COLLEGE CROSS COUNTRY / TRACK & FIELD: NEWARK VALLEY'S RIEGEL SIGNS TO RUN WITH HOUGHTON (2021-06-14)

BY TIM TAYLOR
Tioga County Sports Report
NEWARK VALLEY — Newark Valley's Renee Riegel chose Houghton College "in part because of its beautiful location and inviting cross country coach."

The scenic area nestled among several state forests on the west bank of the Genesee River is good reason why the senior signed a National Letter of Intent here Friday afternoon during a ceremony which saw seven other classmates ink letters as well.

The coach Patrick Hager, was a distance running standout in college.

Riegel's dedication to the sport of distance running is just part of what she has to offer the Highlanders.

"I'm excited to offer my devotion to running and give encouragement to my teammates," she said.

She looks forward to what she will gain from her college career.

"I'm ready to improve both as an athlete and person," she said. "I hope to make new friendships and have experiences that will help me to become a better person.

"I am also excited to take classes to prepare me for my future job in the field of Psychology."

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Coach's Comments
(Courtesy of NV Athletic Department)

Eric D'Arcy, Cross Country: Renee has been a 5-year starter for the Newark Valley cross country and track teams.  She placed 17th at the 2017 cross country states.She was also a multiple time first-team IAC all-star.  As a track athlete she was one of the top point scores on the team and was the 2021 IAC and Class C champion in the steeplechase.  Renee was also a 2-year captain and MVP of the cross country team.