Golden Leads Hawks in Season Opener at NCC XC Invitational

Warrenville, IL: The Hawks men's cross country team opened its 2025 season at the NCC XC Invitational at St. James Farm, showcasing a promising mix of experience and new talent. The Hawks lined up seven runners, with Ryan Golden making an immediate impact in his 8k debut. Golden crossed the line in 26:38, placing him 24th all-time in program history.

Only two Hawks entered the race with prior 8k experience - Jerome Graessle and Carter Swearingen - and both delivered personal bests. Graessle trimmed 18 seconds off his previous mark, clocking 27:10, while Swearingen ran a personal best 30:46.

Four more Hawks made their 8k debuts, each posting strong times to build on for the season: Sebastian Welc (27:07), Ethan Waddell (28:41), RJ Moniri (29:22), and Nate Larsen (29:34).

The race also featured a head-to-head with Region 4 rival Joliet Junior College, ranked No. 2 in the preseason polls. Harper, ranked No. 3, came up just short, falling to the Wolves by a slim three-point margin. With both teams eyeing a national championship run, the early-season clash set the stage for an exciting rivalry this fall.

The Hawks return to action on Saturday, September 13th, at the Ken Weidt Classic, hosted by Concordia University-Wisconsin.

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Players Mentioned

Jerome Graessle: Sophomore

RJ Moniri: Sophomore

Carter Swearingen: Sophomore

Ryan Golden: Freshman

Nate Larsen: Freshman

Ethan Waddell: Freshman

Sebastian Welc: Freshman

Players Mentioned

Jerome Graessle
: Sophomore

RJ Moniri
: Sophomore

Carter Swearingen
: Sophomore

Ryan Golden
: Freshman

Nate Larsen
: Freshman

Ethan Waddell
: Freshman

Sebastian Welc
: Freshman