14 Join Women's XC/Track & Field Program for Class of 2025
7/20/2021
PRINCETON, N.J. – The Princeton University women’s track & field and cross country coaching staff is thrilled to announce an incoming class of 13 talented student-athletes for the Class of 2025. Head Coach Michelle Eisenreich, Cross Country Head Coach Brad Hunt and Sprints and Jumps Coach Reuben Jones have recruited student-athletes from eight states along with the Puerto Rico and England.
“It is with great excitement that we welcome the very talented class of 2025 to Princeton,” said Michelle Eisenreich. “Seven of our fourteen recruits are ranked in the top-15 nationally of their graduating class. Considering the obstacles each one of our recruits had to overcome in during COVID, I am confident the class of 2025 is not only one of our most talented but also one of the grittiest and most resilient classes to date. Their toughness along with the leadership of the upper classes will undoubtedly propel our team to new levels of success within the League and the NCAA.”
The Tigers will welcome Angie Allen, Lexi Allen, Adelaide Asante, Lucca Fulkerson, Lauren Harris, Siniru Iheoma, Mari Noble, Lily Parris, Paola Rodriguez, Mena Scatchard, Sophie Steidle, Madeline Wolford, Madeleine Wood and Madilyn Zynk.
The Class of 2025
Angie Allen
Lincolnton, North Carolina | North Lincoln
XC/Distance
Top Times: 1600M: 4:48.87…3200M: 10:25.04
Before Princeton: 2021 North Carolina 2A 800m, 1600m, 3200m State Champion…2019, 2021…North Carolina 2A State Cross Country Champion…2019 North Carolina 2A Indoor 1600m State Champion.
Coach Comment: “Angie had a wildly successful senior year in the competitive arena. In less than 5 months, Angie won individual state titles at 800M, 1600M, 3200M and cross country, while leading North Lincoln High School to team state titles in both seasons. I have been so impressed by her progression over shorter events while dominating in her specialties at 3200M and cross country. Angie has received outstanding guidance throughout her high school career as she has developed to be in position to make an immediate impact within the Ivy League across all three seasons.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because I knew it was the perfect place for me to develop as a distance runner, as well as discover new avenues of my academic interests with all of the amazing opportunities that Princeton has to offer. I could tell the women on the team were great athletes, leaders, and friends. I loved hearing about the post-long run breakfasts, and study sessions in Firestone library. The more I heard about Princeton and its values, the more I could imagine myself succeeding as a student athlete and growing as a person. So excited to run and learn as a Tiger this fall!”
Lexi Allen
Canton, Georgia | Culver Academies
XC/Distance
Top Times: 1600M: 4:51.24…3200M: 10:34.21
Before Princeton: 2021 fifth place, Indiana 1600m Track and Field State Championships…2021 sixth place, Indiana 3200m Track and Field State Championships…2020 eighth place, Indiana Cross Country State Championships.
Coach Comment: “Despite the many challenges of COVID, Lexi made the most of her time during the cancelled track season of her junior year. Her personal best at 1600M, caught on video during a time trial, offered insight to what was to come for Lexi in her senior year. Lexi finished top 10 at the state cross country championships in the fall, ran lifetime personal bests at 800M, 1600M, and 3200M during the regular season and finished on the podium at 1600M and 3200M at the state track and field championships this spring. Her performance over 1600M at the state championships, a huge negative split that resulted in yet another personal best, revealed just how far she has come and amplified her ability to impact the program in both cross country and on the track.”
Why Princeton: “Princeton stood out to me for its emphasis on serving others. The school’s motto— In the nation’s service and the service of humanity— echoed my personal motivation to pursue higher education. Princeton incorporates this mission across all spheres, whether they be related to academics, athletics, or otherwise. I am proud to represent Princeton as a student-athlete and to join an institution that gives back to the global community.”
Adelaide Asante
North Brunswick, New Jersey | North Brunswick Township High School
Hurdles/Sprints
Top Times: 400M Hurdles: 1:00.24…200M - 25.10 (I)…100M Hurdles: 14.72
Before Princeton: 2021 New Jersey Meet of Champions 400M Hurdle Gold Medalist.
Coach Comment: “Adelaide Asante was New Jersey’s #1 400M hurdler all season long; winning the Group 4 and the NJSIAA Meet of Champions titles her senior year. She comes to Princeton ranked #7 in the U.S. and as the #2 long hurdler in her 2021 graduating class. Reaching the MOC finals in the 100M hurdles and 200M as well proves her capacity to contribute in other events. With Asante’s presence, Princeton looks to challenge for Ivy League titles and have representation at the NCAA level in the long hurdles and 4x4 relays.”
