Strong Finish and Top Honors Mark Standout Season for Kirtland Cross Country

Strong Finish and Top Honors Mark Standout Season for Kirtland Cross Country
By Kirtland Community College Communications and Marketing Department

GRAYLING, MI. (Jan. 19, 2026)–Kirtland Community College’s cross country program concluded a stand out season for both the men’s and women’s teams with several student-athletes earning top honors in the Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA).

Leading the way were Utah Gusa, Oliva Gust, and Joey Janisse, who were named First Team All-Conference for their exceptional performances throughout the season. Anthony Cole and Riley Pattinson also received recognition as Second Team All-Conference honorees.

In addition to conference accolades, Joey Janisse and Oliva Gust were named All-Regional, placing them among the top runners in the region and further solidifying Kirtland’s growing reputation within collegiate cross country.

The accomplishments extended beyond individual awards with the men’s cross country team finishing second at the MCCAA Conference Championship, and the women’s team earning a strong third-place finish.

“I am extremely proud of these student athletes,” said Marty McDermott, Kirtland Director of Athletics. “Not only are they great athletes but also great students and tremendous representatives of Firebird Athletics!”

One of the season’s most compelling stories belongs to Joey Janisse, who did not compete in cross country during high school, instead excelling as a volleyball and track athlete. Despite the late start in the sport, Janisse has now earned All-Conference honors in both seasons at Kirtland, an achievement that speaks to her adaptability, work ethic, and athletic versatility.

Another key contributor, Utah Gusa, brought both talent and leadership to the program as he holds the honor of being named an All-American athlete, placing him in the top 15% of all National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II cross-country runners.

Gusa, a graduate of Ubly High School, was drawn to Kirtland after watching the program’s steady rise.

“Utah ran for Ubly High School and was watching the successes we were having two years ago and could see we were building something special at Kirtland,” said head coach Don Haskin. “When he toured he connected with the present team members very well and committed quickly. Our Conference Championship last fall would not have been possible without him. His massive improvements at Kirtland haven't gone unnoticed by local coaches that followed him since high school. Utah being named All-American has been a big plus in recruiting our incoming class this fall.”

Together, the achievements of Gust, Gusa, Janisse, Cole, and Pattinson reflect the culture of growth and commitment within Kirtland’s cross country program, positioning it for continued success in the seasons ahead.

For more information regarding Kirtland’s sports programs, including upcoming events, visit https://kirtlandfirebirds.com/.