University of Guelph Athletics

The Gryphons men's cross country teams, from 1999 to 2002, enter the Hall of Fame after laying the foundation for what is now the most successful men's cross country program in the country. From 1999 to 2002, the Gryphons men's cross country program put together an incredible stretch, winning four consecutive national titles, with the 1999 title marking the Gryphons first national title in men's cross country in 30 years (with the 1969 season marking the Gryphons previous national title). Steve Bendo, Reid Coolsaet, Chris McLaren, Drew Graham, Taylor Murphy and Mark Vollmer were just a few of the names who played key roles in helping the Gryphons men's cross country program put together their remarkable streak of four consecutive U SPORTS titles. It would prove to be the beginning of one of the greatest dynasties in Canadian university sport, with the Gryphons men's cross country win in 1999 marking what would become the first of 14 national titles within the next 19 seasons.