LA MIRADA, Calif. --- A pair of talented transfers and three incoming freshmen comprise the first recruiting class for Biola men's cross country coach Jonathan Zimmerman.

Leading the way are transfers Ryan Richert (Wheaton, IL/North HS/Olivet Nazarene University) and Kyle Ross (Buena Park/Orange Lutheran HS/Concordia University NE) are expected to step right in to top five scoring spots for the Eagles. 

Richard had a strong freshman year at Olivet Nazarene, qualifying for the NAIA National meets in cross country, indoor track and outdoor track. His season culminated with All-America honors after finishing second in the Marathon at 2:25.23.

Ross has been involved with super programs at both Concordia (Neb.) and at local high school power, Orange Lutheran.  "He really understands the team concept of cross country and has an outstanding work ethic," said Zimmerman. "Both Kyle and Ryan are committed to doing well and will be fine additions to Biola."

A talented trio of incoming freshmen look to boost the Eagles in the fall. They are Rob Clarkson (Colorado Springs, CO/Colorado Springs Christian HS), David Kostelyk (Abbotsford, BC/Mennonite Educational Institute), and Carter Williams (Shawnee, KS/Maranatha Academy).

Clarkson, primarily a mid-distance runner, was a member of the 2005 & 2006 state runner-up teams in both cross country and track for Colorado Christian.

Kostelyk competed for Valley Royals Track Club in Canada. He brings some solid prep times with him to Biola, recording a 4:07 in the 1500 and an 8:57 in the 3,000.  

Williams was a multi-sport athlete at Maranatha Academy in Kansas where he was a starting midfielder in soccer and point guard on the basketball team.  Carter showed his great potential in high school, recording a personal best of 4:33 in the mile.

Biola finished ninth in the NAIA Region II meet this past fall. The Eagles return senior Brian Ball, a two-time cross country All-American, along with junior Jared Bird, and sophomores Kyle McNulty, and Mike Morin.