HOUGHTON, N.Y. -- Eight members of the Houghton men's and women's cross country programs have been recognized as All-Conference selections by the Empire 8 Conference.

This recognition is based on each individual's finish at the 2025 E8 Cross Country Championships. The Highlander women finished second out of nine teams at the event, while the men finished third of 11 men's teams competing.

Leading the way for the women was Noelle Linenfelser, who earned First Team honors following her fourth overall finish. Amy Collins (13th) and Emberlynn Nolt (14th) were named Second Team. Aria Larson (20th) and Jenna Binney (25th) were Third Team selections.

On the men's side Amos Bixler was the lone First Team honoree after finishing third in the championship race. Ben Allen (10th) was a Second Team honoree, while Luke Ellis (19th) earned Third Team honors.

In addition, Larson and Allen were Houghton's selections to the E8 Tomorrow's Leaders Teams. One member of each team was named that institution's representative for each sport. These teams honor student-athletes who have emerged as leaders not only on the field of play, but in the classroom and in the community. In addition, they "compete with honor and integrity" and have distinguished themselves and consistently exhibit the critical traits as outstanding sportsmen and sportswomen.

"Developing character and integrity is a hallmark of the Empire 8," said E8 Executive Director Chuck Mitrano. "This series is proof that Empire 8 and our member institutions are committed to intercollegiate athletics' important role in higher education."