Providence launches cross country program after false start

It’s not exactly easy to have a false start in a cross-country race, but the Providence Pilots suffered one at the program level.

The school was set to launch a foyer into a new sport for them last year, hiring Caleb de Jong in January with the hopes of beginning the program for fall of 2025.

That plan was put on hold when de Jong nabbed a different job before fully establishing the team.

Cross-country at the college is now back on track, with Providence announcing Nick Reimer as their new head coach, with the goal of competing in fall of 2026.

Reimer is a great fit for the Christian institution, not only bringing elite running experience including an appearance at the Canadian Junior National Track and Field Championships in 2011 and a physical education degree from the University of Manitoba, he also boasts seven years of pastoral experience.

“I want our athletes to grow in consistency, resilience, and Christ-centered character — during the XC season and through year-round training that also prepares them for track, road, and trail,” Reimer said in a Pilots news release.

The news release noted Reimer’s philosophy is based around the Norwegian Endurance Method, which emphasizes aerobic capacity, lactate-threshold development and injury prevention through strength training.

“With Providence launching men’s and women’s cross-country in 2026, this is the perfect moment to establish clear standards, smart training, and a welcoming community that helps runners thrive,” Reimer said.

“We’ll focus on durable aerobic development, wise progressions, and a competitive culture that reflects our faith.”

Cross country will be the fifth sport played at the college, following soccer, futsal, basketball and volleyball.

“Nick brings a rare blend of endurance sport expertise, student-mentorship, and faith-centered leadership,” Providence’s director of athletics, Joel Coursey, said.

“His vision fits Providence perfectly: develop resilient runners, build a Christ-centered team culture, and compete the right way from day one.”

Recruitment efforts have already begun, with interested athletes encouraged to reach out to the school.

Volleyball season at Providence kicked off Halloween Night, as the school held their first home matches of the season at the Niverville Resource and Rec Centre.