2011-2012

Cross Country

Alex Bett

Joel Wellum

Carissa Wilson

Zach Covington

Hannah Clardy

Roster by ClassSenior ....................................................... 5Junior ........................................................ 4Sophomore ............................................... 4Freshman ................................................. 3

Roster by StateAlabama ................................................... 2Arkansas ................................................... 2Colorado ................................................... 1Georgia ..................................................... 1 Illinois ....................................................... 1Kentucky ................................................... 2Mississippi ................................................ 1South Carolina .......................................... 2Tennessee ................................................. 2Outside of USA ......................................... 2

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles2

UNION UNIVERSITY schedule & roster

2011 SCHEDULEDate Opponent Time LocationSeptember 2011 Sat 3 Memphis Twilight @Mike Rose Soccer Complex 8:40 p.m. Memphis, Tenn. Sat 17 Commodore Classic @ Percey Warner Park 9:30 a.m. Nashville, Tenn. October 2011 Sat 1 Union University Invitational @ Union Campus 8:00 a.m. Union Sat 22 St Louis Fall Cross Country Classic @ Forest Park 10:00 a.m. St. Louis, Mo. Sat 29 TranSouth Championships @ Union Campus 9:00 a.m. Union November 2011 Sat 5 NAIA Qualifying Meet @ Forest Park St. Louis, MoSat 19 NAIA National Championship Meet Vancouver, Wash.

2011 WOMEN’S ROSTERName Hgt. Class Hometown Previous SchoolHannah Clardy 5-6 SR Maumelle, Ark. Arkansas Baptist HSCarissa Wilson 5-3 SR Paducah, Ky. Paducah Tilghman HSLilli Harmon 5-3 JR O’Fallon, Ill. O’Fallon Township HSCally Howell 5-1 JR Greer, S.C. Riverside HSAshlee Stewart 5-6 SO Madison, Ala. Bob Jones HSAllison Martin 5-6 SO Montrose, Colo. Montrose HSAudrey Hazlehurst 5-3 FR Jackson, Tenn. University School of Jackson Whitney Sweet 5-4 FR Roswell, Ga. Roswell HS

2011 MEN’S ROSTERName Hgt. Wgt. Class Hometown Previous SchoolZach Covington 5-11 165 SR Saltillo, Miss. Saltillo HSJoel Wellum 5-10 145 SR Louisville, Ky. Portland Christian HSAlex Bett 5-9 140 SR Kapsabet, Kenya Lelmokwo HSDrake Ott 5-5 120 JR Birmingham, Ala. Oak Mountain HSLogan Smith 6-4 160 JR Knoxville, Tenn. South-Doyle HSCaleb Creel 6-6 175 SO Greer, S.C. James F. Byrnes HSEdwin Kurgat 5-8 125 SO Eldoret, Kenya Central Methodist UniversityLucas Peiser 5-11 145 FR Fayetteville, Ark. Shiloh Christian School

TABLE OF CONTENTS Page #

Schedule............................................................................................................2

Roster....................................................................................................................2

Media Outlets & Quick Facts................................................................................................3

Union University Information.............................................................................................4

President of the University..................................................................................................5

Director of Athletics...........................................................................................................6

Athletic Staff Directory.......................................................................................................7

Head Coach........................................................................................................................8

Season Outlooks................................................................................................................9

Player Profiles.............................................................................................................10-13

Record Book / Honors..................................................................................................14-15

Team Photo.............................................................................................outside back cover

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles 3

UNION UNIVERSITY table of contents, quick facts & media outlets

STAY INFORMED ABOUT UNION UNIVERSITY ATHLETICSVisit the Union University Athletics website for news, stats, player information, photos, and more. To be placed on the Union University Athletics fan or media e-mail list contact saldridge@uu.edu. You can also follow Union Athletics on Facebook (facebook.com/UUAthletics) or Twitter (twitter.com/UUAthletics).

UNION UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS - MEDIA OUTLETSELECTRONIC MEDIA

• www.uu.edu/athletics • www.facebook.com/UUAthletics • www.twitter.com/UUAthletics • www.transouth.org • www.naia.org • www.victorysportsnetwork.com • www.jacksonsun.com • www.wbbttv.com • www.jacksonnewsnow.com/sports • www.radio.pressbox1.com • www.jaxxlife.com

PRINT • The Jackson Sun | Jackson, TN 38301 | (731) 425-9636 | sports@jacksonsun.com • West Tennessee Examiner | Jackson, TN | (731) 935-2222 |

TELEVISION • WBBJ TV ABC 7 | Jackson, TN 38301 | (731) 424-4515 | abcnews@wbbjtv.com • EPlus TV 6 JEA Cable | Jackson, TN 38302 | (731) 422-7500 | eplustv6@jaxenergy.com

RADIO • WBFG 93.1 FM | Jackson, TN 38305 | www.Gracebroadcasting.com | (731) 664-9497 • WBFG 96.5 FM | Lexington, TN 38351 | (800) 301-9930 | wbfg965@yahoo.com • WJAK 1460 AM Fox Sports | Jackson, TN 38301 | www.jacksonnewsnaow.com | (731) 427-9616 • WDXI 1310 AM | Jackson, TN 39301 | (731) 424-1310 • WNWS RADIO 101.5 FM | Jackson, TN 38301 | www.wnws.com | (731) 423-8101 • WTJS 1390 AM NEWS RADIO | Jackson, TN 38301 | www.wtjs.com | (731) 427-3316

DirectorofAthletics Tommy Sadler • tsadler@uu.edu Office Phone: (731) 661-5218

Senior Women’s Administrator/Life in the Balance Coach Katie Woodruff • kwoodruf@uu.edu Office Phone: (731) 661-5171

FacultyAthleticRepresentative Dr. Keith Abser • kabser@uu.edu Office Phone: (731) 661-5367

ComplianceOfficer Dr. Gary Williams • gwilliam@uu.edu Office Phone: (731) 661-5139

AthleticSecretary Teresa Thomas • tthomas@uu.edu Office Phone: (731) 661-5130

UniversityLocation/Information 1050 Union University Drive | Jackson, TN 38305 Main Switchboard: (731) 668-1818 Athletics Phone: (731) 661-5130 Athletics Fax: (731) 661-5182 Website: www.uu.edu/athletics Founded: 1823 Enrollment: 4,205

SportsInformationDirector Steven Aldridge • saldridge@uu.edu Phone: (731) 661-5027 Fax: (731) 661-5182

SportsInformationGraduateAssistant Alicia Howson, Jackson, Tenn.

