The University of Minnesota Crookston women’s cross country team was selected to finish 13th in the NSIC Preseason Coaches’ Poll released Thursday, August 15. The predicted finish is the highest in program history after they were picked 15th in 2023.
“Last year, our women’s team set a school record for the fastest 6k team average and placement at the NSIC Championship meet,” said Head Coach Steven Krouse. “The team looks to build on that success as we are returning our top eight runners from last year’s squad and added two talented freshmen. With great leadership from our three seniors (Anna Grabowski, Madison Elijah, and Katie Mack), I am excited to watch the team compete and reach new heights this season!”
The Minnesota Crookston women’s cross country team has increased their success every season since becoming a program in 2019. They are in their sixth season under Krouse as head coach. The Golden Eagles set program records at regionals and the NSIC Championships last season. They are guided by Anna Grabowski (Sr., Waterdown, Ontario), who set her 6K record at the NSIC Championships with a time of 23:17. The Golden Eagles also return key runners Madison Hilliard (Jr., Jacksonville, N.C.), Grace Alwardt (So., Lake Elsinore, Calif.), Evelyn Dupont (So., Las Vegas, Nev.), Madison Elijah (Sr., Hebron, Ind.), Katelyn Mack (Sr., Frazee, Minn.), Catie Neumann (So., Alexandria, Minn.), and Emma Williams (So., Nashwauk, Minn.). In addition, the Golden Eagles have added Caroline Kuehne (Fr., Long Prairie, Minn.), and Eva Robinson (Fr., Cavalier, N.D.) the fray.
“Through hard work and dedication, Anna has set a new 6k PR each year since she came in as a freshman back in 2021,” Krouse stated. “Anna never settles and holds herself to high standards. She leads the team by example and has been a building block for our program. Coming off a great spring and summer of training, I can’t wait to see what Anna is able to accomplish in her senior year!”
Augustana University received 14 first-place votes and was picked to win the conference. Khot Juac of the University of Sioux Falls was named the Preseason Athlete of the Year.
The Golden Eagles commence the 2024 season Friday, September 6 at the Augustana Twilight.
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