Since 1985, no other Division III team in the South/Southeast region has been more successful than the women's cross country squad at MWC. Continuing in the tradition, the 1988 team will feature an exciting mixture of veterans and newcomers.

 

Before the fall semester was underway, head coach Stan Soper was eager to analyze this combination of experience, depth and new talent. "It's always exciting to see just how the pieces of the puzzle fit together," said Soper. ''We graduated two of the best women we've ever had here, but hopefully someone will step in."

 

Sophomore Kim Cosgriff (Christiansburg, VA) will return to lead the Eagles again this fall. Cosgriff was the top MWC distance runner in 1987, placing first for the Eagles in every regular-season meet. Joining her in the top positions will be Brooke Fillmore (Jr./Charlottesville, VA), a steady and dependable runner for the past two seasons. Also returning from last year's top group will be sophomores Audrey Cole (Pasadena, MD) and Wendy Durst (King George, VA).

 

Expected to make major contributions will be Wini Boggs (Sr./Charlottesville, VA), Carrie Livingston (Fr./Burke, VA) and Paula Gilbert (Fr./Fairfax, VA). Cheryl Dyer (So./Poquoson, VA), Susan Ries (Fr./Williamsburg, VA), Patty Heanue (Fr./Alexandria, VA), Dawn Harmon (So./Sterling, VA) and Tracey Smith (So./Manchester, MD) will help provide the team with excellent depth.

 

"I think we will have a good group of runners again this fall," said Soper. He also captured the collective sentiment of the team by stating, "we've qualified for nationals the last three years, and we would like to return again."