DUDLEY, Mass. (8/26/2026) - A new era begins for Nichols College cross country as the Bison prepare for the 2026 season under second-year head coach Luke Elson who coaches his first season of cross country for Nichols. Elson, who was named head coach of the men's and women's cross country and track & field programs in December 2025, brings an emphasis on athlete development and recruiting to The Hill.

The men's team enters the season with a strong blend of returning experience and new talent. Patrick Bergin, Jack Crowley, Chad Moffat and Andrew Skillin return to lead the Bison, with Crowley and Bergin being the longest tenured athletes on the team going into their senior seasons. Moffat competed in cross country in the tail end of the last season, Skillin makes his debut in the sport for the Bison this season. Nichols also welcomes five newcomers: Jason Asselin, Xavier Cavanaugh, Alexander Drown, Stephen Graham and Samuel Kelley, adding substantial depth to the roster and rounding it out at nine members.

On the women's side, Lixion Koulmbai returns for her junior campaign. Recruiting efforts bring Chaselyn Flaherty and Makenna O'Connor to The Hill, giving the Bison two newcomers as the program continues to build for the future.

Nichols enters the fall encouraged by the progress made last season, which featured numerous personal records and several Top-25 modern-era performances. With a strong returning core, a large recruiting class and a new head coach leading both programs, the Bison are poised to build momentum throughout the season and take another step forward in the Conference of New England.

Both men's and women's cross country are set to start their seasons on Saturday, September 12th at the Hartford Cross Country Invitational at 11:00 AM.