NOR/MAN Week in Review: December 8, 2025
Welcome back to the NOR/MAN Week in Review, your one-stop shop for all the latest news, results, and recruiting buzz in the world of high school track and field! This week saw some incredible performances on the cross-country trails as athletes wrapped up their fall seasons and set their sights on indoor track. Let’s dive into the action!
Quick Hits
- Natasza Dudek blazes to a 16:50.10 5K XC at Nike Cross Nationals, topping the women's leaderboard.
- Nicholas Mazzeo dominates the New Balance RunningLane XC Championships with a blistering 14:49.84 5K.
- University of Oregon continues its distance dominance, securing a verbal commitment from rising star Josh Hoey, class of 2018.
- Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone's legendary high school career continues to inspire, with countless young athletes looking up to her record-breaking performances.
- Nike Cross Nationals provides a thrilling finish to the XC season, showcasing the depth of talent across the nation.
- Recruiting season heats up as athletes make crucial decisions on their collegiate futures.
Men's Spotlight
The men's cross-country scene concluded its season with a bang! Nicholas Mazzeo stole the show at the New Balance RunningLane XC Championships, clocking an impressive 14:49.84 for 5K. This performance ranks him among the top XC runners in the nation and demonstrates his readiness for the upcoming track season. Close behind were Peter Mecham (14:51.98) and Camden Gibson (14:52.31), making it a tight race for the top spots.
At Nike Cross Nationals, Jackson Spencer led the pack with a solid 15:01.10. Several other runners showed promise, including Peter Simpson, Charlie Slawinski, and Kellen Williams. While they may not have placed as high as they wanted, their performances demonstrate consistent improvement and potential for future success on the track. Keep an eye on these athletes as they transition into indoor season.
Women's Spotlight
The women's cross-country season also wrapped up in spectacular fashion. Natasza Dudek delivered a stellar performance at Nike Cross Nationals, finishing the 5K course in 16:50.10, earning a whopping 960 WA points. Blair Bartlett followed closely behind with a time of 16:51.70, and Jaelyn Williams rounded out the top three with a 16:58.00, underscoring the incredible depth of talent in the girls' field.
The Brooks XC Championships West also showcased some incredible runners. Carmen Dorsey-Spitz led the way with a time of 17:38.70, followed by Braelyn Combe (17:51.20) and Elliana Patterson (17:53.20). At the New Balance RunningLane XC Championships, Katy Zang clocked in at 17:04.28, with Maya Easterwood (17:06.36) and Leila Hailey (17:13.91) right behind her. These performances are sure to catch the attention of college coaches as the recruiting season intensifies.
Recruiting Watch
The recruiting scene is buzzing! Several athletes have recently made their college commitments, and the competition for top talent is fierce. Keep an eye on NOR/MAN for the latest updates on where your favorite high school stars are headed.
- The University of Oregon continues to bolster its distance program with the commitment of Josh Hoey. Hoey is a 5-star recruit known for his impressive range, excelling in distances from the 800m to the 5K. This is a major win for the Ducks.
Performances of the Week
Natasza Dudek: Her 16:50.10 at Nike Cross Nationals isn't just a great time; it's a statement. Topping the leaderboard against a highly competitive field showcases her talent and determination. This cements her status as a top distance recruit and likely moves her up many college coaches' wishlists.
Nicholas Mazzeo: Crushing the New Balance RunningLane XC Championships with a 14:49.84 5K puts him in elite company. This is a significant personal best and solidifies his position as one of the top XC runners in the nation. College coaches will be paying close attention to him as he transitions into the track season.
Tip of the Week
Recovery is key! As the cross-country season winds down and athletes prepare for indoor track, prioritize rest and recovery. Ensure adequate sleep, proper nutrition, and active recovery techniques such as stretching and foam rolling. Don't jump straight into intense training without allowing your body to recover fully. This will help prevent injuries and ensure you’re ready to perform at your best when the track season arrives. Remember: consistent, smart training beats overtraining every time.