Parker Banzhof Shines in Cross Country Debut
Jacksonville, Fla. – Parker Banzhof is making headlines as he secures ASUN Freshman of the Week for the first time. This marks an exciting start for the Ospreys in the 2025 cross country season, with back-to-back honors for newcomers. Notably, Parker is the third Osprey to receive this award since 2021.
Hailing from Vero Beach, Florida, Parker showed impressive skills at the FSU XC Open on September 26. He finished 20th in the 8k race with a strong time of 25:23.2, outpacing competitors from major programs like Florida State, LSU, and Miami.
“His race at FSU was impressive,” said Director of Cross Country, Jeff Pigg. “He kept his composure and finished strong. That’s a great sign for a freshman.”
With this momentum, Parker and the Ospreys will participate in the Crimson Classic in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on October 17. This event will serve as their final preparation before the postseason.
Quick Facts About Parker Banzhof:
- Awarded ASUN Freshman of the Week for the first time.
- Top freshman finisher at FSU XC Open.
- Started in 91st place but climbed to 20th by the race’s end.
- Contributed to the team’s strong runner-up finish against traditional rivals.
Cross country continues to gain popularity in college sports, with more schools investing in their programs. According to a recent NCAA report, participation in cross country has steadily increased over the last decade, reflecting a growing interest in distance running across the U.S.
Engagement in track and field-related social media trends also shows fans rallying around emerging athletes. Many fans have taken to platforms like Twitter to voice their support for standout performers like Parker, showing that the community is excited about new talent in the sport.
For more about college athletics and cross country achievements, check the latest updates from the NCAA here.
