FLORENCE, Ala. – The University of Tennessee Southern women's cross country team continued its strong 2026 campaign Friday at the Kennemer Classic, placing sixth in a competitive field dominated by NCAA Division I and Division II programs at McFarland Park.
The Firehawks posted a team score of 115 and a team time of 1:37:05, finishing just six seconds behind NCAA Division I host North Alabama in total team time while competing against programs including Jacksonville State, West Florida, Auburn Montgomery, Austin Peay, and North Alabama.
Leading the charge once again was junior Vera Maisaje, who recorded another outstanding performance against some of the region's top competition. Maisaje finished 11th overall in a field of more than 100 runners, crossing the line in 18:25.6 while averaging 5:55.8 per mile. Her finish made her the highest-placing NAIA runner in the meet and continued a season that has already seen her set multiple school records and earn three consecutive SSAC Runner of the Week honors.
Senior Alyssa Andrea continued her strong season with an 18th-place finish in 19:05.7, giving the Firehawks two runners inside the top 20 against a field loaded with NCAA talent.
Freshman Uxue Armas added another impressive performance to her rookie campaign, placing 29th overall in 19:37.0. Senior Claire Deaton followed with a 34th-place finish in 19:47.7, while junior Lou-Anne Bernard rounded out the Firehawks' scoring five in 42nd place with a time of 20:10.2.
Freshman Jessica Needs narrowly missed the top 45, finishing 47th in 20:39.5, and senior Amelia Worsley placed 50th in 20:46.1.
The Firehawks demonstrated the depth that has fueled their success all season, placing five runners among the top 50 and seven runners under 21 minutes. The balanced team effort helped UT Southern remain competitive with NCAA programs while once again showcasing the strength of its lineup heading into the championship portion of the season.
With Vera Maisaje leading the way and a veteran core continuing to perform at a high level, the Firehawks continue to build momentum as the SSAC Championships approach.
UT Southern Results
FOLLOW THE FIREHAWKS
Tap in with everything happening around UT Southern Athletics and keep up with the Firehawks all season long.
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/utsathletics
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/utsouthernathletics
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UTSouthernFirehawks
Scores, highlights, announcements, behind-the-scenes content, and more — stay connected and rep the Firehawks everywhere you go. Go Firehawks!