Why Princeton: “It would be most people's dream to attend one of the most prestigious institution in the United States, and I was one of those people. I didn't only choose Princeton because it was my dream school, but I chose it because it gives its students a lot of opportunities. I also believe that Princeton will challenge me in a good way both athletically and academically. In addition, when it comes to the track team, they are like a family. They are always there for each other no matter what and very close too. This was key for me when I was looking for a college to go into.”
Lucca Fulkerson
Niwot, Colorado | Niwot
XC/Distance
Top Times: 800M: 2:14.56…1600M: 4:50.79…Two Mile: 10:19.95
Before Princeton: 2021 Colorado 4A 3200m State Champion…2021 2 Mile Nike National Champion…2020 fourth place, Running Lane National Cross Country Championships.
Coach Comment: “Lucca absolutely erupted in her senior year. Not only did Lucca win state and Nike National titles in the 4x800M and 3200M/2 Mile, she propelled her team to state titles in track and field as well as cross country. Lucca has been remarkably consistent across multiple seasons, while performing at elite levels on the biggest stage. Her experience and expectations that come from her outstanding high school team environment will mesh well with our mission of being the best in the Ivy League and an undeniable presence on the national level.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because of the positive team atmosphere and the incredible academic opportunities that will be available to me. I love the energy that the coaches bring to the team and all the goals they have in mind for the next few years. I know that I will be well taken care of at Princeton, and I am so lucky to be surrounded by such amazing teammates. Go Tigers!”
Lauren Harris
Omaha, Nebraska | Marian
Sprints
Top Times: 100M: 12.23…200M: 24.68…400M: 55.20…800M: 2:16
Before Princeton: 2018, 2019, & 2021 Nebraska Class A 400m State Champion.
Coach Comment: “Lauren Harris has been turning heads in her home state of Nebraska since her freshman year; being a force from events 100M to the 800M at the state level. Harris is not only a three-time 400M state champion, but she has also run 12.2 in the 100m, 2:16 in the 800m and has jumped as high as 5’6.” We believe Harris has only touched the tip of the iceberg of her true potential. Her endurance background will allow her to make an immediate impact in relays and events 400M-800M within the Ivy League.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because it allows me to enhance both my academic and athletic ability. The coaches showed their trust and commitment to me by being one of the first Division I programs to reach out. Princeton’s excellent undergraduate focus, beautiful campus, and the strong connection the women on the team have with each other made me feel right at home. I am so grateful and excited to spend the next four years as a Tiger!”
Siniru Iheoma
Churchville, Pennsylvania | Council Rock High South
Throws
Top Marks: Shot Put: 51’8.5”… Discus: 164’0”
Before Princeton: 2021 Indoor Nationals Shot Put Silver Medalist…2021 Outdoor National Championship Shot Put Bronze Medalist…2021 Pennsylvania State AAA Shot Put Champion…2019 and 2021 Pennsylvania State AAA Discus Champion.
Coach Comment: “After being recognized as one of the top shot and discus throwers in Pennsylvania as a sophomore and junior, Siniru burst onto the national stage her senior year. She improved over six feet in the shot put, defended her indoor state title and went on to finish second and third at the indoor and outdoor national meets respectively. Discus followed a very similar trajectory. Over and over again Siniru has proved to be a clutch competitor on the biggest stages. This along with her fantastic work ethic will make her a force to be reckoned with not only in the Ivy League but also on the national stage.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton University because I knew I would be getting the best education along with amazing coaches. It’s a win-win. I wanted a competitive track team while also getting the best education. I needed an equal balance of both and I know Princeton offers that. Weighing all of my options for schools, Princeton was the obvious choice. Coach Eisenreich helped me open my eyes to the culture of the team and the benefits of the school. I also love that it’s a smaller school so I know I will have better connections with my professors and coaches. It’s going to be hard but I know that Princeton will provide me with everything I need to succeed. I can’t wait to be a Tiger!”
Mari Noble
Greenwich, Connecticut | Greenwich
XC/Distance
Top Times: 1600M: 4:52.79…3200M: 10:34.08
Before Princeton: 2019 CIAC State Open Indoor 3200M Champion and Outdoor 1600M Champion…2019 CIAC State Open Cross Country Champion…2019 New England Cross Country Championship Silver Medalist.
