Cross-country is back once again at St. Edward’s University.

It has been seven years since there was a cross-country team at St. Edward’s.

The team has already started off with victory.

On Saturday, both the men’s and women’s teams took home first place at the Texas Lutheran Invitational in Seguin, Texas.

Senior Katy Gillis won the individual championship on the women’s side.

The team is led by Head Coach David Chandler. Chandler is new to St. Edward’s, but coaching long distance running was always a part of his life.

As he comes to lead this new team, he is filled with excitement as he reestablishes a program that had been retired for years.

The original cross-country was discontinued in 1991. It would then be revived in 2003, only to be stopped again in 2008 for funding issues.

The current distance runners kicked off their workout on Aug. 17, going on multiple runs since.

The team runs at local trails in Austin, including Blunn Creek, Barton Springs area and Zilker Park.

Since the team is completely new, Chandler had a sports psychologist consultant come talk to the team about group dynamics.

Chandler’s main goal is for his team to improve themselves as runners and know that they are all in the same boat because it’s a new experience for everyone.

Chandler mentions he is adjusting well to St. Edward’s with the friendly community who helps him out.

Not only are the runners excited about the season, many agree the atmosphere of the team as a whole is what gets them motivated to wake up and workout during early mornings.

Freshman Victoria Mayorga says she is enjoys the opportunity to run new trails in Austin and travel around the state with her new team.

“The team is coming together super well,” Mayorga said. “Everyone gets along and there is definitely a positive environment all around. This season is really special because we all have something to prove.”

Another runner who is excited about traveling around the state with his team is freshman Hogan Daughters.

“Coach [Chandler] is pushing us really hard in our workouts, but you can’t expect success without pushing yourself beyond your limits,” he said.

The next meet for the team is the Our Lady of the Lake Invitational on Friday in San Antonio. The team will go for their second straight win.