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Men's Cross Country—Archive

2009 Season

November 20, 2009
Cyclones gain experience, look to 2010

The young “Running Cyclones” gained needed experience in the 2009 fall campaign that will help get them to the next level and perhaps a couple of championships before they’re done. A strong nucleus will return including two of three men who competed in the NJCAA Division I Cross Country Championship.

Dimitri Dimizas (Richards), Anthony Inacay (Reavis) and Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) all competed in the national meet Nov. 14 on Newman Golf Course in Peoria. Dimizas and Inacay are determined to return and bring the rest of their teammates with them. This was the second trip for Herrejon, who was a member of the Cyclone team that competed in 2008 at the national championship in Spartanburg, South Carolina, the site of the 2010 championships. “The guys turned in good performances, but they expected more, and for Tony and Dimitri that is a strong incentive to get a lot of work in over the off-season,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer. “I’m proud of the contributions Pablo has made the past two years. I know he wants to continue his running, and he will be a valuable asset to his next college team. I wish him well.”

Injuries also played a key role in hampering the Cyclones’ bid for more success than they achieved this fall. Two key runners never got their season started and others were hampered off and on all season. “Just when we thought things were going well, someone else would go down and would have to sit,” Horstmeyer said. “We never got through the season without somebody being day-to-day or week-to-week. It’s a part of the sport unfortunately, but I’m sorry for the guys to not be able to give it all they had every week. The spirit was willing. The body wasn’t. I’m also pleased with their work ethic. They showed up every day and went at it. This is why I’m so excited for next season. We have a great group coming back who has gained a great deal of racing experience and knowledge on what it takes to run at the collegiate level. Week in and week out, we threw them into top-notch competition, and they never flinched. The toughest race they had all year was at UW-Oshkosh with 550 runners, and they turned in their best times. That says a great deal of the kind of young men we have and the high school programs they come from. I’m quite proud of these guys,” Horstmeyer said.

In addition to Herrejon finishing his Moraine Valley career are Felipe Flores (Bremen) and Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg). Both were members of the 2008 team that competed in the national championship. “Felipe did a great job for us this year. He improved a lot and that’s due to his decision during our long off-season to run and run and run. Tyler was nagged by the injury bug off and on the whole season and it was enough of a problem to prevent him from realizing his potential. He also will contribute at his next college,” Horstmeyer said.

Jim Johnson (Reavis), Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence) and Rich Sparks (Stagg) also played major roles in helping the Cyclones achieve fourth-place finishes at the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference and the NJCAA Region IV Division I championships. Johnson and Sparks will return next fall while Rodriguez will begin active duty in the Marine Corps in May. “Jim learned a lot this season and this will help him a great deal next fall. He knows what he has to do between now and then to get stronger, and I know he will do it. Rich came on at the end of the season and made top seven for regionals. I think he realizes what he has to commit to in order to get better. He has all the tools, and I think he will do it.” Horstmeyer said. “Julian surprised himself this fall with how he performed. His performance didn’t surprise me. I wish him all the best as he fulfills his goal of serving his country.”

Injuries also played major roles in deterring the progress of Pablo Cardoso (Bremen), Jose Gonzalez (Argo) and Chris Lindich (Reavis). “Pablo was just beginning to get into shape to really do well when he was stopped short by sore shins that sidelined him the last month of the season. Sore shins also hampered Jose’s efforts to run faster when it looked like he was ready to break through. Just when Chris was ready to string together a couple of solid races, something would happen. I could feel his frustration, but I think he gained a lot from the experience and will be better for it next fall,” his coach said.

November 16, 2009
Cyclones shine at national championship

The last race of the 2009 season ended on a high note for three Cyclones competing in the NJCAA Division I cross country championship Nov. 14 in Peoria.

Dimitri Dimizas (Richards)—as he has done most of the season—led the trio across the finish line, placing 150th in 28:55. Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) followed in 188th place in 29:42 and Anthony Inacay (Reavis) finished in 196th place in 29:55 over the hilly 8K course spread over Newman Golf Course. There were 259 runners in the field.

“I’m really proud of how our guys finished up. They represented Moraine Valley very well on the national stage,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer. “This was a challenging course, but the weather couldn’t have better and the competition was terrific. This was an experience for these kids. They ran against an outstanding group of international runners as well athletes from across the United States. I told the guys before the race that not many college runners have a chance to compete in a national championship, much less of this caliber of a field, so go out and enjoy the moment, and they did.”

Dimizas and Inacay now have something to build on for next fall. “They now understand what it’s like to compete at the highest junior college level. They have run in some really competitive races all season, but running at nationals is special. They also now understand what they have to do during the off-season to get better. I’m already looking forward to seeing what they can do for us next fall,” Horstmeyer said.

