The Kent state men’s cross country team started the season with a first place finish, while the women’s team came in third today at the Tommy Evans Invitational at Firestone Metro Park in Akron.

The men’s team defeated Akron, Ohio Northern, Buffalo and Youngstown State, with Kent State senior Aiman Scullion winning the individual competition.

The women’s team placed third, ahead of Buffalo and Ohio Northern but placed behind Akron and Youngstown State.

The men’s team dominated the competition, finishing with six of the top ten positions. The women’s team finished with two runners placing in the top ten.

Kent state coach Mark Croghan said he was happy with both teams’ finishes but acknowledged that this is still only the beginning of the season.

“This is a great starting point,” Croghan said. “It is what it is. We can’t rest on our laurels though.”

The cross country teams will compete next Saturday, Sept. 19 at the Iona Invitational.