Women’s cross country achieves breakthrough third-place finish

By Ana Rivera     11/5/24 11:30pm

The Rice women’s cross country team has made significant strides this season, improving from a sixth-place finish at the 2023 American Athletic Conference Cross Country Championship to third place this past weekend. Women’s cross country head coach Jim Bevan said he attributes the success to the dedication of returning athletes and new talent.

One of the key additions according to Bevan is freshman Oliwia Kopeć, whose journey and quick progress have sparked new energy in the Owls’ lineup. A native of Poland, Kopeć came to Rice as a middle-distance runner, primarily experienced in the 1,500 meters. 

In Poland, she trained with a local club rather than a school team, often practicing alone and competing in shorter track events. Transitioning to collegiate cross country, with its extended distances, larger fields and intense competition, brought fresh challenges, she said.

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“I was used to pushing myself, but running with a team here has been a completely different and rewarding experience,” Kopeć said. “My teammates have become a huge source of support.”

Kopeć’s journey to Rice began over a year ago when she was looking for U.S. universities with high academic standards and strong athletics. After discussions with Bevan and a campus visit, she said she felt an immediate connection. 

“From our first call, Coach Bevan was interested, and when I visited Rice, it just felt right,” she said. “The campus, the people, the program — it was everything I was looking for.”

At the recent conference meet, Kopeć finished third overall, crossing the line with a time of 20:55.3. In only her fifth cross country race for Rice, she achieved the best finish by a Rice freshman since Bevan began coaching. 

“I really didn’t know what to expect,” Kopeć said. “Coach told me to stay calm, keep my pace and stick with the pack. As we hit the 5K mark, I realized I had more left, so I went for it.”

Bevan said her growth and adaptability this season has been remarkable.

“Oliwia has been learning with every race,” Bevan said. “She’s up against athletes with years of experience, but she’s overcome the challenge each time.”

Returning athletes have also shown progress. Sophomore Alex Gobran moved up from 30th last year to 13th, earning All-Conference honors with a time of 21:26.9.

 “Alex came back this season determined to make an impact, and she’s done exactly that,” Bevan said. “Her All-Conference finish is well-deserved, and it speaks to the work she’s put in.”

Another freshman, Daphne Mayer, contributed to the team’s success, finishing 15th at her first conference meet and earning All-Conference honors with a time of 21:31.9. Senior Heidi Nielson delivered her best performance of the season, finishing in 17th place. 

“This year, we’ve had the right balance of youth and experience,” Bevan said. “That mix has been essential to our success.”

As Rice prepares for the upcoming South Central Regional meet Nov. 15 in College Station, Texas. Bevan is focused on maintaining the team’s momentum. 

“We’ve seen what’s possible this year,” Bevan said. “And I believe we’re only beginning to tap into our potential.”

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