Spalding University Head Cross Country and Track & Field Coach Kevin Alessandro received his first set of commitments for 2014. Schyler Opel and Kara Weaver have both committed to continuing their academic and athletic pursuits at Spalding University.
Schyler Opel, a North High School (Evansville, Ind.) product, will be a multi-sport athlete, competing in both Cross Country and Track. Opel has a personal best of 20:08 for 5k, as well as a best of 5:36 on the track in the 1600m.
Opel completed her high school cross country career in the 2013 IHSAA Semi State Meet where she helped the Huskies to a ninth place finish as the fourth athlete. She will pursue a degree in Nursing at Spalding.
Coach Alessandro stated, “We are very happy to welcome Schyler to the program. She is a great student and excellent athlete that I know will make a successful transition from high school to collegiate competition. She should have an immediate impact on our top seven.”
Weaver, a Tates Creek High School (Lexington, Ky.) product, will also compete in both Cross Country and Track. Weaver has a best of 20:12 for a 5k course, as well as personal bests of 5:54 for 1600m and 2:36 for 800m on the track.
Weaver completed her high school cross country career at the 2013 KHSAA State Championship where she helped the Commodores to an 18th place finish as the team’s fifth runner. She intends on pursuing a degree in the School of Business.
“I am really excited to see her development as a student-athlete. She is a terrific student and I believe that dedication will translate well as she helps our program compete for conference and regional accolades.” Coach Alessandro said.