Women’s XC/Track & Field Welcomes 15 For Class of 2026
7/6/2022
PRINCETON, N.J. – The Princeton University women’s track & field and cross country coaching staff will welcome 15 talented newcomers for its Class of 2026, as announced Wednesday morning. Head Coach Michelle Eisenreich, Cross Country Coach Brad Hunt, and Sprints/Jumps Coach Reuben Jones have recruited student-athletes from 10 states and five countries.
The Tigers will welcome Maisha Atkinson, Madeline Cramer, Daphne Banino, Julia Jongejeugd, Katelyn Peterson, Alexandria Kelly, Makenna Marshall, Morgan Monesmith, Tessa Mudd, Nikki Woods, Peyton Leigh, Ella Rubinshtein, Georgie Scoot, Shea Greene, and Stella Vieth.
The Class of 2026
Maisha Atkinson
West Palm Beach, Fla. | Florida Atlantic University HS
HS PR’s: 400m: 53.69 … 200m: 24.18
Before Princeton: 2022 Florida 2A State Runner-Up 400m … 2021 Florida 2A State Bronze Medalist 200m … 2021 Florida 2A State Champion 400m
Coach’s Comment: Since her freshman year, Maisha has been one of the best long sprinters in the state of Florida (#6 400m in 2021, #4 400m in 2019). She is a proven winner; a two-time state champion in the 400m. Maisha has committed the last two years to becoming a better sprinter, competing in more 200m/400m doubles in competitions and setting personal bests in the 100m and 200m. Our staff is excited to see what our multilateral training approach can do for Maisha’s development. We strongly believe her potential could take her all the way to the NCAA meet.
Why Princeton: A major reason I chose Princeton is because of the environment. From the people, to the literal scenes of nature, I was pulled in! I also really love the historical background of the university. Along with this, from my visit and speaking with athletes currently at Princeton, I was able to learn the ways students and professors, coaches, mentors, etc. interact. Another thing I found important were ideals of the people I would be spending the most time with align very well with my personal ideals. Overall, looking at my future, I see Princeton as a place I can thrive and better myself not just as a student or athlete, but as an individual.
Daphne Banino
Sleepy Hollow, N.Y. | Ursuline School
HS PR’s: 1000m: 2:54.52 … 1500m: 4:29.11 … Mile: 4:51.29 … 3000m: 9:48.85
Before Princeton: 2021 East Bay National Cross Country Championship Finalist … 2021 New York State Cross Country Championships – 7th
Coach’s Comment: Daphne took a quantum leap across every racing distance in the spring of her junior year. She built upon her spring success in the fall of her senior year by winning her section of the prestigious Manhattan Invitational, finishing top 10 at the hyper competitive New York State Cross Country Championships, and advancing to the East Bay National High School Cross Country Championships. Daphne has the ability to make an immediate impact in the fall of her freshman year on a team vying for an Ivy League Cross Country Championship and berth to the NCAA Cross Country Championships. We knew from the first time we met her that Daphne would be an outstanding fit for the program, in and out of the athletic arena.
Why Princeton: I knew that Princeton was the school for me after meeting Coach Hunt, and the women who currently run for the cross country and track teams. My high school coach placed a large emphasis on the less statistical aspects of running, like longevity and general enjoyment of the sport, and I am so excited to join a program with both coaches and athletes that are similarly committed to not only performance-oriented goals but to remaining excited about running, as well. The girls on the team were so supportive of one another and invested in the success of each other, and I can’t wait to join such a talented group next year!
Madeline Cramer
La Jolla, Calif. | Bishops School
HS PR’s: 400m: 55.50 … 800m: 2:11.24
Coach’s Comment: Maddie has spent most of her high school career searching for an event that catered to her unique skill sets. She’s explored events 200m-800m and has gone as far as running on the Bishop School’s cross country team. Maddie qualified for the California State meet in the 400m as a sophomore. During her junior year, she secured a spot in the Nike Outdoor Nationals in the 800m and finished in the top 15. In a league that hosts championship events at 400m, 500m, 800m, 4x400m and 4x800m relays, our coaching staff believes Maddie’s versatility will serve as an advantage for our team.
