RICHARDSON, Texas - The UT Dallas cross country teams are set to embark on its 2025 season, entering the competitive landscape of the Lone Star Conference. This marks the Comets' first season in the LSC, a conference known for its national competitiveness. Head coach Danielle Kcholi, with her extensive LSC experience from her time at Eastern New Mexico, is at the helm for her seventh season.

Kcholi expressed her enthusiasm about the transition to NCAA Division II, stating, "I am personally very excited about being back in the Lone Star Conference, it is something that means a lot to me. I think the challenge will be that it is one of the most competitive conferences in the country, so you need to be competitive nationally to be competitive in the LSC."

The men's team will rely on sophomore Alex Bozhilov and junior Frank Douglas, both recognized on the LSC Preseason Runners to Watch list. Bozhilov, was the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference freshman of the Year last season. Douglas was the top finisher in every race for UTD in 2024, including a school-record-breaking 5K performance. The team also benefits from the leadership of graduate student Ethan Turner, senior Andy Hamze and a robust group of juniors, including Colton Dillard, Erik Grover, Kaleb Jessie, and Zach Johnson.

On the women's side, Bharvi Varu and Ellie Suo-Anttila have earned spots on the LSC Preseason Runners to Watch list. Varu was UTD's top performer in the final three meets of last season. The team will also see the return of senior Abby Valdez, junior Suo-Anttila, and sophomores Bharvi Varu, Bhavya Varu, and Grace Youngblood. Newcomers such as Alexia Callahan, Lili-Mai Pigeon, Ami Quiroz, and Brianne Vasquez are expected to make their mark as they integrate into the team.

The Comets' season opens on Saturday, September 6, at the UT Tyler Cross Country Open. The schedule also includes notable events such as the Mustang Derby in Wichita Falls, Texas, and The Hill Cross Country Classic in Hillsboro, Texas. In October, the team will compete in the Chile Pepper Cross Country Festival in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and the Old Glory Gallop in Fort Worth. The season will culminate with the Lone Star Conference Championships in Fort Worth on October 25.

Kcholi emphasized the importance of health and consistency, stating, "I think the key to our success this year will be remaining healthy and consistent. Compared to last year, we are stronger at the front of the pack, but it is exciting to see who will step up into the number four and five spots."

With the men's team ranked 12th out of 14 and the women's team ranked 13th out of 16 in the LSC Preseason Poll, the Comets are eager to prove themselves in their new conference. Kcholi noted, "We are learning that you cannot take any opportunities for granted, and we are grateful for each day we spend together."

LSC Men's Release
LSC Women's Release