Grand Rapids, Michigan - The women's cross country team opened their season with a fantastic showing at the Diemer Classic hosted by Calvin University. The Saints ventured to the Gainey Athletic Facility and raced to a second place team finish. Aquinas, who currently sits at #17 in the NAIA national rankings, found themselves trailing only the host Knights in the final results.

Madison Rempalski led the charge for the Saints finishing second overall in a time of 18:07.  The duo of Amber Koole (18:43) and Ella Koons (18:52) followed Madi through the finish chute as they placed seventh and ninth respectively.  The other scoring positions were then recorded by Lauren Wooer and Cadence Schultz, who each crossed the line in 19:31 to finish in 13th & 14th place.

Assistant Coach Nick Thelen commented, "This was a really strong start for our women's team to open their season. We had some individual breakthrough performances, but our highlight was the team confidence we ran with throughout the entire race."

Also contributing to Aquinas' top seven were Anna Tubbergen who finished 17th in a time of 19:36 and Claire O'Boyle (18th place), who crossed the line at 19:37.

Noelle House, who was just one of many Saints who shattered their lifetime bests added, "It was a great day to be a Saint! All the Ladies competed great with a lot of personal bests, when working hard and being consistent with training. Very excited for this season when noticing what we accomplished today and what we yet are going to do this season."

A total of 59 individuals competed for six different programs.

The Saints will return to action on September 26th as they travel to Adrian to compete in the Siena Heights Invitational.