“Pablo has the distinct honor of competing both of his years at the national championship, and not many athletes can claim that distinction. He has done a fine job for us, and I think his best racing is still ahead of him,” his coach said.

November 2, 2009
Three Cyclones advance to national championship

The top three finishers for the Cyclones are Peoria-bound for the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I Cross Country championship after their performance at the Region IV competition Oct. 31.

The Moraine Valley harriers finished fourth among nine teams over the windy, cold, and muddy 8K course at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove.

Tony Inacay (Reavis) was the first Cyclone to finish, placing 16th in 29:32. He was followed by Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) in 17^th in 29:45, and Dimitri Dimizas (Richards) in 18^th in 29:46. All three qualified for the national championship Nov. 14 at Newman Golf Course.

“I can’t say enough about the gutty performance of Tony and Dimitri—both shouldn’t have been running, but they wanted to lay it on the line one last time, and I’m happy for them,” said their coach, Mark Horstmeyer. “Pablo has the honor of qualifying two years in a row—last year as member of the team—and this year as an individual. He can just let ‘er rip at nationals. It will be a great way for him to finish his Moraine Valley career.”

Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence) was next in 23^rd in 30:06, Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 25^th in 30:29, Tyler-Blaha Gruszka (Stagg) in 33^rd in 31:34, Rich Sparks (Stagg) in 39^th in 31:51, Jim Johnson (Reavis) in 40^th in 31:59, Jose Gonzalez (Argo) in 49^th in 33:19, and Chris Lindich (Reavis) in 54^th in 34:12.
 
“As a team we wanted to do better, but the guys gave it everything they had and came up just short. We have a young team, and I think they learned quite a bit about preparing and racing at this level. The experience will help them next fall. The Cyclones return all but three runners. I’m already looking forward to 2010,” Horstmeyer said.

October 27, 2009
Cyclones finish 4th at conference championship

Disappointing sums up the Cyclones finish at the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference championship Oct. 24 at Waubonsee Community College. The men finished fourth in the seven-team field.

“We were disappointed with the outcome. Our expectations were much higher, but unfortunately you have days like this, and we just have to put it behind us and get ready for Saturday. We have another crack at trying to finish the season on the upswing,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer.

Tony Inacay (Reavis) was the first Cyclone to finish, placing 14th in 29:16. He was followed by Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) in 17th in 29:49, Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence) in 18th at 29:54, Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 23rd with 30:31, Jim Johnson (Reavis) in 29th in 31:23, Rich Sparks (Stagg) in 32nd in 31:31, Tyler-Blaha Gruszka (Stagg) in 34th in 31:42, Chris Lindich (Reavis) in 44th in 34:18, and Jose Gonzalez (Argo) in 51st in 37:42. There were 52 runners in the field.

“I think we’ll be ready to go on Saturday at regionals. A lot is at stake—qualifying for the national championship. They know the course and they will face basically the same competition. They have a lot of work to do, but I think we’ll see a better result. They know what’s on the line,” Horstmeyer said.

The Cyclones return to Waubonsee to compete in the NJCAA Region IV Division I championship on Oct. 31. “It will be time to get after it,” Horstmeyer said.

October 19, 2009
Cyclones turn in good showing

The Cyclones faced their toughest competition of the season on Oct. 17 when they traveled to the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh for the Brooks Invitational, finishing 33rd in the 35-team field.

Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) led the scoring in 27:42 over the rolling 8K Lake Breeze Golf Course in Winneconne that put him in 334^th place overall. Tony Inacay (Reavis) followed in 28:52 (444th place). Next were Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence) in 29:11 in 456^th place, Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 29:23 in 467^th place, Rich Sparks (Stagg) in 30:09 in 499^th place, Jim Johnson (Reavis) in 30:20 in 507^th place, Tyler Blaha-Gruszka in 30:47 in 515^th place, Chris Lindich (Reavis) in 32:33 in 537^th place, and Jose Gonzalez (Argo) at 33:20 in 541^st place. There were 551 runners in the field. Moraine Valley was the only community college in the field.

“The guys did a great job. Many of them had personal bests which goes to show you how competitive they are in a highly competitive race. The invite had some of the top NCAA Division III and NAIA teams in the nation competing. I think this was a great opportunity for them to know where they are and what they are capable of doing. I’m really happy for them,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer.

The Cyclones now start prepping for the championship season over the next four weeks. First up is the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference championship on Saturday at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove. The NJCAA Region IV Division I champion follows on Oct. 31 at Waubonsee and then the NJCAA championship on Nov. 14 in Peoria. “Our focus all season has been on the next four weeks. We still need to get kids healthy, but I think their performance at UW-Oshkosh really helped them,” Horstmeyer. “It should be exciting.”

