BROOKLYN, N.Y. - The LIU Brooklyn cross country team is jumping into the 2016 season head first this weekend, taking part in two meets in two days. The Blackbirds will take part in the Father Bede Cross Country Invitational in Loretto, Pa., on Friday, September 2, before heading to the Monmouth University XC Kick-Off in Luncroft, N.J., Saturday, September 3.

Head Coach Janine Davis has faith in her squad heading into the weekend.

"I can confidently say that this roster has the ability to accomplish all of the goals we discussed in our team meeting, including to push themselves mentally every time they hit the course," Davis said. "Mental toughness is very important in this sport, and this weekend will not only test their physical capacity, but also their mental preparedness."

The Blackbirds have a roster of entirely upperclassmen returning, led by junior Ester Jean-Louis, who has been blazing since she stepped foot on campus. Last season, Jean-Louis set the school record in the 5k, with a time of 19:11.70, and was LIU's lone competitor at the 2015 NCAA Northeast Regional.

The Blackbirds were picked to tie for eighth place in the preseason NEC Coaches' Poll out of the ten-team field. Three-time defending Northeast Conference (NEC) champion Sacred Heart was unanimously selected to capture the 2016 NEC women's cross country title.