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June 5, 2009
Two Cross Country & Track Runners Named CoSIDA Academic All-District

Junior team leaders Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) and Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis Academy) were recently selected as CoSIDA/ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District winners. Since both student-athletes were named to the first team, the two are eligible for the CoSIDA/ESPN The Magazine Academic All-American team that will be announced later this month.

The duo led both the women and men to impressive cross country and track seasons under the guidance of first year head coach Jody Hawkins. Cuba led the women's cross country team in all eight races this season and ran a season best 6k time of 24:19, a season best 5k time of 18:40, was a five top ten finishes, won two races, was named AD3I Runner of the Week three times, AD3I Runner of the Month one time, NEAC Student-Athlete of the Week one time, was named first team All-NEAC, finished 2nd at NEAC meet & broke UD 5k record with 18:40. She was also named 1st team AD3I, and named All-Region after her 33rd place finish at NCAA South/Southeast Region and was honored as All-Academic by USTFCCA in 2008. She also holds the 3000 meter track record at UD of 10:55.41 set during the 2009 campaign. Since her arrival at UD in 2006, she has won various awards, including being named cross country MVP in 2006, an AD3I 2nd team member for cross country in 2006, and is a five time letter winner (three cross country, two track). The English major possesses a 3.73 GPA and has been named to the Dean's List all six semesters she has been at the University.

Pivarunas led the 2008 men's cross counry team in seven of eight races, had three top 10 finishes, and ran a best 8k time of 28:48.7. He also ran a school record 1:58.61 800 meter and 9:33.51 3000 meter during the 2009 track season. The five time letter-winner (three cross country, two track) was named the cross country MVP in 2008 and the track MVP in 2009, as well as a cross country captain in 2008. Other than the two track records he set this season, Pivarunas is the UD record holder in the cross country 5k and the track 4x4 relay. He was named to 1st Team NEAC All-Conference in cross country in 2008, 2nd team AD3I in cross country in 2008, Honorable Mention AD3I in cross country in 2007, and Honorable Mention AD3I in cross country in 2006. He was also a six time AD3I runner of the week for cross country during the 2008 campaign and NEAC student-athlete of week one time during the same season. The double major in English and Classics possesses a 3.756 and like Cuba has been named to the Dean's List all six semesters he has been at the University.

May 5, 2009
Theresa Smart Named UD Outstanding Student Athlete of the Year

With a 4.0 GPA, sophomore Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/Richwoods H.S.) definitely earned her selection as the 2008-09 University of Dallas Student Athlete of the Year. Besides her impressive performance in the classroom, the 2 time letter winner had 2 top 20 finishes throughout the season, finishing 16th in the UT-Tyler 6k race with a time of 29.57 and 19th in the University of Dallas 6k race in 30.27. She has declared a double major in Politics and Spanish, and plans to attend law school after she graduates from the University.

The University of Dallas is location in Irving, Texas, a suburb of Dallas. The approximately 1,200 undergraduate students that attend the university are challenged academically with a Liberal Arts education in the quaint, Catholic school environment. At the end of each academic year the Outstanding Student-Athlete award is presented to the lettering student-athlete with the highest GPA. The award was first presented in 1984.

April 7, 2009
Cuba Honored as All-Academic by USTFCCCA

Junior harrier Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) wrapped up another great cross country season months ago, but the awards keep coming in. Cuba has been named All-Academic by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association and the All-Academic Board of the National College DIII Women's Cross Country Coaches Association that governs this award.

Besides leading the women's team in all 8 races this season, she was named Association of Division III Independent (AD3I) Runner of the Week 3 times and the AD3I's Runner of the Month 1 time. She was also named the North Eastern Athletic Conference (NEAC) Student-Athlete of the Week 1 time, as well as a first team member of the NEAC All-Conference Team following her second place finish out of 55 runners in the NEAC Conference Meet. In the race, she also broke the school's 5k record by finishing with a time of 18:40. Her team won the meet on their way to the school's first NEAC Conference Championship. The team also helped Jody Hawkins in being named NEAC Women's Coach of the Year.

Cuba added to her personal accomplishments In the NCAA South/Southeast Regional, where she crossed the line in 33rd place out of 169 competitors in the 6k race and was named All-Region for her efforts. At the conclusion of the season she was also named to 1st team of the AD3I's All Independent Team, and once again helped coach Hawkins in being selected as the AD3I's Women's Coach of the Year.

December 19, 2008
Four UD Runners, Coach Hawkins Honored by AD3I

In her first year at the helm, head Cross Country Coach Jody Hawkins, a former team USA long distance runner and successful high school coach, was named as the Association of Division III Independent's women's cross country coach of the year. Under Hawkins, the team won their first ever conference championship by taking the NEAC crown earlier this fall. After winning the NEAC women's title, Hawkins was also named the NEAC women's coach of the year. Several of Hawkins runners were also honored by being named to the AD3I All-Independent Cross Country teams.

In the women's category, Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) was named to the first team, while freshman Catherine Sercer (Fort Scott, KS/Fort Scott H.S.) was named to the second team. Cuba finished first among her teammates in all eight races this season, and was named the AD3I Women's Runner of the Week three times and the women's Runner of the Month one time. In the NEAC Conference Championship Meet, she finished second running the 5k in 18:40 and set a new school record in the process, which resulted in NEAC All-Conference honors. She also was named to the NCAA South/Southeast All-Region team for her 33rd place finish in the regional meet. Catherine Sercer was the top freshman on the team, placing fourth in the NEAC conference meet, and was named to the NEAC All-Conference team as well. Showing major improvement as the year progressed, she ran a season best 21:28 6k in the final meet of the season, which propelled her to a 38th place finish out of 169 competitors in the South/Southeast Regional.

For the men, junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) was named to the second team of the AD3I All-Independent Men's Cross Country Team. Over the course of the season, he was named the AD3I Runner of the Week six times, and was the dubbed NEAC Student-Athlete of the Week one time. His 29:27 8k time was good enough for fourth place at the NEAC conference meet, and was first team All-Conference for his efforts. Over the course of the season, he finished in the top 15 in four out of eight races with his best 8k race being at Southwestern with a time of 28:48. Sophomore Joseph Lynne (Staunton, VA/Guardian Angel Regional Catholic School), a newcomer to running, was named to the second team by the AD3I. He came in second for the team on several occasions and improved all year by running a personal best 8k in 31:08 in the final race of the season.

December 18, 2008
AD3I Names 2008 All-Independent Men's & Women's Cross Country Teams

KANSAS CITY, MO - For the fourth year in a row, harriers from Nebraska Wesleyan University earned major honors as the All-Independent Cross Country teams were announced today by the Association of Division III Independents.

Nebraska Wesleyan's Jackie Spelts, a junior from Burwell, NE, was named the female runner of the year after she finished third at the NCAA Central Regional (22:06 6K) and fifth at the NCAA Cross Country Championships (21:11 6K).

Nebraska Wesleyan's top male runner, Andrew Laflin, a junior from Hickman, NE, was voted the male runner of the year. Laflin, who led the Prairie Wolves to a seventh straight NCAA Central Regional championship with a seventh-place finish, suffered from an irregular heartbeat and was unable to compete in the NCAA national championship race. Successful surgery was performed and Laflin is expected to begin running again soon.

Nebraska Wesleyan landed four runners on the men's first team - Laflin, Brian Copley, Logan Watley and Neil Wolford - and two runners - Spelts and Bridget Baldwin - on the women's first team.

Nebraska Wesleyan runner Malaina Huebert, a freshman from Adams, NE, was named the women's rookie runner of the year. University of Maine, Presque Isle harrier Justin Fereshetian, a freshman from Turner, ME, was voted as the men's rookie runner of the year.

Coaches Adam Boothe of the University of California, Santa Cruz, and Jody Hawkins of the University of Dallas, shared women's coach of the year honors, while Nebraska Wesleyan's Ted Bulling was named the men's coach of the year.

The All-Independent Men's and Women's Cross Country teams were selected by the men's and women's cross country coaches from the Association of Division III Independents member schools.


