Entering her second season at the helm of the cross country program, Heather Kreier looks to guide both the men’s and women’s teams to an improved 2007 campaign. The 2006 season was not one to remember as the men’s and women’s squads finished 9th and 8th at the conference meet. With the top runners returning on both teams the Lutes are optimistic about their chances at improving from last year’s finish.

Despite having no seniors on last year’s team the men’s squad will have to replace three of their top five runners from the 2006 NWC Championship Meet. Senior captain Kenneth Chilcoat was the number one runner every meet last year for the Lutes and looks to improve from last year’s 35th place finish at the conference meet. Fellow seniors Michael Jorgensen and Ben Johnson are both coming off strong training this summer and will battle Chilcoat for the top spot. Senior Chris Ramirez, juniors Mark Manske and Andy Musson and sophomore John Pedack all return and will help provide the depth the 2006 team lacked.

Additions to the men’s team include a trio of freshman. Mikal Applewhite, Barrett Bollen, and Stephen McBeth have all shown potential in workouts and could find themselves in the top seven as the season progresses.

Senior Lauren McDonald will lead the women’s team in what looks like an uphill battle this season after having only three returnees back from last year. Sophomore Katie Choate was the top finisher at the 2006 NWC Championship Meet after placing 27th and will challenge McDonald, who placed 42nd at the NWC meet, for the number one spot. Junior Lexie Miller is hoping to put her injury filled season of 2006 behind her and have a solid year. A large freshman class makes up the rest of the women’s roster. Candance Attwood, Carrie Gerstenberger, Corrine Gogert, Anna Katibah, and Mary Wuest all look to make a impact on this year’s squad.

The Pacific Lutheran Invitational will be the only home meet for the Lutes this year. The meet will be held on October 6 on the PLU golf course.