September 4, 2025
Waxahachie, TX – The Nelson University Lions cross country program enters the 2025 season with high expectations and fresh momentum, bringing together a championship-caliber unit fueled by relentless training and purpose.
The Lady Lions welcome a talented group of newcomers, most of whom arrive on campus following standout senior seasons capped by state championship qualifications. Returning leaders Betzaidy Najera and Analia Menendez bring valuable experience and confidence, especially after strong performances on the track last spring.
Najera, who earned SAC Women's Cross Country Runner of the Week honors at last year's Saints Collegiate Invite by clocking 25:43.0 on a challenging 6k course, returns ready to build on her breakout season. Menendez, coming off a productive track campaign, adds depth and leadership to a roster that blends proven veterans with rising stars.
Key additions: Kylie Adams, Jessica Otwell, Miranda Sosa, and Reese Perkins all arrive as state cross country qualifiers, setting the stage for an immediate impact on the conference level.
On the men's side, Nelson returns most of its roster, creating a foundation of experience and continuity. Standouts Jesus Flores, Emmanuel Franco, Michael Todd, and Dominic Todd each carry momentum from a strong track season into the fall, bringing competitive poise to the course.
The Lions also add firepower with Jayden Helm and Ezra Perez, both state qualifiers in cross country. With this combination of seasoned returners and promising newcomers, Nelson looks primed to rise in the conference rankings.
Both squads have dedicated their offseason to intense training and preparation, aiming to establish themselves among the Sooner Athletic Conference's elite. The Lions opened the season at Georgetown, where they showcased their depth, fitness, and competitive edge.
"I'm excited to see what our men's and women's teams can accomplish this year. Both squads have put in a tremendous amount of work during the offseason and are eager to open their season and set the standard for the year," said Director & Head Coach of Cross Country and Track & Field Robert Herrera.
Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-NELSON.