Women's First Team
Jackie Spelts, JR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Carina Hendricks, SR, UC-Santa Cruz
Mikayla Murphy, SO, UC-Santa Cruz
Bridget Baldwin, SR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Angela Cuba, JR, University of Dallas

Women's Second Team
Malaina Huebert, FR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Rachel Fichthorn, SR, Salem College
Lupe Cazares, JR, Mills College
Haley Sutter, SO, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Catherine Sercer, FR, University of Dallas

Women's Honorable Mention
Hannah Smith, SO, University of Maine-Presque Isle
Lauren Meek, Junior, Salem College
Jenny Cain, FR, UC-Santa Cruz
Shelly Hanson, JR, University of Maine-Presque Isle
Michelle Phillips, SR, University of Maine-Presque Isle
Julie Piernikowski, SO, Salem College
Olivia McAndrews, SO, Lancaster Bible College
Mariah Olivera, FR, Mills College
Angie Sandoval, JR, Mills College

Men's First Team
Andrew Laflin, JR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Brian Copley, JR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Logan Watley, JR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Neil Wolford, JR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Sean Trott, SO, Lancaster Bible College

Men's Second Team
Justin Fereshetian, FR, University of Maine-Presque Isle
Chris Cresci, FR, Chapman University
Greg Pivarunas, JR, University of Dallas
Kurt Whisler, SO, University of Maine-Presque Isle
Emerson Wright, SO, University of Maine-Presque Isle
Joseph Lynne, SO, University of Dallas

The Association of Division III Independents consists of 17 Division III independent institutions that have joined together to recognize student-athletes at independent institutions, and to provide exempted postseason championship competition in seven sports in 2008-09. The Association recognizes outstanding athletic achievements of its student-athletes on a weekly, monthly and annual basis. The Association provides statistical services for its members in seven sports. In addition, it will announce All-Independent teams at the conclusion of eight other sports this year.

More information about the Association of Division III Independents is available at http://www.d3independents.org.

December 11, 2008
Cuba, Brown Named AD3I November Student-Athlete of the Month Award Winners

KANSAS CITY, MO - Angela Cuba, a cross country runner from the University of Dallas, and Stuart Brown, a midfielder for the University of Dallas soccer team, were named today as the recipients of the Association of Division III Independents Student-Athlete of the Month awards for November.

Cuba, a junior history major from Holliday, TX, led the team in the 5k race at the North Eastern Athletic Conference on November 1. Cuba set a school record 5k of 18:40 and was named first team all NEAC after her second place finish in the race. Cuba also ran a season best 6k of 24:19 in the NCAA South/Southeast regional and finished in 33rd place to be named All-Region.

Brown, a senior business major from Boerne, TX, registered 6 points on 2 goals and 2 assists in four starts. Brown was named the North Eastern Athletic Conference Tournament MVP and team MVP at the conclusion of the season. Brown played a pivotal role with helping his team win the NEAC Tournament and qualify for the NCAA Tournament for the first time in program history.

The Association of Division III Independents consists of 17 Division III independent institutions that have joined together to recognize student-athletes at independent institutions, and to provide exempted postseason championship competition in nine sports in 2008-09. The Association recognizes outstanding athletic achievements of its student-athletes on a weekly, monthly and annual basis. The Association provides statistical services for its members in seven sports. In addition, it also will announce All-Independent teams at the conclusion of nine sports this year.

All competing student-athletes from the Association's 17 members were eligible for the award. Each school was allowed to nominate its top performing male and female student-athletes from November. The award recipients were selected after a vote of the Association's Student-Athlete Recognition Committee.

More information about the Association of Division III Independents is available at http://www.d3independents.org.

November 15, 2008
UD Cross Country Competes in NCAA Regional in Seguin, Cuba Named All-Region

The UD cross country teams finished the season at the regional meet in Seguin, TX this weekend. Hosted by Texas Lutheran University, the trip marked the second time the Crusaders competed on the course this season. The two squads competed in the Texas Lutheran Invitational in early October.

Fresh off a NEAC Championship performance, the women finished 18th out of 24 teams in the 6k race. Junior Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) led the Lady Crusaders and finished 33rd out of 169 runners. She crossed the line in a time of 24:19 and earned All-Region with her performance. She was followed by freshman Catherine Sercer (Fort Scott, KS/Fort Scott H.S.) with a new personal best time of 24:28 to place 39th. Freshman Patsy Craig (Hillsdale, MI/Hillsdale Academy) finished 133rd at 27:39, sophomore Renee Yackley (Houston, TX/ St. Agnes Academy) 146th in 28:32, sophomore Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/Richwoods Academy) 154th in 28:50, senior Noel Lewis (Grantsburg, WI/Seton Home School) 158th in 28:59, and freshman Heather Capozzella (Enid, OK/Enid H.S.) 159th 29:04 rounded out the Lady Crusader team.

The men's team was unable to finish in the team standings due a rash of late season injuries. Junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) paced the men and finished 103rd out of 152 competitors with a time of 29:35. He was followed by sophomore Joseph Lynne with a time 31:08, Cale Cummings finished in 34:13, and freshman Joshua McGehee in 35:47.

Overall both the men's and the women's teams had a great season under the leadership of first year coach Jody Hawkins. She was named the NEAC Women's Coach of the Year and led both squads to success on and off the course. Congratulations Crusaders on a great season!

November 4, 2008
Cuba Named AD3I Women's Cross Country Runner of the Week

KANSAS CITY, MO - University of Dallas junior Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) is this week's Association of Division III Independents women's cross country Runner of the Week. Cuba ran an 18:40 5K and finished second out of 55 runners at the North Eastern Athletic Conference Championships in Cobleskill, N.Y. Her season-best 5K run helped the team to a first place finish overall out of seven teams. Cuba's performance was good enough for a school record, exceeding the former record by more than a minute, and First Team All-Conference honors. Cuba and her teammates' efforts helped first year coach Jody Hawkins in being named NEAC Women's Coach of the Year. Cuba has now won the Association of Division III Independents women's cross country runner of the week award 4 times this season.

November 4, 2008
Pivarunas Named AD3I Men's Cross Country Runner of the Week

KANSAS CITY, MO - University of Dallas junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) has been named the Association of Division III Independents men's cross country Runner of the Week. Pivarunas ran a 28:34 8K and finished in fourth place out of 70 competitors in the North Eastern Athletic Conference Championships in Cobleskill, NY. He led his team to a fourth place finish out of eight teams and was named First Team All-Conference for his efforts. Pivarunas has now won the Association of Division III Independents men's cross country runner of the week award 6 times this season.

November 1, 2008
Women's XC Wins NEAC Championship! Cuba finishes 2nd

The University of Dallas Cross Country team represented itself well at the North Eastern Athletic Conference Championships on Saturday morning in Cobleskill, NY. Junior Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) paced the women's team and led them to a 1st place finish, 2 points ahead of SUNY-Cobleskill, while fellow junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) led the men to a 4th place finish.

Cuba was narrowly edged out and finished in 2nd place out of 55 competitors in the women's 5k race. Her 18:40 run was only 9 seconds behind Penn State-Berks' Susan Bolgi. Her 6k time set the school record at UD, 1 minute and 15 seconds better than former record holder Elena Yates, and she was named First Team All-Conference for her efforts. Freshman Catherine Sercer (Fort Scott, KS/Fort Scott H.S.), who was also named First Team All-Conference, crossed the line in 4th place in a time of 19:25 and sophomore Renee Yackley (Houston, TX/St. Agnes Academy) finished 12th in 21:30 and was named Second Team All-Conference. Sercer's time was 30 seconds ahead of the old record of 19:55. Freshman Patsy Craig (Hillsdale, MI/Hillsdale Academy) placed 15th in 21:46 to earn Third Team All-Conference honors, senior Noel Lewis (Grantsburg, WI/Seton Home School) finished in 22:05 to come in 15th place and also earn Third Team All-Conference honors. Freshman Heather Cappozella (Enid, OK/Enid H.S.) finished in 20th place in 22:23, and sophomore Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/Richwoods Academy) finished in 21st place with a time of 22:59. First year coach Jody Hawkins was named the NEAC Women's Coach of the Year for her team's efforts on Saturday.