Student Assistants Caroline George, Selmer, Tenn. Tyler Boone, Clarksville, Tenn. Phillip Tang, Jackson, Tenn. Melissa Farrell, Jackson, Tenn. Michelle Piper, Carthage, Tenn.

Cross Country Head Coach Dr. Gary Johnson • gjohnson@uu.edu Office Phone: (731) 661-5246 Alma Mater: Union University (1992) 13th season

Cross Country Quick Facts Nickname: Lady Bulldogs Colors: Red & White Affiliation: NAIA Conference: TranSouth Conference Previous Season Women: TranSouth Champions NAIA National Tournament - 29th Place Final Ranking: NR Men: TranSouth Champions NAIA National Tournament - 28th Place Final Ranking: NR NAIANationalTournamentHistory: Team:Women 4 (2006, 2007, 2008, 2010) Men 3 (2007, 2008, 2010)Individuals:Women 7 Men 10

Cover Design Scott Heit, Director of Creative Services Sarah Belcher, Graphic Design Specialist

Interior Design and Layout Steven Aldridge, Sports Information Director Alicia Howson, Sports Information Graduate Assistant Caroline George, Sports Information Student Assistant

Photography Sports Information Office Morris Abernathy, Photographer Photography Student Staff

Writing,Editing Union Sports Information Office

Printing Tennessee Industrial Printing, Inc. (Jackson, Tenn.)

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles4

UNION UNIVERSITY university profile

www.uu.edu/about/Location: Jackson, Tennessee (area population: 100,000), 80 miles east of Memphis and 120 miles west of Nashville. Forbes magazine recently ranked Jackson as one of America’s top 150 cities for business and careers.

Student Body: More than 4,200 undergraduate and graduate students from more than 40 states and 35 countries.

Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1

Percentage of Faculty with Highest Possible Degree in Field: 84%

Emphasis: A private, four-year, coeducational liberal arts-based university offering bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.

History: Founded in 1823, Union is the oldest institution affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention.

Technology: Each residence apartment is equipped with filtered Internet and cable connections. In addition, wireless network access is available in residence com-mons areas, as well as in each academic building and the Student Union Building. Students receive a Union e-mail account and private file storage space on the Union network.

Activities: More than 50 major student-produced music and theatre events each academic year; 70 campus clubs, societies, fraternities, sororities and other organi-zations; Cardinal & Cream student newspaper and The Torch, a literary journal.

Campus: Union University’s main campus in Jackson and its extension campuses in Germantown and Hendersonville cover 360 acres. The wooded Jackson campus features pine groves, sycamores, a variety of oaks including Shumardi oaks lining the great lawn, elm, dogwoods, sweet gums and cherry trees.

There are more than 40 major buildings and excellent athletic facilities. More than $120 million in new campus construction has been completed during the past decade, including several new Georgian-Colonial classroom buildings that support state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities. Most of Union’s on-campus housing was constructed in 2008. Student-suggested design features were incorporated in each new building; all residence buildings include a private bedroom for each student.

The campus is situated along the U.S. 45 bypass in north Jackson and is adjacent to one of Jackson’s largest concentration of retail establishments and restaurants.

Campus Visits: Visit our campus anytime to meet with faculty or visit a class. You are also invited to join us for a Union Preview Day. This year’s Preview Days sched-ule is found at http://www.uu.edu/campusvisits or call 1.800.33.UNION. Office hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., first and third Saturdays of the month from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Major Recognitions

* U.S.News & World Report: Union is ranked as one of only 80 schools nation-ally “where the faculty has an unusual commitment to undergraduate teaching.” This new category debuted in 2010. For a second consecutive year, Union was listed among 77 “schools to watch” across the nation. Overall, the magazine ranks Union 16th among master’s universities in the South, which means Union has been classi-fied as a Top Tier institution each year since 1997. Editors also identify Union as an “A+ option for serious B students.”

* Princeton Review: Princeton Review ranks Union among the top 141 schools in the Southeast. Nationally, 640 schools received this regional ranking, which is only accorded to about 25% of the nation’s colleges and universities.

* Forbes: In its second annual “America’s Best Colleges” edition, Forbes editors evaluated 600 of the nation’s 4,000 colleges and universities based on the quality of the education they provide, and how much their students achieve. Union ranked 278th on the Forbes list -- up four places from last year -- and was one of only two institutions in Tennessee west of Nashville selected for inclusion.

* America’s 100 Best College Buys: An objective and independent research company surveys more than a thousand U.S. colleges and universities each year, then analyzes the information to find out which schools offer the best education for the dollar based upon academic performance indicators and comparative costs. Union University has been among schools identified as “America’s 100 Best College Buys” since 1998.

* President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll: Initiated in 2006, this award recognizes colleges and universities nationwide that support innovative and effective community service and service-learning programs. Union is also one of only 160 institutions named to the list for three straight years, and one of only six four-year schools in Tennessee with that distinction.

* College Access and Opportunity Guide: Union is listed among 220 U.S. colleges “committed to serving and supporting today’s first-generation, low-income and traditionally underserved college-bound students.” Union is one of only four Tennessee institutions so honored.

