RIO GRANDE VALLEY – The distance crew from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) had a solid 2024-25 athletic year, from cross country bests to conference medals during the outdoor track & field season.
 
As the 2025 cross country season kicks off this weekend, the unit is eager to continue building on the upward trajectory the event squad has created in recent years. Head track & field/cross country coach Shareese Hicks and distance coach Ricardo Mendoza – a former Vaqueros distance runner himself – have carefully brought in student-athletes who are talented, dedicated and ready to buy into the culture established by the dependable returners. With a solid mix of old and new, and a group designed to endure, UTRGV is heading into the season with high hopes. 
 
"This year, we are looking for progress beyond the podium," Hicks said. "We are running to build a legacy within the distance program that will spark a very memorable season for years to come. We want to showcase our talent, our development and make a big leap in performances." 
 
Two seasoned veterans return to continue leading the distance group in senior Abraham Morales and junior Kailey Salazar. Morales and Salazar were once again selected to be the men's and women's distance captains, respectively. Morales was the top men's team finisher at all five meets last season and is prepared to give his best during his final season at UTRGV. Salazar is a mid-distance standout who can really push during longer races and brings an undeniable competitiveness to her team. 
 
There are 13 newcomers to the distance squads, with seven new student-athletes on the men's team and six on the women's. The Vaqueros have been racking up the miles and building team chemistry through the first few weeks of the season, and Hicks believes the squad is in a good spot as they prepare to begin competitions. 
 
"We have a strong culture established and have vetted our newcomers in the recruiting process. Everyone here has the same work ethic and heart. That type of chemistry is organic and leads to special performances," Hicks said. "This group is full of grit and mental toughness. They are hungry for more and have been pushing themselves and one another in training. Taking that type of unity into a year like this is a recipe for greatness." 
 
UTRGV put together a manageable cross country schedule which will give the student-athletes ample time to train and hone-in on details like race strategy as they build to the conference championship. The courses coming up are familiar, setting the Vaqueros up for success early and often. Hicks and her squad feel confident that this cross country season will create a solid foundation for the distance crew that will carry them through another year running for the 956. 
 
"The squad is thrilled to return to the course and bring the pride and spirit of the Valley with them," Hicks said. 

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