Why Princeton: Initially, I was drawn to Princeton due to its unparalleled commitment to undergraduate education. The access to world-class professors, rigorous academics, and competitive athletics was the perfect balance of both student and athlete life. I knew that the academic flexibility would allow me to truly explore all my interests and pursue my passions. After visiting campus and meeting both Coach Jones and Coach Hunt, the well-rounded training philosophies and the kind and supportive team environment they cultivated sealed the deal for me. I realized that the people who would surround me in the classroom and on the track were all individuals that could and would push me to be the best that I can be. I cannot wait for the opportunity to be part of this amazing program and to experience all that Princeton has to offer! Go Tigers!
Shea Greene
Weston, Conn. | Weston
HS PR’s: Javelin: 161’5.75”
Before Princeton: 2022 New Balance National Champion … 2022 New England Champion … 2021 and 2022 Connecticut Combined State Open Champion … Nationally Ranked fourth in the United States (High School)
Coach’s Comment: As a 9th grader, Shea finished third at the Connecticut State Open Championship, inspired by her teammate and current Princeton Tiger, Kate Joyce. Despite the interruption of COVID, Shea improved dramatically her junior year and established herself as one of the top javelin throwers in the nation. She continued that trend as a senior and became a national champion. The athleticism Shea developed as a three-sport athlete will most definitely fuel her continued success at the collegiate level. More importantly, though, Shea has proven to be a selfless leader serving as a captain for three sports and a leader within her community and will make a tremendous impact on our team’s continued growth at the league and national level.
Why Princeton: After visiting Princeton in the fall, I not only fell in love with the campus but with the charming staff and student body. The outstanding comradely on the Women's Track team created a fun, welcoming environment that allowed me to immediately feel at home. I am confident that Princeton will help me develop as a student, athlete, and member of society so I can reach my full potential. I am so grateful and excited to compete at Princeton for the next four years. Go Tigers!
Julia Jongejeugd
Purmerend, Netherlands | Zaanlands Lyceum
HS PR’s: Heptathlon: 5067 … Pentathlon: 3504 … HJ: 1.67m … 100mh: 14.12 … 400mh: 1.03.50 … 800m: 2:26.61
Before Princeton: 2020 National U18 Champion in the Heptathlon … 2020 National U18 Runner Up in the 400m hurdles … 2022 National U20 Runner Up in the 200m
Coach’s Comment: In 2020 Julia established herself as one of the Netherland’s rising young stars in the heptathlon by winning the Dutch National Championships in the junior division. Her greatest strength lies in her balanced development across all seven events. As with people everywhere, COVID disrupted not only her training but the rhythm of her life. Julia recognized a gap year would be valuable not only to help hone her track skill but also to recenter and reestablish her rhythm. Julia’s strong work ethic, quiet confidence, and her self-awareness will make her an invaluable member of our team.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton because this is the place where I can work towards my athletic goals, while also getting an outstanding education. After talking to both the coaches and some of the girls on the team, I really fell in love with the school, the team, and all the opportunities Princeton has to offer. I’m really excited being part of such an amazing community and I can’t wait to spend the next four years as a Tiger.”
Alexandra Kelly
Long Island, N.Y. | Rocky Point
HS PR’s: Triple Jump: 42’7” … Long Jump: 19’10.75”
Before Princeton: 2022 New Balance National Champion (Triple Jump) … 2022 New York State Indoor and Outdoor Champion (Triple Jump) … Nationally Ranked 1st in the United States in the Triple Jump (High School)
Coach’s Comment: Alex Kelly’s senior season ended as the #1 triple jumper in the US – setting a New York state record and winning the New Balance National Outdoor Championship. She is a fierce competitor with exceptional elastic strength. Yet, Alex is still a novice to the horizontal jumps. If she can hone her skills over the years, Alex will jump into the Ivy League record books in both the long and triple jump. She’s proven she has the potential to compete for NCAA Championship at some point during her career.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton University because I knew I would be provided with countless opportunities to develop my abilities as an athlete, as a student, and as a person. I felt a strong sense of community when I visited Princeton, which was so welcoming, and I knew it was an environment I would flourish in. I’m so excited to be surrounded by a family of such motivated and successful women and coaches for the next four years. The experience I will have over my years at Princeton will be second to none, I could not be more grateful for all the people who made possible this opportunity.
