Cal State East Bay women's cross country season preview

  • September 3, 2010

HAYWARD, Calif. - With a strong nucleus of returning athletes and a promising group of newcomers, the Pioneer women's cross country team is anticipating a successful 2010 campaign. The Pioneers will open the season on Sept. 4 at the Notre Dame de Namur Invitational.

Five runners return for East Bay, including one two-year veteran. Competing in their firstseason in the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA), the Pioneers finished 11th at the 2009 CCAA Championships.

"We have a solid team this year," Pioneer Head Coach Greg Ryan said. "We're stronger than last season. The schedule this season is comprised mainly of invitationals, as well as the CCAA Championships, which favors our style of running."

Nancy Velazquez, the Pioneers top finisher in four races last season, returns for her senior campaign, while Megan McDaniel, Gabriella Cruz, Clarivel Vega, and Natassia Hamor bring plenty of experience as the other returners for the Pioneers.

Bernadette Lu, who placed fifth in the 2008 Cal Pac Conference Championships and competed at NAIA Nationals, will re-join the team this season.

A pair of newcomers expected to contribute this year include Amanda McNabb, a transfer from Sierra College and freshman Tiffany Duffy, a state qualifier and three-time MVP from Escondido High School.

"Having coached in the CCAA, I know the level of competition," Ryan said. "Our goal is to get closer to some of the teams in the CCAA and eventually work our way into the middle of the pack."