Down a few runners to injuries, the Cyclones could only run four in their opening meet—the Earlybird Invitational in Elmhurst. They weren't able to score as a team, but saw strong, tight performances.

Sophomore Victoria Granz (56th, 18:16) led the way with freshman Adali Haro (57th, 18:18) right by her side. Nicole Pannitto (80th, 19:28) and Jaime Funk (81st, 19:28) also paired up to finish.

The Cyclones stacked up well against the tough field and stuck together. "I was very pleased by the way the women finished. I wasn't expecting them to pair up the way they did, but it was a nice surprise," said Head Coach Dimitri Dimizas. "The leadership that Victoria and Madison [Krisch] showed before, during and after the race was great. That will be needed throughout the season. Now we have to work on closing the gap between our runners. Once we get everyone healthy, I think this can be a dangerous team."