A SEASON TO REMEMBER
Biola’s men’s and women’s track and field teams enter the new season following one of the strongest years in program history, highlighted by academic recognition and national success.
Last season, ten student athletes earned Academic All-District honors from College Sports Communicators. On the track, six Eagles were named U.S Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) All-West Region performers, while two athletes earned top honors at the PacWest Championships. Three Biola athletes advanced to compete at the NCAA Division II Championships, where the program secured a bronze finish — a milestone moment that helped elevate expectations moving forward.
MEN’S TEAM FOCUSING ON DEPTH AND CONSISTENCY
Despite losing some of their team entering the season, the men’s team is focused on remaining competitive across events and positioning itself for conference success.
“We did have a couple unfortunate losses last semester, which hurt us a little bit,” head coach Sean Henning said. “But we feel like we have a fairly well-rounded team, and we feel like we can score across most events on the track.”
That versatility, combined with a strong team mindset, could put the Eagles in contention at the PacWest Championships.
“If our guys are willing to commit to being excellent in all facets of their lives and really stay focused this season, I think they can put themselves in a position where they could duke it out for a top position in the conference,” Henning said. “They want to pursue potentially trying to win a conference championship.”
WOMEN’S TEAM AIMING FOR THE TOP
On the women’s side, Biola enters the season with clear goals and expectations.
“Our goal is to be top three in the conference,” Henning said. “I don’t know if we have the depth to be competing for a conference title, but I think the women have a great chance of for sure being in the top three.”
He emphasized that conference success often comes down to small moments and unexpected performances.
“Little victories like that will add up over time,” he said. “They might find themselves in a position where we are at the top end of the conference.”
LEADERSHIP AND CULTURE
Leadership is a central pillar to the program’s success, especially with a roster that includes both experienced athletes and younger contributors.
“We expect our leaders to set the example of how you should be a student-athlete in this program,” Henning said. “Your commitment level in and out of practice, your coachability, and your ability to serve others.”
With approximately a dozen leaders across event groups, the coaching staff relies on veteran athletes to reinforce team standards.
“They’re an extension of the coaches,” Henning said. “When they’re aligned with us, they can support what our vision is.”
ATHLETES TO WATCH
Several athletes are expected to make a significant impact this season, on both the men’s and women’s side.
“Eboselulu Omofoma was an All-American last year as a freshman,” Henning said. “We’re looking for her to continue getting better, both in hurdles and jumps.”
He also highlighted distance standout Bethany Mapes.
“She was a cross country conference champion and regional champion and has already been to nationals,” Henning said. “Look out for her to continue developing.”
On the men’s side, Henning pointed to returning national qualifiers as one to watch this year.
“Joshua Widdows made nationals last year in the 400 hurdles,” Henning said. “Hopefully he’ll be healthy this year and able to compete at a higher level.”
Another name to watch is Melt von Molendorff.
“He was a conference champion in cross country and had NCAA provisional marks last year,” Henning said. “He’d be another one to keep an eye on.”
LOOKING AHEAD
With postseason experience, returning leadership and emerging talent, Biola track and field enters the season with momentum and purpose. While expectations continue to rise, the focus remains on steady growth and competing with intention.