October 12, 2009
Cyclones get back on track

The Cyclones improved their overall performance Oct. 10 at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside’s Lucian Rosa Invitational from the previous week even though they were missing two of their top runners.

Dimitri Dimizas (Richards) led the scoring in 29:59 over the hilly 8K course that put him in 128^th place overall. Felipe Flores (Bremen) followed in 30:53 in 164^th place, Rich Sparks (Stagg) in 31:41 in 172^nd, Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence) in 31:50 in 175^th, Jim Johnson (Reavis) in 32:54 in 184^th, and Chris Lindich (Reavis) in 34:40 in 185^th. There were 193 runners; the men finished 18th of 19 teams.

“I was pleased with the way the guys bounced back a bit from last week, confirming my feeling that last week was just one of those races,” coach Mark Horstmeyer said. “We can take many positives from this. Parkside’s course is extremely hilly. You combine that with strong winds and a wet and muddy course, and you have a stiff challenge. I think they responded well also given the fact that they were the only two-year college in the field. It was a good experience.”

The Cyclones travel to the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh’s Brooks Invitational, where they will face their most challenging competition so far. “Oshkosh is hosting the NCAA Division III regional championship next month, so a lot of outstanding four-year colleges and universities will show up for a trial run. It should be another great experience for our kids,” Horstmeyer said.

October 5, 2009
Cyclones finish among top 7 teams

The Cyclones raced to a seventh-place finish at Wisconsin Lutheran College’s Warrior Invite in West Allis on Oct. 3 despite having an off day.

Dimitri Dimizas (Richards) was the top finisher for the men, recording 29:16 over the rolling 8K course that put him in 19th place overall. Felipe Flores (Bremen) followed in 49th place in 31:03, followed by Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) in 62nd in 31:43, Jim Johnson (Reavis) in 64th with 31:50, Rich Sparks (Stagg) in 65th at 31:52, Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) in 70th in 32:13, and Chris Lindich (Reavis) landing in 90th with 34:42. There were 112 runners and 14 teams.

“This was really an off day for the guys. We talked about what we wanted to get accomplished, and we didn’t get it done. I’m pleased with finishing as high as we did but disappointed in our individual effort. I know each of them is too. It was a quiet two-hour ride back to campus. We can’t dwell on it. We have to learn from it, and I think they’ll be ready to go next Saturday,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer.

The Cyclones travel to the Lucian Rosa Invitational at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, where they will face their most challenging course so far. “This a great course for us because it’s the same terrain we practice on every day. It should be a lot of fun,” their coach said.

September 28, 2009
Cyclones turn in another good outing

The men’s team sped things up again on Sept. 26, racing to a 10th place finish in Lake Forest College’s Forester Invite in Vernon Hills, and turning in some good times as well.

Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) was the leader of the 10-man pack, placing 41st in 28:32 over the 8k course. Dimitri Dimizas (Richards) finished next in 49th place in 28:57, followed by Tony Inacay (Reavis) in 56th in 29:00, Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence) in 65th in 29:47, Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 72nd in 30:18, Rich Sparks (Stagg) in 83rd in 31:05, Chris Lindich (Reavis) in 86th 31:19, Jim Johnson (Reavis) in 90th in 31:27, Jose Gonzalez (Argo) in 92nd in 31:48, and Pablo Cardoso (Bremen) in 101st in 33:12. There were 118 runners in the 11-team field.

“Most of the guys had another good outing and dropped their times again,” coach Mark Horstmeyer said. “It was very good day to do well. Pablo, Dimitri, Tony, and Julian stepped up, and I expect that to continue. It’s been interesting to see how the rest of the guys keep improving each week to get into our top seven. Felipe is just right on the edge of cracking 30 minutes, and Chris had his best day by far improving his time by over five minutes from last week. It’s been fun watching them.”

Next up is Wisconsin Lutheran College’s Warrior Invite on Saturday. “There will be high expectations to see how they handle a tough course and a very competitive field. My prediction is that they will continue to improve because the home stretch is now coming into view,” Horstmeyer said.

September 21, 2009
Cyclones continue to improve

The men’s team enjoyed their best outing of the season on Sept. 18 at the Illinois Intercollegiate Championships at Illinois State University, finishing 28th of 31 teams. Most of the Cyclones also recorded their best times.

