The UIS men's cross country team has been ranked third of 12 teams in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) preseason coaches' poll for the fall 2025 season. This recognition positions UIS among the top contenders in the conference as they prepare to embark on a promising season.

The GLVC preseason coaches' poll is a significant indicator of how teams are perceived within the conference, providing insight into the competitive landscape ahead of the season. The poll is based on the collective opinion of the conference's coaches, reflecting both past performances and expectations for the upcoming season.

UIS accumulated 100 points in the poll, placing behind Lewis, which garnered 121 points and 11 first-place votes, and Drury, with 109 points and one first-place vote. Following UIS, Missouri S&T and Southwest Baptist round out the top five with 83 and 76 points, respectively.

The UIS men's cross country team has consistently performed well in the GLVC, having finished in the top three at the conference meet every year since 2019. The team notably won the GLVC Championship in 2022 and placed third at the GLVC Championship last season. Additionally in 2024, the team achieved a commendable ninth place at the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional.

UIS will benefit from the return of key athletes in the upcoming season, including reigning GLVC Freshman of the Year Dom Cantarini, and All-GLVC runners Joey Karley and Noah Tegeler. The team also includes experienced runners Brock Loftus and Matt Padilla, who narrowly missed All-GLVC honors last year. Furthermore, UIS has strengthened its roster with both graduate and undergraduate transfers and four new freshmen.

The Prairie Stars will kick off their season at the 10th Annual Prairie Star Invitational on Sept. 5, where they will compete against several GLVC opponents. A significant challenge awaits them in mid-October at the Lewis Crossover, known for its high-caliber Division II cross country competition.

The UIS men's cross country team is poised to build on its established success, and the preseason ranking reflects the anticipation and support they hold within the conference.

GLVC Poll and Story