Peyton Leigh
Auckland, New Zealand | Saint Kentigern College
HS PR’s: 400m: 59.75 … 800m: 2:11.92 … 1500m: 4:28.45 … 3000m: 10:02.42
Before Princeton: 2021 U20 New Zealand Mountain Running Gold Medalist … 2020 U18 New Zealand 1500M and 3000M Gold Medalist … 2020 U20 New Zealand 3000M Silver Medalist
Coach’s Comment: Peyton has been creative and persistent throughout her high school career. Due to the harsh COVID restrictions, she had limited opportunities to train and compete as preferred for months on end. Despite numerous challenges, she will enter campus with highly competitive marks at 800M and 1500M. Peyton has explored her range from 800M-3000M and is dedicated to improving on the cross country course with higher volume workouts. For the first time in her career, she will be surrounded by teammates who will propel her to the next level. Peyton’s great courage and relentless pursuit of her goals are two enduring qualities that will be instrumental in her continued development and success at Princeton University.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton as I believe that the community and environment here will help me to grow and improve greatly in both academics and athletics. Coach Hunt believed in the team not only growing as student athletes, but also as a people which I thought was very important. The community at Princeton was unlike anything I had ever seen before, which is why I believed that at Princeton I would excel the most. I am so excited to be a Tiger and see what the NCAA competition in America has to offer! Go Tigers!
Morgan Monesmith
Cleveland, Ohio | Hathaway Brown School
HS PR’s: 400m: 58.28 … 800m: 2:06.54 … 1600m: 4:47.31
Before Princeton: 2022 State Champion at 800M and 1600M … 2022 Nike Nationals 800M – 4th … 2021 DI Ohio Cross Country State Championships – 3rd … 2021 Brooks PR 800M – 5th … 2021 Running Lane Track … Championships 800M Champion … Nationally Ranked 12th at 800M
Coach’s Comment: Morgan demonstrated elite level consistency across all three seasons throughout the second half of her high school career. As a senior, she was undefeated this spring at 800M and 1600M in Ohio, decisively winning two state titles. Her lifetime best of 2:06.54, ranks as the 12th fastest high school mark this outdoor season. Morgan thrived against the best competition in the country, finishing top six at New Balance Indoor Nationals, Brooks PR and Nike Outdoor Nationals over 800M. Her outstanding resume on the oval from 400M – 1600M is even more impressive considering her third place finish at the 2021 state cross country championship. Her affinity for big race performances will be amplified at the Ivy League and NCAA level throughout her collegiate career.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton because I felt that the supportive team environment, strong alumni network, and commitment to undergraduate education would set me up for long term success. After long conversations with Coach Hunt and visiting campus, Princeton felt like home. I am excited to have the opportunity to pursue both rigorous academics and competitive track for the next four years. Looking forward to being a Tiger!
Makenna Marshall
Houston, Texas | Langham Creek
HS PR’s: Shot Put: 42’6” … Discus: 147’10”
Before Princeton: 2022 Texas State Meet Scorer in the discus
Coach’s Comment: Through most of her high school career, Makenna did not have a coach to help guide her training, but it never stood in her way of pursuing her dreams. In the summer following her junior year, Makenna did find a coach after which she improved dramatically culminating in a podium finish in the discus at the Texas state meet. Makenna’s great strength and power will be the physical foundation of her continued growth. However, it is her work ethic and dogged determination to achieve her goals that will make her an incredible competitor for our team. Just as importantly, Makenna has a gift for bringing people together from divergent life experiences which will help our team members continue to strengthen their bonds.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton because of the people. During my visit, the team swept me into their family and let me know immediately that I had a home there. Listening to Coach Eisenreich speak so highly of the athletes and how they push throughout the season was extremely motivating to me back home. The campus is also composed of highly driven people from all walks of life that I am beyond excited to learn amongst. Because of this incredible team and academic atmosphere, I know without a doubt that there is no other place for me. I can't wait to put on the uniform and start working with the team!
