I am overjoyed to announce that Lauren Keene took home the title of NJCAA Region X Regional Champion and the Division III Player of the Year Award. There are many things I can say about Lauren Keene, and not one of them is that she does not deserve the Player of the Year Award. My journey with Lauren began when I was hired as the cross-country coach. I learned that the track star from Tazewell High was enrolled, and I knew I needed her on my team. When she agreed to run for SWCC, I was over the moon and so excited to see what she could accomplish. Not only is Lauren an amazing runner, but she is driven, hardworking, and committed in athletics as well as her academic journey. Lauren is a bright, talented young lady with a fantastic attitude and wonderful work ethic, putting hours into her studies after classes on top of hours into her training.

     I have no doubt that Lauren will be successful in whatever she sets her mind to, and the possibilities are endless. Although she is already incredible, I still see so much potential in her running career, and I am honored she agreed to let me tap into it with her. I can't think of anybody more deserving of Player of the Year than this sweet, God-loving, intelligent girl who also happens to be one heck of a runner. I have loved getting to know her, and I am looking forward to the rest of our journey together.

Congratulations, Lauren!! I, along with many others, am so proud of you!

-Coach Alexis Warner