MACON, GA — The 2025 SIAC Cross Country Championships served as the final battleground for the Allen University men's and women's teams — and while the pursuit of a conference title came up short, the heart, hustle, and history written in Macon was undeniable.

MEN'S TEAM: Young Core Finishes Strong

The AU men's team, fueled by a group of rising underclassmen, completed the 8K course with grit and determination. While no individual runner placed in the top rankings, every member of the team finished the race strong — showing flashes of promise and planting seeds for what's to come.

"This group may be young, but they've got fight," said Head Coach Orinthal Striggles. "We knew this season would be about growth, and the fact that every runner finished the toughest race of the season says a lot about their commitment. We're building something."

With more offseason training and another year of experience under their belts, expect this men's squad to return faster, stronger, and ready to climb the ranks in 2026.

WOMEN'S SPOTLIGHT: Jamea Lindley Makes AU History

On the women's side, sophomore phenom Jamea Lindley once again turned heads. Already named SIAC Runner of the Week just days before the championship meet, Lindley showed she was far from done rewriting the record books.

She shattered her own Allen University 5K school record with a blazing time of 21:37, finishing 13th overall — the highest finish in program history at the SIAC Championships.

What makes it even more impressive?

Last year, running for a different SIAC school, Lindley placed 22nd. Now in Allen Blue and Gold, she climbed 9 spots and stamped her name as one of the most dangerous runners in the conference.

"Jamea is relentless," Coach Striggles added. "She continues to evolve every meet, and the scary part is — she's just getting started."

Season Finale & What's Next

As the 2025 Cross Country season officially comes to a close, there's a quiet confidence buzzing around Allen's program. With Lindley's leadership along with a talented group, a resilient men's core, and a coaching staff building a culture of excellence, the future is fast, bright, and bold.

Keep an eye on Lindley as she transitions to track & field this spring, where Coach Striggles believes she could be just as dangerous.