Dimitri Dimizas (Richards) again led the 11-man attack over the rolling 8K course with a 197th finish in 28:48 while Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) was a couple of steps behind in 199th place in 28:50. Tony Inacay (Reavis) placed 222nd in 29:17 followed by Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence) in 269th in 31:14. Rich Sparks (Stagg) rounded out the scoring with a 277th place finish in 31:25. Also finishing for the Cyclones were Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) in 295th in 32:14, Pablo Cardoso (Bremen) in 297th in 32:29, Jim Johnson (Reavis) in 299th in 32:36, Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 303rd in 32:51, Jose Gonzalez (Argo) in 306th in 33:04, and Chris Lindich (Reavis) in 328th in 36:34. There were 334 runners in the field.

“The guys were really excited about dropping their times from a week ago. We had a couple of them cramp up and one of the guys was tripped and fell hard on his leg, but when you can have eight improve a lot in the very next race says a lot of their progress,” coach Mark Horstmeyer said. “The competition was fast as was ISU’s course on its golf course. That helped a lot. They were pleased, but we still have a long ways to go, and I know they will get better and better.”

Next up is Lake Forest College’s Forester Invitational on Saturday. “This also is a fast course and looks to be a highly competitive race for us. It should be a lot of fun,” Horstmeyer said.

September 14, 2009
Cyclones’ learning curve continues

Despite finishing eighth in the eight-team field on Sept. 11 at Olivet Nazarene University’s Midwest Classic, the Cyclones gained experience in their first 8K (4.96 mile) race of the 2009 season.

Dimitri Dimizas (Richards) led the way over the rolling course at Aspen Ridge Golf Course in Bourbonnais with a 38th place finish in 29:34 and was followed by Tony Inacay (Reavis) in 44th in 30:30, Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) in 46th in 31:19, Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 47th in 31:41, Jim Johnson (Reavis) in 48th in 31:52, Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence) in 50th in 32:33, Rich Sparks (Stagg) in 52nd in 33:11, Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) in 67th in 33:58, Chris Lindich (Reavis) in 68th in 34:03, and Pablo Cardoso (Bremen) in 69th in 34:55. Seventy-seven runners competed.

“For all but three of the guys, this was their first collegiate 8K race,” coach Mark Horstmeyer said, “so again it was a learning experience. I think they discovered that racing an 8K as opposed to 3 miles is a huge difference. They gained a lot and will keep learning every week. They also are beginning to understand what it means to help each other out there.”

Next up for the “Running Cyclones” is the Illinois Intercollegiate Cross Country Championships on Friday at Illinois State University. “Fast field, fast course. It should be a lot of fun,” Horstmeyer said.

September 9, 2009
Eye opener in Wisconsin

It was truly a learning experience for the Cyclones as they helped open the University of Wisconsin’s new cross country course on September 4. The men finished fourth of four teams on the rolling, grassy course that the Badgers built this year to get it ready for the 2009 season.

“This was the first collegiate race for all but three of our guys,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer, “and to be a part of Wisconsin’s storied cross country history is a tremendous experience for them. This was something special. We are pleased we had an opportunity to be a part of the inaugural race.”

Dimitri Dimizas (Richards) led the way over the 6K (3.7 miles) course and was followed by Pablo Herrejon (Bremen), Tony Inacay (Reavis), Jim Johnson (Reavis), Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg), Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence), Rich Sparks (Stagg), Felipe Flores (Bremen), Jose Gonzalez (Argo), Pablo Cardoso (Bremen), and Chris Lindich (Reavis).

“It was hot—something they haven’t been used to—and it was a fairly small but very fast field,” Horstmeyer said. “They have a lot of things to get worked out, so Friday was good experience for them. I think they learned a lot about preparing and racing at the college level.”

September 3, 2009
Cyclones to make strong run for championships

The 2009 “Running Cyclones” want to build on last season’s success which means winning conference and regional championships and finishing higher at nationals. The ingredients are all there to go for it.

The men’s team returns just three runners from last year’s squad that took runner-up honors at the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference and the NJCAA Region IV Division I championships plus a trip to the national championship where they finished 31st. However, the Cyclones have added 10 new runners—all with cross country experience—to the mix. “This is the most runners we have had, and they are blending in well,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer, who enters his 10th season at the head of the program. “We have a good mix of veteran college runners and high school runners who have experienced success. We had a really good pre-season camp, and their work ethic has been outstanding. I’m really looking forward to seeing them come together as a solid unit. There is every bit of evidence that it will happen.”

Returning are Pablo Herrejon (Bremen), Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) and Felipe Flores (Bremen). “Pablo and Felipe never stopped running since the end of last season and look good from the onset. Tyler also has had some good workouts but has a sore foot that has held him back a bit,” their coach said. “I’m counting on the three of them to provide the leadership to the younger guys as they adjust to college running.”

