What's Happening?
The BYU women's cross-country team has been ranked No. 1 in the 2025 NCAA Division I women's cross-country national coaches' preseason poll. The Cougars were unanimously chosen for the top spot, reflecting high expectations for the upcoming season. This ranking comes after BYU's successful 2024 season, where they won the NCAA championship. The team returns several key contributors, including Riley Chamberlain and Taylor Rohatinsky, and has added freshman standout Jane Hedengren. The men's team is also recognized, ranked No. 4 in the men's preseason poll.
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Why It's Important?
The preseason ranking highlights BYU's strong position in collegiate cross-country, setting high expectations for the team to maintain their top performance. The women's team's unanimous selection as No. 1 underscores their dominance and potential to defend their national title. The men's team's top-five ranking also indicates a promising season ahead. These rankings can boost team morale and attract attention from sponsors and recruits, further strengthening BYU's cross-country program.
What's Next?
As the season progresses, both the BYU women's and men's teams will aim to live up to their preseason rankings. The women's team will focus on defending their national title, while the men's team will strive to improve their standing and challenge for the championship. The addition of new talent like Jane Hedengren will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge. The teams will need to navigate their schedules strategically to peak at the right time for the NCAA championships.
