2006 PSAC Women's Cross Country Championships Preview

With no clear cut favorite to win the team title, this year's PSAC women's cross country championships will have the feel unlike no other year when one team (Edinboro) stood out above the rest. For both runners and spectators alike that gives this meet a feel of electricity that should make for an exciting event.

Edinboro, which has won eight consecutives titles, has relied on superior depth to win in the past. But, despite having one of the region's top runners in Rachel Lanzel, the depth might not be there to carry the Fightin Scots to another title this season.

Kutztown, the top-ranked team in the East, on paper, appears to have a good shot at winning its first title. The Golden Bears are deep with Stephanie Williams, Joanna Hortsmann and Cheryl Dingman leading the way.

IUP, ranked second in the region, features Nicole Blaesser, a two-time PSAC Runner of the Week, and Stacie Stockard, who also earned Runner of the Week honors, for a team that won the Slippery Rock Invitational a few weeks ago.

Host Bloomsburg looks to use its home course advantage to the fullest and compete for a conference championship. Leading the way for the Huskies are returning All-PSAC performers Amber Hackenberg and Ashley Shuck, along with Beth Schwing and freshman Angela Borealo.

Looking to make a jump into the top five this year will be Slippery Rock. The Rock, sixth in the region, features Holly Whoolery, who should be near the lead pack, and Jennifer Harpp.

Lock Haven looks to build on the strength of freshman Lindsey Scheller and sophomore Shala Simms.

Clarion is an up and coming team that features some athletes who have made a name of themselves in track, notably Tasha Wheatley and Erin Richard. Look for them to be contending for All-PSAC honors.

Look for Lori Johanson and Jess Chong from East Stroudsburg to be making a run at all-PSAC, while Mansfield, deeper than past years, is led by Rachel Hall.

Millersville's top runner all season has been sophomore Priscilla Jennings who should be battling for All-PSAC honors.

From Shippensburg, Alli Rineer has been the Lady Raiders top performer all season and will be looking to crack the top 20.

West Chester's hopes rest with team captains Kristie Kershaw and Becca MacNeil.

No matter who wins, though, this will be race where every position can mean the difference between winning and losing a title.