Another second-year runner is Tom Crivellone (Richards), who ran last fall for McKendree University but also is hampered by a nagging foot injury. “We’re frustrated with his foot problem because he wants to run and can’t. He has been working out diligently in the fitness center and when he’s ready to run, it won’t take him long,” Horstmeyer said.

Newcomers include Tony Inacay (Reavis), who will be counted on to help lead the Cyclones along with Dimitri Dimizas (Richards). “Tony and Dimitri show up every day ready to go. If their work ethic is any indication of how well they will do, they will really be successful,” Horstmeyer said.

He also is counting on Jim Johnson (Reavis), Noel Biggs (Bremen), Julian Rodriguez (St. Laurence), Chris Lindich (Reavis), Rich Sparks (Stagg), Jose Gonzalez (Argo), and Pablo Cardoso (Bremen). “I am really pleased with the way these guys are running and committing to getting better. It will be fun to watch them compete and improve every week,” their coach said.
 
“What really worked in our favor last year was that our guys bought into the team concept 100 percent. This year’s team, although larger, has all the earmarks of doing the same thing. We will need every one of them to continue working hard and together if we are to improve upon last year’s success,” Horstmeyer said. “That’s my expectation and it’s theirs.”

2008 Season

All-Region IV team: Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard)
All-Conference team: Abrahamsen, Wes Sewell (Shepard) and Connor Williams (Andrew)

Nov. 20, 2008
Trip to NJCAA championship highlights 2008 men’s season

The 2008 Cyclones became the third men’s team to compete at the NJCAA Division I Cross Country Championship, but the team accomplished more than that this season. The men claimed second place in two other championship races and garnered All-Conference and All-Region honors as well. And that’s not all. Their greatest accomplishment was coming together as a team.

The Cyclones finished October on a strong note taking the runner-up spot at the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference and NJCAA Division I Region IV championships. Sophomores Wes Sewell (Shepard) and Connor Williams (Andrew) and freshman Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard) were named to the All-Conference team, and Abrahamsen earned All-Region honors. Sewell and Williams were named All-Conference for the second straight year. The Cyclones then capped their season with a 31st place showing at the national championship November 8 in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

“This team by far was the most cohesive we have ever had at Moraine Valley,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer. “They are a model of what true team spirit is all about. I couldn’t be prouder of a group of young men as I am of these nine guys. I will miss the sophomores a lot and am thrilled with having all of our freshmen coming back next fall.”

As they did last year, Sewell and Williams led the way this fall. “Without their leadership we would not have had the kind of season we had. From the first day of practice they took charge. Each race you could see it—keeping everyone together and being there at the finish line encouraging them after they finished. Their future no matter what they pursue will be very bright. I wish them well,” Horstmeyer said.

Also providing sophomore experience was Bruce Lockett (Argo), who was a major contributor to the team’s success this year after battling most of last year with an injured knee. “Bruce was a steady contributor and a mainstay to our team this season,” Horstmeyer said. “He has a lot of determination and dedication, and I know he set his sights on doing whatever he could to help the team qualify for nationals.” Tony Manjarrez (Argo) was hobbled most of the year by back problems and was not able to accomplish all he set out to do this year. “Tony has a lot of grit, and he’s stubborn. He refuses to quit even when the pain got the best of him. I really admired his determination.”

First-year runners were led by Abrahamsen, who also struggled with back pain off and on throughout the season, but when the race was on the line, according to his coach, he was battling every step of the way. “Kyle emerged as our number one runner, and he certainly mixed it up with the other front-runners. I was really pleased at the season he had. I just think he will get better and better,” Horstmeyer said.

Also contributing greatly to the team’s success was Pablo Herrejon (Bremen). “I’m really counting on Pablo to step it up even more next year. He has all the tools to be outstanding—speed, endurance and determination. He was a definite asset to the team,” his coach said. Another first-year runner, although a sophomore, was David Kierys (Argo). “I wish I had him for another year. He certainly came on strong for us. I think he even surprised himself at what he could accomplish,” Horstmeyer said. Freshmen Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) and Felipe Flores (Bremen) will also be counted on a lot next fall. Both improved greatly over the season. “Tyler kept dropping his times and had his best race at nationals where he finished third for us. I was really pleased how he came on and kept plugging away. He will really help us next year,” his coach said. “Felipe will be very good next year. I think he learned a lot about running at this level, and I know he will put the time in to raise his game.”

Depending on what takes place during the off-season, the Cyclones are poised to make another strong run at winning championships and competing on the national stage again. The expectation will be nothing less.

