Jackets Sign Wyoming Runner (6/11/07)

BILLINGS, MT – Montana State University Billings track and cross-country coach Dave Coppock announced Monday that Katie Thiel of Powell, Wyoming, has signed a national letter of intent to run for the Yellowjackets next season.  Thiel graduated in May from Powell High School.

“Katie has the makings of a great college track and cross-country runner,” said Coppock.  “She was very successful in high school and has led her high school team in both sports.  She'll be a big help to us in the 800 and 1,500 meter runs in track as well as adding some depth to our cross-country team.  We're starting to get a real good corps of middle distance runners here for next year's initial track season.  She holds her high school record in the 1,600 and anchored their winning 4x800 meter relay team at the Wyoming State meet this year.”

Thiel was a four-time all-state cross-country runner.  She placed fourth at the state meet as a senior, finishing in 21:04.  That led the Panthers to their first-ever state team championship.  In track, Thiel broke the school record in the 1,600 meters and placed third at the state championships.  She also ran a leg on Powell’s state championship 4x800 relay team and placed fifth in the 800 and sixth in the 3,200.