Coach Comment: “Watching Mari earn a runner-up finish at the 2019 New England Cross Country Championships in person, offered insight to her competitive spirit and humble demeanor. Mari has learned so much about herself and improved her range from 800M to cross country, while working with several coaches throughout her high school career. It was a special moment to see Mari compete in person, once again, at the 2021 Nike National Championships, as she earned a spot on the podium with a future teammate. Mari will thrive at the next level as she trains and competes with outstanding women wired in a similar fashion academically and athletically.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because of the prestigious academics, competitive athletics, and beautiful location. Coach Hunt was one of the first coaches to reach out to me, and he was not only enthusiastic about building a competitive and talented team, but he was also keenly attuned to finding individual athletes with strong character and collegial spirit. I fell in love with Princeton on my first visit, and I look forward to enjoying all of the opportunities that the school has to offer. I can’t wait to be a Tiger!”
Lily Parris
Ingatestone, England | Anglo European School
Hurdles
Top Times: 60M Hurdles: 8.66…100M Hurdles: 13.54…300M Hurdles: 43.45.
Before Princeton: 2021 England U-20 100m Hurdle Champion.
Coach Comment: “Lily Parris is a true follower of her sport and a student of her craft. She gives our program a true threat to Ivy League championships for years to come. On the track, Parris is the #1 ranked 100m hurdler in the United Kingdom as well as the England U20 Champion. She has run sub-14 seconds ten times this season, her first year competing in the 100m hurdles. Parris also ranked #1 among UK U17 athletes in the 300M hurdles in 2018. She cannot wait to test her skills against the NCAA’s best. This summer, Parris will represent Great Britain at the U20 European Athletic Championships.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because it is the place where I will thrive most, and where I will have so many opportunities to further develop myself into the person I strive to be. I love an organized plan and routine and I believe Princeton's excellent academic and athletic programs will allow me to integrate both of them so that I can excel at both. After having my coach call with Coach Jones I knew Princeton was the place for me, his coaching philosophy of developing athletes to their full potential and the team ethos the Princeton team have, is really inviting and encouraging. Princeton will be an environment for me to thrive and succeed in, not only in my athletics but also my academics.”
Paola Rodriguez
San Juan, Puerto Rico | Saint John’s School
Middle Distance
Top Times: 400M: 57.14…800M: 2:11.52
Before Princeton: 2021 800M, 1500M 18-19 Puerto Rico National Champion…2019 800M AAU National Club Champion…2019 400M 16-17 Puerto Rico National Champion.
Coach Comment: “Paola has been successfully exploring her range from 400M – 1500M, while being crowned Puerto Rico National Champion several times over. Paola will make an immediate impact within the Ivy League, as her skill set translates well to the heavy middle-distance schedule offered on the indoor circuit. Paola set her lifetime best at 800M in victory and she is desperate for great training partners and outstanding competition to bring out the best in her on the track. Paola has been relentless in her training and efforts to find races in 2021 following the numerous interruptions due to COVID. Paola was the first commitment in the incoming class and her excitement and passion for Princeton is contagious!”
Why Princeton: "I am excited about Princeton because I will be challenged intellectually and athletically. Being around incredibly accomplished and diverse people will allow me to develop both as an athlete and a person. I cannot wait to work with such inspiring coaches and be part of a close-knit and talented group of women. I am so proud to be a Tiger!"
Mena Scatchard
North Yorkshire, United Kingdom | Ripon Grammar
Middle Distance/XC
Top Times: 800M: 2:10.59…1500M: 4:28.88…3000M: 10:01.27.
Before Princeton: 2021 sixth place, England U20/U23…2018 and 2019 North Yorkshire Cross Country Champion…2018 and 2019 Yorkshire 1500M Champion.
Coach Comment: “Mena has demonstrated tremendous improvement on the track from grade 9 to grade 12. I appreciate how patient her coach has been with volume, emphasizing consistency and learning how to race from 800M to cross country. Mena has shared many videos of her training and racing so we could follow her progress and success in 2021. Despite never having met in person, nor visiting campus due to COVID restrictions, Mena demonstrated she was a fantastic fit academically and athletically. I am so excited for Mena to continue her development and expand her range at the next level, as she adds depth and talent to our roster across all three seasons.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton university because of its superb worldwide reputation, the wonderful coaches that helped me through the process of applying as a student-athlete and all the amazing opportunities studying at Princeton will bring, through the wide range of courses and international trips! I’m so excited to become a Tiger and compete with the track and field team and experience the American Ivy League competition!”