Pivarunas' 4th place finish out of 70 runners in the men's 8k race highlighted the UD performance for the men. He ran a 29:27 and was named First Team All-Conference, and was followed by freshman teammate Michael Falconer (Portland, OR/Portland Waldorf H.S.) who finished15th with a time of 31:34. Falconer was named Third Team All-Conference. Senior Andre Bagur (Baton Rouge, LA/Catholic H.S.) finished 20th in 32:23, sophomore Joseph Lynne (Staunton, VA/Guardian Angel Regional Catholic School) finished 38th in 33:21, Jordan Scott (Whitehouse, TX/Whitehouse H.S.) finished 30th in 33:45, freshman Joshua McGehee (Phoenix, AZ/Veritas Prep Academy) finished 36th in 35:19, and freshman Cale Cummings finished 36th in 36:10.

Once again, the team has 2 weeks off to prepare for the NCAA South/Southeast Region in Seguin, TX on Saturday, November 15th.

November 1, 2008
UD Loses Final Two Matches

In the first match of the Southwestern University Invitational, the Lady Crusader volleyball team fell to the University of St. Thomas Celts in five sets 25-12, 25-23, 23-25, 20-25, 18-20.

During the course of the match, sophomore libero Kelli Fuentes (Garland, TX/Rowlett H.S.) recorded an incredible 60 digs, and set a new season digs record for the Crusaders. Sophomore Celina Farrell (Corinth, TX/Lake Dallas H.S.), and senior Scarlet Walls (Garland, TX/Rowlett H.S.) also played strongly, as Walls provided her teammates with 34 assists, many of which set up Farrell, who had 18 kills. Senior setter Krysta Hample (Loveland, CO/Loveland H.S.) finished Saturday's first match with 3 service aces.

In the last match of the tournament, the Lady Crusaders will round out their season when they face one of their toughest opponents of the year as they go up against the #12 nationally ranked the Southwestern University Pirates at 2:00pm.

In the final match of the season, the 12th ranked Southwestern University Pirates in three sets 19-25, 12-25, 18-25, defeated the Lady Crusaders.

Seniors Scarlet Walls (Garland, TX/Rowlett H.S.), and Krysta Hample (Loveland, CO/Loveland H.S.) both played well in their final outings as Crusaders. Walls added 18 assists to her existing UD career assist record, and Hample with 2 service aces continued to contribute to the Lady Crusaders offensive efforts. Sophomore Kelli Fuentes (Garland, TX/Rowlett H.S) again anchored the UD defensive, recording 32 digs, helping set up the Crusader attack which was led by freshman middle blocker Danielle Fuchs (St. Charles, MO/Duchesne H.S.) 9 kills.

On this note, the Lady Crusaders ended their season with a 16-16 record, which was not indicative of how talented the team really was. With the loss of only two seniors and a very talented group of underclassmen, the team should be able to enter next season confident that will be able to improve on this year's record.

October 22, 2008
Pivarunas Named AD3I Men's Cross Country Runner of the Week

KANSAS CITY, MO - University of Dallas junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) has been named the Association of Division III Independents men's cross country Runner of the Week. Pivarunas ran a 28:48 8K on his way to a 14th place finish out of 43 competitors. The team placed fourth out of six teams.

Pivarunas has been honored as the AD3I men's cross country Runner of the Week five times this season, and becomes the 7th UD harrier to be named Runner of the Week by the AD3I.

October 19, 2008
Crusader Cross Country Team Takes Strides at Southwestern University Open

The men's cross country team finished in 4th place out of 6 teams with 114 points in the Southwestern University Open men's 8k race. Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) led the team and finished 14th out of 43 competitors with a time of 28:48. Andre Bagur (Baton Rouge, LA/Catholic H.S.) and Michael Falconer (Portland, OR/Portland Waldorf H.S.) finished 19th and 23rd in 30:31 and 30:59.

The Lady Crusaders' cross country team also faired well in the Southwestern Open 6K, and placed 3rd among 6 other teams. They accumulated 75 points, and were edged out by Texas Lutheran University who finished with 71 points. Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) led the way with a time of 24:23 in 6th place. Catherine Sercer (Fort Scott, KS/Fort Scott H.S.) finished 12th in 26:04 and Patsy Craig (Hillsdale, MI/Hillsdale Academy) finished 15th in 27:36.

The teams have the next 2 weekends off to prepare for the North Eastern Athletic Conference Championships in Cobleskill, NY, on Saturday, November 1.

October 12, 2008
Cuba, Pivarunas Among Top Finishers at UD Invitational

The University of Dallas harriers finished strong at the University of Dallas Invitational Saturday, October 11 on the campus of UD. Running on a new course that started and finished near the Tower, junior Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) led the women in the 6k race by finishing 1st out of 21 runners in a time of 24:35. The first place finish marks the second year in a row that she won the University of Dallas Invitational. Freshmen Catherine Sercer (Fort Scott, KS/Fort Scott H.S) and Patsy Craig (Hillsdale, MI/Hillsdale Academy) rounded out the UD women that finished in the top ten. Sercer ran a time of 25:59 to finish in 3rd place, while Craig ran a 27:50 to finish in 7th place. The UD women finished the meet in second place out of 3 teams.

The UD men were led by junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S) who finished 4th out of 33 runners with a time of 30:27 in the men's 8k race. Senior Andre Bagur (Baton Rouge, LA/Catholic H.S.) rounded out the top ten with a 10th place finish in a time of 31:34. The team finished 3rd out of 4 teams.

Next up for the cross country team is the Southwestern University Open next Saturday in Georgetown, TX.

October 7, 2008
Pivarunas Named AD3I Men's Cross Country Runner of the Week

KANSAS CITY, MO - University of Dallas junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) has been named the Association of Division III Independents men's cross country Runner of the Week. Pivarunas finished 59th out of 99 participants by running a 30:02 8K at the Texas Lutheran Invitational. UD finished 10th as a team.

October 6, 2008
NORTH EASTERN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE STUDENT-ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX) was selected as the NEAC Women's Cross Country Student-Athlete of the week for her 13th place of 74 finishers at the 6K Texas Lutheran Invitational with a time of 24:56 (6:41 per mile pace). Cuba is a junior for the University of Dallas Crusaders whose team placed 8th out of 9 teams.

Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY) was selected as the NEAC Men's Cross Country Student-Athlete of the Week for his 59th place of 99 finishers at the 8K Texas Lutheran Invitational with a time of 30:02 (6:02 per mile pace). Pivarunas is a junior for the University of Dallas Crusaders whose team placed 10th out of 13 teams.

October 5, 2008
Crusaders Compete in TLU Invite

Georgetown, TX - The Crusader harriers competed in the Texas Lutheran Invitational Saturday morning. The Crusader men finished in 10th place out of 13 teams in the 8k race. Greg Pivarunas finished 59th in 30:02 to lead the men, while freshman Michael Falconer finished right behind by placing 60th in 30:06. Junior Angela Cuba once again led the UD women that placed 8th out of 9 teams. She ran a 24:56 in the 6k race and finished in 13th place. Freshmen Patsy Craig and Katherine Sercer were next to cross the finish line. Craig came in 29th place by running a 27:22 and Sercer finished in 31st place with a time of 27:32.

September 29, 2008
Pivarunas Named AD3I Men's Cross Country Runner of the Week

KANSAS CITY, MO - University of Dallas junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) has been named the Association of Division III Independents men's cross country Runner of the Week. Pivarunas ran a season-best 8K with a time of 29:16.80 on his way to finishing 25th out of 65 runners.

September 27, 2008
Crusaders Shine at Texas State Cross Country Meet

This weekend in the Texas D3 State Championships in Abilene, TX, the Lady Crusaders finished in fourth place out of seven teams. They were led by three Crusaders who finished in the top twenty in their 6k race, including junior Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) and freshman Catherine Sercer (Fort Scott, KS/Fort Scott H.S) who finished seventh and ninth respectively. Cuba's sixth place finish was timed at 25:08, while Sercer's ninth finish was recorded at 25:21. Freshman Patsy Craig (Hillsdale, MI/Hillsdale Academy) came in eighteenth with a time of 26:53. Also, sophomore Renee Yackley (Houston, TX/St. Agnes Academy) placed thirty-sixth with a time of 28:52. Senior Noel Lewis (Grantsburg, WI/Seton Home Study School) finished with a time of 29:20, freshman Heather Capozella had a time of 29:24, and freshman Clair Hand finished in 29:44. Sophomore Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/Richwoods H.S.) finished up the UD women with a time of 30:27.

