With a new head coach and a renewed focus on trust and hard work, ACU cross country is preparing to begin its season next weekend with expectations of continued growth throughout the year. 

Head coach Wayne Angel comes to ACU after seven seasons with Northern Colorado. Angel said that so far, he’s been impressed by the team’s willingness to work and come together in early preseason practices. 

“One thing that I’ve seen is their attitude,” Angel said. “They’re willing to work. They’re willing to come together as a team.”

Angel said the team’s spiritual, mental and physical preparation will be as important as the season progresses. He hopes the team can continue improving each week while representing ACU well. 

Angel said building trust between the new coaching staff and athletes will be an important part of reaching the team’s goals. 

“I really liked the effort and consistency and the trust that they’ve given me, and I’m going to give it back to them too,” Angel said. “Hopefully I can [with the] Lord’s help, help them reach their goals.”

For Anna Vyn, sophomore middle distance runner from Sioux Falls, North Dakota, the opportunity to train with her teammates again has been one of the most exciting parts of preseason. 

“It’s been fun to have morning practices with the team after all summer,” Vyn said. “Running and working hard by ourselves, but to work hard together is so much more rewarding.”

Vyn, who has not competed in cross country for two years, said she is also excited to work with the new coaching staff and believes Angel has already established a positive culture.

“I think he’s already set the tone of hard work,” Vyn said. “I’m really excited for what he’s going to do with us.”

The Wildcats will host the Naimadu Classic to open their season next Friday at the ACU Cross Country Course.