Tessa Mudd
Mount Pleasant, S.C. | Charleston Collegiate School
HS PR: Pole Vault: 14’3.25”
Before Princeton: 2022 Adidas Outdoor National Champion … 2022 Adidas Indoor National Champion … 2021 and 2022 South Carolina Independent School State Champion … Nationally Ranked 5th in the United States (High School)
Coach’s Comment: Tessa is the most celebrated female, high school pole vaulter in South Carolina history holding the state’s all-time outdoor record. Her commitment to her craft took her personal best from 13 feet to 14 feet in one year. Tessa has grown into a true student of the sport. Her knowledge of the event stood out to our staff. After conquering the independent schools her senior year, Tessa tested her skills against some of the nation’s best vaulters and won the Adidas indoor and outdoor national championships. She could take Ivy League vaulting to new heights. We can’t wait to see how she competes at the NCAA level.
Why Princeton: While my college decision was not an easy one, I felt as though Princeton was the best place for me to grow as student and athlete. After visiting campus and learning. more about the culture of the school and the track and field program, I had a gut feeling that Princeton was where I was meant to be. Coach Jones, Coach Maira, the women currently on the team, and my recruiting class have welcomed me with open arms, and I can’t wait to be a part of the Princeton family. Go Tigers!
Katelyn Peterson
La Jolla, Calif. | Dixon
HS PR’s: Hammer Throw: 186’1” … Discus Throw: 128’1”
Before Princeton: 2022 Nike Outdoor Nationals Silver Medalist … 2021 and 2022 Golden West Champion … 2021 Outdoor Nationals Silver Medalist … 2021 Junior Olympics National Champion … Nationally Ranked 3rd in the United States (High School)
Coach’s Comment: Katie likes taking the road less traveled. In the summer following her ninth-grade year, she connected with a coach who promised to teach her the hammer, an event not contested in her home state of California. From there Katie blossomed as she learned the complicated technique it takes to become a hammer champion. As a junior she finished runner up at the high school national championship and repeated that performance at the Nike Nationals as senior. Her willingness to work outside her comfort zone, grow from the advice of those around her, as well as her natural competitiveness will make her one of the best hammer throwers in Ivy history.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton because I wanted a school that could challenge me both athletically and academically. The natural competitive environment at Princeton drew me in. The students and athletes at the school are driven to accomplish their goals; this is what I need to develop my full potential. Not only are the people competitive, but they are supportive of each other as well. I know the people around me will push me to get better and have my back. I’m super excited to meet the whole team and keep growing!
Ella Rubinshtein
Hod Hasharon, Israel | Alexander Muss
HS PR: Pole Vault: 13’1”
Before Princeton: 2021 Israel Senior National Runner-Up … 2020 and 2021 Israel Under-20 National Champion … Nationally Ranked 1st in Israel (Under-20)
Coach’s Comment: Ella is a dominant female junior pole vaulter in Israel, winning gold at the Under-20 Israel Junior Championships in 2020 and 2021 as well as a silver medal at the Israel Senior Championships. From serving in the Israel Defense Force to representing her country at the Under-20 European Championships, Ella brings seasoned experience to our pole vault unit. She approaches challenges with a healthy mindset, which will allow her to be creative and open-minded about her development. Our staff sees Ella as an Ivy threat for years to come with potential to eventually compete at the NCAA level.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton because, with the broad opportunities it provides, it felt for me like the ultimate place to grow and develop as a student-athlete and as a person. Since the beginning the team and the coaches were very warm and welcoming, I could tell the pole vault team had a supportive and positive atmosphere that reminded me of my own team from home. I very much identified with coach Jones's open-minded coaching philosophy, and he assured me I will be in good hands at Princeton. The combination of great academics and high-level athletics in addition to the team environment made me see how Princeton will become my home for the next four years.
