The Illinois Valley Community College Cross Country program got off to a strong start at the Skyhawk Early Season Opener on Saturday morning on the campus of Sauk Valley Community College. 

Freshman Dagen Setchell of Mendota led the Eagles' men's team with a sixth-place finish (19:00) in the 3-mile race. 

"Dagen is coming into the season with great energy and motivation," Matt Baker, IVCC head coach said. "With a first race like this, we're really excited about where he may finish when we reach the Conference and Region IV meets at the end of the season." 

Returning sophomore runner Christian Yepsen of Princeton was next in line for the Eagles with a 20:40.83 finish for 11th overall. He was followed by freshman Kevin Rynke (21:50.01) and sophomore Azael Vargas (22:21.2).