August 25, 2015
By Jim Brandt, assistant cross country coach

HCAC Women's Coaches Poll  I  HCAC Men's Coaches Poll

BLUFFTON, Ohio - The Bluffton University Cross Country season commences Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m. on the home course and there is much to be excited about heading into the 2015 campaign. The men's team returns all of last year’s top five scoring runners and adds a great freshman class to the existing roster.

Junior and reigning HCAC champion Jack Fisher (Norwalk/St. Paul) appears poised to deliver a season that will surpass his superb 2014 performances. Senior Captain Zach Bradley (Sheffield/Brookside) has designs on an All-Heartland Conference placing and coming off a track season that saw him establish new school records at the 5,000m distance indoors and the 10,000m race outdoors this goal is definitely achievable.

Sophomores Chris Tatom (Greenfield, Ind./Greenfield Central) and Kris Lyons (Vickery/Margaretta) had solid freshman seasons last year and with maturity as well as that all important element of college experience are ready to make a big leap forward in the college ranks. Add to this foursome a cast of talented newcomers and it is logical to expect the Bluffton harriers to continue their improvement in 2015.

The women's team also remains virtually intact while adding a host of quality freshmen. Junior Anna Hairston (Mansfield/Ontario), who had a stellar track season both indoors and out last year is primed to lead the ladies to a breakout season. She will be closely supported by sophomore Alissa Hauke (Hillsboro) who is coming off of a very strong track season. Incoming athletes with talent and commitment as well as a solid core of returnees will undoubtedly add significantly to the upward climb of the women's team.

Head Coach Karen Brandt, beginning her fifth year at Bluffton says, "This team, both men and women, have me very excited to get the season rolling. This group has through the summer training shown commitment in doing their miles and impresses me with the potential that they hold. The fourth of September, the beginning of the meets, should be revealing."

Come out to the Nature Preserve and see the Beavers in action at 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 4.

-BEAVERS-