XC: Ruch and Meeker Medal at GNAC Championship

NORTHFIELD, VT— Lasell University's cross country athletes delivered standout performances at the 2025 Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Championships, hosted by Norwich University. Despite competing against some of the strongest teams in the conference, Lasell runners made a mark individually, highlighting the talent and determination of the program.

On the men's side, first-year runner Caleb Ruch turned heads with a spectacular performance, finishing second overall in the 8K race with a time of 26:44.9. His breakout race earned him GNAC Rookie of the Year and First Team All-Conference honors, highlighting his rapid development and potential for future success. Ruch's performance was a highlight of the championships and demonstrated the growing talent coming through Lasell's program.

Sophomore Ella Meeker led the Lasell women with a tenth-place finish, crossing the 6K course in 25:11.5. Her effort earned her Second Team All-GNAC recognition and represented a significant personal achievement in her sophomore campaign. Sophomore Olivia Pennington finished 45th in 30:15.2, while  Victoria El-Azem crossed the line in 50th place with 31:47.5. Freshman Paige Helferich also ran a solid race, placing 62nd in 33:48.3.

On the men's side, Juan Susa finished with a strong 15th-place finish in the 8K race, underscoring his competitiveness in a deep field. Junior Jordan Woodley posted a 46th-place finish, sophomore Colin Roderick took 48th, and senior Evan Lewis completed the scoring for Lasell with a 51st-place finish, all contributing to the team's presence in a highly competitive championship.