DeAngelis Makes National Impact
Cara DeAngelis ’14. (Photo by Alex Moseman, Wabash College)
Not only is Ohio Wesleyan University freshman Cara DeAngelis on the right track in her college career, she is often the fastest one on that track.
DeAngelis is the top-ranked freshman in NCAA Division III in the 1500- and 5000-meter runs, placing her 20th in the nation for the 1500 event and 23rd nationally in the 5000 event. She has surpassed provisional national qualifying standards in both events and recently finished in second place in both events at the All-Ohio Division III championship meet.
She also has qualified for the USA Track and Field Junior National Championships in the 5000. This meet includes the best female runners under age 20 from across the nation.
DeAngelis says assistant coach Matthew Wackerly has helped to improve her times, while head coach Kris Boey has helped to boost her self-confidence.
While she has the coaches’ support, she also runs with a group of women who have become more of a family than her teammates.
“Her attributes are a reflection of her teammates and I believe that she has achieved at least some of her success from the positive role models she trains with every day” says Boey.
Both coaches have high hopes for DeAngelis’ future, although they try not to put a great deal of pressure on her.
“Cara has a great deal of talent. She is also extremely dedicated to competing at the highest level possible,” says Wackerly.
“The best is yet to come, and I believe Cara will continue to grow into a very special athlete,” adds Boey.
DeAngelis will look to continue improving her times in hopes of competing in the NCAA Division III track & field championships to be held at Ohio Wesleyan May 26-28.