Courtesy: Zolton Cohen

KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- The Western Michigan cross country team will compete in the Mid-American Conference Championships in Ypsilanti, Mich. at Eagle Crest Golf Course on Saturday at noon.

The Broncos finished in eighth place last season with Samantha Draney putting in the top finishing time of 18:34.4 for Western Michigan.

"We are definitely looking to improve our position from last year," said head coach Kelly Lycan. "Our top group has been running really well lately and finishing in the top 30 should be a goal for our top five runners."

The top 14 runners make the All-MAC team with the first seven making first team and the places eight through 14 make second team. Western Michigan has not had an All-MAC cross country runner since 2005.

"Eagle Crest is a very honest course," added Lycan. "It's a two-loop course and there aren't any surprises."

The top five finishers for the Broncos have consisted of Jennifer Roberts, Jenna Matthews, Jill Odom, Samantha Draney, Brittni Hutton and Becky Horn.

"Our top runners need to run like top runners," added Lycan. "They are ready to run a good race this weekend."