The boys also raced well in the men's 8k. Junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) finished first among the Crusader boys with a time of 29:16. Joseph Lynne followed close behind with a time of 32:52. Cale Cummings' time was 33:34; Jordan Scott (Whitehouse, TX/Whitehouse H.S.), 34:40; Joshua MeGehee (Phoenix, AZ/Veritas Prep Academy), 35:33; William Gibula (Richmond, TX/Strake Jesuit H.S.), 36:29; Dylan Key, 39:25; and Robert Landreau, 42:27.

The Crusader's next race is at the Texas Lutheran Invitational in Seguin, TX. The Saturday, October 4 race will be ran on the same course of this year's NCAA South/Southeast Regional.

September 8, 2008
Pivarunas and Cuba Named AD3I Cross Country Runners of the Week

KANSAS CITY, Mo. ? University of Dallas junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, N.Y.) has been named the Association of Division III Independents men's cross country Runner of the Week. Pivarunas ran a 30:02 8K on his way to a ninth place finish. His time was three seconds faster than it was at the same race last season.

University of Dallas junior Angela Cuba (Holliday, Texas) is this week's Association of Division III Independents women's cross country Runner of the Week. Cuba ran a 24:20.31 6K on her way to a first place finish among 27 competitors. Her time was almost identical to her result at the same race last year. Dallas finished second out of three teams.

September 6, 2008
Women Finish Second, Men Third at UT-Tyler

In new coach Jody Hawkin's UD debut, junior Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) placed first in the women's 6k among 27 competitors and led the women to a second place finish behind host UT-Tyler. Cuba's time of 24:20.31 was nearly identical to her third place finish in last year's race at UT-Tyler. Her performance led the UD women who placed three others in the top ten. Freshman Catherine Sercer (Ft. Scott, KS/Ft. Scott H.S.) placed fifth at 26:39.46, freshman Patsy Craig (Hillsdale, MI/Hillsdale Academy) placed sixth at 26:52.24, and sophomore Renee Yackley (Houston, TX/St. Agnes Academy) placed eighth at 27:39.40.

Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/Richwoods H.S.), Katherine Avila (Irving, TX/Nimitz H.S.), and Noel Lewis (Grantsburg, WI/Seton Home Study School) rounded out the top twenty for UD, while freshman Heather Capozell came in twenty-third with a time of 31:36.

Junior Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) made the top ten coming in ninth overall with a time of 30:02 in the men's 8k, three seconds under his time last year. Senior Sean Cusack (Columbus, OH) at 32:13 and sophomore Joseph Lynne at 34:05 finished in the top twenty.

Next up for the Crusader harriers is the Memphis Twilight In Memphis, TN next Saturday, September 13.

September 2, 2008
Jody Hawkins Named University of Dallas Cross Country Coach

The University of Dallas named Jody Hawkins the new cross country coach for the 2008-2009 school year. Hawkins will be joining the University after a very successful stint at Centennial High School where she was named Cross Country Coach of the Year in 2007 for district 9-4AAAA. She had been a very successful high school coach for ten years in which she developed 90 district champions, 13 regional champions, and 8 state championship medalists. Hawkins also has had a very distinguished personal career in long distance running. During her college days, she was a five time All-American from 1984-89 and holds every distance record at UT-San Antonio. As she moved on to professional running, she continued to climb in the running world reaching a #6 ranking in the world by Runners World Magazine and a #1 ranking in the 10 mile in 1993. She currently holds the third best 5k for runners forty and older and set the American Masters 3k indoor record in 2007 with a time of 9:56.24. The University is glad that they are adding such a very successful and passionate runner and hope that Hawkins can help the Crusaders find success in the 2008 season and beyond.

August 18, 2008
Head Cross Country and Track Coach Resigns

Troy Thrasher announced his resignation as the head cross country and track coach effective immediately. The Kansas native also served as the assistant men's basketball coach under head coach Brian Stanfield.

December 7, 2007
Association of Division III Independents 2007 All-Independent Cross Country Teams

KANSAS CITY, MO.-- For the second year in a row, Nebraska Wesleyan's Amber Brandenburger, a SR from Columbus, NE, was named the female runner of the year after she finished second at the NCAA Central Regional and 16th at the NCAA Cross Country Championships. She shared the runner-of-the-year award with Lauren DiSessa of Green Mountain College and Rachel Fichthorn of Salem College. DiSessa, a JR from Westfield, MA, was a consistently strong finisher for the Eagles, while Fichthorn, a JR from Nokesville, VA, won the AD3I Northeast Region championship in Boston.

Also for the second year in a row, Chris Dunker, a SR JR from Beatrice, NE, was voted the male runner of the year. Dunker, who was named to the All-American squad, led the Prairie Wolves to an 11th consecutive appearance at the NCAA championships. He also led Nebraska Wesleyan to a sixth straight Central Regional championship.

Nebraska Wesleyan landed three runners on the men's first team - Dunker, Greg Timblin and Brian Copley - and two runners - Brandenburger and Brittany Hubbard - on the women's first team.

University of California, Santa Cruz runner Mikayla Murphy, a FR from San Luis Obispo, was named the women's rookie runner of the year. Green Mountain College harrier John Hoffman, a FR from Bala Cynwyd, PA, was voted as the men's rookie runner of the year.

Coach J.P. Widner from Salem College was selected as the women's coach of the year, while Mitchell College coach Todd Peretz was named the men's coach of the year.

The All-Independent Men's and Women's Cross Country teams were selected by the men's and women's cross country coaches from the Association of Division III Independents member schools.

Women's First Team
Amber Brandenburger, SR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Lauren DiSessa, JR, Green Mountain College
Rachel Fichthorn, JR, Salem College
Brittany Hubbard, SR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Michelle Phillips, JR, Univ. of Maine-Presque Isle

Women's Second Team
Daphne Nichols, JR, Salem College
Mikayla Murphy, FR, University of California, Santa Cruz
Bridget Baldwin, JR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Lupe Cazares, SO, Mills College
Leah Joy, SR, Univ. of Maine-Presque Isle

Women's Honorable Mention
Jackie Spelts, SO, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Aliana Fillback, FR, Newbury College
Nicole Horvath, FR, Green Mountain College
Adilene Sanchez, FR, Cal State - East Bay
Lily Page, JR, Mills College
Jin-Mee Leal, FR, Cal State - East Bay

Men's First Team
Chris Dunker, SR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Greg Timblin, SR, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Herrel Siller Jr., JR, Newbury College
Brian Copley, SO, Nebraska Wesleyan University
Joshua Wang, SO, Green Mountain College

Men's Second Team
Andrew Laflin, SO, Nebraska Wesleyan University
John Hoffman, FR, Mitchell College
Branden Mountain, FR, Newbury College
Emerson Wright, JR, Univ. of Maine-Presque Isle
Marcos Gomez, SR, Cal State - East Bay

Men's Honorable Mention
Jake Lewis, FR, Green Mountain College
Zachary Mujica, FR, Chapman University
Elliott Nicholson, FR, Cal State - East Bay
Landry Daniels, JR, Cal State - East Bay
Greg Pivarunas, SO, University of Dallas

The Association of Division III Independents consists of 21 Division III independent institutions that have joined together to recognize student-athletes at independent institutions, and to provide exempted postseason championship competition in nine sports in 2007-08. The Association recognizes outstanding athletic achievements of its student-athletes on a weekly, monthly and annual basis. The Association provides statistical services for its members in seven sports. In addition, it will announce All-Independent teams at the conclusion of eight other sports this year.

More information about the Association of Division III Independents is available at http://www.d3independents.org.

