Cross Country - Aurora University

2006-2007 Aurora University 

WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY 

& TRACKAND FIELD

Getting to AU 

2006-2007 

Media Guides 

Table of Contents 

Getting to AU (maps) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside front cover 

AU Quick Facts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside front cover 

AU Media Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Head Coach James Kluckhohn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Assistant Coaches Elaine Canchola/Luke Cutkomp . . . . . . . . 2 

2006 Women’s Cross Country Recap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

2007 Women’s Track and Field Prospectus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Women’s Official NCAA Rosters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 11 

Women’s Runner Profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7 

AU Women’s Cross Country Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 

AU Women’s Cross Country and Track and Field Awards .7, 17 

AU Women’s Indoor Top Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 

AU Women’s Outdoor Top Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 

Spartans’ All-Time Roster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7, 18 

Cross Country and Track and Field Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . .7, 15 

AU Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 

AU Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 

This Is Aurora University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 

Cross Country and Track and Field Schedules . . . . . . . . . . 8, 23 

Edgelawn Dr. 

Evanslawn Ave. 

Southlawn Pl. 

AU Field 

Glenwood Pl. 

P 

Gym 

P 

Prairie Road 

Randall Rd. 

P 

Randall Rd. 

Calumet Ave. 

Calumet Ave. 

P 

P 

Marseillaise Pl. 

Gladstone Ave. 

Kenilworth Pl. 

The bottom map is an enlargement of the Aurora University area. 

Parking areas are shown with a circled P. 

On the cover: 

2006 Women’s Cross Country and 2007 Track and Field Teams. 

AU Quick Facts 

Location ................................................................. Aurora, IL 

Founded.......................................................................... 1893 

Enrollment........................................... Approximately 4,000 

Nickname................................................................. Spartans 

Colors.................................................. Royal Blue and White 

Conference ......................... Northern Athletics Conference 

National Affiliation .................................. NCAA Division III 

President.................................................Rebecca L. Sherrick 

Director of Athletics............................................Mark Walsh 

Head Cross Country Coach......................James Kluckhohn 

Coach’s Record................................................Fourth Season 

Athletics Phone ................................................630-844-5110 

Athletics Fax .....................................................630-844-7809 

Athletic Trainer.....................................Stevie Baker-Watson 

Sports Information Director .............................Brian Kipley 

Sports Information Phone...............................630-844-7575 

Sports Information Fax....................................630-844-3826 

AU Spartan Sports Hotline ..............................630-844-3838 

Pressbox Phone ................................................630-844-7838

AU Media Outlets 

Local Print 

Aurora Beacon-News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 S. River, Aurora, IL 60506 

Todd Adams, Sports Editor 630-844-5911 

Fax: 630-844-1043 

Kane County Chronicle . . . . . . . . 1000 Randall Rd., Geneva, IL 60134 

Brian Schaumburg, Sports Editor 630-232-9222 

Fax: 630-232-4962 

Fox Valley Labor News . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 4155, Aurora, IL 60507 

Carter Crane, Editor 630-897-4022 

Fax: 630-892-3873 

Daily Herald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3805-A Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174 

630-587-8623 

Fax: 630-587-8639 

Kendall County Publications . . . . . 222 Bridge St., Yorkville, IL 60560 

630-533-7034 

Fax: 630-533-7085 

Oswego Ledger-Sentinel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Box #669, Oswego, IL 60611 

630-554-8565 

Fax: 630-554-7560 

Regional Print 

Chicago Tribune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 435 N. Michigan, Chicago, IL 60611 

Metro Sports 312-222-3474 

Fax: 312-828-9392 

Chicago Sun-Times . . . . . . . . . . . . 350 N. Orleans, Chicago, IL 60654 

College Sports 312-321-2247 

Radio/TV 

WSPY (107.1 fm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Broadcast Center, Plano, IL 60545 

WFXV (TV-30) 630-552-1000 

Greg Burks, Sports Director Fax: 630-552-9000 

Meet the 

Head Coach 

JAMES KLUCKHOHN 

Head Coach 

Fourth Season 

James Kluckhohn is in his fourth season 

as Head Coach of Aurora University’s cross 

country and track programs. Kluckhohn 

will pioneer the new additions to AU’s 

intercollegiate offerings and look to 

improve upon the programs that he has built. 

Kluckhohn came to the Spartans from Chicago where he was 

the Head Cross Country and Assistant Track and Field Coach at 

North Park University. Prior to his three-year term at North 

Park, Kluckhohn was the Interim Head Track and Field Coach at 

Texas Lutheran University, a NCAA Division III institution in 

Seguin, Texas. Kluckhohn was an assistant for three years in 

cross country and two years in track prior to becoming Interim 

Track and Field Coach. He also served as a cross country 

assistant at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where he was a 

part of a national championship in 1996. 

Kluckhohn is no stranger when it comes to starting a program 

from the ground up. While at Texas Lutheran University, Kluckhohn 

helped, as assistant, to pioneer both the women’s cross 

country and track and field programs. Overall, the team finished 

second in the American Southwest Conference in their first 

season. 

As a student athlete, Kluckhohn ran for the University of 

Wisconsin-La Crosse cross country and track team. The seventime 

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse scholar athlete was 

named cross country team captain in 1993. Kluckhohn received 

a B.S. in physical education from the University of Wisconsin- 

La Crosse, and his M.S. in human performance from University 

of Wisconsin-La Crosse, as well as C.S.C.S. (strength and 

conditioning) certification. He is a member of the United States 

Track Coaches Association and National Strength and 

Conditioning Association. He is married to Kari and has two 

sons, Jacob and Nathaniel. 

Comcast (ch. 4) . . . . . . . . . . . . 800 W. 5th Street, Naperville, IL 60563 

630-552-1000 

Wire Services 

Associated Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230 N. Michigan, Chicago, IL 60601 

Sports Desk 312-781-0500 

Fax: 312-781-1989 

All requests for interviews should be made through 

Brian Kipley, Director of Sports Information, at 630-844-7575. 

Media should call in advance, as seating in the press area is limited. 

AU Women’s Cross Country 

1

Meet the 

Coaching Staff 

ELAINE CANCHOLA 

Assistant Coach 

Cross Country/Track and Field 

Second Season 

Elaine Canchola is headed into her 

second season as a collegiate coach. 

Canchola came to AU following her 

running career at University of Wisconsin- 

Madison after transferring from UCLA in 2001. Canchola 

graduated from University of Wisconsin-Madison with a 

bachelor’s degree in Spanish in the summer of 2003. As a 

student-athlete, Canchola was selected as team captain at both 

UCLA and UW-Madison. As a freshman at UCLA, she helped 

lead the Bruins to the NCAA Division I Championship for the 

first time since 1988. In her first track season with the Badgers 

(2001) she placed second in the mile at the Indoor Big Ten 

Championships. She was Second-Team All-Big Ten in 2002. In 

her first cross country season at Wisconsin, she was selected 

Big-Ten student-athlete of the week. Canchola serves as 

CHAMPS/Life Skills Coordinator and Assistant Advisor for the 

Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC) at AU. 

LUKE CUTKOMP 

Assistant Coach 

Track and Field 

Second Season 

Luke Cutkomp enters his second 

season with the Aurora University track 

and field staff. Cutkomp coaches the 

throwing events including shot put, 

discus, javelin, weight and hammer throw. 

Cutkomp is a member of the United States Track and Field 

Coaches Association. 

Cutkomp spent the fall in his first season with the AU 

football program and as an athletics admission liaison for 

men’s sports. Cutkomp comes to AU from Carroll College 

where he served as the defensive line coach for two seasons. 

Prior to that, he was a student assistant coach at his alma 

mater, Wartburg College, where he served as the defensive 

line - linebackers - tight ends student assistant coach. 