* Colleges of Distinction: Union and the other schools chosen for inclusion in this guide exhibit four distinctives of superior colleges and universities: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant communities and successful outcomes.

* Templeton Foundation: Union is listed in the Foundation’s guide entitled Col-leges that Encourage Character Development. Schools included in this listing have “exemplary programs, presidents, and colleges and universities that inspire students to lead ethical and civic-minded lives.”

Art*

* Ceramics * Digital Media Studies * Drawing * Graphic Design * Painting * Photography * Sculpture

Biology*

* General Biology * Cell and Molecular Biology * Zoology * Conservation Biology

Business Administration*

* Accounting * Economics * International Business * Management * Marketing

Chemistry

* Chemistry* * Chemical Physics * Medical Technology

Christian Studies

* Biblical Studies * Biblical Studies – Languages * Christian Ethics * Church History * Philosophy – Christian Studies * Philosophy – General Studies * Sport Ministry * Youth Ministry

Communication Arts

* Advertising * Broadcast Journalism * Digital Media Studies * Film Studies * Journalism * Media Communications * Photojournalism * Public Relations * Theatre and Speech*

Computer Science

* Computer Information Systems * Computer Science * Digital Media Studies

Education*

* Elementary Education: Pre K-3, K-6 or Middle Grades 4-8 * Special Education: Modified K-12 and Comprehensive K-12 * Teacher Licensure, Secondary Areas

Engineering

* Mechanical Concentration * Electrical Concentration

English*

* Literature * Writing

History*

Honors

* Interdisciplinary Honors * Interdisciplinary Studies

Intercultural Studies

* Global Studies * Regional Studies * Study Abroad

Language

* Applied Linguistics * French* * Spanish* * Teaching English as a Second Language*

Mathematics

* Actuarial Science * Mathematics* * Statistics

Music

* Church Music * Christian Studies * Communication Arts * Music Management * Music Marketing * Music Education o Band* o Choral* * Music Theory * Performance o Organ o Piano o Voice

Nursing

Physical Education, Wellness and Sport

* Athletic Training * Health Education* * Physical Education* * Sport Communication * Sport Management * Sport Marketing * Sports Medicine - Exercise Science * Sport Ministry

Physics*

* Engineering Physics * Physical Science * Physics

Political Science*Pre-professional Programs

* Chiropractics * Cytotechnology * Dentistry * Dental Hygiene * Health Information Management * Medicine * Occupational Therapy * Optometry * Pharmacy * Physical Therapy * Physician Assistant * Podiatry * Veterinary Medicine

Psychology

Social Work

Sociology and Family Studies

* Criminal Justice * Family Studies * Sociology

*Teacher Licensure Available

Graduate Programs of Study

* Doctor of Education * Doctor of Pharmacy * Doctor of Ministry * Doctor of Nursing Practice * Education Specialist * Master of Arts in Education * Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies * Master of Business Administration * Master of Christian Studies * Master of Education * Master of Science in Nursing * Master of Social Work

Current Programs of Study

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles 5

UNION UNIVERSITY letter from the president

“Dear Friends of Union University Athletics:

Thank you so much for your support of Union University athletics. A commitment to excellence is one of our four core values across the Uni-versity best demonstrated in our numerous quality academic programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. For 15 straight years, Union has been listed as a Top Tier University in the South by U. S. News and World Report. One of the fastest growing private institutions in the entire South, Union University continues to make strides in all aspects of our work, and athletics is no exception.

For eight straight seasons, Union has been the recipient of the TranSouth Conference All-Sports Trophy. This recognition speaks well of all of our coaches and athletes. We salute all of those who serve Union university so faithfully in our Department of Athletics. This year begins a year of transi-tion for the Union athletic program. Your encouragement for our pro-gram during this time will be greatly appreciated. We thank each of you for your support of the Union University athletic teams and for support

of our distinctive Christ-centered mission.”

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles6

UNION UNIVERSITY director of athletics

Tommy Sadler enters his 27th year of service at Union University, and the third in his role as the Director of Athletics for Union. Sadler was named to this position after serving the 2008-09 year as the acting athletics director. He follows in the footsteps of Dr. David Blackstock, who had been Union’s Athletic Director for the past 34 years.

Sadler, a native of Jackson, is a 1972 graduate of South Side High School and a 1976 graduate of Union University. During his time at Union, Sadler played four years of baseball for the Bulldogs. In 1981, he received his Master of Education from the University of Memphis.

His tenure at Union began in 1985 as director of public relations. After a year in that role, he became the university’s director of corporate and foundation support, a position he held for 10 years. In 1996, Sadler then moved into his previous role as associate director of athletics.

Sadler earned the Union University Staff Member of the Year in 1994. In 2010, Sadler was named the TranSouth Conference Athletic Director of the Year.

Sadler has also been very active in athletics at the conference level. He is beginning his ninth year as the president of the TranSouth Conference, of which Union is a member. Prior to this time as president, he served the conference as its vice president.

“Tommy Sadler has faithfully served Union University in a variety of ways through the years, but his key contribution has been in his work with the athletic department,” Dockery said. “He is respected by all of our coaches, by those who support the athletic program and by the leadership of the university. At this transitional time in the life of our athletic department, I know of no one better to help us chart a future course for that department than Tommy Sadler.”

Sadler and his wife Michelle, a teacher in the Jackson-Madison County School District, make their home in Jackson.

