ROCKFORD, Ill. (August 29, 2025) — The Highland Community College men's and women's cross country teams officially launched their 2025 fall season at the Rock River Invite, hosted by Rockford University. The 5K event offered a competitive stage against NCAA Division III schools, providing a benchmark for the Cougars as they begin their season.

Season Debut Highlights

Women's Team

• Meanna Luy turned in a standout performance, placing 9th overall with a time of 22:44.8 (average mile pace: 7:19.2). Her strong showing immediately positions her as a key competitor to watch this fall.

• Laney Holland followed with a 21st-place finish in 26:40.3 (8:35.0 per mile). Both runners gained vital early-season experience that sets a solid foundation for future meets.

Men's Team

• Reid Pierson clocked 20:54.6 (6:43.8 per mile), finishing 12th.

• Brayden Jackson came in 13th at 20:57.0 (6:44.6 per mile).

• Sebastian Pantich placed 14th with a time of 21:00.7 (6:45.7 per mile).

• Ivan Wenger finished 18th in 23:31.0 (7:34.1 per mile).

Despite competing against larger D-III teams like Rockford and Beloit, the Cougar men displayed impressive depth and potential across the board.

Highland CC Individual Results — Rock River Invite (August 29, 2025)

The Rock River Invite provided an ideal starting point for the Cougars. Meanna Luy's top-10 finish in a loaded field is especially encouraging as the women's team looks to build on that momentum. The men also laid down solid opening marks to use as benchmarks moving forward.

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