Consistency has been a trademark in the Mary Washington College cross country and track and field programs under head coach Stan Soper. The 1990-91
campaign proved no exception, as both the men's and women's cross country teams won regional titles en route to NCAA appearances. Three members of the
women's track team qualified for nationals as well, all of whom earned All-American honors.
The women's regional title in cross country was MWC's fifth in six seasons, and - behind All-America senior Kim Cosgriff - the Eagles finished 12th at the NCAA meet. Meanwhile, the men's team finally hurdled a series of second-place finishes to cop its first regional crown and a first trip to nationals, finishing 18th overall. For his efforts, Soper was named regional Coach ofthe Year. The women's team also won its first Mason-Dixon Conference title and a sixth state Division II-III crown in seven seasons, while the men won their second state title in three years.
After a steady four-year climb, the men's team peaked to a first-ever NCAA South/Southeast Region title in 1990 to earn a first-ever trip to nationals. Despite the loss of four All-State performers, head coach Stan Soper believes his harriers can continue the tradition of excellence in 1991.
"We worked so hard for four years to get to the top of the region, but let's remember that some underclassmen also contributed to the success of last year's team," said Soper. "The returnees know the type of effort and dedication required to return to nationals. But it will be a very different team with new challenges and new goals."
Likely spearheading the new charges will be Matt Boyd (King George, VA),who missed the 1990 NCAAs because of illness. He'll be joined by returnees Murray Chesno (Jr./Baltimore, MD) and Kevin Hewitt (So./Baltimore, MD), who should both benefit from experience gained from last year's championship team. Seniors Conan McDonough (Alexandria, VA) and Denny Bradecamp (Chantilly, VA) and juniors Chris Koehler (Fredericksburg, VA) and Eric Pritchett (Staunton, VA) will provide much needed depth.