November 12, 2007
Lady Crusaders Finish in Top 25 in NCAA Cross Country Regional

Williamsburg, VA- Sophomore Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) was named All-Region, finishing in 25th place out of 186 runners in the women's 6k with a time of 24:37. Other ladies contributing to the team's success were Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/
Richwoods H.S.) who finished 123rd at 28:07, Katherine Avila (Irving, TX/Nimitz H.S.) who finished 143rd at 29:51, Renee Yackley (Houston, TX/St. Agnes Academy) who finished 155th at 30:11, Johanna Weston (Sugar Land, TX/Dulles H.S.) who finished 157th at 30:27, and Mary Kate Urban (Huffman, TX/Hargrave H.S.) who finished 159th at 30:38.

Although the men's team did not place due to team size challenges, sophomore Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) and Matt Spenla (Tempe, AZ/McClintock H.S.) represented the University of Dallas in the men's 8k with pride and stamina. Pivarunas finished 75th out of 170 runners with a time of 28:32, while Spenla finished 140th with a time of 31:04.

October 22, 2007
Gregory Pivarunas Sets New School Record at Invitational

Gregory Pivarunas Sets New School Record at Invitational
At the St. Louis College of Pharmacy Invitational cross country meet in St. Louis, MO, sophomore Gregory Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) broke the University of Dallas school record for the men's 5K. Ray Heipp set the previous record in 1982 at 17:22. Pivarunas established the new record with a time of 16:49. Freshman Matt Spenla (Tempe, AZ/Mclintock H.S.) came in third place with a time of 17:37. Freshman Luke Dixon (St. Augustine H.S.), freshman Michael Werley (Monroe, LA/Burleson H.S.), junior Tyler Balzer (Sparta, WI/Aquinas H.S.), and junior Dan Mortenson (Holmen, WI/Aquinas H.S.) also placed in the meet.

Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) came in second for the women with a 5k time of 20:45. Freshmen Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/Richwoods H.S.) and Katherina Avila (Irving, TX/Nimitz H.S.) came in 7th and 10th respectively, to round out the top ten. Both the men and women came in third place overall in the meet.

The Crusaders final meet is on the November 10th at the NCAA D3 South/Southeast Regional in Newport News, VA.

October 6, 2007
Cuba Claims First Place in UD Cross Country Invitational

On Saturday, October 6, the University of Dallas hosted the UD Cross Country Invitational. The other schools in attendance included Schreiner University, UT-Dallas, and UT-Tyler. The top individual finisher in the 6k race was sophomore Crusader Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.), with a time of 24:30.22. The first place finishing team was UT-Tyler with a score of 26. Sarah Hankla led UT-Tyler, finishing in second place with a time of 25:48.22. Also finishing in the top five for UD was senior Angela Weisse (Morgantown, WV). Her time was 27:43.62. Freshman Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/Richwoods H.S.) placed 6th in 27:58.10, senior Laura Jura (Fresno, CA/San Joaquin Memorial H.S.) crossed in 8th in 28:40.86, and sophomore Katherina Avila (Irving, TX/Nimitz H.S.) finished 9th in 28:47.92 to round out the top ten for UD. Narrowly missing the top ten for UD were the 11th, 12th, and 13th place runners. Freshman Renee Yackley (Houston, TX/St. Agnes Academy) was the first out of the trio to cross in 29:38.27, Catherine Podegracz (Van Nuys, CA/Bishop Academy) cam in at 29:41.92, and Johanna Weston (Sugar Land, TX/Dulles H.S.) finished in 30:24.86.

Next up is the second of two invitationals hosted by the University of Dallas. The women's 6k on Saturday, October 11, 2007 begins at 9:00 am.

October 6, 2007
University of Dallas Hosts Men's 2007 Cross Country Invitational

The University of Dallas hosted the first of back-to-back cross country meets on Saturday, October 6, 2007. The women's 6k started off the morning at 9:00am, with the men's 8k following at 10:00am. UT-Tyler, Schreiner University, and UT-Dallas all participated in the event. The undisputed winner of the race was UT-Tyler's Chauncey Deller with a time of 28:09.20. The University of Dallas had 5 men complete the Invitational. Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) was the top runner for UD placing 2nd out of 22 participants with a time of 30:13.34 on the tough course. Next in for UD were Matt Spenla (Tempe, AZ/McClintock H.S.), Michael Werley (Monroe, LA/Burleson H.S.), and Reed Oken (Oklahoma City, OK/Heritage Hall H.S.). UD is schedule to run at home in the second cross country invitational next Saturday.

October 6, 2007
University of Dallas Hosts Men's 2007 Cross Country Invitational

The University of Dallas hosted the first of back-to-back cross country meets on Saturday, October 6, 2007. The women's 6k started off the morning at 9:00am, with the men's 8k following at 10:00am. UT-Tyler, Schreiner University, and UT-Dallas all participated in the event. The undisputed winner of the race was UT-Tyler's Chauncey Deller with a time of 28:09.20. The University of Dallas had 5 men complete the Invitational. Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) was the top runner for UD placing 2nd out of 22 participants with a time of 30:13.34 on the tough course. Next in for UD were Matt Spenla (Tempe, AZ/McClintock H.S.), Michael Werley (Monroe, LA/Burleson H.S.), and Reed Oken (Oklahoma City, OK/Heritage Hall H.S.). UD is schedule to run at home in the second cross country invitational next Saturday.

October 1, 2007
UD Competes in Prestigious Cowboy Jamboree

The University of Dallas Crusaders cross country team competed in the Oklahoma State Cross Country Course/Cowboy Jamboree at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK on September 29. On a beautiful Saturday morning, UD joined over twenty other teams to compete in the "oldest consecutive cross country race in the United States." The men ran in the men's College Division 8k race, while the women participated in the College Division 5k race. 2007 marked the 71st annual Cowboy Jamboree, a yearly tradition for some of the best college, university, and high school cross country teams in the nation.

The men ran exceptionally well on the challenging and unique course, placing 22nd out of 25 teams. Sophomore Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) paced the Crusaders with a 69th place finish in a time of 28:33. Next to complete the race for UD was freshman Matt Spenla (Tempe, AZ/McClintock H.S), who finished 118th at 30:14. The next 3 finishers for UD were freshmen. In 143rd place with a time of 32:13 was Luke Dixon (St. Augustine H.S); Phillip Carkhuff placed 155th with a time of 35:33; and Michael Werley (Monroe, LA/Burleson H.S.) in 159th place with a time of 36:54
.
The Lady Crusaders team placed 22nd out of 25 teams, running an amazing race. Sophomore Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) led the women's team placing 48th at 20:23. In 135th was freshman Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/Richwoods H.S.) who had a time of 22:42. Freshman Catherine Podegracz (Van Nuys, CA/Bishop Alemany) timed in at 23:47 for 169th. Close behind her was sophomore Katherina Avila (Irving, TX/Nimitz H.S.) who placed 172nd at 23:51. Freshman Renee Yackley (Houston, TX/St. Agnes Academy) finished up for UD in 192nd at 25:06.

Several organizations, ranging from professional to NCAA Division I, run meets on the unique course. The University of Dallas Crusader cross country team next competes at home this Saturday, October 6. UT-Dallas, UT-Tyler and Schreiner University will be running alongside the Crusaders. So grab some friends and come on down to cheer on your Crusaders!

September 25, 2007
Cuba receives second Association of Division III Independents women's cross country Runner of the Week honor

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - University of Dallas sophomore Angela Cuba (Holliday, Texas) is this week's Association of Division III Independents women's cross country Runner of the Week. Cuba ran a 24:26 6K at the Texas NCAA Div. III State Cross Country Meet in Abilene, Texas over the weekend. Her impressive run placed her third in a field of 74 for the women's race.

September 10, 2007
Cuba receives AD3I women's cross country Runner of the Week honor

University of Dallas sophomore Angela Cuba (Holliday, Texas) is this week's Association of Division III Independents women's cross country Runner of the Week. Cuba ran a 24:20 6K on her way to a third place finish at the University of Texas-Tyler Invitational in Tyler, Texas. Her finish was out of 58 total competitors and the team took fourth place out of eight teams.

