed in GLIAC Championships. Making their debut are Tyler Brothers, Griffin Conway, Ty Nagy, Sean Pettis Gabe Trevino and Andrew Yax.

Head Coach Grant Lofdahl shared his thoughts on both teams’ prospects:

"I am really excited to see our guys step up at the GLIAC meet this weekend," Lofdahl stated about the men's team. "We have a young squad... these guys have put in a lot of work and are feeling excited and confident heading into championship season."

Lofdahl highlighted key performers such as Tyler Buchanan and Carson Nicoletti: "Tyler Buchanan has been our leader on the course all season... Carson Nicoletti is poised for a big performance as well."

Regarding competition from other teams like Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and Michigan Tech among others Lofdahl added: "But the ability of our crew to compete at a high level is significant..."

On discussing women’s team potential he mentioned: "This is a veteran group we have competing... I think our chances of a breakthrough race this weekend are pretty high." He noted standout athletes like Reagan Justice aiming for her fourth all-GLIAC award along with Briana Vojinov targeting first-team recognition.

With strong performances expected from Emily Gordon Taylor Hopkins amongst others Coach Lofdahl acknowledged tough opponents but remained optimistic saying: "...our mentality is that there's only one place to go from there."