The Southwestern Community College women’s cross country team received word they were among the top 10 academic teams in the nation during their fall 2012 season. The Spartans ranked eighth in the national team standings released this week by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Cross Country Coaches Association.

In addition, the Spartans had four individuals who were named as Academic All Americans by the NJCAA Cross Country Coaches Association. These scholars, who are carrying grade point averages of 3.40 or above, include Regina Hafner, sophomore from Panora; Kristin Klocksiem, freshman from Glidden; Kalli McCann, sophomore from Osceola; and Courtney Wagner, sophomore from Ottumwa.

The Spartan women ended a great 2012 cross country season at the NJCAA National Cross Country Championships in Rend Lake, IL, in November 2012. The women finished 31st in the nation. The 2012 meet was the largest national championship meet held in the history of the NJCAA. The Spartans’ cross country team is coached by Bill Huntington.