SPRING ARBOR, Mich. – The Spring Arbor University men's cross country team will begin the 2026 season at No. 25 in the NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll, which was released by the national office on Thursday.
 
The Cougars enter the new season following another strong campaign in 2025. Spring Arbor finished third at the Crossroads League Championship before earning a berth in the NAIA National Championship, marking the program's fourth team appearance at the national meet in the last six years.
 
Defending national champion Cumberlands (Ky.) opens the season at No. 1 in the poll, followed by fellow Crossroads League member Indiana Wesleyan at No. 2.
 
In addition to Spring Arbor and Indiana Wesleyan, three other Crossroads League programs appeared in the preseason rankings. Marian checked in at No. 8, Taylor at No. 11 and Goshen at No. 16, giving the league five teams inside the Top 25.
 
Spring Arbor will open the 2026 campaign at the Michigan State University Spartan Invitational on Friday, Sept. 11. The meet will be held at Forest Akers Golf Course in East Lansing, Michigan.