Colorado Christian University men’s and women’s cross country teams raced to Top 10 finishes at the 2022 NCAA Division II National Championship in University Park, Wash. The teams overcame mud, snow and chilly temperatures as the men’s team placed third nationally and the women’s team placed 10th. Both team finishes were the highest in school history.
On the men’s side, the Cougars were paced by All-American finishers, senior Josh Pierantoni (11th), freshman Matthew Storer (17th), and junior Trent Cochran (31st). This is the second year in a row Pierantoni earned All-America honors. Junior Isaac Russo (57th) and sophomore Alex Vance (112th) rounded out the scoring for the squad.
In the women’s race, sophomore Paige Tack led the Cougars finishing in 60th place. Junior Zanzie Demco followed closely behind in 69th. Sophomore Shannon King (84th), junior Elizabeth Mattson (94th) and sophomore Michelle Kuipers (108th) rounded out the scoring for the squad.
“I couldn’t be prouder of these athletes and their grit and determination to cross the finish line,” said men’s and women’s head coach Jon Poag. “Because of their hard work and commitment to this program, we’re not only returning home with a metal in hand but with record-breaking, historical performances for CCU.”
For more information about the CCU men’s and women’s cross country teams, visit https://ccucougars.com.