LA MIRADA --- The PacWest Conference announced its 2026 preseason poll on Thursday morning, with the Eagles selected to finish first in the conference. Biola also earned the No. 4 spot in the USTFCCCA West Region preseason poll.

The Eagles return 12 runners from last season's championship team, giving Biola a strong foundation as it looks to defend its PacWest title. Among those returners is Grant Miller, who earned PacWest Freshman of the Year honors following an impressive debut season.

Miller will be one of the Eagles' key returners in 2026 as Biola looks to maintain its place among the conference's top programs. While the Eagles lost eight runners from last season's roster, the returning group provides a mix of experience and young talent heading into the new season.

Leading Biola once again will be Head Coach Sean Henning, who was selected as the PacWest Men's Cross Country Coach of the Year.

"The men have a lot of youth that are excited and passionate about pursuing this sport," said Henning. "It's fun to watch them at practice. We do have some returners who are doing a good job of leading the way right now. Zach Elam is a new member of the team but a veteran runner and will be our low stick for the year. Look for him to do some big things in the postseason. We look forward to competing for the Conference title and trying to earn a spot to NCAA's in December."

Biola opens its 2026 season on September 5th at Mike Covert Classic.