Contact: Nicholas Osterloo, Director of Athletics Communication, 630-637-5324

USTFCCCA Program of the Year Rankings

June 12, 2025 – In their best finish since 2019, the North Central College men's cross country and track and field teams took fifth place in the Al Carius Program of the Year rankings, presented by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.

Named after legendary North Central coach Al Carius, H '06, the honor recognizes the institution with the most success each academic year, spanning the cross country, indoor track and field, and outdoor track and field seasons. To be eligible, teams must qualify for all three championships. Teams earn points based on their finishes at each national championship (e.g., first place = 1 point, second place = 2 points, etc.), with the lowest combined score determining the winner.

In the fall, the Cardinal cross country team placed seventh at nationals, with Emerald Svienty and Matt Jett earning All-America honors. Braden Nicholson's national championship in the 3,000 meters led the Cardinals to a 16th-place finish in the indoor season. Joining Nicholson as All-Americans were Colton Oleson and Jayden Leise. Nicholson triumphed again at the 2025 Outdoor National Championships, winning the 10,000-meter run. BJ Sorg placed 12th in the same race, also earning All-America recognition.

The Cardinal cross country and track and field teams have won the last 23 College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin championships, dating back to the 2016-17 season. The men's cross country team secured its 50th consecutive CCIW title in November.

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