FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. -- Trine University head coach Zach Raber has been named the 2025 MIAA Women’s Cross Country Coach of the Year after leading the Thunder to a history-making season.

Raber guided the women’s program to its first-ever MIAA Championship title, marking a defining moment for Trine cross country. The Thunder dominated the 2025 conference meet, scoring just 22 points—33 fewer than the runner-up—to capture the championship in convincing fashion.

Under Raber’s leadership, five Trine runners earned First Team All-MIAA honors by finishing in the top eight, including 2025 MIAA Most Valuable Runner Sidney Swick, who won the individual title in 21:07.9. Another Trine standout placed 15th to secure Second Team All-MIAA recognition, further underscoring the team’s depth and balance throughout the lineup.

Raber first joined the Trine coaching staff in 2013 as head coach of the men’s cross country program and has since taken over responsibilities for both the men’s and women’s teams. His tenure has been marked by steady growth and competitive excellence, culminating in this season’s breakthrough championship.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our women’s team this year," Raber commented. "Our seniors have worked REALLY hard for four years and it is obviously paying off for them now. Our younger runners have also come along well throughout the season. We are very excited for the upcoming regional and national championships. Hopefully our women can continue to push the bar even higher.”