The upcoming cross country season presents a different kind of challenge since we are moving into a bigger conference that is a combination of the SSAC and Trans South Conference and will have 11 schools competing for a spot in the NAIA Championships.  The Tigers have more experience than ever before and look to be much more competitive.  Leading the list of returning runners is Sophomore Maria Gonzalez (Lawrenceville), who posted a team best 20:54 for the 5K last year.  Audra Cochran, a  Junior from Stockbridge was right behind her at  20:56 and Sophomore Schkurte Ejupi (Weisbaden, Germany) clocked a 22:46.  Also back are  Junior  Monica Muchene (Marietta) and redshirt  Freshman Lilian Korir (Mosoriot, Kenya.  Newcomers include  fifth year Senior Kelly Young (Lawrenceville), who is moving over from the soccer team,  Junior  transfer Regina Ogechi (Kenya) from Chattahoochee Technical College, and  Freshmen  Ashley McCoy, Banks Co. HS, and Fatima Talavera from Gainesville HS.  Brenau had their highest conference finish in history last year, finishing 4th in the SSAC.  With the experience of the returning runners and the quality of the newcomers, BU should have its best season ever.  Coach Susan McIntyre is counting on leadership from the captains to build team unity and competitiveness in the new conference and is optimistic about the upcoming season.