The UIS men's cross country team has been ranked third in the 2026 Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) Preseason Poll, as announced by the conference office on Tuesday morning. This recognition highlights the team's consistent ranking near the top of the GLVC.

The GLVC Preseason Poll provides an early indication of how teams are perceived heading into the new season, offering insights into their standings within the conference. The team's third-place ranking is supported by its strong second-place finish at the league's championship meet last year, marking its ninth consecutive top-three finish.

The Prairie Stars return with key athletes, including All-GLVC seniors Matt Padilla and Joey Karlesky, who are expected to lead the team under the guidance of Head Coach Emmons King, now in his fifth season. UIS also welcomes seven returning athletes, bolstered by three junior college transfers from Heartland.

UIS, which received 100 total points in the preseason poll, is set to continue its tradition of strong performances, as they aim to compete at the top of the GLVC once again in 2026.

The season kicks off with the 11th annual Prairie Stars Invitational on Friday, Sept. 4, a longtime staple of the Prairie Stars schedule and the team's lone opportunity to compete at home. The invitational features competition from several nearby schools, as well as GLVC rivals Quincy and UMSL, giving fans an early look at the team in action.

GLVC Release