With a number of sophomore returners back and a bevy of talented recruits, Cyclone Athletics is looking forward to big things this fall.

The women's soccer, volleyball and cross country and men's soccer and cross country teams either had Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference or NJCAA Region IV championships or competed at the national tournament last season. They each have a number of returning athletes

Victoria Granz and Madison Krisch are returning sophomore cross country runners. Last year they helped their team earn an Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference championship, finished fourth and sixth, respectively, overall at conference and 10th and 14th, respectively, in the region. They were two of three runners from the women's team to compete at the NJCAA championship.

A few guys from the men's soccer team helped secure a co-conference championship in 2018: Fernando Alvarez (forward-7 goals), Vasili Vouris (defense-5 goals), Shun Tanaka (defense) and Omar Barragan (midfield-4 goals, 8 assists).

The volleyball team sees the return of All-American, All-Region, All-Conference player Noelle Knezz along with All-Region and All-Conference players Abbi Fletcher, Amanda Bulow, All-Conference player Lauren Gausselin and All-Region Tournament team player Taylor Bulow. They helped their crew earn a region championship and finish 10th at nationals last season.

The women's soccer team is aiming for a five-peat for conference and region championships as well as a fifth consecutive trip to nationals. Returning players to watch this year are Iris Cruz (2018 All-Region and All-Conference), Lauren Pikulski, Anna Kois and Madi Davis.

Brooke Zielke is back with women's tennis this fall. After claiming a championship at No. 1 doubles with her partner and recent grad, Jasmine Abunaim, she competed this May at the national tournament.