The UIS men's cross country team is gearing up to host the 2024 GLVC Cross Country Championships this Saturday, Oct.26. This marks the first time in program history that the Prairie Stars will host the conference meet at the UIS Cross Country Course.
UIS opened their season with a victory at the Hy-Vee Prairie Stars Invitational before competing in the highly competitive John McNichols Invitational at Indiana State, where they secured a 10th-place finish. At the Lewis Crossover, the Prairie Stars faced a field that included 35 other NCAA Division II teams, 16 of which were nationally ranked, finishing 17th while receiving votes in the national poll.
The UIS men's team has consistently been ranked among the region's top programs, sitting in the sixth position for most of the season before recently slipping to seventh in the latest rankings.
The Prairie Stars have consistently been a top contender at the GLVC Championships, finishing in the top three every season since 2018. The Prairie Stars claimed their first conference title in 2022 and are aiming to reclaim the crown after a second-place finish to Lewis in 2023.
UIS athletes with prior All-GLVC honors in cross country include Ryan Jones (2022, 2023), Briar Nevills (2023), and Gabe Martinez (2022). They are joined by a talented group of newcomers and returners, including Isaac Cortes, named GLVC Runner of the Week and the team's top runner in two races this season, and Zach Panek, who was the team's top performer at the John McNichols Invitational.
The 8k race will take place on the UIS Cross Country Course, which winds through the scenic Spencer House property and loops around soccer fields near University Drive. Fans are encouraged to come out and support the Prairie Stars as they aim to bring the GLVC title back to Springfield.
Fan Information
Fans can watch the races live on the GLVC Sports Network for free. Admission is free for those attending in person, with parking available in Lot B near the course. Concessions and a GLVC merchandise shop will also be available near the team camp area, offering a variety of refreshments and gear.