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Vincennes University

Trailblazers Gain Valuable Experience at John McNichols Invitational

Trailblazers Gain Valuable Experience at John McNichols Invitational
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September 20, 2025

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – The Vincennes University Men's and Women's Cross Country teams took another step forward in their seasons Saturday at the John McNichols Invitational, hosted by Indiana State University at the LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course. The meet, featuring several NCAA Division I and II programs, provided the Trailblazers with a chance to measure themselves on a national-caliber course, as VU entered ranked No. 11 on the women's side and No. 23 on the men's in the latest NJCAA Division I National Coaches' Poll.

Abdaoui Leads Trailblazer Men to Eighth-Place Finish

The VU men placed eighth overall with 244 points and an average time of 28:43. Sophomore Anis Abdaoui continued his strong fall, clocking 25:09.5 to finish fourth overall against a loaded field. Head Coach Tyler Steigenga noted the growth from last year: "Anis definitely shone through today, running about 13 seconds faster than he did here last year and holding his own with the lead pack," he said.

Lane Connaway crossed in 87th at 27:52, nearly a minute faster than his mark at this meet a year ago. Steigenga pointed out that Connaway's work is laying a foundation: "Lane didn't quite have the day he wanted, but he's put in some of his best training the last three weeks and still made a big improvement over last year."

Behind him, Malachi Black turned in a steady 29:03 for 108th, never varying more than 11 seconds between his mile splits. "Malachi ran super evenly, which is exactly what we want to see as he learns the 8K," Steigenga said. The Trailblazers' scoring five was rounded out by Seth Weaver (30:37), Brody Wilson (30:52), and Evan Dailey (31:08), several of whom were tackling the 8K distance for the first time. Steigenga emphasized the importance of experience: "For the guys running 8K for the first time, it was about learning how to handle the distance. They'll improve from here."

Dorai Paces Women to Sixth in Team Standings

The Trailblazer women placed sixth with 186 points and an average time of 25:02. Freshman Ikram Dorai led the charge, finishing sixth overall in 22:07 to keep pace with a Division I-heavy field. "Ikram did a good job leading us up front," Steigenga said, noting her poise at the longer distance.

VU's depth was on display as sophomore Sarra Belgacem finished 48th in 24:18, while freshman Alexis Hale impressed in 60th at 25:03 — over a minute faster than her effort at the same course a year ago. "Alexis ran about a minute faster than she did here last year, which is really encouraging," Steigenga said.

Madison Seene returned from a minor injury setback with a strong 25:50 in her first collegiate 6K, and Allie Black (27:49) rounded out the scoring five. Freshmen Rorri Bottum (28:13) and Allie Knepp (29:34) provided additional support. Steigenga highlighted Seene's performance in particular: "Madison had a great debut at 6K after some setbacks, and this was a big confidence boost for her. For many of the women, it was their first 6K, so it was about learning the distance and racing efficiently. We'll be sharper and fresher in the weeks to come."

Looking Ahead

Both teams return to the LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course on Friday, October 3 for the Nike XC Town Twilight, an evening meet on the campus of Indiana State University that promises cooler conditions and another chance to sharpen against elite competition.

Join the Journey

As always, fans can keep up with the Vincennes University Cross Country squad all year long through a number of ways:

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