The Thunder cross country staff have completed their 2026 recruiting class and have signed two total newcomers, both male, who will all be incoming freshman. The newest Thunder cross country student-athletes are:

FRESHMAN

Jack Keesecker - 6'0, Freshman - Manhattan High School (KS)

As a senior, Keesecker ran 15:35 4K and a 18:57 5K. Keesecker will also compete in men's soccer for the Thunder. Also lettered in track at Manhattan High School.

Elijah Wasson - 6'1, Freshman - Douglass High School (KS)

As a senior, Wasson ran a 19:07 5K at the KSHSAA 2A State Championships and would finish 62nd. Holds the third fastest 5K time in DHS history and was a two-time state qualifier. Also lettered in track at Douglass High School.

First year head coach Drew Hill had this to say about his most recent recruiting class, “I’m extremely excited about this 2026 recruiting class and that both of these men will have a great opportunity to show the world what is means to be a Christ follower, while competing at a high level. As a first-year head coach, I know there’s a lot of work ahead, but this team has already shown a willingness to buy in, work together, and compete. I believe we have the talent and character to have a special season, and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together. Our goal is to get better every day, represent MCC well, and leave everything we have on the course.”

The Thunder will run their first race of the season on Friday, September 11th at the Ollie Isom Invitational hosted by Butler Community College in El Dorado, Kansas.

Check out the men's soccer schedule here: 2026 Cross Country Schedule

How to Follow the Thunder: For complete information and to stay up-to-date with Manhattan Christian College Cross Country, visit www.mccthunder.com and follow the team's social media page on Instagram.