JACKSONVILLE, Fla.-- Jacksonville University's men's and women's cross country teams are set to compete in the 2024 ASUN Cross Country Championships, which will take place at Cecil Field right here in Jacksonville. After a season filled with growth and rigorous preparation, both teams are ready to bring their best against a highly competitive field in this year's conference showdown.

JU's men's team has demonstrated resilience and consistency throughout the season, led by standout performances from Thomas Hellenbrand. Known for his strong pacing and leadership, he has motivated the team toward higher goals, and the Dolphins are looking to build on their season's progress with a strong performance at the championship.

The women's team has been driven by standout runner Mya Bodrato, whose consistent performances have been a pillar of the team's progress this season. Known for her endurance, Mya has not only set a high standard in competition but has also inspired her teammates with her focus. Her experience will be pivotal as the Dolphins head into the ASUN Championships, where she aims to make a significant impact against the conference's top competitors.

Head Coach Jordon Garman shared his excitement about the team's readiness, emphasizing the benefit of sticking to their familiar routine with the championship race so close to home. "We are looking forward to this year's conference race. It is always fun to travel, but we will take advantage of being able to keep our routine with the race being in Jacksonville," Garman said. "Friday is usually a workout day for us, so the message to the team will be similar to every Friday before this—prepare to the best of your ability before, and execute the plan during. The only difference this Friday is that we will be leaving it all out there."

The championship course at Cecil Field is designed to test each runner's endurance and tactical skill. The Dolphins have prepared rigorously for varied courses throughout the season, and they'll bring that experience as they compete on Friday.

Both teams have decided to dedicate this race in the honor of Morgan's Massage, emphasizing the importance of mental health within the athletic community. Several athletes have shared their thoughts on what Morgan's Message means to them:

• Madeline Weiler: "What motivates me to support Morgan's Message is the mental strength it brings to me and my fellow athletes at JU. Coming together to support mental health is vital for any athlete's performance."
• Josie Leonard: "What motivates me to support MM is my teammates and all athletes at JU. It's important that we look out for each other. I never want my teammates to be so engulfed in their emotions that they feel too mentally weak to overcome the challenges of not only this sport but in life as well. If that happens, I am always there with open ears just like what MM preaches."
• Donald Dempsey: "I am motivated to support Morgan's Message because as an athlete I know the struggles that athletes go through physically and mentally. I want other athletes to always remember that at the end of the day we are still human. Sometimes it helps to know that you are not alone. I am a witness that the support of other athletes and the Morgan's Message can go a long way."
• Geovanni Calderon: "What motivates me to support Morgan's Message is believing in the importance of mental health awareness, and by supporting this cause I hope to contribute to an environment where everyone feels comfortable seeking support and sharing their struggles."
• Eryn Field: "Racing for Morgan's Message means appreciating the mental resiliency of all athletes, showing gratitude for everyone racing and the work that goes into our sport, and running for those who are unable to do so."
• Jack Bolan: "To me advocating for mental health through Morgan's Message means ending the stigma surrounding mental health by making more people comfortable with opening up about mental health and knowing that we are never alone in our mental health struggles."

As JU prepares to race on Friday, they'll rely on the season-long efforts and determination that have defined their journey. With a strategic plan in place and a drive to compete, Jacksonville University's men's and women's cross country teams are ready to make a splash at the ASUN Cross Country Championships.