Runners finish season with strong showing

The MVNU men's cross country team highlighted a successful year by finishing in the top half of the field in most of their meets this year.

The team's top finish came last month at the Jenna Strong Fall Classic at Wilmington College, where the men came in eighth out of 38 teams.

The Cougars were led much of the season by sophomore Brennan Crawford. Crawford placed in the top 35 or better four times this season and 25th place once. He took second at the Kenyon College Invitational at the start of the season.

Sophomore De-Andre Steward and senior Jake Sherer also ran strong and consistently were among the Cougars' top finishers throughout the season.

The women's team finished in the top half of the field in all of their races, and recorded taking third place of 10 teams in the league championship, and recording two other top five finishes.

Senior Annie Winkler and Rebekah Mullins paced the ladies. Winkler finished in the top 20 in every race except one while Mullins finished top 30 in three of five races.

Winkler's fourth-place finish at the Crossroads League Championships were good enough to earn her a berth in the NAIA National Championships, which will be November 19 at 11:30 a.m. at North Farms Cross Country Course in Elsah, Illinois.

Winkler, Mullins and freshman Brooklyn Duewel were given All-Crossroads League Team honors.

Coach Chip Wilson said he was proud of the group for their determination this season. "They are great teammates, and they all deserve this award," Wilson said.

Wilson praised his runners for their effort and intensity against great competition throughout the year.

"I am so proud of our teams and the way they represented MVNU and Christ," Wilson said.