SILVER CITY, NM – Western New Mexico University men's cross country enters the 2026 season ranked 10th in the Lone Star Conference preseason poll, as the league announced its preseason selections Monday.
The Mustangs received 162 points in the preseason poll, which was voted on by LSC head coaches and sports information directors. WNMU will look to build on its returning experience as the Mustangs prepare for another competitive season on the course.
Leading the way for Western New Mexico on the LSC Runners to Watch list are seniors
Cameron Shorty (Albuqurque, NM/Atrisco Heritage Academy High School) and
Samuel Ketcham (Goodyear, AZ/Canyon View High School).
Shorty, a native of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is entering his senior season while pursuing a degree in mathematics/mechanical engineering. Ketcham, a senior from Goodyear, Arizona, is majoring in accounting and returns after earning Academic All-LSC recognition.
Ketcham is one of seven returning LSC student-athletes recognized as an Academic All-LSC selection among this year's Runners to Watch. His recognition highlights the Mustangs' continued emphasis on success both academically and athletically.
Western New Mexico will compete in a conference field led by West Texas A&M, which was selected as the preseason favorite after receiving 25 of the 28 possible first-place votes. DBU was picked second, followed by UT Tyler, Oklahoma Christian and Cameron to round out the top five.
The Mustangs will begin their 2026 campaign in early September as they work toward the LSC Cross Country Championships, scheduled for Nov. 7 at the LCU Cross Country Course in Lubbock, Texas.
The postseason will continue with the NCAA Division II South Central Regional on Nov. 21 at the same course.
With a mix of returning experience and new opportunities ahead, Western New Mexico will look to establish its identity throughout the 2026 season and make its mark in the Lone Star Conference.
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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).
