Full Breakdown
Bethune-Cookman Athletics: Cross Country and Volleyball Updates
9/14/2025, 1:38:43 PM
Cross Country Performance at Embry-Riddle Classic
The Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) Men's Cross Country team achieved a fourth-place finish at the Embry-Riddle Cross Country Classic held on September 12, 2025, in Daytona Beach, Florida. The Wildcats scored 114 points, with the team event won by Embry-Riddle, which amassed 24 points. Notably, sophomore runner Kibet from Chenara, Kenya, secured first place with a time of 25:34.2, finishing nearly 30 seconds ahead of the second-place finisher, Nick Scarangelli of Embry-Riddle, who clocked in at 26:06.8. Senior runner also contributed to the team's success with a fifth-place finish at 26:46.4.
In the women's 5K event, only four Wildcats participated, and they did not factor into the team scoring. Senior runner led the group with a time of 22:01.8, finishing 21st overall among 63 competitors. The other participants included and , who finished with times of 24:14.9 and 24:35.8, respectively.
The Wildcats will next compete on September 26, 2025, at the Seminole Invite hosted by Florida State University.
Volleyball Split at Bash at the Beach Tournament
On September 12, 2025, the Bethune-Cookman Volleyball team split their matches during the first day of the Bash at the Beach tournament in Daytona Beach. The Wildcats began the day with a 3-0 victory over South Carolina State, showcasing a strong performance with a .222 hitting percentage and 40 kills. Key players included who led with 12 kills and a .321 hitting percentage.
Later, the Wildcats faced Charleston Southern University, where they lost a tightly contested match 3-2. The Wildcats initially took the lead in the first set, winning 25-21, but Charleston Southern responded by winning the next two sets. The Wildcats fought back to win the fourth set 25-23, forcing a decisive fifth set. Despite leading 14-11 in the final set, the Wildcats could not secure the victory, ultimately losing 18-16. Notably, freshman Oliwia Durka made a significant impact in her debut, recording 18 kills and earning the Player of the Match title.
The Wildcats will conclude their participation in the Bash at the Beach tournament on September 13, 2025, against Jacksonville.
Official Statements & Responses
B-CU Director of Athletics Reggie Theus addressed the recent cancellation of the Tampa Bay Classic, stating, "The most important thing for us was to protect the student-athletes and the fan experience." The decision to relocate the game against Southern University to Municipal Stadium in Daytona Beach was made to ensure a successful event for all involved.
Criticism & Opposition
Following the cancellation of the Tampa Bay Classic, some alumni and fans expressed frustration on social media, with comments reflecting confusion and disappointment over travel plans that had already been made. Theus acknowledged the unpredictable nature of social media reactions but emphasized the need to prioritize the integrity of the program.
What's Next
The Wildcats' football team is set to face South Carolina State on September 13, 2025, at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium. Meanwhile, the volleyball team will continue their tournament play against Jacksonville later that day.