Nov. 14, 2008
Cyclones finish 31st in nation

Selflessness and true team spirit highlighted an outstanding finale for the Cyclones at the NJCAA Men’s Division I Cross Country Championship on November 8 in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

Led by Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard) with a 114th-place finish in 27:52 over the rolling 8K course, the Cyclones claimed 31st place. Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) finished in 198th in 29:32 followed by Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) in 220th in 30:31, Bruce Lockett (Argo) in 230th in 30:53, David Kierys (Argo) in 234th in 31:12 and Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 242nd in 32:58. Tony Manjarrez (Argo) suffered back spasms during the early part of the race and was not able to finish. There were 253 runners in the field.

“I am so proud of this team, especially my two outstanding sophomore leaders Wes Sewell (Shepard) and Connor Williams (Andrew),” said coach Mark Horstmeyer. “We found out Friday night that we would be only able to run seven of our guys even though we have nine on our team. The team was really disappointed, and we talked about a lot of options—none with a satisfactory outcome. So I told them that we would sleep on it, and I would make a decision before the race.

“Wes and Connor made the decision for me. They told me Saturday morning that because they had run at nationals last year they would not race so the other guys could have the experience of competing in the championship race. I have never been prouder of two young men as I am of Wes and Connor. They are simply outstanding. We have taken three men’s teams and two women’s teams and a number of individuals to nationals for eight straight years, and I’m proud of each of their efforts, but the highlight was this year,” Horstmeyer said. “This men’s team has truly been a team from top to bottom. They competed week in and week out, worked hard to improve and achieved much. You can ask nothing more. They personify the meaning of team. I am very grateful for having the opportunity to coach these guys.”

Oct. 27, 2008
Cyclones advance to national championship

The men’s team took second place in the 2008 National Junior College Athletic Association Region IV, Division I Championship on Saturday, October 25, at Sauk Valley College, and will compete in the national championship.

Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard) led the Cyclones with a fourth-place finish in 28:44 over the wind-blown 5-mile course. He was named to the All-Region IV team.

Wes Sewell (Shepard) was next in 15th in 30:07; Connor Williams (Andrew) was right behind him in 16th in 30:15 followed by Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) in 21st in 30:32 and Bruce Lockett (Argo) in 22nd in 30:43. David Kierys (Argo) finished in 28th in 31:58 and Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) was in 31st in 32:39. Felipe Flores (Bremen) placed 40th in 34:17 and Tony Manjarrez finished 46th in 37:19.

“I’m very proud of the team. We kept talking all week that if they ran the way they did at conference and just kept after it, they would succeed. They did. Congratulations to them—well deserved and well earned,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer. “Because of the strong winds and course conditions, it was all a matter of place—not time. They came through. Kyle had an outstanding race. I’m really proud of the job he did.”

This championship for Sewell and Williams will be their second as they competed last year at Rend Lake College. “I’m excited for all the guys, that they have this opportunity few athletes at either the two-year or four-year level ever have and that’s to compete against an outstanding international field of junior college runners,” Horstmeyer said. “This will be something they will always remember.”

The Cyclones will compete November 8 in Spartanburg, South Carolina. “This was one of our goals—to compete at nationals as a team. The guys should be proud of themselves for their achievement. They will represent Moraine Valley very well,” Horstmeyer said.

Oct. 20, 2008
Cyclones take second at conference championship

The men’s team claimed the runner-up spot in the 2008 Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference Championship on Saturday, October 18, at Moraine Valley and placed three runners on the All-Conference team.

Waubonsee Community College won the men’s title. Morton College finished third, followed by Prairie State College, College of Lake County, and Elgin.

Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard) led the Cyclones with a fifth-place finish in 27:52; Wes Sewell (Shepard) was next in seventh in 28:20; and Connor Williams (Andrew) finished in tenth in 28:40. All three were named All-Conference—Sewell and Williams for the second straight year. Rounding out the scoring were Bruce Lockett (Argo) in 16th in 30:07 and David Kierys (Argo) in 19th in 30:32. Finishing right behind Kierys were Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) in 20th in 30:44, Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) in 21st in 31:15, and Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 30th in 33:02. There were 41 runners in the 8K race.

“I’m really proud of the job the guys did. Kyle, Wes, Connor, Bruce, David, and Tyler all had their best races of the season. It was a good time to step up. We were very solid one through eight,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer. “We talked all week that if they ran what they are capable of doing, they would be fine, and they were.”

Their work, however, isn’t over. Their next challenge comes October 25 when they travel to Sauk Valley College, Dixon, to compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association Region IV Division I championship with a chance to qualify for the national race November 8 in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

Full conference championship results

Oct. 13, 2008
Men tune up for conference, regional championships

The Cyclones had their work cut out for them Saturday, October 11, at the Lucian Rosa Invitational at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside when they ran up against some of the toughest competition of the year so far. Twenty-eight teams and 283 runners from across the nation toed the starting line on one of the premier 8K (4.96 miles) cross country courses in the U.S. with Moraine Valley, the only community college team in the field, finishing 27th.