Cutkomp was a tight end on Wartburg’s 1999 Iowa 

Intercollegiate Athletic Conference team and is a member of 

the American Football Coaches Association. He earned a B.A. 

in elementary education from Wartburg College in 2003. 

2 AU Women’s Cross Country

2006 Women’s Cross Country Recap 

Women Earn Another Conference Crown 

The 2006 women’s cross country season was capped off 

with AU’s winning the inaugural NAC Women’s Cross 

Country Championship. This is the second consecutive year 

of holding the conference championship title with the teams 

having won the 2005 Northern Illinois-Iowa Conference 

(NIIC) women’s cross country meet. The 2005 victory was the 

first women’s cross country championship in school history. 

The Spartan women’s cross country team was led by 

Northern Athletics Conference Women’s Cross Country 

Runner of the Year Fran Sikorski (Lombard, IL/Driscoll 

Catholic) and Morgan Jacquette (Grayslake, IL/Grayslake 

H.S.). Joining Sikorski and Jacquette as All-Conference 

selections was sophomore Kristen Renninger (Aurora, 

IL/Aurora Central Catholic). 

Sikorski won the inaugural meet with a time of 24:22.1, 

while Jacquette finished sixth with a time of 24:25.5 and 

Renninger finished in eighth with a time of 26:09.2. Spartan 

freshman runners Megan Cinto (Sugar Grove, IL/Kaneland 

H.S.) and Lisa Guzman (Woodridge, IL/Downers Grove 

South H.S.) were selected as NAC Honorable Mention All- 

Conference. Cinto finished 13th in the conference meet with 

a time of 26:34.6, while Guzman finished 17th with a time of 

26:52.9. 

Both Sikorski and Jacquette broke records during the 2006 

campaign. Sikorski’s run at the regional meet gave her a 60th 

place finish and also a school record time of 23:20.2. 

Jacquette set a new freshman school record finishing 105th 

with a time of 24:13.5. As a team, the women finished 20th in 

the 38-team regional. 

AU Women’s Cross Country 

3

2006 Official 

NCAA Roster 

Name Ht. Yr. Hometown High School 

Fran Sikorski 5'9" Sr Lombard, IL Driscoll Catholic 

Kristen Renninger 5'4" So Aurora, IL Aurora Christian 

Megan Cinto 5'3" Fr Sugar Grove, IL Kaneland 

Lisa Guzman 5'3" Fr Woodridge, IL Downers Grove 

South 

Morgan Jacquette 5'2" Fr Grayslake, IL Grayslake 

Allison Shopinski 5'3" Fr Sandwich, IL Sandwich 

Head Coach: James Kluckhohn 

Assistant Coach: Elaine Canchola 

Meet the Spartans 

MEGAN LYNNE CINTO, 5'3", Fr, 

Sugar Grove, IL/Kaneland HS 

High School: Attended Kaneland High 

School. Ran four years of track under Coach 

Doug Ecker. She was named Most Improved 

Runner in ’04, along with qualifying for 

sectionals. She also competed in four years of 

varsity track under Coach Ecker.Personal: 

Born 6/26/88 in Aurora, IL. Family: Tim and Karen Cinto. She 

has one sister, Erin. Hobbies: Babysitting and family. Major: 

Elementary Education. 

Why I chose AU…I learned about the great elementary 

education program they had, so I took a tour of campus and 

loved it. Plus, it is only 10 minutes from my house so I thought 

it would be great. 

LISA GUZMAN, 5'3", Fr, 

Woodridge, IL/Downers Grove South HS 

High School: Attended Downers Grove 

South High School. Ran two years of cross 

country and track under Coach Mike 

Arenberg and Doug Plunkett. She received 

the Academic Achievement Award her senior 

season in cross country. In track, she placed 

4th in indoor conference and 2nd in outdoor conference, 

respectively. She also received the Academic Achievement 

Award in track. Personal: Born 2/3/88 in Chicago. Family: Efren 

and Martha Guzman. She has one sister, Jessica. Hobbies: 

Movies, cooking and shopping. Major: Health Science. 

Why I chose AU…I was awarded a good academic 

scholarship and it has a great student-faculty ratio. 

MORGAN JACQUETTE, 5'2", Fr, 

Grayslake, IL/Grayslake HS 

High School: Attended Grayslake High 

School. Ran three years of cross country 

under Coach Joel Peebles. She received the 

Sportmanship and MVP awards her junior 

and senior seasons. She was also a captain 

those years, and was awarded the 

Outstanding Newcomer Award her sophomore year. She also 

ran track under Coach Klint Wescom. She was named All- 

Conference as a senior and received the Best Runner Award. 

Personal: Born 2/27/88 in Lake Forest, IL. Family: Connie and 

John Jacquette. She has two brothers, C.J. and Nick. Hobbies: 

Reading, knitting and biking. Major: Elementary Education. 

Minor: Spanish. 

Why I chose AU…After seeing the campus, I knew that this 

was the school for me. The great running program and 

academic scholarships are added bonuses.


KRISTEN RENNINGER, 5'4", So, 

Aurora, IL/Aurora Christian HS 

College as a Freshman (’05): Attended Aurora 

University and was a member of the cross 

country team. She was named All-NIIC. High 

School: Attended Aurora Christian High 

School and ran three years of cross country 

under Coach Priscilla Copple. Played two 

years of varsity basketball under Coach Dan Stone and was a 

captain. She ran one year of track under Coach Jeff Schuette. 

She also played three years of varsity softball under Coach 

Amanda Leonhardt and was a captain. Personal: Born on 

12/28/86 in Aurora, IL. Family: Kim and Jerry Renninger. She 

has one brother, Bryce. Hobbies: Reading, listening to music, 

playing sports and hanging out with friends and family. Major: 

Psychology. Minor: Criminal Justice. 

Why I chose AU…Close to home, good scholarship and 

smaller classes. This allows me to be able to become friends 

with more people and build closer friendships. 

ALLISON SHOPINSKI, 5'3", Fr, 

Sandwich, IL/Sandwich HS 

High School: Attended Sandwich High 

School. Ran four years of cross country 

under Coach Bob Pax. She won the 

Sportsmanship Award twice, the Most 

Improved Runner Award, and was named a 

captain as a senior. Personal: Born 4/15/88 

in Ballwin, MO. Family: Peggy and Bill Shopinski. She has one 

brother, Justin. Hobbies: Anything arts and crafts related. 

Majors: Elementary Education. 

FRAN SIKORSKI, 5'9", Sr, 

Lombard, IL/ Driscoll Catholic HS 

College as a Junior (’05): Attended AU and 

was a member of the cross country team. She 

was named the team MVP AU record holder 

in 6k. College as a Sophomore (’04): Attended 

Aurora University and was a member of the 

AU cross country team. She was named 

Northern Illinois-Iowa Conference All-Conference and team 

MVP. College as a Freshman (’03): Attended St. Francis 

University. Broke school records in 200 hurdles, 400 hurdles and 

the distance medley relay. She also had the record for most 

points in an outdoor season, leading her to the Newcomer of 

the Year Award. High School: Attended Driscoll Catholic High 

School. Ran two years of cross country under Coach Jim 

Maggiore. Qualified for sectionals both years. She also ran three 

years of track under Coach Mark Morgan, winning conference 

in the 300m hurdles and qualifying for state in the 300m hurdles 

both her junior and senior years. Personal: Born 7/8/85 in 

Lombard, IL. Family: John and Donna Sikorski. She has two 

brothers, Patrick and Joey, and two sisters, Danielle and Mary. 

Hobbies: Running, bike riding, rollerblading, reading, hanging 

out with friends and shopping. Major: Secondary Education. 

Why I chose AU…I chose Aurora University because of its 

small atmosphere, it also offers a good blend of athletics and 

academics. I believe AU is a place where I can succeed. 

Why I chose AU…I chose AU because I really like the campus. 

Everyone at the school is really nice and I like the different 

opportunities the school offers.

