CLINTON, Miss. — The eagerly anticipated cross country season is about to kick off as Mississippi College hosts "The Opener - 2023" on Friday, September 1st at the renowned Choctaw Trails. The event will draw 20 formidable teams to compete in a gripping 5,000-meter race.

Both the Mississippi College's men and women's cross country teams enter the meet as the defending champions. Additionally, the men's team boasts back-to-back individual titles for the past two years, setting the bar high for this year's contenders.

Adding to the enthusiasm is the recent announcement from the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) regarding the NCAA Division II preseason national rankings. Both the men's and women's teams have made history this year. For the first time in program history, both teams were ranked nationally in the preseason poll. The men's team achieved an impressive 13th place, while the women clinched the 30th spot. This monumental achievement also signifies the highest-ever preseason ranking that either team has secured.

Drawing inspiration from their previous season's triumphs, both teams will focus their efforts on mastering the craft of pack running at a national caliber level.

The event will feature some of the region's most esteemed cross country teams, including Mississippi State, University of Southern Mississippi, Rhodes College, local favorites Jackson State University, Millsaps, and Belhaven, as well as fellow GSC contender, Delta State University.

Spectators are in for a thrilling evening with the men's race kicking off at 6:00 PM, followed by the women's race at 6:45 PM.

Mississippi College welcomes fans, alumni, and supporters to cheer on the Choctaws as they embark on another promising Cross Country season.