Since 1985, no other Division III team in the South/Southeast Region has achieved the success of the MWC women's cross country team, having won the NCAA regional title in four of the past five years to earn berths at nationals. The 1990 team once again aims for a top-15 national ranking, but the Eagles will be challenged by other strong teams within the region.
The 1990 squad is led by a group of talented seniors; Kim Cosgriff (Christiansburg, VA), who achieved All-America status in the 1990 outdoor track season, will team with Audrey Cole (Pasadena, MD) to lead the Eagles. This duo placed first and third, respectively, in the 1989 regional meet, and hope to improve their positions from the 1989 NCAA meet. Wendy Durst (King George, VA) and Cheryl Dyer (Poquoson, VA) also return for their fourth seasons and should again make strong contributions to the team.
Other returning veterans include junior Paula Gilbert (Fairfax, VA) and sophomores Harriet Greenlee (Salt Lake City, UT), Shelly King (Vienna, VA), Lesley Krush (Mechanicsville, MD) and Becky Perry (Seekonk, MA). Freshmen to watch include Karen Dickinson (Lebanon, NH), Chrissy Kauten (Stephens City,VA), Stacy Sanders (Severna Park, MD) and Kim Manion (Millboro, VA).
"I believe we have another excellent group this fall, but for us to reach our team goals, we need strong leadership from the seniors, while the underclassmen need to step forward and fill some gaps," said Soper.