AU Women’s 

Cross Country Top 10 

6K TOP TIMES 

Name Year Location Time 

1. Fran Sikorski 2006 Augustana,Credit Island Park 23:20 

2. Morgan Jacquette 2006 Augustana,Credit Island Park 24:13 

3. Kristen Renninger 2006 Augustana,Credit Island Park 24:37 

4. Lisa Guzman 2006 Augustana,Credit Island Park 24:59 

5. Megan Cinto 2006 Augustana,Credit Island Park 25:24 

6. Jenn Garlinsky 2005 Rockford, Fuller Forest Preserve 25:38 

7. Susan Sawtell 2004 Augustana,Credit Island Park 25:52 

8. Stephanie Carson 2005 Rockford, Fuller Forest Preserve 26:09 

9. Lyndsey Todd 2004 Millikin, Hickory Point, G.C. 27:02 

10. Jesenia Gonzalez 2003 CURF, Schiller Woods 27:27 

6K FRESHMAN RECORDS 

Name Year Race Location Time 

1. Morgan Jacquette 2006 Augustana,Credit Island Park 24:13 

2. Lisa Guzman 2006 Augustana,Credit Island Park 24:59 

3. Megan Cinto 2006 Augustana,Credit Island Park 25:24 

4. Susan Sawtell 2004 Augustana,Credit Island Park 25:53 

5. Kristen Renninger 2005 NCAA Regionals, Peoria 26:03 

6. Stephanie Carson 2004 Clarke 27:09 

7. Allison Shopinski 2006 Augustana,Credit Island Park 27:33 

8. Elizabeth Rhodes 2003 North Central, DuPage River Park 30:24 

9. Gabby Talavera 2003 CURF, Schiller Woods 32:16 

10. Margarita 2003 CURF, Schiller Woods 32:38 

Castellanos 

5K TOP TEN 


1. Fran Sikorski 2004 WI Lutheran, Greenfield Park 21:38 

2. Jenn Garlinsky 2004 WI Lutheran, Greenfield Park 22:31 

3. Stephanie Carson 2005 Benedictine, Lisle Comm. Park 23:15 

4. Lyndsey Todd 2004 WI Lutheran, Greenfield Park 23:19 

5. Susan Sawtell 2004 WI Lutheran, Greenfield Park 23:20 

6. Stephanie Carson 2004 Benedictine, Lisle Comm. Park 24:29 

7. Kristen Renninger 2005 Benedictine, Lisle Comm. Park 24:43 

8. Cam Loving 2005 Benedictine, Lisle Comm. Park 24:44 

9. Margarita 2004 Benedictine, Lisle Comm. Park 25:03 

Castellanos 

NAC Women’s 

Cross Country Awards 

ALL-CONFERENCE 

2006 Fran Sikorski, Morgan Jacquette, Kristen Renninger 

RUNNER OF THE YEAR 

2006 Fran Sikorski 

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR 

2006 Morgan Jacquette 

COACH OF THE YEAR 

2006: James Kluckhohn 

NIIC Women’s 


NIIC CONFERENCE FINISHES 

Year Team Individual 

2005 First Jenn Garlinsky (first) 

2004 Second Fran Sikorski (second) 

2003 Third Jessie Gonzalez (14th) 

NIIC AWARDS 

All-Conference 

2005: Jenn Garlinsky, Kristen Renninger and Stephanie Carson 

2004: Fran Sikorski, Stephanie Carson and Susan Sawtell 

RUNNER OF THE YEAR 

2005: Jenn Garlinsky 

COACH OF THE YEAR 

2005: James Kluckhohn 

5K FRESHMAN RECORD 


1. Susan Sawtell 2004 WI Lutheran, Greenfield Park 23:20 

3200m TOP TEN 


1. Fran Sikorski 2006 Elmhurst, Eldridge Park 12:50 

2. Megan Cinto 2006 Elmhurst, Eldridge Park 13:13 

3. Morgan Jacquette 2006 Elmhurst, Eldridge Park 13:19 

4. Kristen Renninger 2006 Elmhurst, Eldridge Park 13:32 

5. Lisa Guzman 2006 Elmhurst, Eldridge Park 13:49 

6. Allison Shopinski 2006 Elmhurst, Eldridge Park 15:16 

3200m FRESHMAN RECORD 


1. Megan Cinto 2006 Elmhurst, Eldridge Park 13:13 

6 AU Women’s Cross Country

AU Women’s 


SPARTAN AWARD 


2005 Cami Loving 


2003 Jessie Gonzalez 

NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR 

2006 Morgan Jacquette 

2005 Kristen Renninger 


2003 Lyndsey Todd 

MVP 




2003 Lyndsey Todd 

CAPTAINS 


2004 Fran Sikorski and Jenn Garlinsky 

2004 Jessie Gonzalez and Fran Sikorski 


ATHLETES OF THE MEET – 2006 

Earlybird Invitational 

Spartan XC Classic 

Brissman/Lundeen Invitational 

Eagle Invitational 

Drews/Neubauer Invitational 

NAC Championships 

NCAA Midwest 

Regional Championships 

Megan Cinto 

Morgan Jacquette 

Allison Shopinski 

Fran Sikorski 

Morgan Jacquette 

Kristen Renninger 

Kristen Renninger 

Spartans’ 

All-Time Roster 

ATHLETE 

YEAR 

Osha Bledsoe 2005 

Stephanie Carson 2004-2005 

Margarita Castellanos 2003-2004 

Megan Cinto 2006 

Jenn Garlinsky 2004-2005 

Jessie Gonzalez 2003-2005 

Lisa Guzman 2006 

Cami Loving 2003-2005 

ATHLETE 

YEAR 

Kristen Renninger 2005-2006 

Elizabeth Rhodes 2003 

Christian Rodriguez 2005 

Susan Sawtell 2004 

Fran Sikorski 2004-2006 

Allison Shopinski 2006 

Graviela Talavera 2003 

Lyndsey Todd 2003-2004 

Cross Country Facilities 

AURORA COUNTRY CLUB 

The Aurora Country Club, 

located a half mile from 

campus, serves as the 

training area for Monday 

afternoon practices 

throughout the cross 

country season. The 

beautiful rolling hills and 

soft surface of the golf course provide an outstanding training 

site for our cross country runners. Few collegiate programs in 

the country can claim to have a better setting to start their 

training week. 

OAKHURST FOREST 

PRESERVE 

The Oakhurst Forest 

Preserve is located 

seven-and-a-half miles 

from campus. It serves 

as the training area for 

Wednesday afternoon 

practices and is the venue 

for the Aurora University – Spartan XC Classic held in early 

September. Oakhurst trails offer ideal training surfaces. The 

mowed grass, dirt forest and crushed limestone trails provide 

AU runners with a scenic setting as they train for competition. 

VIRGIL L. GILMAN TRAIL 

The Virgil L. Gilman Trail, 

located a half mile from 

the Aurora University 

campus, serves as a regular 

training site for the cross 

country teams. The treelined 

asphalt trail has halfmile 

markers, and runners can either take the west or east trail. 

The west route takes runners 1.5 miles to the newly 

constructed bridge over Orchard Road. After crossing Orchard 

Road, the trail connects to an abandoned railroad right of way 

leading to Bliss Woods and ending at Waubonsee Community 

College. 

The east trail takes runners across the Fox River, ending at 

Ohio Street. As the trail crosses the Fox River, runners can run 

the Fox River Trail System, which takes them on a scenic run 

along the banks of the Fox River.

