2025 SoCon Men’s Cross Country Champion and Runner of the Year

This season has been described as “a season for the ages.” When you look back, what moments stand out most to you?
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It really was a great season for me. What stands out most is the season as a whole, every race from start to finish. Each race taught me something new and helped me grow as a runner. Representing the Bucs with my teammates at every meet was special, especially knowing how much work we put in behind the scenes. It was rewarding to go out there and test ourselves every time we competed.
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You became ETSU’s first men’s cross country SoCon champion since 1995 and capped the year as SoCon Runner of the Year. What does it mean to you to be part of history at ETSU?
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It means a lot to me. One of my goals this season was to bring a conference title back to ETSU, and knowing it had been a long time since a Buccaneer had done that made it even more special. Realizing I was able to accomplish that was a proud moment. Being part of ETSU’s history motivates me to keep pushing and to make the most of the time I have left in my college career for this program.
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After missing the entire 2024 season due to injury, you came back and dominated in 2025. How did that year away from competition shape you, both as a runner and as a person?
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That year was definitely challenging, with a lot of setbacks along the way. The hardest part was trusting the process and coming back stronger. Working closely with our trainers, Coach (George) Watts, and leaning on my teammates, friends, and family helped me stay focused and motivated. The injuries taught me to appreciate the sport more and to enjoy every opportunity to compete, because it doesn’t last forever. This season, I let go of pressure and focused on having fun, and that mindset helped me perform better. Overall, the experience shaped me into a stronger runner and a better person, and it motivated me to keep improving every day.


You often made your biggest moves in the second half of races this season. How would you describe your racing mindset?
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My mindset was to race smart and build confidence. Since it had been a while since I last competed in cross country, I focused on getting re-familiar with the event and trusting my fitness. I raced more conservatively early on, then made my move later if my body felt good that day. That approach helped me stay confident and consistent throughout the season.
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You’re competing thousands of miles from your home in Parys, South Africa. What have ETSU, Johnson City, and your teammates meant to you during your time here?
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Competing so far from home isn’t always easy, and I do wish my family could see me compete in person more often. But my teammates have become like family to me; they support me every day and push me to keep going. We really look out for one another, and that makes a big difference. ETSU and the Johnson City community have truly felt like home. I’m extremely grateful for my teammates, coaches, professors, and everyone at ETSU who have made this experience so meaningful.

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