Statesmen Expected in Middle of Pack in 2026

Oskaloosa–The William Penn men’s cross country team is hoping to play the role of league darkhorse as the 2026 Heart of America Athletic Conference Coaches’ Poll was released last Friday.

WPU, which was fifth in the Heart last fall, is expected to be eighth (out of 16 teams) with 136 points.

Park leads the way with 233 points and 13 first-place votes, while Benedictine is right behind the Pirates with 231 points and two first-place nods. Mount Mercy completes the major contenders with 215 points and the final first-place ballot, while Missouri Baptist (186) and Baker (176) wrap up the top five.

Clarke (145) headlines the rest of the group with St. Ambrose (144) also ahead of WPU.

MidAmerica Nazarene (130), Central Methodist (115), William Woods (113), Grand View (100), Culver-Stockton (89), Graceland (74), Missouri Valley (63), and Peru State (26) finish off the standings.

The Statesmen start 2026 on September 4 at the Central Dutch Invitational in Pella.

2026 Heart Preseason Coaches’ Poll
(First Place Votes)
1. Park–233 (13)
2. Benedictine–231 (2)
3. Mount Mercy–215 (1)
4. Missouri Baptist–186
5. Baker–176
6. Clarke–145
7. St. Ambrose–144
8. William Penn–136
9. MidAmerica Nazarene–130
10. Central Methodist–115
11. William Woods–113
12. Grand View–100
13. Culver-Stockton–89
14. Graceland–74
15. Missouri Valley–63
16. Peru State–26