Aurora University Spartans 

2006 Women’s Cross Country 


Date Meet Location Time Distance 

Fri., 9/1 Earlybird Invitional Elmhurst, IL W: TBA 2 mi 

Elmhurst College 

Butterfield Park 

Fri., 9/15 Spartan Classic Aurora, IL W: 4:30 p.m. 6k 

Aurora University 

Oakhurst Forest Preseve 

Fri., 9/22 Brissman/Lundeen Rock Island, IL W: 5:00 p.m. 6k 

Augustana College 

Credit Island Park 

Sat., 9/30 Warrior Invitational West Allis, WI W: 11:00 a.m. 5k 

Wisconsin Lutheran College Greenfield Park 

Fri., 10/6 Eagle Invitational Lisle, IL W: 3:30 p.m. 5k 

Benedictine University 

Community Park 

Sat., 10/14 Jim Drews-Tony Neubauer West Salem, WI W: 11:30 a.m. 6k 

Univ. of Wisc.-La Crosse Maple Grove Golf Course 

Sat., 10/28 NAC Championships Lisle, IL W: 12:00 p.m. 6k 

Benedictine University 

Lisle Community Park 

Sat., 11/11 NCAA Regionals Rock Island, IL W: 12:00 p.m. 6k 

Augustana College 

Credit Island Park 

Sat., 11/18 NCAA Championships Wilmington, OH W: 12:00 p.m. 6k 

Wilmington College 

All home meets in BOLD 

347 S. Gladstone Ave. 

Aurora, IL 60506-4892 

630-844-5533 or 

800-742-5281 

www. aurora.edu

2007 Women’s Track and Field Prospectus 

The women’s track and field team at Aurora University has 

been highly competitive in its first three seasons and enters 

the 2007 season coming off the 2006 Northern Illinois-Iowa 

Conference Championships, the first conference 

championship in the program’s short history. 

Kluckhohn, the 2006 NIIC Coach of the Year, has high 

expectations for his women’s field participants as they enter 

the first season in the Northern Athletics Conference. 

Kluckhohn has several conference champions returning to 

the program and is looking to expand on their success from 

last season. 2006 NIIC Championships Runner of the Meet, 

Senior Fran Sikorski (Lombard, IL/Driscoll Catholic) returns 

after capturing three conference championships: the 800m, 

1500m and 5000m run. Joining Sikorski will be a strong 

group of throwers and Kluckhohn once again sees the group 

as the strongest part of the women’s track team. 

Throwers, junior Sarah Brennan (Geneva, IL/Geneva 

H.S.), AU MVP and NIIC hammer throw champion, once 

again will bring a lot of experience to the field events and 

has a good chance to qualify onto nationals in the weight 

and hammer throws. Another thrower that looks to make a 

huge impact on the 2006 season is senior Julia Eggert. Eggert 

(Aurora, IL/East Aurora H.S.), has been a part of the AU 

program since its inception. She won the NIIC championship 

in the javelin and is the AU record holder in the shot-put and 

discus. Junior Maureen Bennett (Aurora, IL/Rosary) provides 

another solid option for Kluckhohn in the throw events. 

Sophomore distance runner Kristen Renninger (Aurora, 

IL/Aurora Central Catholic) returns after being named the 

2006 AU Women’s Newcomer of the Year. 

Along with an experienced group of returners, the 

Spartans will also sport a talented group of newcomers. 

Freshmen Michelle Capshaw (Plano, IL/Plano H.S.) and 

Hayley Imbirani (Aurora, IL/Oswego H.S.) will lead the way 

in sprints. Megan Cinto (Sugar Grove, IL/Kaneland H.S.), 

Lisa Guzman (Woodridge, IL/Downers Grove South H.S.), 

Morgan Jacquette (Grayslake, IL/Grayslake H.S.) and Allison 

Shopinski (Sandwich, IL/ Sandwich H.S.) will compete in 

the middle and long distance events. 

With a talented combination of youth and experience of 

winning a conference championship, the Spartan women 

have the ability to compete at the regional level and for the 

Northern Athletics Conference championship. 

AU Women’s Track and Field 

9

Mission Statement and Core Values 

Mission Statement 

Members of the Aurora University Track and Field program strive to reach athletic and academic 

excellence as AU student-athletes. With this purpose, each will contribute to build a team-oriented 

environment built on a foundation of commitment, dedication and discipline. 

Guiding Principles 

Commitment–bind or obligate oneself to the team. 

Dedication–wholly commit to improving oneself and the team. 

Discipline–act in accordance with prescribed training and rules. 

 

 

 

Competencies 

 

 

Strong communication skills. 

Ability to place team before self. 

Responsibility for our actions. 

Respect for teammates, coaches and competitors. 

 

 

Strategic Goals 

I. 2007 NAC outdoor championship. 

II. One NCAA national qualifying mark 

III. Cumulative team GPA of 3.0 or higher. 

IV. Positive, fun practice atmosphere. 

10 

AU Women’s Track and Field

2007 Women’s Official 

NCAA Roster 

Name Yr Ht Event Hometown/High School 

Fran Sikorski Sr 5′9′′ Distance Lombard, IL/Driscoll Catholic 

Julia Eggert Sr 5′8′′ Throws Aurora, IL/East Aurora 

Maureen Bennett Jr 5′7′′ Throws Aurora, IL/Rosary 

Sarah Brennan Jr 5′7′′ Throws Geneva, IL/Geneva 

Nichole Greening Jr 5′8′′ Throws Romeoville, IL/Romeoville 

Kristen Renninger So 5′4′′ Distance Aurora, IL/Aurora Christian 

Michelle Capshaw Fr 5′3′′ Sprints Plano, IL/Plano 

Megan Cinto Fr 5′3′′ Distance Sugar Grove, IL/Kaneland 

Lisa Guzman Fr 5′3′′ Distance Woodridge, IL/Downers Grove South 

Hayley Imbriana Fr 5′3′′ Sprints Aurora, IL/Oswego 

Morgan Jacquette Fr 5′2′′ Distance Grayslake, IL/Grayslake 

Allison Shopinski Fr 5′3′′ Distance Sandwich, IL/Sandwich 

Jill Smart Fr 5′8′′ Sprints/Jumps Round Lake Beach, IL/Grayslake 

Sara Stark Fr 5′5′′ Sprints/Jumps Hudson, IL/Normal Community 


Assistant Coaches: Elaine Canchola and Luke Cutkomp 

AU Women’s Track and Field 11


MAUREEN BENNETT–5′7′′,Jr, 

Oswego, IL/Rosary HS 

Events: Discus, shot put, weight throw and 

hammer throw. 

College as a Sophomore (’06): Attended AU 

and was a member of the AU track and field 

team. College as a Freshman (’05): Placed 

third in the NIIC/LMC meet in the discus. 

Named AU Athlete of the Meet at the Elmhurst College 

Invitational. High School: Attended Rosary High School. 

Competed two years of track and field under Coach Vic Mead. 

Personal: Born 6/15/86 in Aurora, IL. Family: James and Mary 

Ann Bennett. One brother, Jimmy. Hobbies: Playing basketball, 

weight lifting and hanging out with friends. Major: Nursing. 

Minor: Psychology. 

Why I chose AU...I chose AU because it has my major and an 

outstanding track team. 

SARAH BRENNAN–5′7′′,Jr, 

Geneva, IL/Geneva HS 

Events: Hammer, shot put, weight throw and 

discus. 


and was a member of the track team. She was 

named team MVP and NIIC All-Conference in 

the hammer throw. She holds AU records in 

the indoor weight throw and outdoor hammer throw. 

College as a Freshman (’05): Attended AU and was a member of 

the track team. Is the indoor weight throw and outdoor hammer 

throw record holder. Named AU Athlete of the Meet at the Lewis 

Friday Night Special, Gill Athletics Meet and North Central 

Invitational. High School: Attended Geneva High School. 

Competed one year of track and field under Coach Gale Gross. 

Personal: Born 1/20/87 in Elk Grove, IL. Family: Joe and Carol 

Brennan. Two brothers, Josh and Jake, and one sister, Becky. 

Hobbies: Karate, reading and hanging out with friends. Major: 

Secondary Education. 