Moraine was led by Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard) in 167th, 29:26; followed by Wes Sewell (Shepard), 178th, 29:38; Bruce Lockett (Argo), 188th, 30:01; Connor Williams (Andrew), 196th, 30:13; Pablo Herrejon (Bremen), 201st, 30:18; David Kierys (Argo), 233rd, 31:20; Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg), 268th, 34:20; Felipe Flores (Bremen), 272nd, 35:05; and Tony Manjarrez (Argo), 280th. 40:29.

“The field was fast on a really tough course. The guys weren’t satisfied with our times nor was I, but I was satisfied with how our top five finished fairly close together,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer. “This will be very important as we get ready for conference this coming Saturday.” Moraine Valley will host the men’s and women’s Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference championships on its campus course October 18.

“The more they continue to work together, the more success they will have Saturday and the following Saturday at Region IV. I think they are coming together at the right time,” he said.

Oct. 6, 2008
Cyclones one point shy at Wisconsin Lutheran Invite

The men’s team started the second half of the cross country season on a high note with their best finish of the season—one point out of third place. The Cyclones, the only two-year college in the 10-team field, placed fourth with 105 points edged out by host Wisconsin Lutheran College with 104 points.

As a team, the Cyclones turned in a very good performance. The top three men finished 15th, 17th, and 21st while the fourth and fifth runners were 34th and 42nd. Connor Williams (Andrew) with a 29:14 finish—his best time so far—led the Cyclones followed by Wes Sewell (Shepard) in 29:18, Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard) in 29:31, Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) in 30:37, and Bruce Lockett (Argo) in 30:57. David Kierys (Argo) was next in 53rd in 31:54, Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) in 55th in 32:16—also a best for him, Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 70th in 35:16, and Tony Manjarrez (Argo) in 75th in 37:50. Seventy-seven runners finished the rolling 8K course in Greenfield Park, West Allis, Wisconsin.

“I know some of the guys were disappointed with their individual performance, but I think some of the unhappiness was eased with our team finish. That showed what they can do collectively even when individually they have an off-day,” coach Mark Horstmeyer said.

Sept. 29, 2008
Men turn in best performances yet

The men’s team enjoyed its best outing of the season September 27 at the Forester Invitational, finishing in sixth place and turning in the fastest times of the season.

The Cyclones missed finishing in fourth place by a scant six points in the eight-team field and all nine runners turned in their best performances over the 8K course in Half-Day Forest Preserve in Vernon Hills. “The guys were excited. I know they were disappointed in last week’s effort at the Illinois Intercollegiate race, but they certainly made up for it Saturday morning. I was really pleased,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer. “We are about half-way through our season, and I told the guys that they should just go out and see what they could do. They certainly did.”

Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) led the way with his 26th place finish in a time of 28:33. Right behind him was Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard) in 27th place in 28:37, followed by Wes Sewell (Shepard) in 32nd in 29:06, Connor Williams (Andrew) in 43rd in 29:53, Bruce Lockett (Argo) in 47th in 30:21, David Kierys (Argo) in 49th in 30:43, Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) in 62nd in 32:59, Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 67th in 34:24, and Tony Manjarrez (Argo) in 73rd in 37:21. There were 81 competitors in the race.

“What I found enjoyable was the fact that I didn’t stress pack running and yet they were bunched together. We have a lot of work left to do, but they are heading in the direction they want to be,” Horstmeyer said.

Sept. 24, 2008
Men finish as top Region IV team at Illinois Intercollegiate Race

Although the Cyclones did not turn in their best overall performance of the season, it was good enough to be the top placing NJCAA Region IV team at the Illinois Intercollegiate Championships on Sept. 19, at Illinois State University’s golf course.

Individual efforts highlighted the race with Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard) leading the way with his 147^th place. He finished in his best time of the year to date. Following him across the line were Wes Sewell (Shepard) in 190^th place, Connor Williams (Andrew) in 192^nd place, David Kierys (Argo) in 198^th place, Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) 205^th, Bruce Lockett (Argo) in 214^th place, Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) in 236^th place, Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 238^th place, and Tony Manjarrez (Argo) in 246^th place. There were 250 runners in the field. The Cyclones finished 21^st of 26 teams.

“I was pleased with Kyle’s and Connor’s effort, and David improved his time over last week. Even though it was an off-day for most of the guys, they still battled and ended up in pretty good shape. Sometimes it takes a race like that to kind of get the juices flowing for the rest of the year,” coach Mark Horstmeyer said.

