Oct. 14, 2000

KENOSHA, WI. - UIC cross country coach Jim Knoedel saw something in freshman Jenni Goebel this week.

"Her workouts were so good this week. She was primed and ready," Knoedel said. "I could tell she was getting a lot faster."

Knoedel's premonition proved true as Goebel placed fourth overall by finishing the 3.1-mile course in 18:36 at the UW-Parkside Invitational in Kenosha on Saturday. That performance helped the women finish 15th out of the 24-team field.

"I think Jenni demonstrated today that she is one of the top athletes in the conference," Knoedel said.

Following Goebel were Monieka Thompson (69th, 20:23) and Jessica Streit (95th, 20:45). Returning from injuries were Sarah Teren (137th, 21:28) and Jill Marquette (188th, 22:46).

The men finished seventh out of the 24-team field with 214 points. The Flames were led by junior Danny Smith (37th, 27:14).

"We made a small step in the right direction," Knoedel said.

Following Smith was Joe Marren (40th, 27:18), Brian Brady (49th, 27:28), Russ Riberto (64th, 27:50), John Simon (71st, 27:57), Shawn Sullivan (95th, 28:32), Tristan Roche (101st, 28:37) and Rich Daubert (28:58).