Aug. 31, 2005

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO. (Wednesday 31, 2005) Coach Eric Heins wants to build upon a strong finishes by the both the men and women cross country teams.  The men finished sixth last year while the Southeast women have finished third in the past two years. Coach Heins says that this year will be no different for the women. 

"Our goal for this years women's team is to finish at least third" said Coach Heins who returns senior Jen Caywood as the team's top runner.  Caywood finished ninth in last year's Ohio Valley Conference Championships and should be considered one of the top runners in the OVC this year.

Others that could finish in the top ten are Junior Lindsay Zeiler and newcomer Amy Warren.  Zeiler was an OVC champion two years ago and Warren, a freshman, was All State selection in Ohio last year as a prep.

The men's team looks to improve on their fifth and sixth finishes in the last two years.

"This is a year our men's team wants to finish in the top three in the conference"  said Coach Heins.

The men are led by sophomore Kevin McNab.  McNab has had a great summer and has the ability to run with anybody.  The men also return senior Gabe Lutes who finished 12th in the OVC Championships last year and could be a top-ten runner in 2005.   Junior Kirk Nesbit could surprise some and be an All-Conference selection.

The Cross Country team opens on September 10 at the Memphis Twilight Classic.  There should be a good mix of competition including teams from the Southeastern Conference and area Division III colleges