Sept. 17, 2008
Men run to 10th place at Aurora University’s invite

The men’s team must love mud and rain if the Cyclones performance at a rainy, muddy Spartan XC Classic is any indication. Nine runners crossed the finish line Friday, September 12, to help the team finish in 10th place among 12 teams.

Aurora University hosted the invitational at a rainy, muddy Oakhurst Forest Preserve in Aurora, where the Cyclones turned in their best performance to date. “The guys hung together and finished strong. Given the conditions, they really did a great job. Our top three runners broke the 30-minute mark for the 8K course which is really good considering the conditions. Two more of our guys were a few ticks away,” said coach Mark Horstmeyer. “I think some of them surprised themselves.”

Pablo Herrejon (Bremen) led the way in 53rd place followed by Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard) in 59th, Wes Sewell (Shepard)in 66th, David Kierys (Argo)in 86th, Bruce Lockett (Argo) in 89th, Connor Williams (Andrew) in 94th, Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg) in 111th, newcomer Felipe Flores (Bremen) in 116th, and Tony Manjarrez (Argo) in 129th. There were 135 runners in the field. “Each of them is fulfilling his role very well,” Horstmeyer said. “They encourage each other and rely on each other. They know they have a lot of work left to do, and they’re determined to get it done.”

Sept. 9, 2008
Cyclones coming together

If you look at the results of the men’s two races—the Elmhurst College Earlybird and North Park University’s Ted Hedstrand Invite — you would think that the men are in for a long season…but not to them nor their coach.

“We are right where we want to be,” said Coach Mark Horstmeyer. “I cannot be more pleased with what the guys have accomplished. They are doing exactly what we have talked about from the start of the season.”

The men finished eleventh of twelve teams at the Earlybird on August 29 and seventh of eight teams at North Park’s invite on September 6. “We are really stressing the team concept and the guys have bought into it. Wes Sewell and Connor Williams, both of whom earned individual accolades a year ago, are showing tremendous leadership to our first-year runners. They really want team success this year.”

August 29, 2008
Cyclones set sights on championship season

The Cyclones could very well have found the right formula for winning conference and region titles this fall—blend four returnees with four experienced newcomers.

The Cyclones will be led by Wes Sewell (Shepard) and Connor Williams (Andrew), both of whom competed at the national championships in 2007. Second-year runners Bruce Lockett (Argo) and Tony Manjarrez (Argo) also will provide experience. They are joined by newcomers Kyle Abrahamsen (Shepard), Tyler Blaha-Gruszka (Stagg), Pablo Herrejon (Bremen), and David Kierys (Argo).

“We already have good chemistry on this year’s team,” said Mark Horstmeyer, who has coached the men’s team since its inception nine years ago. “One of the things we look for early on is whether the kids will work together, and so far I have seen this from the very beginning. We’re all excited about our team’s potential.”

Sewell and Williams will provide the leadership for this year’s team. Sewell won the 2007 Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference individual title and was named the conference Most Valuable Runner. He also was named to all-National Junior College Athletic Association Region IV team and turned in his best time of the fall at the NJCAA championships. Williams also was named to the all-conference team.

“One of the reasons for their success last fall is that they are smart runners. They understood what they had to do in the off-season, what has to be accomplished every day during the season, and what they need to do in competition. I look for them to have an even better year this fall,” said Horstmeyer.

If Lockett stays healthy this year after having to deal with a knee injury most of last season, he will be an important factor in the Cyclones’ success. “Bruce is highly motivated. He wants to make up for what he couldn’t get done a year ago. Bruce will have to contribute this year and I think he’s up to the task,” his coach said.

Manjarrez also is determined to excel but is nursing a sore back. “If we can get Tony healthy, he’ll help us. He has the determination to do well,” Horstmeyer said.

The new runners are veteran cross country runners. Abrahamsen, Blaha-Gruszka, Herrejon, and Kierys all ran in high school. “Kyle was a top runner at Shepard as was Pablo at Bremen. David contributed for several years at Argo, and Tyler was a multi-sport participant at Stagg which will help him,” Horstmeyer said. “Initially they will be challenged as they have to step up to race five miles rather than three miles. What I have seen in practice they are ready to do so.”

Horstmeyer will be assisted by two former Cyclones this year—Andrea Zylius and Matt Swiatkowski—both of whom are marathoners. Zylius is focusing on strength and conditioning and Swiatkowski is leading the workouts. “Matt was a two-time all-conference and all-region selection. Andrea actually started her running career with us. Both have been a great help in getting our kids ready and will contribute greatly to our success this fall,” Horstmeyer said.

“There is a lot of potential for this season to be very successful for the guys. It will depend on how well they work together in practice and support each other and whether they can carry that over into races. I think they can. They will be fun to watch,” Horstmeyer said.

2007 Season