ITHACA, N.Y. – As the 2025 cross country season approaches, Cornell's men's team is poised for another competitive campaign under the guidance of Head Coach Mike Henderson, entering his seventh year in the role, accompanied by Assistant Coach Kayla Evans. While the roster has seen turnover, particularly among top performers, enthusiasm remains high and expectations are grounded in team unity, depth, and sustained development.

Team Composition & Outlook

The departure of standout seniors such as Ivy All League performers Damian Hackett and Jake Gelfand creates gaps that are both challenging and motivational. These alumni set a high bar, and their absence is notable. Coach Henderson acknowledges, "The men have graduated some people that have big shoes to fill."

However, the squad is energized by eight promising freshmen who bring "great energy, a team first mentality and a real competitive and committed attitude, which I think is going to help everybody keep the program where it's at."

Among the returners, development across the lineup will be critical. Pierre returns with strong momentum, and Henderson is confident he will continue his "phenomenal" performances. But the coach stresses that the team's success hinges on the depth of the pack: "Our success depends on the progress of runners two through seven and how high they can elevate their performances."

Last season's achievement, having all seven runners qualify for the regional championships, stands as a testament to the program's balance. The objective now is to match or surpass that level of collective strength.

Leadership & Culture

Cornell's approach centers on team cohesion over individual accolades. Henderson emphasizes that the group has developed into "a cohesive team that's fighting for each other. That's what's going to make the difference."

From the energy of the freshmen to the leadership of the upperclassmen, the program is grounded in chemistry and unity. That culture, Henderson believes, is what positions Cornell to keep moving forward despite roster changes.

Competitive Landscape & Goals

Cornell competes in the intensely competitive Ivy League, regarded as one of the strongest cross country conferences nationally. "Harvard and Princeton will inevitably be strong. It's very competitive," Henderson said. Success will depend on delivering top performances on race day, especially as several Ivy programs continue to rise.

While specific placement goals at the Ivy League, regional, and national levels will be finalized during the team's goal setting sessions, Henderson has a clear focus: "Our goal is always just be the best version of ourselves at championship time. That's what we're aiming for."

Season Schedule Overview

The 2025 schedule provides a steady progression of challenges, from home-course races to championship competition:

• September 5 (Fri), 6:00 p.m. — CU Opener at Moakley Course, Ithaca, N.Y.

• October 3 (Fri), 9:00 a.m. — Paul Short Invitational, Bethlehem, Pa.

• October 17 (Fri), 11:00 a.m. — Princeton Fall Classic, Princeton, N.J.

• October 24 (Fri), 4:00 p.m. — John Reif Memorial at Moakley Course, Ithaca, N.Y.

• October 31 (Fri), 11:00 a.m. — Ivy League Heptagonal Championships, Van Cortlandt Park, New York, N.Y.

• November 14 (Fri), 11:00 a.m. — NCAA Northeast Regional Championships, Hopkinton, N.H.

• November 23 (Sun), 11:00 a.m. — NCAA Cross Country Championships, Columbia, Mo.