Bolivar, Mo. – The Southwest Baptist University men's cross country team is set to begin its 2026 season after placing sixth in the Great Lakes Valley Conference last year. With plenty of experience returning, the Bearcats have an opportunity to build on a solid 2025 campaign. The Bearcats were picked to finish 6th again this year in the GLVC preseason poll. 

Despite having a smaller roster this season, the Bearcats are confident in the group they will put on the course. One of SBU's experienced returners, Nathan Keck, believes the size of the team will not change the expectations surrounding the program.

"This is going to be a great year for SBU," Keck said. "Some people might be saying we have a small team, which is true, but it doesn't change anything about our program or what we stand for."

Keck has also been encouraged by what he has seen from the Bearcats throughout their preparation for the upcoming season.

"We are a pretty fit group of guys and look just as good, if not better, than past years' teams," Keck said. "We are ready for what this season holds and are prepared to make our mark."

SBU will have the opportunity to make that mark close to home when it opens the season at the Bearcat Invite at Bolivar Municipal Golf Course. This meet will take place on Saturday, September 5th at 7:00 a.m.

The Bearcats are scheduled to compete in four regular-season meets before postseason competition begins in November.

2026 SBU Men's Cross Country Schedule

·       Sept. 5 – Bearcat Invite @ 7:00a.m. | Bolivar, Mo.

·       Sept. 19 – MSSU Stampede | Joplin, Mo.

·       Sept. 25 – Gans Creek Classic | Columbia, Mo.

·       Oct. 24 – Missouri Western Invite | St. Joseph, Mo.

·       Nov. 7 – GLVC Championships | Springfield, Mo.