Battle Creek Area Catholic Schools

https://thebattlecreekshopper.com/articles/sports/st-phil-cross-country-hits-the-ground-running/ Coming into the 2026 cross country season, the St. Philip Catholic Central High School cross-country teams look to compete at full strength for the first time in several years. After struggling with numbers in recent years, the Tigers now have a full roster of five runners on both the boys and girls teams, meaning they will be able to place in meets. Coach Tim Cole says he hopes to see the team improve steadily throughout the fall. “We hope to show consistent improvement throughout the season individually and as a team,” said Cole. “We hope that all runners show improvement throughout the season, set personal records and perform well in team competitions,” St. Philip brings back only one male runner from last years team, junior James Muir. Cole says Muir showed a lot of improvement last year, improving his time by almost four minutes. Competing alongside Muir will be four freshmen: Theo Kilgore, Landon Fleming, Griffin Bandeen and Noah Mikesell. The girls team brings back a pair of seniors, Emmy Nofs, who has qualified for the state finals twice, and Elsa Strenge, as well as sophomore Ava LaPratt. New additions include freshman Olga Strenge. “All have demonstrated great potential to contribute to a successful year for the team,” said Cole. “The runners have worked extremely hard in early season practices and have shown great support for their teammates.” September 17, 2026 BY GUSTAV STRENGE STAFF WRITER