Why I chose AU...I was awarded various academic scholarships, 

it’s close to home and has a small school environment. 

MICHELLE CAPSHAW–5′3′′,Fr, 

Plano, IL/Plano HS 

Events: 100m, 200m, 400m and throws. 

High School: Attended Plano High School 

and participated in four years of track and 

field under Coach Adam West. Personal: 

Born 10/25/87 in Aurora, IL. Family: Joel and 

Gwen Capshaw. She has two brothers, Ryan 

and Eric. Hobbies: Concerts, hanging out with friends, movies, 

working out and music. Major: Undecided. 

MEGAN CINTO–5′3′′,Fr, 

Sugar Grove, IL/Kaneland HS 

Events: 400m and distance. 

High School: Attended Kaneland High School 

and participated in four years of varsity track 

under Coach Doug Ecker. She was captain in 

both track and cross country. Personal: Born 

6/26/88 in Aurora, IL. Family: Tim and Karen 

Cinto. She has one sister, Erin. Hobbies: Eating, going to Jamba 

Juice, running and water skiing. Major: Elementary Education. 

Why I chose AU...it was close to home and I knew that I could 

actually run here. I also got some good academic scholarships. 

JULIA EGGERT–5′7′′,Sr, 

Aurora, IL/East Aurora HS 

Events: Shot put, weight throw and discus. 


was a member of the track and volleyball 

teams. She was named NIIC All-Conference 

in the javelin. College as a Sophomore (’05): 

Attended AU and was a member of the track 

team. She is the AU record holder in the indoor shot put, 

outdoor shot put and discus. Named AU Athlete of the Meet at 

the Rhodes College Invitational and Gill Athletics Meet. College 

as a Freshman (’04): Attended Aurora University and was a 

member of the track and field team. Named Women’s Track and 

Field Freshman of the Year. High School: Attended East Aurora 

High School. Ran three years of track under Coaches Scott 

Martens and William Anderson. Was named MVP her junior 

year and also received the Sportsmanship Award. She played 

three years of volleyball under Coach Pam Miller. Was named 

MVP and Honorable Mention All-Area her junior and senior 

years. She also played one year of basketball under Coach 

Tyson. Personal: Born 9/4/84 in Downers Grove, IL. Family: 

Paul and Giuliana Eggert. One brother, William, and two sisters, 

Jennifer and Erin. Hobbies: Coaching and playing volleyball and 

dirt racing. Major: Elementary Education. 

Why I chose AU...I wanted to stay close to home. 

NICHOLE GREENING–5′7′′,Jr, 

Romeoville, IL/Romeoville HS 

Events: Shot put, discus, javelin, hammer 

throw and weight throw. 


and was a member of the AU track and field 

team. College as a Freshman (’05): Attended 

AU and was a member of the AU softball 

team. High School: Attended Romeoville High School and 

played three years of varsity softball under Coach Sandy Mettel 

and two years of varsity basketball under Coach Debbie 

Fehrenbacher. Personal: Born 8/27/86 in Joliet, IL. Family: 

Antionette Greening. Has one brother, Nathaniel. Hobbies: 

Sports and hanging out with friends. Major: Athletic Training. 

Why I chose AU...It is close to my hometown, and I like the small 

class sizes. 

12 



LISA GUZMAN–5′3′′,Fr, 

Woodridge, IL/Downers Grove South HS 

Events: 400m and distance. 

High School: Attended Downers Grove South 

High School and participated in two years of 

varsity track and cross country under 

Coaches Mike Arenberg and Doug Plunkett. 

Personal: Born 2/3/88 in Chicago. Family: 

Efrem and Martha Guzman. She has one sister, Jessica. 

Hobbies: Hanging out with friends and family, running, eating, 

AIM, talking on the phone, drawing, taking pictures, listening to 

music and driving. Major: Psychology. 

Why I chose AU...it’s a small school, which makes it more 

personable and I am able to play sports here. 

HAYLEY IMBRIANI–5′3′′,Fr, 

Aurora, IL/Oswego HS 

Events: Sprints. 

High School: Attended Oswego High School 

and participated in track under Coach Angen. 

Personal: Born 3/28/88 in Daytona Beach, FL. 

Family: Jerry and Kathy Imbriani. Hobbies: 

Writing, poetry, drawing and piano. Major: 

Psychology. 

Why I chose AU...I chose AU because it seemed like the best 

school to help me achieve the goals I set out for myself. 

MORGAN JACQUETTE, 5′2′′,Fr, 

Grayslake, IL/Grayslake Central HS 

Events: Distance. 


School and participated in three years of 

varsity track under Coach Klint Wescom. She 

was Captain as a junior and senior and All- 

Conference and the school’s best runner as a 

senior. Personal: Born 2/27/88 in Lake Forest, IL. Family: 

Connie and John Jacquette. She has two brothers, CJ and Nick. 

Hobbies: Running, crocheting, music and reading. Major: 

Spanish. 

Why I chose AU...I loved the campus, the running program is 

great and the academic scholarships were outstanding. 

KRISTEN RENNINGER–5′4′′,So, 

Aurora, IL/Aurora Christian 

Events: Mile, 1500m and the 800m. 

College as a Freshman (’06): Attended AU 

and was a member of the track and cross 

country teams. She was named AU 

Newcomer of the Year. High School: Attended 

Aurora Christian High School. Was a member 

of the basketball team for two years, the cross country team for 

three years, was a Captain of the softball team and placed sixth 

in sectionals in track her senior season. Personal: Born 

12/28/86 in Aurora, IL. Family: Kim and Jerry Renninger. One 

brother, Bryce. Hobbies: Reading, sports, hanging out with 

friends and listening to music. Major: Psychology. 

Why I chose AU...It is close to home, and I was awarded 

scholarships for academics. 

ALLISON SHOPINSKI–5′3′′,Fr, 

Sandwich, IL/Sandwich HS 

Events: Distance. 

High School: Attended Sandwich High 

School and participated in four years of 

varsity cross country under Coach Pax. She 

was named Most Improved as a freshman, 

sophomore and senior in cross country and 

was given the Sportsmanship Award in track as a senior. 

Personal: Born 4/15/88 in Baldwin, MO. Family: Peggy and Bill 

Shopinski. She has one brother. Major: Elementary Education. 

Why I chose AU...I really liked the campus, the education 

program is really good and everything on campus is close. 

FRAN SIKORSKI–5′9′′,Sr, 

Addison, IL/Driscoll Catholic HS 

Events: Steeplechase, 400m hurdles, 4x400m 

relay, 800m and 5k. 


was a member of the track and cross country 

teams. She was team MVP, NIIC Runner of 

the Year and All-Conference in the 800m, 

1500m and 5000m. Set AU records in the 5k, 3k, 1500m and 

mile College as a Sophomore (’05): Attended Aurora University. 

Won the NIIC/LMC meet in the steeplechase. Is the AU record 

holder in the indoor 800m run, mile and 4x400m relay. Named 

the AU Athlete of the Meet at the UW-Whitewater Invitational. 

College as a Freshman (’04): Attended University of St. Francis. 

Broke school record in 200-meter hurdles, 400-meter hurdles 

and the distance medley relay. She also had the record for most 

points in an outdoor season, leading her to the Newcomer of 

the Year Award. High School: Attended Addison Driscoll High 

School. Ran two years of cross country under Coach Jim 

Maggiore. Qualified for sectionals both years. She also ran three 

years of track under Coach Mark Morgan, winning the 

conference in the 300-meter hurdles and qualifying for state in 

the 300-meter hurdles both her junior and senior year. 

Personal: Born 7/8/85 in Lombard, IL. Family: John and Donna 

Sikorski. Two brothers, Patrick and Joey, and two sisters, 

Danielle and Mary. Hobbies: Running, bike riding, 

rollerblading, reading, hanging out with friends and shopping. 

Major: Secondary Education and History. 

Why I chose AU...its size, academics and athletics. 