Georgina Scoot
Maypool, England | Torquay Girls' Grammar
HS PR’s: Triple Jump: 41’5.25” … Long Jump: 19’3” … High Jump: 5’7” … Heptathlon: 4,205 points
Before Princeton: 2022 England Athletics Under-20 Indoor National Champion (Triple Jump) … 2022 Devon Schools Champion (Long and Triple Jump) … Nationally Ranked 1st in England in the Triple Jump (Under-20)
Coach’s Comment: Georgie was first introduced to the track & field world starting out as a heptathlete. Her multi-event background set the foundation for her to excel in her current passion, the horizontal jumps. As a triple jumper, Georgie is ranked 1st in England among Under-20 athletes. Her junior career has been decorated with championships; she’s won an English title in two different age groups, U-15 and U-20. She is the championship record holder for English Athletics in the U-15 triple jump. Georgie accomplished these feats with no formal coaching for much of her high school career. With Princeton’s resources, she could rewrite the school and Ivy League record books by the end of her collegiate career.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton because I know it will deliver outstanding track and field with world class academics which as a British student is a unique opportunity for me. The comradery that was apparent from when I first visited the campus further reinforced my decision to attend. I am looking forward to being a part of such a close-knit academic institution and being pushed outside my comfort zone, all whilst competing in collegiate athletics- a prospect new to me as an international student.
Stella Vieth
Boulder, Colo. | Niwot High School
HS PR’s: 400m: 56.26 … 800m: 2:11.10 … 1600m: 5:00.25
Before Princeton: 2022 Colorado 4A Silver Medalist at 400M and 800M … 2022 Nike Outdoor National Champion at 4X800M and Distance Medley Relay … 2021 Running Lane Cross Country Team Champions … 2021 Colorado 4A Cross Country Championships – 8th
Coach’s Comment: Stella quietly emerged as one of the most versatile middle distance runners in the country. She finished as the fifth runner for the dominate Niwot cross country team at the Running Lane National Championships and finished as the 2022 4A Colorado runner-up at 400M. This spring, Stella ran legs on Nike National Championship 4X800M and Distance Medley Relays, as well as All-American 4X200M and 4X400M relays. Stella is the ultimate teammate, truly excelling at every distance in any open event or relay leg as needed. Her competitive spirit, combined with her passion and love for the team, will prove to be invaluable as we vie for Ivy League Championships and NCAA prominence in the seasons ahead.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton for all of the amazing opportunities it has to offer academically as well as athletically. I am excited about all the resources that are available to every student, from peer tutoring to study abroad programs. Princeton’s unique commitment to service and civil engagement also really stood out to me as I learned more about the university. After my first visit I absolutely loved everything about Princeton and knew I could not see myself going anywhere else. I immediately recognized the closeness of the cross country and track teams and felt instantly welcomed. I can’t wait to be a Tiger!
Nicole Woods
Demarest, N.J. | Demarest
HS PR: Javelin: 151’6”
Before Princeton: 2022 New Balance National Bronze Medalist … 2021 and 2022 New Jersey Meet of Champions Champion … Nationally Ranked 10th in the United States (High School)
Coach’s Comment: Niki achieved modestly as a first year in high school. However, when COVID hit, she saw it an opportunity to develop her javelin throwing skills. She found a private coach and during her junior year, burst onto the national stage by winning the New Jersey Meet of Champions. She did not take her foot off the gas pedal and successfully defended her state title and went on to finish 3rd at the New Balance National meet. Niki has a strong and fast right shoulder developed from years of elite level volleyball. These physical strengths combined with her work ethic, confidence and her competitive spirit will make her formidable among the collegiate ranks.
Why Princeton: I chose Princeton because I knew it was the perfect place for me to challenge myself athletically and academically. I knew that Princeton provided so many opportunities and connections that I would be able to build during my time there. Additionally, the environment and community there reminded me of a family, and it was something I knew I wanted to be a part of. Everybody at Princeton, especially on the Track and Field team, are so supportive and welcoming and I am so excited to be a Princeton Tiger!