Tommy SadlerDirector of Athletics

1050 Union University DriveJackson, TN 38305

Phone: 731-661-5218Email: tsadler@uu.edu

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles 7

UNION UNIVERSITY athletic staff directory

NAME TITLE EMAIL PHONE (731)ADMINISTRATION Dr. David S. Dockery University President 661-5180 Tommy Sadler Director of Athletics tsadler@uu.edu 661-5218 Dr. Linn Stranak Department Chair of PEWS lstranak@uu.edu 661-5288 Katie Woodruff SWA/Life in the Balance Coach kwoodruf@uu.edu 661-5171 Teresa Thomas Athletics/PEWS Secretary tthomas@uu.edu 661-5130 Dr. Keith Absher Faculty Athletic Representative kabsher@uu.edu 661-5367 Gary Williams Compliance Officer gwilliam@uu.edu 661-5139

ATHLETICTRAINING Kristy Johnson Head Athletic Trainer kjohnson@uu.edu 661-5439 Cliff Pawley Associate Athletic Trainer/ATEP Director cpawley@uu.edu 661-5529 Sarah Davenport Ziegler Associate Athletic Trainer/ATEP Clinical Coordinator saiegler@uu.edu 661-5280 Jennifer Farroll Associate Athletic Trainer/Assistant Professor jfarroll@uu.edu 661-5024 Karen Tankersley Sinclair Assistant Athletic Trainer ksinclair@uu.edu 661-5439 FACILITIES Andy Rushing Director of Athletic Facilities arushing@uu.edu 661-5333

SPORTS INFORMATION Steven Aldridge Sports Information Director saldridge@uu.edu 661-5207 Alicia Howson Graduate Assistant

BASEBALL Brent Fronabarger Head Baseball Coach bfronaba@uu.edu 661-5489 Justin Hogan Assistant Baseball Coach jhogan@uu.edu 661-6511 David Maristany Graduate Assistant Coach Matt Fike Graduate Assistant Coach

BASKETBALL (Men) David Niven Head Men’s Basketball Coach dniven@uu.edu 661-5132 Trevor Lydic Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach tlydic@uu.edu 661-5286 BASKETBALL (Women) Mark Campbell Head Women’s Basketball Coach mcampbel@uu.edu 661-5344 Katie Woodruff Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach kwoodruf@uu.edu 661-5171 Kaitlin Dudley Graudate Assistant 661-5575 Kayla Hudson Graduate Assistant 661-5575 CHEERLEADING Tina Giddens Head Cheerleading Sponsor tgiddens@uu.edu 661-5299 Becky Ranfeld Assistant Cheerleading Sponsor

CROSS COUNTRY (Men and Women) Dr. Gary Johnson Head Cross Country Coach gjohnson@uu.edu 661-5246 GOLF(Men) Andy Rushing Head Men’s Golf Coach arushing@uu.edu 661-5333

SOCCER (Men) Clovis Simas Head Men’s Soccer Coach csimas@uu.edu 661-5533 Michael Lee Assistant Men’s Soccer Coach mlee@uu.edu 661-6590

SOCCER (Women) Brandon Boylan Head Women’s Soccer Coach bboylan@uu.edu 661-5293 Isaac Brooks Assistant Women’s Soccer Coach ibrooks@uu.edu 661-6589

SOFTBALL Heather Hall Head Softball Coach hhall@uu.edu 661-5141 Ashton Strode Graduate Assistant

VOLLEYBALL Kelly Elliott Head Volleyball Coach kelliott@uu.edu 661-5970 Ariel Apolinario Assistant Volleyball Coach aapolinario@uu.edu 661-5451

UnionAthletics•1050UnionUniversityDrive•Jackson,TN38305•731-661-5130(p)•731-661-5182(f)www.uu.edu/athletics•www.facebook.com/UUAthletics•www.twitter.com/UUAthletics

StaffDirectory:www.uu.edu/athletics/info/directory

Gary Johnson begins his 13th season as the head coach for the Union women’s cross country team and 11th season for the men’s cross country team.

Last season, Johnson earned the conference sweep for the seventh straight year as he led the Lady Bulldogs to their eighth straight TranSouth Title, while also leading the men to their seventh straight TranSouth Title. In his career, Johnson also led his teams to two women’s region titles and one men’s region title before the NAIA eliminated region play. Johnson has also put seven of his teams in the NAIA National Championship, which include four automatic qualifications for the women and three for the men.

Johnson has been named TranSouth Conference Coach of the Year in women’s cross country 10 times (1999, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010), men’s cross country nine times (2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006,

2007, 2008, 2009, 2010), and men’s tennis four times (1999-2002). He has also earned NAIA Region XI Coach of the year three times in women’s cross country (2004, 2006, 2007) and twice in men’s cross country (2006, 2007). Johnson has coached 17 national qualifiers including: Michelle Hardee (Gilmore) (2001), Janelle Royer (Campbell) (2002, 2003, 2004), Jill Konkol (2003), Candace Cross (2005), Hannah Clardy (2009), Chris Winter (2003, 2004), Cameron Groll (2003), Phillip Thompson (2004, 2005, 2006), John Fox (2005, 2006), Douglas Martin (2006), Zach Covington (2009), Alex Bett (2009). He has also coached seven automatic team qualifiers (women: 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010; men: 2007, 2008, 2010).

Originally from Tulsa, Okla., Johnson graduated from Union University in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education. He completed his Master of Science degree at the University of Memphis in December of 1993 and his Doctor of Arts in Physical Education from Middle Tennessee State in May of 2004.

Johnson is married to the former Holly Tignor of Jackson. The two are proud parents of their son, Miles Johnson, who was born on June 24, 2005. The Johnsons are members of Englewood Baptist Church.

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles8

UNION UNIVERSITY head coach

Dr. Gary JohnsonHead Coach

1050 Union University DriveJackson, TN 38305

Phone: 731-661-5246Email: gjohnson@uu.edu

WOMENThe Union University women’s cross country team is coming off an eighth straight TranSouth Conference Title. Union returns six runners from last season, including all four runners that were named to the post season honors list. Allison Martin, Ashlee Stewart, Hannah Clardy and Lilli Harmon all return as all-conference runners. Martin returns as the reigning TranSouth Runner and Newcomer of the year from last season as a freshman.

