IRVINE, Calif. – The Concordia University Irvine men's cross country team is back and ready for the 2025 season after finishing third at the PacWest Championships last fall.

This year's group was voted to finish No. 2 in the PacWest Preseason Poll by the league's coaches. Last year's runner-up Biola is the favorite with defending champion APU coming in right behind Concordia in the projected Top 3.

Now entering his eighth season, head coach Keegan Bloomfield returns with a balanced squad. The Golden Eagles return eight runners from last year's team and add a strong group of nine freshmen. With a mix of experience and young talent, CUI is looking to stay near the top of the conference and make a bigger impact at the NCAA West Regional.

Leaders Returning

At the front of the pack for CUI is Noah Plaza, who had a breakout 2024 season. He finished 7th at the PacWest Championships, First Team All-PacWest and placed 19th at the NCAA West Regional, making him a top returner in the conference.

Running alongside him is Spencer Handorf, a steady contributor and team SAAC representative. Handorf placed 19th at conference, Third Team All-PacWest and 64th at regionals, giving CUI a reliable veteran duo up front.

While the team's top returners bring stability, the Golden Eagles will need to fill the void left by the graduation of several key contributors, including Fernando Aguirre, Colin Bervig, Owen Beam, Dustin Berger, and Juan Sebastian Garcia. These veterans helped form the backbone of last year's top-three PacWest finish.

Stepping into larger roles this season will be returners like Moises Benito, Gavin Hellerstedt, Tyler Renteria, Marcus Shin, Jonathan Warrick, and Bryce Philbeck who all will be counted on to provide depth and leadership as the roster evolves.

Looking Ahead

The future looks bright for CUI, thanks to an arrival of nine talented freshmen. The incoming class includes runners from across California and the Pacific Northwest, with names to watch including Gavin Crocker, Logan Jones, and August Sonsma. These newcomers will be challenged to adapt quickly to the collegiate level and could make an immediate impact in the lineup.

With a solid foundation, proven top-end talent, and an infusion of young energy, the Concordia men's cross country team is ready to challenge once again in the competitive PacWest. 

For the Full Men's Cross Country Schedule, CLICK HERE