Cross Country Season is quickly approaching as teams are finishing up their summer training plans and heading to campus for their first days of practice. Let's take a look at the teams we believe will be heading into the season with some high expectations to be the best HBCU in the country.
5. Grambling State- the SWAC runner ups, the Tigers look to overtake ASU in the SWAC. However, they will need to fill a major void, as their #2, Halima Chepkwony has graduated. After, Naomi Kiprop, the leading returner at 18:47, they have 3 runners in the 20 minute range. Those ladies who have to improve for them to have a shot at the title.
4. North Carolina A&T- not just a Track and Field school, the Aggies have developed a pretty solid distance program. They are led by G’Jasmyne Butler, who boasts a 18:52 PR. They have 2 other runners in the 19 minute range. The MEAC is a tough conference to win with FAMU and Norfolk more distance-focused, however A&T is not to be slept on.
3. Alabama State- the defending SWAC Champions return everyone to compete for back to back titles. They are led by Arion Span, who is more of an 800-1500 specialist. However, she comes on the track to lead the Hornets with a PR of 18:33. They also have 2 women who run in the 19 minute range. As they all continue to grow we could see ASU move up in the rankings.
2. Norfolk State-Led by Preseason Runner of the Year and Ms. Do Everything, Martha Bissah, the Spartans look to end the year as MEAC Champions and qualifying for NCAA Nationals. They were one point away from capturing the title last year and should use that as fuel to push them to a team title this year. Losing Candice Higgins will be a big blow but they do return a contingent of women who have run consistently in the 19 minute range. They will have to be 18 minute women to have a chance to compete with FAMU.
1. Florida A&M- the reigning MEAC Champions narrowly squeaked away the title by defeating Norfolk State by one point. Led by Emmax Kiplagat, they look to defend their title and an NCAA Regionals and Nationals berth. With 2 runners in the 17 minute range and 2 in the 18 minute range, they look to use their top heavy squad to overwhelm opponents. However, they will need 5 and 6 to score well in order to secure the win because NSU is coming for them.
You think we missed a team. We would love to know. Comment belowr or email at hbcutrackandfield.com and let us know what you think about the rankings.
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