AU Women’s Chronology 

JILL SMART–5'8",Fr, 

Round Lake Beach, IL/Grayslake HS 

Events: Sprints/Jumps. 


School. Played three years of varsity 

volleyball under Coach Jeanna Beerbower. 

Was captain as a senior and MVP and All- 

Conference as a junior. Personal: Born 

8/21/88 in Waukegan, IL. Family: Patrick and Patty Smart. She 

has one brother, Joe. Hobbies: Sports, wake boarding and music. 

Major: Nursing. 

SARA STARK–5'5",Fr, 

Hudson, IL/Normal Community HS 

Events: Sprints/Jumps. 

High School: Attended Normal Community 

High School. Played four years of varsity 

volleyball. Personal: Born on 12/29/87 in 

Bloomington, IL. Family: Jon Stark and Susan 

Albea. She has two brothers, Adam and Eric. 

Hobbies: Reading, volleyball and hanging out with friends. 

Major: Nursing. 

Spring 2003 

Aurora University adds men’s and women’s track and field to 

the sports lineup and begins to assemble a schedule for the 

2004 season. 

April 15, 2003 

AU names James Kluckhohn as its men’s and women’s track and 

field and cross country head coach. 

January 30, 2004 

The Spartan women compete in the first indoor competition 

at the Carthage College Invitational. AU has its first point scores 

in an indoor event with Julia Eggert placing sixth in the shot put 

(10.81m). 

March 27, 2004 

The Spartans compete in the first outdoor competition at the 

Concordia University (IL) Cougar Invitational. AU has its first 

event champions as Julia Eggert wins in shot put (35′) and 

Alesha Brown winsthe 100m dash (13.25). 

May 6, 2005 

The Spartan women capture the first team meet victory in the 

NIIC/LMC Invitational. 

May 6, 2006 

The Spartan women capture the NIIC meet championship. 

14 


Women’s 

Indoor Top Times 

Event Time Athlete Date 

55m Dash 7.87 Tabitha Richards 2/17/06 

8.10 Osha Bledsoe 3/4/04 

8.13 Jenn Garlinsky 1/28/06 

55m Hurdles 9.27 Natalie Lacaria 3/4/05 




29.51 Alesha Brown 3/5/04 

300m Dash 48.19 Shalisse Mathieu 2/5/05 


400m Dash 1.06.10 Natalie Lacaria 2/5/05 

1.07.32 Jenn Garlinsky 2/17/06 

1.08.01 Anna Wallace 2/19/05 

600m Run 2.09.11 Lyndsey Todd 1/31/04 

800m Run 2.34.37 Fran Sikorski 3/4/05 

2.36.22 Anna Wallace 2/5/05 

2.38.47 Shalisse Mathieu 2/19/05 

Mile 5.45.03 Fran Sikorski 2/5/05 

5.56.31 Kristen Renninger 2/17/06 

6.12.87 Lyndsey Todd 3/4/05 


4x200 Relay 1.58.53 Bledsoe-Lacaria- 2/5/05 

Jarrett-Garlinsky 

1.59.66 Lacarcia-Jarrett- 2/19/05 

Mathieu-Garlinsky 

2.01.00 Garlinsky-Bledsoe- 2/21/04 

Todd-Brown 

4x400 Relay 4.27.07 Sikorski-Mathieu- 2/19/05 

Wallace-Lacaria 

4.27.55 Lacaria-Garlinsky- 3/4/05 

Mathieu-Sikorski 

4.42.80 Garlinsky-Bledsoe- 2/21/04 

Todd-Brown 

DMR 14.16.17 Wallace-Garlinsky- 2/26/05 

Jefferson-Sikorski 

15.58.74 Todd-Garlinsky- 2/13/04 

Loving-Gonzalez 

4x800 Relay No record 

Event Metric English Athlete Date 

Shot put 11.16 36′ 7.5′′ Julia Eggert 3/4/05 

10.41 34′ 2′′ Sarah Brennan 2/24/06 

9.29 30′ 5.75′′ Natalie Pfoff 2/24/06 

Weight Throw 14.57 47′ 9.5′′ Sarah Brennan 2/11/06 

12.37 40′ 7′′ Julia Eggert 3/4/05 

9.84 32′ 3.5′′ Maureen Bennett 2/24/06 

Long jump 4.69 15′ 4.25′′ Jenn Garlinsky 3/4/05 

4.39 14′ 4.75′′ Tabitha Richards 2/24/06 

4.19 13′ 8.75′′ Osha Bledsoe 3/05/04 

Triple jump 10.31 33′ 9.75′′ Alesha Brown 2/21/04 


9.48 31′ 1.25′′ Katy Jefferson 2/24/06 

High jump 1.44 4′ 8.75′′ Katy Jefferson 2/24/06 

1.22 4′ 0′′ Fran Sikorski 2/24/06 

Track and Field 

Facilities 

Vaughan Athletic Center 

The newly opened Vaughan Athletic Center (VAC), located 2.5 

miles from campus, is the indoor home for the Aurora 

University track and field teams. The VAC features a four-lane, 

200m Mondo surfaced track on the main floor and elevated 

three-lane, 1/6 mile Mondo second-level track. Jumping and 

throwing athletes are serviced by an Olympic size long/triple 

jump pit and NCAA legal equipment for high jump, pole vault, 

shot put and weight throw. Also featured is a 25m lap pool and 

locker room with shower facilities. 


