SWANNANOA, N.C. — The Warren Wilson College women's cross-country team is ready to return to action this fall, determined to build on last year's promise after their 2024 season was cut short by Hurricane Helene.

The Owls showed early strength with a strong performance at the Yeti Invitational, but the devastating storm forced the cancellation of the remainder of the season just before the team was scheduled to compete at the Maryville Invitational. Now, with a new year ahead, the Owls are focused on writing the next chapter.

Leading the way is Bella Sosa, last year's top runner, who returns to anchor the squad. Marlese Pedisich enters the season as team captain, bringing experience and leadership. Also returning are Lura Torres Benn and Aila Givens, joined by newcomer Merrit Yoder and freshman Trinity Larsen, adding depth and fresh energy to the lineup.

The Owls will open their 2025 campaign at the Eye Opener Meet, hosted by USC Upstate at the Milliken Research Center in Spartanburg, S.C. — the same course that will host both the NCAA Division III Pre-Nationals and National Championship this year. The schedule also includes a return to the Bruins Invitational in Greenville, S.C., alongside new and notable stops such as the Queen City Invitational in Charlotte, N.C. and the Mountain Goat Invitational hosted by the University of the South in Sewanee, Tenn.

With a mix of seasoned returners and new faces, the Owls are eager to pick up where they left off and showcase their resilience on the course this fall.