DECATUR, Illinois— For the Millikin cross country program, the start of a new season feels a little like Christmas Eve. Anticipation is high, energy is contagious, and both squads are eager to take the next step in 2025. After a summer of dedicated training, the Big Blue return to action with the goal of climbing in both the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) and the NCAA Midwest Region.

"The work ethic from this group has been phenomenal," said Head Coach Craycraft. "Cross country is built on the work you put in alone over the summer, and this team showed up ready. It's laid a great foundation for what we can accomplish together."

The men's roster boasts a healthy mix of veteran leadership and disciplined newcomers ready to make an impact. Sophomore Reese Peters and junior Brock Richards, former high school teammates, headline the returners and are expected to set the tone for the squad. Joining them is Aiden Pacunas, who brings toughness and experience to the group.

Freshman Jack Fischer arrives from St. Joseph-Ogden High School with a strong running pedigree and a natural fit with the team. "Jack gets it," said Craycraft. "He comes from a great program, has the right mindset, and he already loves being part of this group."

On the women's side, the story is youth. With a large freshman class and a strong sophomore core, the Big Blue are ready to make noise despite limited upperclassman presence. Sophomores Brooklyn Sweikar and Teyla Wendt return as leaders, setting the standard in both training and culture.

One of the most inspiring stories comes from Brynn Behrmann, a sophomore from Mascoutah. After telling her coach about skydiving for her birthday—just to prove to her friends she could do it— Behrmann has shown the same fearless mindset in workouts this fall. "That kind of courage translates," Craycraft said. "She's been incredible in training, and we're excited to see how that shows up on race day."

Millikin will test itself early at the Gil Dodds Invitational hosted by Wheaton on September 20. The meet annually attracts some of the Midwest's top programs and serves as a key checkpoint for national at-large consideration. "That's when the real season starts," said Craycraft. "It tells us where we stand and what we need to do moving forward."

The Big Blue also have their eyes on the CCIW Championships, aiming to improve on last year's team results. Both the men and women are determined to move up in the standings and put themselves in position for postseason success.

Perhaps most exciting thing is the culture that has taken root. Millikin cross country has established itself as a serious program, with standards that continue to rise year after year. "What used to be good enough is no longer good enough," said Craycraft. "Even with so much youth, this team understands the call—and they're ready to answer it."

The Big Blue will continue their season at the Prairie Star Invitational in Springfield, Illinois on September 5. Fans can follow along at athletics.millikin.edu and on Millikin Athletics' social media channels throughout the fall.