COLUMBUS – Columbus State University men's and women's cross-country teams are set to begin the 2025 campaign with high energy and determination, as both squads look to exceed expectations in the Peach Belt Conference and make their mark on the national stage.
Men's Team Outlook
In the PBC preseason coaches' poll, the Columbus State men tied for fifth place with Lander, earning 29 points. Led by seniors
Blake Lewis and
Owen Hartshorn, the Cougars bring valuable experience to a roster that also features talented underclassmen. With Augusta and Flagler sitting atop the conference rankings, CSU is eager to close the gap and push for a top-four finish.
Women's Team Outlook
The Lady Cougars were picked eighth in the preseason poll with 42 points. A youthful roster, highlighted by sophomore
Layla Albright, and freshman runners
Anna Norton,
Noah Griffeth,
Elizabeth Harris, and
Emmalee Johnson. The team's focus will be on steady development through the fall, with an eye on climbing the standings by the conference championship.
Season Goals
Head Coach Xavier Matthews emphasized that both squads are committed to steady improvement throughout the season. "Our goal is to be at our best in October and November," said Matthews. "With the mix of veteran leadership and new energy, we believe both teams can outperform their preseason rankings and shake up the Peach Belt Conference."
The Cougars' schedule features five regular-season meets before postseason competition:
- Sept. 5 – VSU Border Clash (Valdosta, Ga.)
- Sept. 12 – UNG Invitational (Dahlonega, Ga.)
- Sept. 19 – Willie Laster Invitational (Albany, Ga.)
- Sept. 26 – GCSU Bobcat Invite (Milledgeville, Ga.)
- Oct. 11 – CAU Panther Invitational (Atlanta, Ga.)
For more information, visit: CSUCougars.com
