The Rowan University’s men’s cross country team is off to a fantastic start to kickoff the season, most recently finishing in first place out of 13 teams at the Philadelphia Metro Championships this past Friday. 

The team’s first race resulted in a victory against Stockton University back in August where the Brown and Gold placed 15 runners among the top 20 finishers.

A name to watch on this roster is freshman Brandon Diaz, who finished first and eleventh at the Stockton and Metro Championship races, respectively. He has also earned New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Men’s XC Rookie of the Week twice so far this season.

Diaz isn’t surprised by the outcome of the first two races based on their expectations for the season.

“I think we can make it to nationals and have a shot at the regional title,” Diaz said. “I think we have a shot at the NJAC title. Those are further down the season, but so far these first two races show we can do it.”

Along with Brandon Diaz, head coach Dustin Dimit is a firm believer of the team being very successful this year. He’s not surprised with the results so far, either.

“No, that’s what we expected,” Dimit said. “We set high standards for them and what our expectations are every year and they work hard to make sure those are fulfilled.”

Catch the Profs next on Sept. 21 when they compete in the Bill Fritz Invitational.

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