LA MIRADA --- The Biola women's cross country team is back at the top of the PacWest preseason poll.

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.

After four PacWest winning seasons, the Eagles look to make it five in a row. They return nine runners from last season's championship team, providing a strong foundation. While the Eagles lost five runners from last season's roster, the returning group gives Biola a solid mix of experience and new opportunities heading into 2026.

Leading the Eagles once again will be Head Coach Sean Henning, who was selected as the PacWest Women's Cross Country Coach of the Year. Henning earned the honor for both Biola programs heading into the 2026 season.

"We are looking forward to seeing where both teams can do this year," stated Head Coach Henning. "The women bring back five out of our top seven from last year, and we have a few new additions that are running really well right now. We believe we have a competitive team that can compete to win the Conference title and mix it up with the top teams in the region. Look for Hailey Wurzbach to lead the way for us this year, she's had a great summer and preseason so far."

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