CLEVELAND, Ohio – For the first time over the last 12 years the Cleveland State cross country team hosted an alumni gathering last weekend, with over 15 former runners returning to the Cleveland area to enjoy an evening of camaraderie with current Viking runners.

"This was the first time since I have been here that we were able to host any sort of alumni event, and it was just so awesome to see everyone interacting," head coach Joe Jaketic said. "It was great to see former runners meeting the current team and sharing stories about cross country and Cleveland State. I know that all of the alums that were able to make it were so happy to get the opportunity to meet the current team, and everyone definitely enjoyed the evening." 

After enjoying a great meal, the alums and current Vikings were able to exchange stories and talk about everything from early morning practice to what music is played in the van on roadtrips. Since the Vikings don't host a meet during the season, it's hard to coordinate an alumni event, but Jaketic hopes to make the preseason alumni dinner a tradition moving forward.

Cleveland State will begin the 2016 season next weekend, traveling to Pittsburgh, Pa. for the Duquesne Duals – the first of nine races for the Vikings this season.