Listen Here
By Omari Welch-Guytan
welchguytano@findlay.edu
As the fall season comes to a close at the University of Findlay, the energy around campus is filled with reflection, pride, and determination for the months ahead. From the gridiron to the volleyball court and across cross country trails, each program showcases resilience and commitment to excellence with key leadership playing a role. The Findlay football team’s season has been defined by grit, growth, and unity. Led by fifth-year senior Tristan Cross, the Oilers fought their way through a challenging schedule, remaining focused on their goal of capturing a conference championship.
“This season’s been a grind, but a special one,” Cross said. “We’ve faced adversity, but our team’s chemistry and mindset have kept us together. Every practice and game has been about putting in the work and trusting each other.”
Ranked No. 9 in AFCA Division II Coaches Poll , and No. 2 in the NCAA DII regional rankings, the Oilers aim to close the year with a strong statement. Cross emphasized the team’s brotherhood and accountability as the foundation of their success. That is a mindset he hopes will continue to inspire the next generation of players at Findlay.
At 19-3, the volleyball team is now “under consideration” in the first regional ranking. There are three more regional rankings to be released between now and the start of the NCAA DII playoff bracket to be announced on Nov. 24. Graduate student and standout Makenna Belcher reflected on the season’s growth and perseverance. A key contributor throughout her career, Belcher embraced her leadership role, helping guide a young team through the highs and lows of competitive play.
“As a senior, I’ve learned how important it is to lead by example,” Belcher said. “This season tested us in a lot of ways, but we kept our focus on improving every day. Our chemistry and support for one another have made this experience so special.”
Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping a culture of hard work and resilience; traits that continue to define Findlay volleyball’s success both on and off the court.
For the cross-country program, this fall was a year of transition and growth. Head Coach Eric Wymer is proud of his team’s perseverance and development despite major roster changes.
“Overall, I’ve been really pleased with the group this fall,” Wymer said. “We lost a lot to graduation, so this year has really been about becoming the best version of ourselves and learning. It’s easy to compare this team to last year’s, but it’s a whole new group — one focused on gaining experience, developing, and growing.”
Heading into the conference championship, Wymer’s primary goal was to ensure his runners had the chance to be as competitive as possible. The result was a performance full of heart and personal bests.
“The team gave everything they had and truly went for it,” he said. “We came away with a lot of personal records and strong team finishes.”
The highlights were numerous. The women’s team saw four athletes earn All G-MAC honors — the most in program history — with Lauren Sattler (6th), Olivia Fenbert (10th), Sarah Reinhart (18th), and Josliyn Welch (19th) leading the way. It was also the first time the program had two women earn first-team honors. On the men’s side, Asher Long (11th), Benjamin Hall (12th), and Ty Rosengarten (15th) all earned All G-MAC recognition. Additionally, Sarah Reinhart and Elijah Hadler each claimed the prestigious Elite 26 Award, marking an unprecedented dual achievement for the team.
Wymer noted that one of the team’s biggest successes this season has been its ability to grow together through challenges.
“Being such a young group, we had a lot of opportunities for new leaders to step up,” he explained. “We’ve learned a lot about accountability and discipline as the season’s gone on.”
Looking forward, Wymer emphasized the importance of perspective.
“One lesson we’ll carry into track season is seeing the bigger picture,” he said. “Athletics is like a roller coaster, there will always be ups and downs. Sometimes you have to step back, trust there’s a greater plan, and think long term.”
As the Oilers prepare for the spring, Wymer’s vision remains rooted in growth and continuity.
“This year was all about learning,” he said. “Looking ahead, we return all 13 men from the conference roster and have great depth and youth moving forward. On the women’s side, we’ll lose a few key seniors, including three-time All-Conference performer Sarah Reinhart and Claire Bachman, who had an incredible senior year. But both teams are young, talented, and hungry. The goals ahead are big and achievable.”
