Jessica Connery qualifies for Nationals

2009 Cross Country Season Outlook

The William Jewell cross country teams are looking to turn some corners in 2009. The Cardinals are coming off a 2008 season that saw some individual best times and the team now looks to take it a step further by improving their team records in the Heart of America Athletic Conference.

The head coach, Tom Eisenhauer, a 2006 Jewell grad, will begin his second season as head coach. Eisenhauer will be joined by Kevin McDougal. McDougal attended Cowley County Community College from 2001-2003 where he was a 10-time national qualifier, three-time All-American, four-time All- Region 16, and five-time All-Conference Jayhawk East. He then attended Wichita State University from 2003-2005. As a Shocker, McDougal earned All- Conference honorable mention and graduated in 2006 with degree in Sports Administration.

“I am excited for our group of runners,” said Eisenhauer. “Both teams have a strong core of returning members, and with the new additions coming in it will certainly push everyone to improve. We are looking to turn some heads in the HAAC this season.”

Key returning women runners for the Cardinals include Alecia Valencia, Lindsay Hall, Stacy Reichel and Loren Archibeque. The coaching staff is also looking to newcomers Jess Connery, Dani Crabtree, Monica Gharis, Stephanie Smiddy, Lauren Updyke, Shelby Pettz and Cally Aspergren to come in and contribute.

For the men’s team Jesse Funk, Grant Gastineau, Brian Gehrlein, Mark Ward and Michael O’Bryan return to lead the Cardinals. New recruits Kyle Gillett and Josue Villarreal are expected to contribute additional depth to the team as well.

“As we transition to the NCAA Division II I believe this recruiting class and these teams have the ability to lay the foundation for a strong cross country program here at William Jewell,” said Eisenhauer.