Union also advanced to the NAIA National Meet for the fourth time in school history as a team.

The senior class includes Clardy and Carissa Wilson. Clardy is a former newcomer of the year as a freshman and was the conference runner of the year as a sophomore.

Two juniors are back for their third seasons including Harmon and Cally Howell. Both have contributed to the long standing success of the women’s program.

Stewart and Martin both return for their sophomore seasons after leading Union as freshmen. Martin was named the TranSouth Runner of the Week four times.

Two freshmen join the team this season. Audrey Hazlehurst and Whitney Sweet both enter Union with an impressive running history. They will be expected to contribute right away in helping continue the winning tradition of the program. Union head coach Gary Johnson says, “We are looking forward to our final season in the TranSouth Conference and hope to go out with our conference winning streak in tact. Our team recognizes the challenge of winning multiple championships and want to complete our NAIA affiliation with a conference championship and a trip to the national championship meet. We don’t ever assume this will happen and look forward to the challenge of defending our crown against a quickly improving conference.”

Johnson adds, “Our women’s team returns six of eight runners from the 2010 TranSouth Championship team. We add Audrey Hazlehurst, a multiple time Tennessee State runner-up cross country runner, and Whitney Sweet, an outstanding prospect from Roswell, Ga. This group of girls have been spread out all over the world this summer doing mission work and study abroad programs. It should be an exciting year watching Audrey and Whitney blend in with an experienced team that hopes to make it back to the NAIA nationals and improve on last years performance.”

MENThe Union University men’s cross country team is returning all but one runner from last season, including all three all-conference runners Alex Bett, Edwin Kurgat and Zach Covington. Union captured their seventh straight TranSouth Conference Title last season and look to win again, in their final season in NAIA and TranSouth competition. The Bulldogs also advanced to the NAIA National Meet as a team for the third time in school history.

Union returns seven runners from last season. Union has just one newcomer on the team in, freshman Lucas Peiser. Peiser will look to step in and provide an immediate impact on Union’s championship hopes.

Union returns three seniors including Covington, Bett and Joel Wellum to lead this experienced team. All three have been award winning runners during their time at Union. Bett earned the TranSouth Runner of the Year award for the second time in his career and was named conference runner of the week twice last season.

Two juniors Drake Ott and Logan Smith are back for their third seasons as runners for Union. Both contributed to Union’s team success in returning to the national meet last season.

Caleb Creel and Kurgat return after successful freshman seasons last year. Kurgat was named conference runner of the week twice and was selected as the TranSouth Newcomer of the Year as a freshman.

Union head coach Gary Johnson says, “We are looking forward to our final season in the TranSouth Conference and hope to go out with our conference winning streak in tact. Our team recognizes the challenge of winning multiple championships and want to complete our NAIA affiliation with a conference championship and a trip to the national championship meet. We don’t ever assume this will happen and look forward to the challenge of defending our crown against a quickly improving conference.”

Johnson adds about the men’s program, “Our men’s team returns seven runners from the 2010 TranSouth championship team and will add Lucas Peiser, an Arkansas state high school cross country champion, to our squad. This group of guys is a special group to work with. I look forward to watching them as they try to achieve great things together and return to the NAIA national championship for our last time.”

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles 9

UNION UNIVERSITY season outlooks

Before Union. Wilson prepped at Paducah Tilghman High School, where she ran four seasons of both cross country and track. Wilson was a member of the State Championship team all four seasons of track, which earned her school eight straight state championship titles. During her sophomore season on the track team she won the regional title in the 2-mile race and was the Runner-up in the state 2-mile race. Wilson also holds the school record in the 2-mile race with a time of 12:14. Wilson excelled in the classroom as well, as she was the Salutatorian of her graduating class.

Hannah Clardy 5-6 • Senior Hometown: Maumelle, ArkansasPrevious School: Arkansas Baptist High School Birthday: March 17

Before Union. Clardy is coming off a season in which she captured her first state championship after two straight runner-up finishes. Clardy prepped at Arkansas Baptist High School where she graduated as valedictorian of her class.

Carissa Wilson5-4 • Senior Hometown: Paducah, KentuckyPrevious School: Paducah Tilghman High School Birthday: January 9

Before Union. Harmon ran cross country for three years and track for two at O’Fallon Township High School where she was a team captain her junior and senior years. She was a member of the National Honor Society and German National Honor Society.

Lilli Harmon5-3 • Junior Hometown: O’Fallon, IllinoisPrevious School: O’Fallon Township High School Birthday: May 30

Before Union. Howell was a four-year member of the Riverside (S.C.) High School cross country program, which qualified for the state meet three times, and was a two-year member of the basketball team. Howell was captain of her region championship cross country team in 2008. Howell has also competed in road races up to the half marathon distance, placing first in her age group in the half marathon. Howell is also a great student, a Beta Club member, and is very involved in church activities.

Cally Howell5-1 • Junior Hometown: Greer, South CarolinaPrevious School: Riverside High School Birthday: December 5

TranSouth Newcomer of the Year 2008TranSouth Runner of the Year 2009

All-Conference 2008, 2009, 2010TranSouth Scholar Athlete 2009, 2010

NAIA Scholar Athlete 2010

All-Conference 2009TranSouth Scholar Athlete 2009, 2010

NAIA Scholar Athlete 2010

All-Conference 2009, 2010TranSouth Scholar Athlete 2010

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles10

UNION UNIVERSITY Lady bulldog runners

TranSouth Scholar Athlete 2010

BeforeUnion: Stewart prepped at Bob Jones (Ala.) High School where she ran cross country and track for head coach Robin Gaines. Stewart helped lead her cross country team to runner-up finishes in the 2008 and 2009 Alabama state championships. She was named the team’s Most Outstanding Runner for 2008 and 2009 as well. Stewart holds her school’s record in track for the 4x8 event. She won the All-Metro Title in cross country and track in all four years of high school (2006-09). Stewart was the leader of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and also was a member of the National Honor Society and Beta Club.

