CMU picked to win third HAAC title

Posted: Aug 27, 2013

KANSAS CITY Central Methodist has been picked to win its third straight Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) women's cross country championship, according to the 2013 Preseason Coaches' Poll.

The Eagles are coming off their second straight league title and berth in the NAIA National Championship last season. Central Methodist returns four (Emily Nealley, Elise Schreiber, Hailey Breusch and Adriana Romero) of its top seven runners from last season and has added four freshmen (Megan Greener, Rachel Howieson, Kaitlyn Karney, Allyson Ng) and junior track star Kaitlyn Loeffler to the 2013 squad.

Following the Eagles are Baker (Kan.), Benedictine (Kan.), Missouri Valley and Avila (Mo.). Culver-Stockton (Mo.), Evangel (Mo.), Graceland (Iowa) and Peru State (Neb.) fill spots six through nine.

The 2013 season for the Eagles opens on Saturday when Central Methodist hosts the Eagle Invitational at 9 a.m. CT.

2013 HAAC Preseason Women's Cross Country Poll

1. Central Methodist (Mo.)

2. Baker (Kan.)

3. Benedictine (Kan.)

4. Missouri Valley

5. Avila (Mo.)

6. Culver-Stockton (Mo.)

7. Evangel (Mo.)

8. Graceland (Iowa)

9. Peru State (Neb.)