Lycoming News

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. -- With a United East Conference championship, five all-conference runners, and the coach of the year, 2023 was a notable year for the Penn College men's cross-country team. The core of this successful team returns this fall. Additionally, the women's squad is expected to perform well this season. The Wildcats open their season at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, hosting Lycoming College.

"Our season is off to a good start. Scheduling practice times around classes and labs is always a challenge for our students, but we are making it work. Overall, I am optimistic about both our women's and men's teams," third-year coach Tom Leeser said. "The women have added four new runners with solid high school experience and one returns after a semester away. This is the most depth that our women have had in recent years," Leeser continued.

"The women will be led by top returner Elaina Brady of McConnellsburg, a sophomore, and senior Kayleigh Miller of Sayre. Both of them bring solid leadership and positive attitudes to the team. Our goal is to log some quality miles, improve as the season goes on, and hopefully claim a top-three spot at the conference meet. Being consistent in our training and staying healthy will be important," the coach said.

On the men's side, Leeser said, "We return most of our team that claimed the UE championship last fall. First-team all-conference selections including junior Mitchell Campbell of Riegelsville; junior Matthew Woolcock of Oil City; and senior Alec Rees of Centerport, N.Y., bring running talent and excellent leadership skills. Also returning are sophomore UE third-team honorees Holden Furey of Williamsport and Jacob Parker of Weatherly."

"We have added five newcomers with a wide range of experience. One was a high school district champion; others have good high school resumes; and a few are new to competitive running."

"I am anticipating some healthy competition for our top five spots throughout the season. While other teams will surely be improved, we will look to be in top form for the UE championship in November. Mitch will strive for another top-three individual finish, with the rest of our pack aiming for the top 10."

"Both teams will face strong NCAA Division II and III competition at our regular season invitationals in preparation for the championship season."

St. Mary's (Md.) College, the defending women's champ, will host the conference championships on Nov. 2, with 16 women's and 15 men's teams competing.

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