September 8, 2007
Young UD Men?s XC Team has Strong Showing

The men's cross-country team made a strong showing at this past weekend's UT Tyler Invitational (8K). The Crusaders were lead by sophomore Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY /St Francis HS) who came in twentieth place overall at a time of 30:05.Also placing for UD were Matt Spenla (Tempe, AZ /McClintock HS), Luke Dixon (San Diego, CA /St. Augustine HS), Philip Carkhuff, and Michael Werley (Monroe, LA /Burleson HS). Next up for the men will be the Texas D3 State Championships in Abilene on the 22nd of September.

September 8, 2007
Cuba Leads Way for UD

Led by the very talented Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday HS), the Lady Crusaders made a very strong showing at the UT Tyler Invite on September 9th. Cuba placed third overall with a time of 24:20, finishing just six seconds behind second. Also scoring for UD were Theresa Smart (Peoria, IL/ Richwoods HS) in 27th, Jessica Twining (Magnolia, TX /Anderson-Shiro Secondary) in 28th, Katherina Avila (Irving, TX /Nimitz HS) in 32nd, and Renee Yackley (Houston, TX/ St. Agnes Academy) in 38th. Their fourth place finish is a strong indication of things to come, as this very young team will only continue to improve. The ladies will next head to Abilene to run at the Texas D3 State Championships on September 22nd.

July 5, 2007
UD Hires Cross Country and Track Coach

Troy Thrasher was as the named the new cross country and track coach on July 3. The Kansas native has been involved in coaching over the last 15 years, with his most recent stop as the head basketball coach for Sacred Heart H.S. in Salina, KS. His coaching experience and leadership skills as a former teacher will take the Crusader running programs to new heights. He also has experience leading women's basketball and golf teams.

Thrasher was a member of the United States Navy before his graduation from Emporia State University in Emporia, KS in 1994 with a bachelors of science degree in physical education with an emphasis in coaching. He earned his masters degree in Sports Administration from Wichita State University in 2002.

December 11, 2006
4 UD Harriers Named To AD3I All-Independents Team

The University of Dallas Cross Country team wrapped up a successful year with 4 runners being honored by the AD3I. Senior Mark Landreneau (Alexandria, LA/Menard H.S.) and freshman Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) were honored for the men and senior Glencora Cowan (Baton Rouge, LA/St. Joseph's Academy) and freshman Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) on the women's side.

As he did all year, Landreneau led the way in the honor's department. The Alexandria, LA native was UD's only first team honoree. He led the men in all 5 meets he participated in and topped out with a school record breaking 8k time of 26:41 at a meet on the Doane College campus in Crete, NE. At the race he finished 3rd out of 54 competitors and lost to a runner from Doane College (NAIA) and Creighton University (NCAA DI). Landreneau's top placing finishes were his 2 wins at the UD Invitationals. At the October 7 meet he ran a 27:14 8k to break the course record and was named the AD3I's Runner of the Week for his performance. He earned top ten finishes in 4 of the 5 meets he ran in, with is only finish out of the top ten coming in the NCAA South/Southeast regional. At the meet in Atlanta, GA he placed 27 out of 152 runners. The philosophy major was honored as an USCAA Academic All-American after the 2006 cross country campaign and was named the Men's MVP for the 2006 season.

New York native Greg Pivarunas was named to the honorable mention team. Pivarunas' top time was a 27:48 8k and his top finish was a 2nd place finish at the October 14 UD Invitational.

Garnering top honors for the UD women was Angela Cuba. The freshman was named to the second team. Nicknamed "Smange" by her teammates, the Holliday, TX native led the women at the first 4 meets and topped out with a 20:39 5k. She placed in the top ten at the teams' first 5 meets and peaked with a 6th place finish at the October 7th UD Invitational.

Glencora Cowan was named to the honorable mention team. The senior made great strides toward improvement over the off-season and throughout the year as she worked her way into the team leader during the final 3 races of the season. Cowan's best time was a 21:05 at Dean White Invitational in Crete, NE and her best finishes came at the 2 UD Invitationals where she finished first. The Louisiana native was named an Academic All-American by the USCAA following the season and was honored as the AD3I's Runner of the Week for her performance at the October 7th UD Invitational. Cowan was honored by her teammates as the 2006 Women's MVP.

October 14, 2006
UD Harriers Dominate Duel

In the second home meet of the 2006 campaign, the Crusader cross country teams managed convincing victories over UT-Dallas. The women finished with 23 points, 13 less than UT-Dallas and the men finished with 15 points against 4 UT-Dallas men.

Crossing the finish line first for the women in 25:13 was UD's Glencora Cowan (Baton Rouge, LA/ St. Joseph's Academy). Cowan placed first on the same course for the second consecutive meet. Freshman Cynthia Baker (Baton Rouge, LA/Baton Rouge Magnet H.S.) placed third in 28:15, freshman Marta Maracinni (Flower Mound, TX/Flower Mound H.S.) placed fifth in 28:50, sophomore Monica Craig (Hillsdale, MI/Hillsdale Academy) placed sixth in 29:01, and freshman Trishey Nelson (Raleigh, NC/Cardinal Gibbons H.S.) who placed eight in 29:43 rounded out the top five for the Crusader women. Sophomores Karla Salerno (Austin, TX/St. Michael's Academy) and Sarah Baxter (Allen, MI/Will Carleton Academy) also placed in the top ten for the young UD squad. Salerno ran a 30:28 6k and while Baxter ran a 34:44.

Crossing the line in first in the men's 8k was UD's Mark Landreneau (Alexandria, LA/Menard H.S.) in 29:58. Like Cowan, Landreneau placed first on his home course for the second straight week. Freshmen Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/St. Francis H.S.) was second in 30:34 and Garrett Yeun (Rockwall, TX/Rockwall H.S.) was third in 30:53. Junior Andre Bagur (Baton Rouge, LA/Catholic H.S.) and sophomore Timothy Dean (Leighton, IA/Home School) rounded out the top five for UD. Bagur finished fifth in 32:37 and Dean in 9th in 37:15.

Next up for the UD runners is a trip to Clinton, MS for the Millsaps College Invitational on Saturday, October 21st. The starting gun for the women's race fires at 8:30am.

October 11, 2006
Cowan, Landreneau Honored by USCAA

The United States Collegiate Athletic Association named Louisiana natives and seniors Glencora Cowan and Mark Landreneau Players of the week in their respective sport. Cowan received the Women's Runner of the Week, while Landreneau was named the Men's Runner of the Week Honorable Mention.

Cowan propelled her team to a second place finish at the first University of Dallas Invitational. The Baton Rouge (St. Joseph's Academy) distance runner ran a 24:21 on a difficult 6K course, allowing her to finish first among 32 competitors. Her time was 4 seconds behind the UD course record set by recent graduate Elena Yates.

Landreneau once again dominated his competition last weekend; placing first among 38 competitors and leading his team to a third place finish. The Alexandria (Menard H.S.) distance runner's 27:14 established a new meet record.

October 9, 2006
Landreneau named Association of Division III Independents men's cross country Runner of the Week

Senior Mark Landreneau (Alexandria, LA/Menard H.S.) was named this week's Association of Division III Independents men's cross country Runner of the Week. The philosophy major ran a 27:14 8K on his hilly home course during the Oct. 7 University of Dallas Invitational. His top finish was among 32 competitors and he led his team to a third place finish overall. Landreneau is coached by Ryan Frey.

October 8, 2006
Cowan receives Association of Division III Independents women's cross country Runner of the Week honor

Senior Glencora Cowan (Baton Rouge, LA/St. Joseph's Academy) was been named the Association of Division III Independents women's cross country Runner of the Week. The English major ran a 24:21 6K on her way to first place while pacing the team to a second place finish during the University of Dallas Invitational on Oct. 7. Her time was three seconds short of the course record set by former teammate Elena Yates in 2004. Cowan is coached by Ryan Frey.

