Welcome to Northland College Cross Country! The sport of Cross Country running is one of the most demanding athletic endeavors for a student athlete. Success in this discipline requires physical and mental toughness to move beyond self-imposed limits and reach to new horizons. At Northland College, student athletes are expected to excel in the classroom in addition to the athletic field. The courage and discipline to be successful on the Cross Country course is the same as that required to succeed in the classroom and in life. The Northland College Cross Country team has high goals and expectations. We believe in hard work, commitment, teamwork, and fun.

This year’s Northland College Cross Country team has high expectations.  Made up of mostly Freshmen, the team will welcome eight new runners thsi fall.  Led by senior Melissa McNell, this fall's team looks to have six freshmen fill the top seven spots.  Third year head coach Dave Beeksma is excited about the young squad as the program builds a strong foundation for the future.  Coach Beeksma has high standards for his athletes and is committed to provide them the tools and support they need to reach their goals in the classroom, on the racecourse, and in life. “I want every student athlete to experience being cared for. Collegiate athletic teams are much like a family and I want our Cross Country family to have annual trips to the Division III national championships. I cannot think of a more rewarding and fun family outing! Every member of a family counts, every member is important no matter what their ability levels are. With hard work and smart training, each member of this team will experience success and the positive rewards that come with accomplishment.”

If you want to grow and develop into a first rate student athlete, Northland College Cross Country is the place for you. NCAA Division III athletics is special. We believe primarily in your academic experience and that success on the racecourse adds to that experience. Northland College Cross Country, where caring and hard work equals success.


LumberJill Cross Country Stats
Conference results:
2001 - 4th
2002 - 4th
2003 - 5th
2004 - 2nd
2005 - 3rd
2006 - 3rd
2007 - 6th

All Conference Awards:
2002 - Leah Roche
2004 - Laura Jach, Courtney VanSandt
2007 - Melissa McNell, Amanda Strick

Academic All-Conference Awards:
2002 - Cynthia Whittier
2004 - Emily Bricker, Megan Heflin, Laura Jach, Cynthia Whittier
2005 - Courtney VanSandt, Andrea Johnson, Laura Jach, Sara Domek, Katy Joseph
2006 - Katy  Joseph
2007 - Melissa McNell, Katie Musick