Ashlee Stewart5-7 • SophomoreHometown: Madison, AlabamaPrevious School: Bob Jones High School Birthday: May 30

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles 11

UNION UNIVERSITY lady bulldog runners

BeforeUnion: Martin prepped at Montrose (Colo.) High School for her two years, after attending Russellville (Ala.) High School for her freshman and sophomore seasons. Martin ran cross country and track during her time at Montrose. She helped lead her cross country team to a sixth place finish in the Colorado state tournament in 2010. Her track teams posted an eighth place finish in 2010 and an 18th place finish in 2009 in the 4x800M relays. As an individual, Martin posted a 12th place finish in the state tournament 1-mile race. She was the Southwestern League Champion in the 1-mile and league runner-up in the 800M. She finished 27th in the state cross country meet. Martin was also successful in the classroom. She earned the Presidential Academic Excellence Award all four years, was the Christian Students United secretary for two years, and won the Montrose Spanish Award in 2010, the Career Intern Award in 2010 and the Drawing Award in 2009.

Allison Martin5-6 • sophomore Hometown: Montrose, ColoradoPrevious School: Montrose High School Birthday: March 28

BeforeUnion: Hazlehurst prepped at the University School of Jackson where she ran cross country and track. Hazlehurst helped lead her cross country team to a state runner-up finish in 2009. She also helped lead her track team to the 4x800 meter relay state title in 2009. Hazlehurst was named the Jackson Sun Runner of the Year four times in high school. She was also a three-time all-state runner after finishing runner-up in the state individual standings three years. Hazlehurst runs a 5K time of 18:40.

Audrey hazlehurst5-5 • FreshmanHometown: Jackson, TennesseePrevious School: University School of Jackson Birthday: November 24

BeforeUnion: Sweet prepped at Roswell (Ga.) High School where she ran cross country and track. Sweet helped lead her cross country team to the Fulton County Title in 2009. She was also a state qualifier as a sophomore, junior and senior. Sweet earned Most Improved Award as a sophomore and junior, captain and Most Valuable Player as a senior in cross country. Her track awards included the Spirit Award as a freshman and the Coaches Award as a sophomore. Sweet runs a 5K time of 19:43. She also holds her high school’s track record in the 4x800. Sweet was a four-year member of the Beta Club.

whitney sweet5-4 • FreshmanHometown: Roswell, GeorgiaPrevious School: Roswell High School Birthday: November 21

TranSouth Newcomer of the Year 2010TranSouth Runner of the Year 2010

All-Conference 2010

All-Conference 2010

Before Union. Covington prepped at Saltillo High School where he ran cross country and track for five years. Covington also played soccer for four seasons. As a freshman, he was named Rookie of the Year in cross country as well as earning All-State honors. During both his junior and senior seasons of cross country, as well as track, Covington was named MVP and was a state champion. Covington also excelled off the field, as he graduated with honors. Covington now joins his older brother Seth, who also runs cross country for Union.

Before Union. Bett prepped at Lelmokwo High School in Kenya.

Before Union. Wellum prepped at Portland Christian High School where ran four seasons of cross country and track. Wellum was a member of the Regional Championship cross country team in 2004. In cross country, Wellum was named to the All-State first team his junior and senior years, as well as Academic All-State. Wellum also earned First Team All-State and Academic All-State during his junior and senior seasons of track.

Alex Bett5-9 • Senior Hometown: Kapsabet, KenyaPrevious School: Lelmokwo High School Birthday: December 9

Zach Covington5-11 • Senior Hometown: Saltillo, MississippiPrevious School: Saltillo High School Birthday: April 9

Joel Wellum 5-10 • SeniorHometown: Louisville, KentuckyPrevious School: Portland Christian High School Birthday: April 26

Before Union. Drake prepped at Oak Mountain High School where he was a four sport athlete. In addition to cross country, Drake ran track, both outdoor and indoor, while also playing two seasons of soccer. He placed 4th in the 2008 and 2009 Mercedes Marathon, age 16-19 division. Drake has participated in numerous races during his high school career ranging from 5K up to marathon distances. Drake earned a commendation for community service three times while also posting a 3.7 GPA in the classroom.

Drake Ott5-5 • Junior Hometown: Birmingham, AlabamaPrevious School: Oak Mountain High School Birthday: April 29

TranSouth Runner of the Year 2009, 2010All-Conference 2008, 2009, 2010

TranSouth Scholar Athlete 2009

All-Conference 2008, 2009, 2010TranSouth Scholar Athlete 2009, 2010

All-Conference 2008TranSouth Scholar Athlete 2009, 2010

NAIA Scholar Athlete 2010

All-Conference 2009 TranSouth Scholar Athlete 2010

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles12

UNION UNIVERSITY bulldog runners

Before Union. Smith prepped at South-Doyle High School. He was a two-sport athlete what at South-Doyle, running track and cross country for four years. During his senior season, Smith place 16 in the Knoxville city championship, while posting a 23rd place finish in the TSSAA region championship. While at South-Doyle, Smith was able to get to know and train with 2004 and 2008 Olympian Anthony Famiglietti. He was selected as team captain in both track and cross country as a junior and senior. In the classroom, Smith was chosen as one of two students as South-Doyle’s Scholastic Excellence Award. He also received the Key to Success award.

Logan Smith6-4 • Junior Hometown: Knoxville, TennesseePrevious School: South-Doyle High School Birthday: August 27

BeforeUnion: Creel prepped at Byrnes (S.C.) High School where he ran cross country and track. As a senior, Creel was a cross country state qualifier, team MVP and all-county. His 5K time was 16:55. Off the course, Creel was the Valedictorian of his class and was a member of both the National Honor Society and Beta Club.

