"I am hoping we jump up a little in the KCAC," said second year head coach Aaron Davis. "It is pretty cool to have a men's team, and the women's' side has a good chance at doing well. I would like to predict the women finishing in the top three."

On the men's side, big Bethany returners are seniors Hugo and Jorge Escobar from Emporia, Kan. and sophomore Josh Snider of Tehachadi, Cali. Marcie Schottler, Marysville, Kan., and sophomore Nadia Armbruster of Lindsborg are key returning runners for the women's team.

"They are all really good leaders," Davis said, "and I truly believe we are one of the hardest working teams around. They know my expectations are high."

Freshmen Joseph Jedrzejewski of Longmont, Colo. and Dominic Yegon from Kenya are incomers to look for on the men's side. As for the women, Davis looks for transfer Kate Dibbern, York, Neb., and freshman Janeeka Montgomery from Grand Prairie, Tex. to make an impact.

"I think Janeeka could rewrite the record books here at Bethany College," he said, "and be a multi-time national qualifier."

Bethany begins their season September 5 with the Baker Maple Leaf Classic. In addition to their quest of building a foundation and the continual betterment of their program, the Swedes have another focus in mind.

"We need to keep the culture alive," Davis said. "We have a very tight-knit family amongst the cross country and track and field teams. We have new kids, new blood. I want them to build, and follow suit. Our returners are A-plus people in both creating and maintaining that culture, and making all this happen."