Men's Cross Country | August 30, 2022

Each week, the University of South Carolina Aiken will post weekly men's cross country notes. The Pacers open the season Saturday at the Augusta Jaguar Invitational.


Riley's Return

After a solid 2019 season, Riley Campbell saw the next two seasons derailed by injuries. After not competing in 2020 nor 2021, Campbell looks to be back and in cross country form. Look for Riley to be near the top of the group once again – just as he was in 2019.

Tremendous Talent Returns 

In addition to adding Riley Campbell back into the mix, head coach Marshall Leonard's team also features the top returners from a season ago in Patrick Davis and David Witt. A core group that includes Julian Mendoza and Julian Salas will also provide the team with substantial depth during the 2022 season.

Slew Of Newcomers

The Pacers also added three freshmen newcomers to the mix with Tyler Blowe, Joey Burdick and Jason Embrose. Blowe hails from Glen Allen, Va., while Burdick is from Rincon, Ga. Embrose is a native of Aiken, S.C., and attended Aiken H.S. 

Talented Team

One familiar name to Pacer Nation has to be Juan Wiley. The sophomore from North Augusta, S.C., is the son of one of the most productive student-athletes during the men's basketball history. His father, Juan, is the program's Division II leader for rebounds/game and ranks in the top-10 on the career list for points, steals, rebounds and field goals made

New Face Of The Program 

In the spring of 2022, USC Aiken announced Marshall Leonard as the head coach for men's and women's cross country. Leonard previously coached at Salem University (W. Va.) as well as North Carolina Wesleyan. He brings a wealth of knowledge to the school. He added a slew of newcomers to the program since he arrived on campus.  

About The Race

The Pacers open the season at the Augusta Jaguar Invitational with an 8k race. The event is the same location as the PBC Championship.