Sophie Steidle
Collingswood, New Jersey | Collingswood
XC/Distance
Top Times: 1,600M: 5:04.77M…3,200
Before Princeton: 2021 eighth place, New Jersey 3,2000M Outdoor Meet of Champions…2021 fifth place, New Jersey 3,2000M Group Two Championship.
Coach Comment: “Sophie attended the Princeton Girl’s Cross Country Camp as a high schooler. Her remarkable achievement in the classroom and relentless determination in the athletic arena has transformed her from camper to proud member of Princeton Track and Field/Cross Country. Sophie improved by leaps and bounds in her senior year, nearly breaking 19:00 at historic Holmdel Park in the fall and finished on the podium at the outdoor Meet of Champions in the spring. Sophie will be surrounded by outstanding teammates that will provide her the opportunity to continue her evolution in cross country and on the track.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because I know that it is a place where I will be able to thrive academically and athletically. At Princeton, I recognize that I am going to be surrounded by peers, professors, coaches, and unmatched opportunities that are going to allow me to grow as a student-athlete on campus. I am absolutely thrilled and honored to join such an outstanding group of women and am so excited to be running as a Tiger for the next four years!”
Madeline Wolford
Laguna Niguel, California | Lake City
Throws
Top Marks: Hammer: 145’0”…Discus: 120’7”.
Before Princeton: 2021 Idaho State Track Meet sixth place finisher…Ranked first in Idaho for the hammer.
Coach Comment: “Early in high school, Maddie was pegged to be one of the top frontline volleyball players in the country. After a severe back injury made volleyball no longer feasible, Maddie turned to track as the sport where she could express her athleticism and put her six-foot, two-inch frame to good use. After only a year of training and a lot of focused work, Maddie learned to throw the discus well enough to medal at the Idaho state championship and qualify for the national championships in the hammer. Her resiliency and determination will undoubtedly propel her to a very successful career as a Tiger!”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton because the blend of academic rigor and athletic excellence stood out amongst other universities. Talking to the other throwers at Princeton, the team culture and student experience immediately drew me in and I knew I would be lucky to call Princeton home. Coach E’s coaching philosophy goes along really well with my own goals, athletic and academic, for my next four years at Princeton!”
Madeleine Wood
Leicestershire, United Kingdom | Nottingham
Jumps
Top Marks: High Jump: 5’9”
Before Princeton: 2019 English Schools Track and Field U17 Silver Medalist…2019 Bedford U17 National Championship Silver Medalist…2019 SIAB International Championship Champion.
Coach Comment: “In the 2018 and 2019 seasons, Maddy established herself as one of the top U17 high jumper in the United Kingdom by finished runner up at the National Championship. The 2020 indoor season promised even more success as she came within one centimeter of her PR early in January. In what seemed like a split-second, however, training and competition came to a halt as the country locked down for COVID. Despite the hardships, Maddy’s passion for jumping never diminished and she found creative ways to maintain her fitness. There is no doubt her passion for training and studying the event will send her soaring over even greater heights at Princeton.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton as it provides the perfect environment to challenge me both academically and athletically. Princeton gives me so many more opportunities to explore different passions whilst receiving an outstanding education. After talking in depth with Coach E. about my event and the ideals that Princeton track & field strive towards, I realized I shared the same philosophy and knew this was the place for me! Meeting the rest of the team and incoming class solidified this. I am very grateful that I get to spend the next four years at Princeton and I can't wait to compete as a Tiger!”
Madilyn Zink
Pocatello, Idaho | Pocatello
Hurdles
Top Times: 100M Hurdles: 14.45 (14.16w)…300M Hurdles: 43.66
Before Princeton: 2019 Idaho 4A 100M & 300M Hurdle State Champion.
Coach Comment: “Madilyn Zink will be the type of student-athlete to inspire others through her own determination and dedication. Zink brings experience to a deep hurdle crew. As a junior in 2019, Zink was dominant in both the 100-meter and 300-meter hurdles all season, finishing her campaign with the top performance times in Idaho across all classifications. Once her high school season was over, Zink explored the heptathlon and placed 16th overall at the New Balance Outdoor Nationals. Her multi-event capabilities open up a slew of All-Ivy opportunities with Princeton.”
Why Princeton: “I chose Princeton to be able to not only develop myself athletically, but more importantly, personally. I feel Princeton will allow me to grow into the most well-rounded person I can be as I’ll have access to an established track program with talented coaches and training partners, a world-class education at a historic institution, a diverse set of worldviews and perspectives that will broaden my horizons, and unique opportunities that will set me up for the rest of my future. I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of the Princeton family!”