October 3, 2006
University of Dallas Competes in Texas Division III State Championships

The UD harriers made the early morning trip to Abilene for the Texas Division III State Championships held in the cozy Abilene State Park on Sat., Sept. 23. Facing all D3 competition from the state of Texas, the women made a good showing on there way to a 4th place finish out of 7 teams. Freshman Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) and senior Glencora Cowan (Baton Rouge, LA/ St. Joseph's Academy) led the team with 8th (25:46) and 11th (26:01) place finishes. The two continue to be a 1-2 punch for the women's squad. In 4 meets Cowan has finished 18th, 14th, 15th, and 11th, while Cuba has 4 top-ten finishes (10th, 8th, 10th, and 8th). The duo was backed by sophomore Monica Craig finishing 39th in 29:39, Heather Haneman (Munster, IN/Munster H.S.) finishing 40th in 29:41, Marta Maraccini (Flower Mound, TX/Flower Mound H.S.) finishing 41st in 29:42, and Sarah Baxter (Allen, MI/ Will Carleton Academy) finishing 58th in 35:26.

The men's squad took a young team with three freshmen and one junior and still managed to make a strong showing despite not having enough runners to compete as a team. Freshman Greg Pivarunas (Elma, NY/ St. Francis H.S.) lead the team in 29:24 finishing in a strong 14th place. Freshman Reed Onken (Oklahoma City, OK/Heritage Hall H.S.) also broke 30 minutes with a time of 29:55, placing in 17th. They were followed by junior Andre Bagur (Baton Rouge, LA/Catholic H.S.) running a 30:39, placing 22nd, and freshman Garret Yuen (Rockwall, TX/Rockwall H.S.) running a 31:55, finishing 29th.

Next up for the UD cross country team is their first home meet. The women's 6k race commences at 9:00am, while the men's 8k starts at 10:00am.

September 29, 2006
Landreneau is USCAA?s POTW

Mark Landreneau is this week's Men's X-Country Runner of the Week. The Alexandria, LA native ran a 26:41 8K on his way to a 3rd place finish at the Dean White Invitational in Crete, Nebraska. The senior distance runner lowered the school's 8K record by 7 seconds, after shattering it by 58 seconds two weeks ago!

September 25, 2006
UD attends the Dean White Invitational

The University of Dallas cross-country team went to Crete, NE September 23 to compete in the Dean White Invitational, hosted by Doane College. The women's team finished 6th in the strong field of 7 teams. Freshman Angela Cuba (Holliday, TX/Holliday H.S.) and senior Glencora Cowan (Baton Rouge, LA/ St. Joseph's Academy) led the way for the Lady Crusaders. Cuba finished in a team best 10th place with a time of 20:39. Cowan wasn't far behind, finishing 15th in 21:05. The team was rounded out by Marta Maraccini finishing 49th with a time of 24:28, Heather Haneman finishing 53rd with a time of 24:43, Monica Craig finishing 58th with a time of 25:34, and Karla Salerno finishing 63rd with a time of 27:22.

The men's team finished 5th in another tough race. They were led by the great performance of senior Mark Landreneau who finished 3rd out of 54 runners. His time of 26:41 not only led the team and earned him an Italian leather watch; it lowered the school record he set last week by 7 seconds. Freshman Greg Pivarunas also had a solid race finishing 14th in 28:07. The rest of the team came in together in 31st, 32nd, and 35th place. Reed Onken had a time of 29:44, Andre Bagur a time of 29:57, and Garret Yuen a time of 30:13.

September 13, 2006
Landreneau Establishes New Mark

In last weekend's UT-Tyler Invitational senior Mark Landreneau broke the school's 8k record by running a 26:48, good enough for 5th place. The Alexandria, LA native broke current teammate Byron Davis' standard set last season. The team takes this weekend off before traveling to Crete, NE for the Dean White Invitational hosted by Doane College. A more extensive write-up on the UT-Tyler meet will be added shortly.

June 20, 2006
Yates Named Winner of the UD Outstanding Student-Athlete Award

For the second consecutive year senior Elena Yates was honored with the Outstanding Student-Athlete award. In her final year of cross country competition, Yates was voted on by teammates as the women's MVP. During her senior season she broke the school?s 3-mile record (19:44) and the 5k record (19:55). Her unprecedented times gave her 4 individual course length records at UD. The Wilton, Maine native holds the 6k record (24:13), the 5k record (19:55), the 3-mile record (19:44), and the 2-mile record (12:46). Yates secured first place finishes in 4 out of the 8 races the team took part in. In her illustrious career, Yates won a school record 8 races. Besides being named the women's team MVP, Yates was named the Association of Division III Independents women's Runner of the Week for her first place finish in the 6k UD Invitational (24:30) October 1, and a USCAA Academic All-American.

In her stellar career she was a USCAA All-American in 2002, 2003, & 2004, came across in 9th place while achieving All-Regional status at NCAA Division III Regional in Atlanta, Georgia, and was named the teams' Most Valuable Runner in 2002, 2004 & 2005. Yates also set various school records for the track team while handling a rigid academic load. For her hard work Yates was named a USCAA Academic All-American in 2004 and 2005.

On the academic side, Yates racked up some impressive awards. She was a member of Phi Betta Kappa, was named the Frank J. Doe Summer Scholar, and was awarded the prestigious Sister Clodovia Lockett Memorial Scholarship just prior to graduation. At the May 14 ceremony, she was given the Ann Heller Mayberry Award, which is presented annually to an outstanding senior woman. A current MD/PHD student at St. Louis University Medical School, Yates graduated from the University of Dallas summa cum laude.

First presented in 1984, the Outstanding Student-Athlete award is given to the student-athlete with the highest GPA. Any person that letters in their sport is eligible for the award.

November 14, 2005
Davis Sets record in Defeat

At Saturday's NCAA South/Southeast Regional Byron Davis led the UD men's runners team to a 17th place finish by running a school record 27:46. Although the time broke the old school record by 30 seconds, Davis' new standard only earned him 72nd place. Illustrating how much the region has improved, Davis' 27:46 would have been good enough for 18th place at last year's NCAA South/Southeast Regional. Chris Ojeda (101st in 29:53), Hayden Lindsey (106th in 30:30), John Sercer (121st in 34:12), and Kris Kelley (123rd in 36:25) also competed for the Crusaders. The inexperienced squad defeated 2 teams, including longtime foe Hendrix College.

On the women's side, Elena Yates held the familiar spot in leading the Lady Crusaders to a 21st place finish out of 22 teams. Yates 24:25 in the 6K event put her in position for 42nd place. Meghan Tinning (124th in 28:48), Kate Ramsay (129th in 29:21), Monica Craig (133rd in 30:00), and Karla Salerno (139th in 31:02) rounded out the top five.

October 23, 2005
Yates Shines Again

Senior Elena Yates once again claimed the top spot in last weekend's cross country meet in Longview, TX by running a 24:42 6K. Yates first place finish is her fourth this season. Her efforts led the UD women to a third place finish. Also taking part in the meet for the Lady Crusaders were Kate Ramsay (11th in 29:01), Monica Craig (22nd in 31:11), Karla Salerno (23rd in 31:32), and Leokadia Rucinski (29th in 38:32).


The men were paced by Byron Davis who finished 8th in 27:57. The time eclipsed the school record of 28:15, but the did not officially count due to a 300 meter shortage in the course. The 4 other runners for the Crusaders in the 8K race were Chris Ojeda (14th in 28:57), John Rhodes (35th in 32:41), John Sercer (36th in 32:49), and Jimmy Bell (38th in 33:05).

On tap for the Crusader men and women is a visit to the familiar confines of Conway, AR for the NCAA DIII South/Southeast Regional on Saturday, November 12. The harriers are looking to bring a strong team geared toward season best performances. The top four women and top five men finishers advance to the NCAA DIII Championships in Delaware, OH. The Saturday, November 19 meet will be held on the campus of Ohio Wesleyan University, with the women's race starting 11:00 a.m. and the men's at noon.

October 15, 2005
Crusaders Compete at TLU Invite

On Saturday, October 15 the University of Dallas harriers traveled to Seguin, TX to take part in the Texas Lutheran Invitational. The men's teams placed fourth amongst six teams, while the women were able to secure a seventh place finish in the eight-team field.

Paced by Junior Byron Davis'17th place finish of 29:43, the Crusaders were able to vault ahead of Sul Ross State University and Palo Alto College in the 8K race. Chris Ojeda (23rd in 30:41), Hayden Lindsey (29th in 31:57), John Sercer (38th in 34:36), and John Rhodes (40th in 35:29) rounded out the top-five.