Women’s Outdoor Top Times 

Event Time Athlete Date 

100m Dash 13.42 Alesha Brown 4/23/04 



110m HH 16.85 Natalie Lacaria 4/16/05 

18.18 Fran Sikorski 5/17/05 



28.03 Alesha Brown 4/30/04 


400m Dash 1.03.82 Jennifer Garlinsky 5/12/06 

1.04.84 Alesha Brown 4/17/04 

1.05.49 Fran Sikorski 5/6/05 

400m IM Hurdles 1.11.85 Fran Sikorski 3/19/05 

1.13.79 Natalie Lacaria 4/16/05 

1.16.77 Jennifer Garlinsky 5/19/06 


2.31.37 Jenn Garlinsky 4/30/04 



5.29.70 Kristen Renninger 4/14/06 


Steeplechase 12.28.54 Fran Sikorski 5/13/05 



4x100Relay 53.70 Bledsoe-Jarrett- 4/27/05 

Lacaria-Garlinsky 

53.84 Bledsoe-Brown- 4/30/04 

Lange-Garlinsky 

53.97 Bledsoe-Jarrett- 4/16/05 

Jefferson-Garlinsky 

4x400 Relay 4.27.91 Sikorski-Mathieu- 4/16/05 

Jefferson-LaLarie 

4.32.48 Sikorski-Mathieu- 5/5/05 

Todd-Jefferson 

4.38.30 Sikorski-Jefferson- 5/5/06 

Renninger-Garlinsky 

Event Metric English Athlete Date 

Shot put 11.05 36′ 2.93′′ Julia Eggert 4/10/04 

10.63 33′ 3.9′′ Sarah Brennan 4/8/06 


Discus 35.03 114′ 10.78′′ Julia Eggert 4/23/04 

31.35 102′ 9.94′′ Natalie Pfoff 4/14/06 

30.66 100′ 6.8′′ Sarah Brennan 4/1/06 

Hammer 45.52 149′ 3.67′′ Sarah Brennan 4/27/05 

36.85 120′ 10.42′′ Julia Eggert 4/9/05 


Javelin 32.97 108′ 1.69′′ Jenn Garlinsky 5/18/06 

31.57 103′ 6.6′′ Jessie Gonzalez 4/9/05 

31.01 101′ 8.5′′ Julia Eggert 4/23/04 

Long jump 4.82 15′ 8.9′′ Jenn Garlinsky 5/19/06 

4.38 14′ 4.4′′ Osha Bledsoe 3/27/04 

4.37 14′ 4′′ Alesha Brown 4/23/04 

Triple jump 10.12 33′ 2.25′′ Alesha Brown 5/13/05 


9.48 27′ 4.3′′ Katy Jefferson 4/9/05 

High jump 1.37 4′ 5.9′′ Katy Jefferson 5/6/05 

1.30 4′ 3.17′′ Carrie Lange 5/17/05 

1.30 4′ 3.17′′ Jenn Garlinsky 4/16/05 

Pole vault 2.28 7′5.75′′ Shalisse Mathieu 5/6/05 

Heptathalon 3445 Jenn Garlinsky 5/17-18/05 

3022 Fran Sikorski 5/17-18/05 

4x1 coed 59.94* Garlinsky-Harmon- 3/27/04 

Wt. relay 

Eggert-Garon 

16 


Honors and Awards 

AU Most Valuable Player Award 

2004: Alesha Brown 


2006: Sarah Brennan 

AU Spartan Award 


2005: Fran Sikorski 

2006: Fran Sikorski 

AU Newcomer of the Year 

2004: Julia Eggert 

2005: Sarah Brennan 

2006: Kristen Renninger 

Captains 

2004: Lyndsey Todd and Jessie Gonzalez 

2005: Julia Eggert, Jenn Garlinsky and Fran Sikorski 

2006: Julia Eggert, Jenn Garlinsky and Fran Sikorski 

AU 2006 Meet Summary 

2006 Meet Finish/Score Athlete of the Meet 

UW Whitewater No Score Jenn Garlinsky 

Lewis University No Score Sarah Brennan 

Chicagoland No Score Kristen Renninger 

NIIC/LMC Invitational No Score Katy Jefferson 

Gill Athletics Last No Score Julia Eggert 

Chance 

Rhodes College 11 th (12 teams) Maureen Bennett 

Elmhurst College 6 th (10 teams) Sarah Brennan 

Chicagoland 14 th (17 teams) Sarah Brennan 

Red/White Invitational 7 th ( 8 teams) Maureen Bennett 

Benedictine University 11 th (14 teams) Fran Sikorski 

North Central College No Score Katy Jefferson 

Concordia University 9 th (10 teams) none 

Northern Illinois-Iowa 1 st (9 teams) Fran Sikorski 

Conference 

Dr. Keeler Invitational No Score none 

Multi-Meet event No Score none 

North Central College No Score none 

0 Invitational 


Spartans’ 

All-Time Roster 

ATHLETE 

YEAR 

Maureen Bennett 2005-2006 

Osha Bledsoe 2004-2006 

Sarah Brennan 2005-2006 

Alesha Brown 2004-2005 

Stareshia Brown 2006 

Stephanie Carson 2005 

Julia Eggert 2004-2006 

Jenn Garlinsky 2004-2006 

Jessie Gonzalez 2004-2005 

Nichole Greening 2006 

Amanda Hampton 2005 

Tyreisha Harper 2005 

Domonique Haynes 2006 

Kim Huggins 2004 

Stacey Jarret 2005-2006 

Katy Jefferson 2005-2006 

Natalie Lacaria 2005 

Carrie Lange 2004-2205 

Cami Loving 2004 

Shalisse Mathieu 2005 

Natalie Pfoff 2006 

Rachel Plant 2006 

Kristen Renninger 2006 

Elizabeth Rhodes 2004 

Tabitha Richards 2006 

Patricia Rogers 2005 

Susan Sawtell 2005 

Fran Sikorski 2005-2006 

Lyndsey Todd 2004-2005 

Anna Wallace 2005 

*Program began 2004.


Spartans 

2007 Women’s Track and Field 


INDOOR SEASON 

Date/Day Meet Location Time 

Sat., Jan. 27 University of Whitewater Invitational Whitewater, WI 10:00 a.m. 

Sat., Feb. 10 Lewis Invitational Romeoville, IL 10:00 a.m. 

Sat., Feb. 16 Chicagoland Women’s Championships Romeoville, IL 5:00 p.m. 

Sat., Feb. 24 Northern Athletics Conference Meet Kenosha, WI 10:00 a.m. 

Fri., March 2 *Gill Athletics “Last Chance” Kenosha, WI 5:00 p.m. 

Fri-Sat., March 9-10 *NCAA DIII National Championships Terre Haute, IN TBA 

OUTDOOR SEASON 

Date/Day Meet Location Time 

Sat., March 24 Rhodes College Invitational Memphis, TN 9:00 a.m. 

Sat., March 31 Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee, WI TBA 

Warrior Classic 

Thu/Sat., Apr. 5- 7 Chicagoland Championships Naperville, IL 3:00 p.m. 

/10:00 a.m. 

Sat., Apr. 14 Elmhurst College Invitational Elmhurst, IL 11:00 a.m. 

Sat., Apr. 21 Benedictine University Invitational Lisle, IL 10:00 a.m. 

Sat., Apr. 25 North Central College Naperville, IL 4:00 p.m. 

-Old Fashion Meet 

Sat., May 5 Northern Athletics Conference Meet West Allis, WI 11:00 a.m. 

Fri., May 11 Dr. Keeler Invitational Naperville, IL 3:00 p.m. 

Wed., May 16 *Multi-Event Meet Naperville, IL 10:00 a.m. 

Thu., May 17 *Multi-Event Meet Naperville, IL 10:00 a.m. 

Fri., May 18 Gregory Invitational Naperville, IL 3:00 p.m. 

Thur./Sat., May 24-26 NCAA Division III Oshkosh, WI TBA 

National Championship 

*Qualifier meets 


Aurora, IL 60506-4892 

630-844-5533 or 

800-742-5281 

www. aurora.edu

AU Directory 

AU Administration 

(All phone numbers have a 630 area code) 

Sport/Department Coach/Contact Phone 

Director of Athletics Mark Walsh 844-5111 

Athletics Business 

Manager Lisa Wisniowicz 844-4574 

Athletic Trainer Stevie Baker-Watson 844-5114 

Asst. Athletic Trainer Terry Smith 844-6173 

Baseball Shaun Neitzel 844-6515 

Basketball(Men) James Lancaster 844-5144 

Basketball(Women) Michelle Roof 844-5112 

Cross Country and 

Track and Field James Kluckhohn 844-4573 

Events/Equipment 

Manager Jason Smith 844-6891 

Football Rich Duncan 844-5115 

Golf(Men) John Donofrio 844-3855 

Golf(Women) Chad Johansen 844-3849 

Soccer(Men) Pete Watkins 844-5268 

Soccer(Women) Kanute Drugan 844-4207 

Softball Mike McKenzie 844-4939 

Sports Information Brian Kipley 844-7575 

Tennis(Men and Women) Paul Heinkel 844-5152 

Volleyball Jerry Angle 844-5261 

Other Important Numbers 

Admission 844-5533 

Alumni Office 844-5486 

Physical Education Office 844-6181 

Campus Safety 844-5450 

Training Room 844-4891 

University Communications 844-5481 

Wellness Center 844-5434 

Rebecca L. Sherrick 

President 

Currently in her seventh year as Aurora 

University President, Rebecca Sherrick is 

a true Spartan booster and often attends 

athletic events. She earned her B.A. from 

Illinois Wesleyan University and Ph.D. 

from Northwestern University 

Andrew Manion 

Provost 

Previously Dean of the College of Arts 

and Sciences from 1998 to 2000, Andrew 

Manion earned his B.A. from Saint Norbert 

College and his Ph.D. in experimental 

psychology from Adelphi University 

Michael Moser 

Vice President for Student Life 

Michael Moser assumed the duties of Vice 

President for Student Life in March 2004. 

