Wallace State Cross Country Battles Snowy Conditions at NJCAA Division II National Championships

FORT DODGE, Iowa — The Wallace State men’s and women’s cross country teams capped their seasons on the sport’s biggest stage Saturday, competing in the NJCAA Division II National Championships at Lakeside Golf Course in Fort Dodge, Iowa. After spending two days preparing in crisp but clear fall weather, the Lions awoke on race day to heavy snowfall that changed the course and the challenge entirely.

By the time the men’s race began, nearly four inches of wet snow had accumulated. Head coach Tony Crider said the conditions were unlike anything the teams had faced this season.

“We just were not ready for the conditions we faced today,” Crider said. “But they learned a valuable lesson for future seasons.”

Despite the snow and mud, both Wallace State squads earned sixth-place finishes in the national field.

Men Finish Sixth Behind Tight Pack

The men opened the day and turned in a strong team performance. Tyler Anthony led Wallace State with a 33rd-place finish, clocking 27:54.5. Close behind was Carson Masterson in 45th (28:09.3), followed by Connor McCrary in 49th (28:10.6). Elliot Denard placed 72nd (28:33.9), and Daniel Leija crossed just a step later in 73rd (28:34.0), keeping the Lions’ scoring pack closely grouped.

Morgan Earns All-American Honors as Women Take Sixth

The women’s team also finished sixth, highlighted by another standout performance from sophomore Brookelyn Morgan. Running near the front of the lead pack early, Morgan was in second place through the first kilometer and took over the race lead at the 2K mark. She battled the cold and deteriorating footing over the final stretch, ultimately crossing 10th to earn NJCAA Division II All-American honors.

“Brookelyn went out with the leaders, and she was in the top two through about a mile and a half,” Crider said. “I think she just got gassed a little bit from the snow and mud, but she persevered to finish 10th.”

Grace Gosline finished 27th (20:25.5), while Hanna Sheffield placed 49th (21:06.5). Reagan Parris rounded out the scoring group in 83rd (21:50.2).

Reflecting on a Championship Season

Crider praised not only his runners but also the support staff and administration behind the program.

“I’m really thankful for Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics, Kristen Holmes, Athletic Director Paul Bailey, and all of the administrative staff, along with my assistant coaches,” Crider said. “They’ve been vital to all of our success this year. We couldn’t do any of this without them. It’s been a good year. I’m very proud of all of my runners.”

Looking ahead to next season, Crider noted that the 2025 NJCAA Division II National Championship course returns to familiar territory, Huntsville’s John Hunt Park, where Wallace State has built many of its most significant moments.

“We will be back to contend for a national championship when it is run in Huntsville,” he said.

The Lions return home with two sixth-place national finishes, an All-American, and valuable experience for the journey ahead.