Elena Yates led the women with a 15th place finish in 24:58 to help the team defeat Sul Ross State University. Meghan Tinning (45th in 29:37), Monica Craig (49th in 30:24), Karla Salerno (63rd in 33:38), and Adaire Chatry (70th in 38:39) also competed in the 6K event.

After the race, the team was treated to a home cooked meal at Byron Davis' residence in Georgetown, TX.

Up next for men and women runners is a trip to Longview, TX for the LeTourneau University Invitational on Saturday, October 22 at 10:00 a.m.

October 8, 2005
Crusaders Dominate Dual Against SWCC

In front of a supportive home crowd, the University of Dallas' cross country teams breezed by Southwest Christian College in the men & women's dual meets this Saturday. Both teams placed four runners in the top five, including the first place finisher in each race.

The women were the first to test the wet conditions as Elena Yates outran the rain, and the competition, in 24:20. She improved her season best 6K time, at last week's home meet, by 10 seconds. The victory was the third of the year and eighth of her stellar career. Teammate Meghan Tinning showcased the senior dominance with runner-up performance of 28:06. Also contributing to the teams' success were Glencora Cowan (4th in 28:46), Kate Ramsay (5th in 28:53), Monica Craig (6th 29:21), and Karla Salerno (8th in 30:49).

Unfortunately, the UD men were forced to follow the amazing performance of the women, however; they managed to make some noise of their own. Claiming the top four spots was the Crusaders' answer to the precedent set before them. Andre Bagur (30:10), Byron Davis (30:39), Hayden Lindsey (30:42), and Chris Ojeda (31:45) were UD's top four runners. John Sercer (10th in 34:31), John Rhodes (11th in 35:26), and Jimmy Bell (12th in 35:45) also participated in the dominant performance.

Up next for the ever-improving UD cross country team is a trip to Seguin, TX for the Texas Lutheran Invite on Saturday, October 15. Trinity and Southwestern Universities are amongst the field of top-flight competition.

October 2, 2005
Crusaders Battle in UD Invite

On Saturday, October 1, the UD men displayed their promise in the teams' first home meet of the season by finishing third in the five-team men's field.

Led by Texas natives Hayden Lindsey (14th in 31:48) and Byron Davis (15th in 32:04), the harriers were able to finish in the middle of the pack. Andre Bagur (22nd in 33:13), Chris Ojeda (25th in 33:23), and Jimmy Bell (35th in 36:18) rounded out the top five.

Next up for the UD men is a home meet on Saturday, October 8th at 9:00 a.m.

October 1, 2005
UD Women Take Big Strides

The UD women's team came out with a vengeance after a much-needed week off by taking first and third in the teams' first home meet of the season on Saturday, October 1st.

The women once again led by Elena Yates, wasted no time in jumping out to the early lead. Yates paced the team, and won the race by over a minute by winning the 6K race in a time of 24:30. The second place finisher crossed the line at 25:41. Kate Ramsay (7th in 28:18), Meghan Tinning (9th in 28:33), and Glencora Cowan (10th in 28:35) all finished in the top ten for the Lady Crusaders on their way to a tie for first place with UT-Tyler. The top four Lady Crusaders improved upon their season best 6K times by an average of just over one minute, despite running a course not conducive to record times. Freshman Karla Salerno finished fifth for the women's harriers in 30:59.


Next up for the UD women is a home meet on Saturday, October 8th at 9:00 a.m.

September 22, 2005
Rita Forces Cancellation

UD officials received word that Saturday, September 24's much anticipated Southwestern Invitational and Texas State DIII Championships was cancelled for reasons related to Hurricane Rita. The cancelled meet was scheduled to take place on the campus of Southwestern University in Georgetown, TX. The event was a chance for the UD runners to establish some momentum heading into next weekend's meet on the University of Dallas campus, starting at 9:00 a.m

Next up for the UD harriers is their first home meet of the season scheduled for Saturday, October 1. The women's 6K race will start at 9:00 a.m. and the men's 8K after the conclusion of the women's race.

September 20, 2005
UD Women Have Strong Showing at Orange Crush Invitational

Elena Yates paced the UD women in the 5K course by finishing in 8th place in 19:55 to lead the team to a 8th place finish in the 11 team field. Yate?s 5K time of 19:55 shattered the old UD record by almost a minute. Meghan Tinning (43rd in 23:23), Monica Craig (44th in 23:42), Kate Ramsay (45th in 23:43), and Karla Salerno (55th in 26:06) rounded out the top five for the Lady Crusaders. The team placed ahead of DII U. of Arkansas-Monticello.

The teams travel to Georgetown, TX this Saturday to compete in the Southwestern Invitational and Texas DIII State Championships.

September 18, 2005
UD Makes Strides Against Top Flight Competition

On Saturday, September 17 the UD harriers faced a field that was composed primarily of DII schools at the Orange Crush invitational in Conway, AR. In the nine team men's race, UD finished in sixth place and were led by freshman Hayden Lindsey (23rd) and Chris Ojeda (24th). The duo completed the 8K race in 29:25 and 29:29, respectively. John Sercer (39th in 32:56), Jimmy Bell (42nd in 33:32), John Rhodes (43rd in 33:46), and Kris Kelley (46th in 34:04) also competed for the Crusaders who finished with 171 team points, two in front of DII Harding University.

The teams travel to Georgetown, TX this Saturday to compete in the Southwestern Invitational and Texas DIII State Championships.

September 10, 2005
Yates Shines as UD Woman Harriers Place 3rd, Men 4th

On Saturday September 17 at the Tyler Invitational, in only their second meet of the year, the UD men?s and women?s team placed 4th and 3rd respectively. The men were led by freshman Hayden Linsey who finished in 19th place in 29:17. Junior Byron Davis was soon to follow coming in 20th in 29:27. Chris Ojeda (34th in 31:12), Kris Kelley (41 in 33:15), and Jimmy Bell (42 in 33:45 rounded out the top five for the Crusaders.

Senior Elena Yates continued her dominant performances by running a 25:19 in the 6K race. She further extended her race-win record by winning her sixth first place finish of her career. It was her first top finish of the season. Katherine Ramsay rounded out the top ten with a 10th place finish of 28:48. Meghan Tinning (20 in 29:57), Monica Craig (30:21), and Kristin Condotta (25 in 30:40) closed out the top five runners for UD.

September 5, 2005
Yates Breaks Another Record

At the Trinity Invitational in San Antonio, TX, Elena Yates established yet another UD women's cross country record. Yates' 16th place finish in 19:44 shattered the previous UD record of 19:55 set by Louisa Mox at the LeTourneau Invitational on October 24, 1980. Yates unprecedented race erased one of UD's longest standing marks, and gave her seven out of ten school records. Her hard work has earned her a spot in the UD women's cross country annals for the 3 mile, 2.9 mile, 2.4 mile, 4800 meter, 5000 meter, and 6000 meter races.

September 3, 2005
Cross Country Commences Season at Trinity Invitational

The men?s and women?s cross country teams shuffled in the 2005 season at the ultra-competitive seven (men)and eigth (women) team Trinity Invitational on Saturday, September 3.

The men finished seventh, however the inexperienced team flashed their potential in the five mile race.
Freshman Chris Ojeda led the men?s harriers with an impressive time of 30:09 to finish 26th in contest. Upperclassmen Kris Kelley and John Rhodes secured 44th and 45th with identical times of 34:56. Freshmen Jimmy Bell (46th in 35:11) and John Sercer (49th in 37:43) rounded out the top five.

The women finished 7th, paced by junior Elena Yates' 16th place in 19:44 in the 3 mile race. Rounding out the top five for the women were Monica Craig (38th in 22:09), Kate Ramsay (41th in 22:32), Kristin Condotta (47th in 22:54), and Glencora Cowan (54 in 24:03).

The teams travel to Tyler, TX next Saturday, with their eye on improving.

September 29, 2003
Davis named USCAA Runner of the Week

Freshman Byron Davis was named the USCAA Runner of the week for the last week of September 2003. The stand out freshman has led the Crusaders to the finish line in every race this season finishing the 8K course this past Saturday at Southwestern Universitty in 28:32, just 7 seconds off the best 8K run ever by a UD student.
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