He has a B.A. from North Central College 

and a Master of Divinity from Garrett- 

Evangelical Theological Seminary 

Mark Walsh 

Director of Athletics 

Mark Walsh was named Director of 

Athletics in 1998. Previously, Walsh was 

AU’s Head Baseball Coach from 1992 to 

2002 and Assistant Coach from 1987 to 

1992. Walsh led the Spartans to nine NIIC 

championships and nine NCAA Tournament 

appearances while posting a 320-85 (.790) won-lost 

record in 10 seasons. Walsh also served as Assistant Football 

Coach at AU from 1986 to 1996 and was part of the coaching 

staff who reinstated football after it had been dropped in 

1952. Walsh earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees 

from Aurora University. 

Brian Kipley 

Sports Information 

Director 

20 


This Is Aurora University 

When you can’t 

attend games, catch 

ALL the scores on the 

SPARTAN SPORTS 

HOTLINE 

630-844-3838 

touchtone phone required 

Eckhart Hall 

Aurora University traces its origins to the 1893 founding of a seminary in 

the small town of Mendota, IL. Though established initially to prepare graduates 

for ministry, the institution soon adopted a broader mission and moved to a 

new campus on the western edge of the nearby community of Aurora. With this 

change came a different name and a growing enrollment. In 1985, the institution 

was rechristened Aurora University. 

In 1992, the Aurora and George Williams College traditions blended when the 

two institutions entered into the affiliation agreement that paved the way for a 

merger eight years later. 

Today Aurora University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission 

of the North Central Association to award degrees at the baccalaureate, master’s, 

and doctoral levels. The institution enrolls approximately 4,000 degree-seeking 

students a year on its Illinois and Wisconsin campuses. 

The Aurora campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs through 

the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Education and the College of 

Professional Studies (including the Dunham School of Business, School of 

Nursing, School of Social Work and School of Health and Physical Education). 

The graduate programs offer areas of specialization, leading to master’s degrees 

in business administration, recreation administration, teaching and social work, 

as well as a doctorate in education. 

At AU, academic programs are enhanced through learning opportunities. The 

Dunham Scholars Program incorporates service learning and extracurricular 

activities into its business curriculum. The Honors Program offers students 

advanced coursework, innovative seminars and participation in special events. 

May Term is a three-week program offering opportunities to study abroad, 

research a science topic on campus or travel to Chicago to explore the city’s culture. 

AU offers its undergraduates a wide range of on- and off-campus learning 

experiences. Students participate in more than 60 musical, literary, religious, 

social and service organizations and play active roles in campus governance. 

The university also fields18 NCAA Division III intercollegiate athletic teams. The 

Spartans boast a winning tradition with 44 conference titles in recent years and 

25 regular appearances in national tournaments. 

The Alumni Hall of Physical Education features a racquetball court, climbing 

wall, complete locker room facilities, training room, weight room, aerobic-activities 

room, classroom and coaches’ offices. 

Aurora University is located in west Aurora, within an hour’s drive of Chicago 

and at the western end of the Illinois Research and Development Corridor. It is 

accessible via Interstate 88 at the Orchard Road exit. 

statistics 

highlights 

upcoming games 

For Complete 

NAC 

Conference Standings, 

Results, Directions 

and News 

LOG ON TO 

www.northernathleticsconf.com

Aurora University At a Glance 

Founding 

Founded in 1893, Aurora University is an independent, 

private, comprehensive institution with an emphasis 

on traditional and pre-professional academic programs 

rooted in the liberal arts. 

Location 

A short train ride away from Chicago, Aurora University 

is on the west side of Aurora — Illinois’ second-largest 

city. The Illinois Research and Development Corridor, 

only minutes away, provides excellent internship 

opportunities in virtually every discipline. The George 

Williams College campus sits 60 miles to the north 

near Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Both campuses offer 

residential options. 

Enrollment 

Coeducational with 2,000 undergraduates and more 

than 1,800 graduate students. 

Campus 

30 acres in a tree-lined residential area in Aurora 

and 241 acres in Wisconsin. 

University Structure 

The university is comprised of three colleges: 

the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of 

Education and the College of Professional Studies 

(including the School of Nursing, School of Social 

Work and Dunham School of Business). 

Faculty 

85% of the faculty hold the highest degree in their 

field. Faculty are dedicated to teaching and have 

committed their professional lives to students. 

Student-Faculty Ratio 

16:1 

Average Class Size 

23 students 

Academic Calendar 

Semester calendar with academic terms beginning in 

late August and early January. Three-week May Term. 

Degree Programs 

Bachelor’s degrees are awarded in 40 majors, including 

the B.A., B.S., B.S.N. and the B.S.W. The university 

awards eight master’s degrees, a number of graduate 

certificates in education and business, and a doctor 

of education (Ed.D.). Twelve degree programs are 

offered at the Wisconsin campus. 

Master’s Degrees 

Master of Business Administration 

Master of Social Work 

Master of Arts in Reading Instruction 

Master of Arts in Teaching 

Master of Arts in Educational Leadership 

Master of Arts in Teaching with Certification 

Master of Science in Mathematics 

Master of Science in Recreation Administration (GWC) 

Bi-lingual/ESL Endorsement 

Financial Aid and Academic 

Scholarships 

At least 95% of undergraduates receive financial aid. 

More than $10 million in scholarships were awarded in 

2005-2006. Along with merit awards, scholarships are 

given for talent in the fine arts. Graduate students who 

qualify may apply for the university’s graduate grant 

program as well as need-based governmental loans. 

Applying to the University 

The Office of Admission and Financial Aid reviews 

applications on an ongoing basis. Students at all 

levels can apply online at www.aurora.edu or call 

the Office of Admission and Financial Aid at 

800-742-5281 for a paper application. In addition 

to the application, official high school and/or college 

transcripts are required. Official ACT or SAT scores 

are required of freshman applicants. 

Freshman Visit Days 

Monday, October 9, 2006 

Saturday, November 4, 2006 

Tuesday, November 14, 2006 (nursing) 

Tuesday, January 23, 2007 (education) 

Saturday, February 3, 2007 

Saturday, March 31, 2007 

Wednesday, July 25, 2007 

Transfer Events 

Tuesday, October 17, 2006 (nursing) 

Wednesday, November 15, 2006 

Monday, February 19, 2007 

Wednesday, April 25, 2007 

Graduate Open Houses 

Wednesday, November 8, 2006 

Wednesday, February 7, 2007 

Recognition 

The only private college in Illinois chosen to participate 

in a national project to create a model of excellence for 

the first college year, Aurora University has developed 

an outstanding first-year program to help students 

make the transition from high school to college. 

Aurora University’s teacher education students ranked 

in the top quartile of the state with a 97% pass rate 

on the 2004-2005 Illinois state certification exams. 

2004 and 2005 graduates from AU’s nursing program 

achieved a 100% pass rate on the nursing licensure 

exam (NCLEX-RN). 

Athletic teams have posted outstanding records and 

are recognized nationally. Since 1995, 27 teams have 

participated in NCAA championships and compiled 

49 conference titles. The men’s baseball and basketball 

teams are ranked nationally. 

Upon graduation, 95% of students find employment 

or enroll in graduate school within six months. 

Academic Opportunities 

First-Year Program 

Crouse Center for Student Success 

Honors Program 

May Term (an intensive three-week term with special offerings) 

Service Learning 

Student Organizations (62) 

Study Abroad 

University Chorale 

University Theatre 

Values Council 

Athletics 

Aurora University belongs to the Northern Athletics 

Conference (NAC) and NCAA Division III. 

There is a choice of 18 intercollegiate sports for men 

and women. 

Basketball (M,W) 

Soccer (M,W) 

Baseball (M) 

Softball (W) 

Cross-country (M,W) Tennis (M,W) 

Football (M) 

Track (M,W) 

Golf (M,W) 

Volleyball (W) 

Indoor Track (M,W) 

Contact Information 

Office of Admission and Financial Aid 



Aurora, IL 60506 

800-742-5281 

www.aurora.edu

Cross Country - Aurora University

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