HAMILTON, Ont. — The future of McMaster cross country and distance track is in strong hands as the Marauders officially welcome a standout incoming class ahead of the 2025-26 season. Representing communities across Ontario, this class brings a mix of academic excellence and athletic ambition.
Meet the newest Marauders:
Matthew Ponikvar
Mississauga, Ontario | Business
"I am honoured to be joining the McMaster XC/Track team."
Instagram: @matthew_ponikvar

Christian Lebar
Mississauga, Ontario | Business
"I'm looking forward to joining an excellent group of runners and coaching staff that have had countless years of success. I can't wait to be a part of the talent and excitement that this team brings. Let's go Marauders!"
Instagram: @c_lebar26

Lila Jordan
Toronto, Ontario | Social Sciences
"I'm looking forward to meeting my teammates and am excited to work towards our goals together!"
Instagram: @lila_.jordan

Mikayla McDermott
Toronto, Ontario | Nursing
"I'm excited to join a school that values both academics and athletics. I'm looking forward to growing as an athlete, connecting with new teammates, and being part of a supportive community."
Instagram: @mikayla_mcdermott

Julia Tremeer
Fenwick, Ontario | Business
"I am excited to go to McMaster to meet new people and join a new training environment."
Instagram: @juliatremeer

Zach Houston
Smithville, Ontario | Kinesiology
"I'm honoured to join the McMaster XC/Track team and can't wait to be a part of the Marauder family!"
Instagram: @zachhouston06

Charlotte Patterson
Port Hope, Ontario | Arts & Science
"I'm really excited to be a part of and train with a supportive and fun team, meet new people, and experience everything Mac has to offer!"

Brooke Cooper
Oro-Medonte, Ontario | Honours Health Sciences
"I am so excited to go to McMaster to learn new things, meet new people, and make new memories!"
Instagram: @brooke_cc24

Sam Richter
Port Sydney, Ontario | Commerce
"Looking forward to experiencing the great facilities and coaching offered by Paula and McMaster."
Instagram: @_sam.richter

Natsuki Iwano-Rivers
Toronto, Ontario | Wilson College – Leadership and Civic Studies
"I'm really excited to continue my academic and athletic career at McMaster. I'm especially looking forward to work with great coaches and new teammates in a hardworking training environment. I know being a part of this team will challenge me and help me improve overall as an athlete, and I can't wait to contribute to such an amazing team!"
Instagram: @nat.iwanorivers