Caleb Creel6-6 • Sophomore Hometown: Greer, South Carolina Previous School: James F. Byrnes High School Birthday: September 11

Edwin Kurgat5-8 • SophomoreHometown: Eldoret, KenyaPrevious School: Central Methodist University Birthday: May 9

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles 13

UNION UNIVERSITY bulldog runners

BeforeUnion: Kurgat transferred to Union from Central Methodist (Mo.) were he ran one season of track. He was an NAIA National Track qualifier in the 5,000 meters event in the spring of 2010. Kurgat prepped at Kurgung Boys High School in Kenya.

Before Union. Peiser prepped at Shiloh Christian School in Arkansas where he ran cross country and track for four seasons. He helped lead his cross country team to state titles in 2007 and 2009. In 2008 and 2010, his teams finished as state runner-ups. Peiser’s 2010 track team also posted a second place finish in the state. Peiser was named all-state four times, participated in the All-Star Meet four times and was a cross country state champion in 2010. In track, Peiser earned all-state and participated in the Meet of Champions. Peiser was the class Valedictorian, a member of the National Honor Society and was a Wendy’s High School Heisman State Finalist.

Lucas Peiser5-11 • Freshman Hometown: Fayetteville, ArkansasPrevious School: Shiloh Christian School Birthday: December 22

TranSouth Newcomer of the Year 2010All-Conference 2010

NAIANationalQualifiers(Team)2006 (25th) 2007 (28th)2008 (27th)2010 (29th)

NAIANationalQualifiers(Individuals)Michelle Hardee - 2001Janelle Royer - 2002, 2003, 2004Jill Konkol - 2003Candace Cross - 2005Hannah Clardy - 2009

NAIAAll-AmericansSylvia Bundotich - 2007

NAIA Scholar AthletesMichelle Hardee - 2001Jill Konkol - 2005, 2006Rachel Winford - 2005, 2006Lydia Bond - 2007, 2008Kayla Hauss - 2009, 2010Carrie Moore - 2009Hannah Clardy - 2010Carissa Wilson - 2010

TranSouthAll-ConferenceAlexis Abney - 1999Michelle Hardee - 2001Janelle Royer Campbell- 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004Allison Liberto - 2001Kate Graham - 2002, 2003, 2004Ruth Schroeder - 2003, 2004Rachel Cazalas - 2004Jill Konkol - 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006Rachel Winford - 2005, 2006

UnionWomen’sYear-by-YearResultsSeason TranSouth Finish NAIA Region Finish NAIA National Qualifiers2010 1st Place Team - 29th Place

2009 1st Place Hannah Clardy (183rd)

2008 1st Place region format stopped after 2007

Team - 27th Place

2007 1st Place 1st Place Team - 28th Place

2006 1st Place 1st Place Team - 26th Place

2005 1st Place 3rd Place Candace Cross (95th)

2004 1st Place 2nd Place Janelle Royer Campbell (121st)

2003 1st Place 2nd Place Janelle Royer (97th), Jill Konkol (98th)

2002 3rd Place 4th Place Janelle Royer (109th)

2001 2nd Place Michelle Hardee

2000 3rd Place

1999 2nd Place

Union Women’s Cross Country Meet Records 1. 18:13 - Sylvia Bundotich, NAIA Nationals, Wisconsin (2007)2. 18:31 - Jill Konkol, Memphis Twilight (2006)3. 18:42 - Sylvia Bundotich, NAIA Region XI, Percy Warner Nashville (2007)4. 18:46 - Jill Konkol, NAIA Region XI, Louisville (2006)5. 18:51 - Allison Martin, Memphis Twilight (2010)6. 18:53 - Allison Martin, Union Invitational (2010)7. 18:56 - Allison Martin, Commodore Classic (2010)8. 18:57 - Sylvia Bundotich, Southeast Classic, Percy Warner Nashville (2007)9. 19:02 - Lydia Bond, Memphis Twilight (2006)10. 19:13 - Lydia Bond, NAIA Region XI, Louisville (2006)11. 19:18 - Candace Cross, NAIA Nation XI, Louisville (2005)12. 19:19 - Allison Martin, TranSouth Conference @ Union (2010)13. 19:20 - Allison Martin, NAIA Qualifier in Nashville @ Percey Warner (2010)14. 19:21 - Rachel Winford, Memphis Twilight (2006)15. 19:24 - Jill Konkol, NAIA Nationals, Louisville (2006)

Candace Cross - 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007Sylvia Bundotich - 2007Charley Moss - 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008Erika Schatterly - 2006, 2007. 2008Lydia Bond - 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008Danielle Partain - 2008Kayla Hauss - 2007, 2008, 2009Carrie Moore - 2009Carissa Wilson - 2009Lilli Harmon - 2009, 2010Hannah Clardy - 2008, 2009, 2010Allison Martin - 2010Ashlee Stewart - 2010

TranSouth Conference Runner of the YearJanelle Royer Campbell- 2003, 2004Candace Cross - 2005Jill Konkol - 2006Sylvia Bundotich - 2007Lydia Bond - 2008Hannah Clardy - 2009Allison Martin - 2010

TranSouth Conference Newcomer of the YearJill Konkol - 2003Candace Cross - 2004Charley Moss - 2005Sylvia Bundotich - 2007Hannah Clardy - 2008Carrie Moore - 2009Allison Martin - 2010

TranSouth Coach of the YearGary Johnson - 1999, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

Women’s Cross Country Honor Roll

NAIA Region XI Individual Champion(NAIA eliminated region format after 2007 season)Jill Konkol - 2006

