The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference revealed its preseason coaches' polls for cross country, highlighting MSUM's athletes. Katelyn Kennedy and Chase Hoechst are MSUM's 'athletes to watch', with the women's team projected to finish 10th and the men's team second. Winona State tops the women's poll while Augustana leads the men's. The MSUM coaching staff expresses optimism about the team鈥檚 mix of experienced returners and talented new additions for the upcoming season.

By the Numbers
  • The Dragon women are predicted to finish 10th with 96 points.
  • The men鈥檚 team is expected to finish second with 182 points and one first-place vote.
State of Play
  • Katelyn Kennedy had a standout season, finishing as Moorhead's top finisher in NSIC and NCAA championships.
  • Chase Hoechst was fourth at the NSIC championships and is expected to build on his previous success.
What's Next

The 2026 cross country season kicks off at the Dragon Twilight Invitational on September 4, where teams will compete from Alex Nemzek Stadium.

Bottom Line

Both Kennedy and Hoechst's recognition underscores MSUM鈥檚 competitive potential this season, setting high expectations for strong performances in the coming races.