Cross Country 11/6/2026 12:00:00 PM Friday Focus with Jack Thompson Wilkes University | Men's Cross Country TOWSON, Md. - Friday Focus is the Landmark Conference’s weekly student-athlete spotlight, giving us a chance to get to know the people who make up our conference both on and off the field. This week, we’re catching up with Wilkes University men’s cross country student-athlete Jack Thompson, who reflects on finding the right fit at Wilkes, the people who have supported him throughout his running career, and the work that went into breaking a school record. Jack also shares how competing at the Division III level has helped him grow as a leader, teammate, and individual. When you were going through the college search process, what stood out about Wilkes University and ultimately made you decide it was the right fit? I chose Wilkes since I was looking for a school with a good engineering program. Wilkes had professors who cared about the students and their education, and I liked the smaller school feeling as well. Since Wilkes also had cross country, it was nice to know I would be able to continue my sport in college. What has competing as a Division III student-athlete taught you, and what aspect of the experience do you value most? It has taught me how to balance both school and doing a sport at the same time. I have also learned valuable leadership skills in trying to make the team better in the sport and as individuals overall. Who has had the greatest influence on your athletic journey, and what lessons or support from that person have stayed with you throughout your career? My family has been helpful to me throughout my journey; they are always trying to attend my meets and be there to support me. My teammates are supportive and have helped me to become the best version of myself. Christ also helps me know that there is much more to life and to my identity than my sport and what I do. Looking back on your career so far, what accomplishment are you most proud of and why does that moment stand out to you? Breaking the school record. It stood out because in the previous race I was not happy with my results, so I added in form training and increased my mileage to try and make improvements, and the work paid off at that next meet where I broke the record. What's something you've learned through athletics that you'll carry with you long after your playing career ends? Being able to push myself to do things that I did not think I could, as well as spending time with teammates and working together to improve as a team. Fast Five... Favorite pregame song or artist? Eye of the Tiger Favorite road trip snack? Granola bars Favorite professional team? Eagles Dream vacation destination? Seeing National Parks out west Favorite TV show or streaming series? I am more of a movie person, and I like Back to the Future.