NAIAAll-Region1stTeamMichelle Hardee - 2001Janelle Royer Campbell- 2002, 2003, 2004Jill Konkol - 2003, 2006Candace Cross - 2005Lydia Bond - 2006, 2007Sylvia Bundotich - 2007

NAIAAll-Region2ndTeamJanelle Royer - 2001Allison Liberto - 2001Kate Graham - 2002, 2004Ruth Schroeder - 2004Jill Konkol - 2004Candace Cross - 2004, 2006, 2007Rachel Winford - 2005, 2006Kayla Hauss - 2007

NAIA Region XI Coach of the YearGary Johnson - 2004, 2006, 2007

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles14

UNION UNIVERSITY lady bulldog records & honors

NAIANationalQualifiers(Team)2007 (8th Place)2008 (27th Place)2010 (28th Place)

HighestNAIANationalRanking6th - 2008 Preseason Poll

NAIANationalQualifiers(Individuals)Chris Winter - 2003, 2004Cameron Groll - 2003Phillip Thompson - 2004, 2005, 2006John Fox - 2005, 2006Douglas Martin - 2006Alex Bett - 2009Zach Covington - 2009

NAIAAll-AmericansHenry Rop - 2007Douglas Martin - 2007

NAIA Scholar AthletesJohn Fox - 2005, 2006Douglas Martin - 2005, 2006, 2007Phillip Thompson - 2006, 2007Josh Abbotoy - 2007, 2008Seth Covington - 2008, 2009Joel Wellum - 2010

TranSouthAll-ConferenceChris Winter - 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004Cameron Groll - 2001, 2003Clint Channell - 2004, 2006John Fox - 2004, 2005, 2006Chris Arnold - 2005Phillip Thompson - 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

UnionMen’sYear-by-YearResultsSeason TranSouth Finish NAIA Region Finish NAIA National Qualifiers2010 1st Place Team - 28th Place

2009 1st Place Alex Bett (38th), Zach Covington (180th)

2008 1st Place region format stopped after 2007

Team - 27th Place

2007 1st Place 1st Place Team - 8th Place

2006 1st Place 2nd Place Douglas Martin (44th), Phillip Thompson (134th), John Fox (DNP)

2005 1st Place 3rd Place Phillip Thompson (149th), John Fox (DNP)

2004 1st Place 3rd Place Phillip Thompson (179th), Chris Winter (240th)

2003 2nd Place 3rd Place Chris Winter (176th), Cameron Groll (211th)

2002 2nd Place 6th Place

2001 2nd Place

Union Men’s Cross Country Meet Records 1. 24:10 - Henry Rop, Memphis Twilight (2007)2. 24:48 - Henry Rop, NAIA Nationals, Wisconsin (2007)3. 24:59 - Henry Rop, Southeast Classic, Percy Warner Nashville (2007)4. 25:03 - Edwin Kurgat, Memphis Twilight (2010)5. 25:12 - Henry Rop, NAIA Region XI, Percy Warner Nashville (2007)6. 25:14 - Henry Rop, Commodore Classic, Percy Warner Nashville (2007)7. 25:21 - Douglas Martin, NAIA Nationals, Wisconsin (2007)8. 25:23 - Alex Bett, Union Invitational (2010)9. 25:29 - Alex Bett, Memphis Twilight (2010)10. 25:30 - Phillip Thompson, Memphis Twilight (2006)11. 25:31 - Edwin Kurgat, Union Invitational (2010)12. 25:34 - Douglas Martin, Memphis Twilight (2006)13. 25:37 - John Fox, NAIA Region XI, Louisville (2006)14. 25:40 - John Fox, Memphis Twilight (2006)15. 25:48 - Edwin Kurgat, Commodore Classic (2010)15. 25:48 - Alex Bett, Southeast Classic, Louisville (2009)

Douglas Martin - 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007Henry Rop - 2007Nelphat Boit - 2007Seth Covington - 2006, 2007, 2008Joel Wellum - 2008Drake Ott - 2009Alex Bett - 2008, 2009, 2010Zach Covington - 2008, 2009, 2010Edwin Kurgat - 2010

TranSouth Conference Runner of the YearPhillip Thompson - 2004John Fox - 2005, 2006Henry Rop - 2007Alex Bett - 2009, 2010

TranSouth Conference Newcomer of the YearPhillip Thompson - 2004Henry Rop - 2007Alex Bett - 2009Edwin Kurgat - 2010

TranSouth Coach of the YearGary Johnson - 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

Men’s Cross Country Honor Roll

Union University Cross Country Media Guide • www.uu.edu/athletics • 7 National Tournaments Appearances, 3 Region Titles, 15 TranSouth Titles 15

UNION UNIVERSITY bulldog records & honors

NAIA Region XI Individual ChampionRegion format eliminated after 2007 seasonHenry Rop - 2007

NAIAAll-Region1stTeamJohn Fox - 2005, 2006Phillip Thompson - 2005Douglas Martin - 2006, 2007Henry Rop - 2007Seth Covington - 2007

NAIAAll-Region2ndTeamChris Winter - 2003, 2004Cameron Groll - 2003Phillip Thompson - 2004, 2006, 2007Douglas Martin - 2004, 2005John Fox - 2004Seth Covington - 2006Clint Channell - 2006Nelphat Boit - 2007

NAIA Region XI Coach of the YearGary Johnson - 2006, 2007

(L-to-R): Ashlee Stewart, Lilli Harman, Allison Martin, Whitney Sweet, Hannah Clardy, Cally Howell, Audrey Hazlehurst, Carissa Wilson, Gary Johnson (head coach).

(L-to-R): Alex Bett, Joel Wellum, Logan Smith, Lucas Peiser, Caleb Creel, Drake Ott, Zach Coving-ton, Edwin Kurgat, Gary Johnson (head coach).

2011 Union University Cross Country