Women's Cross Country wins NCAC Championships

Ohio Wesleyan University’s Women’s Cross Country team won the North Coast Atlantic

Conference Championship for the first time in program history on November 1, 2025.

Increased competition came with the addition of John Carroll to the NCAC this year.

OWU Head Cross Country Coach Ben Carlson said the stakes were raised, but he had

known these women could become champions.

“We certainly knew we were more than capable, that [winning conference] was one of

our big goals. The conference was incredibly competitive this year, and so not until the

people crossed the line, did, we know we actually won,”

Brianna Montgomery, an OWU cross country runner who came in third place at the

conference meet, was excited about the conference win and making history.

“At first, when we had won, I didn’t know it was the first title in Cross Country OWU

history.” She went on to explain how being the first women’s team in Ohio Wesleyan

history was an additional benefit and “cherry on top” of the entire experience.

Through the hard work and dedication, the conference title felt earned.

“We didn’t expect it, but it felt like… something we’ve been working towards for a long

time. So, I wouldn’t say we were surprised in that regard... It was just like everything

paid off; you feel capable. After you do that it’s, ‘ok we’ve done this, we’ve worked so

hard towards it. And of course we’re happy, but now we feel even stronger.’”

Every woman ran an average of 50 miles per week over the summer and cross country

season, which largely contributed to their conference win.

“Summer miles bring fall smiles,” said Montgomery.

Because the team was scattered across the country over summer break, each woman

ran individually. Montgomery and her teammates would send motivational and

inspirational messages to their team group chat to encourage one another and remind

each other that they were not alone.

Montgomery recalled smiling as she ran and didn’t realize she was in third place until

the final lap. These women prioritized their sisterhood, culture, and having fun while

competing.

“We focused on growing ourselves,” Montgomery said.

When speaking with Kris Boey, the head track and field and cross country coach, he

reiterated how the team’s development, personally and skill-wise, was incredible.

“They had a common purpose, they loved one another, they loved being teammates,

and that, coupled with some really good training, allowed their talent to shine.” Coach Boey said, “When enjoying what you’re doing and you’re surrounded by the right

people, it makes all the difference in the world. They deserved it.”