New College of Florida's Men's and Women's Cross Country teams will run their first races in program history Friday when both teams compete in the Florida Atlantic Invitational at South County Regional Park in Boca Raton.Â
"I couldn't be more excited to begin this inaugural season in Sarasota with this group," Men's and Women's Cross Country head coach Alec Valle said. "We have a unique blend of determination, potential, and maturity that will set the tone for both immediate success and long-term growth. Roots Run Deep isn't just our slogan—it reflects the mindset and unity this team brings as we build something lasting.Â
"The goals are big, and there's no better group to take them on together."
The Mighty Banyans will compete against Sun Conference rival Ave Maria, NAIA member Florida National, Â as well as NCAA DII foe Nova Southeastern and NCAA DI foes FAU, Florida International and Miami (FL).
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IMPORTANT LINKS
RESULTS PAGE
SOUTH COUNTY REGIONAL PARK MAP
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OF NOTE
- Head coach Alec Valle was named the CACC Track Athlete of the Year, running at Georgian Court University, winning the 10,000m and 5,000m events. He was also named to the Division II All-East Region 3000m Steeplechase team that year. He holds multiple school records at Georgian Court University, including in the 5,000m, 10,000m, and 3000m Steeplechase. He previously served as the Head Coach of Cross Country and Indoor/Outdoor Track and Field at Stuart Country Day School in Princeton, N.J. Under his leadership, the team achieved significant success, including NJISAA Prep B championships in the high jump and notable performances in the triple jump, 400m hurdles, 800m, and 4x400m relay.
- Volunteer assistant coach Hannah Tremblay will assist Valle.
- NCF's Men's Roster features a pair of transfers in Andrew Rodriguez (Webber International) and Natheer Suied (Lander), along with four freshmen
- NCF's Women's roster features Wingate transfer Olivia Haddock, two freshmen, and two college cross country newcomers in junior Naomi Nerlien and sophomore Genevieve Michal.
Up Next: Sept. 12 at HOKA Nights of Thunder Cross Country Fest - Tallahassee, Fla. Â
