May 17, 2002

Two local recruits highlight the spring signing period for the Florida Atlantic University's cross country teams. Alex Smolka, head cross country coach, has announced that Manuel Huerta (Miami Jackson Senior High School) and Joshua Randall (Atlantic High School) have signed an NLI to run at FAU next year.

Huerta, the team captain at Miami Jackson, placed second at districts and regionals last season. He can also add to his resume that he is an All-American triathlete who competed in nationals last September and placed seventh. Huerta also excels in the classroom where he earned a bright future scholarship.

Joshua Randall brings experience not only in distance events, but was part of the Atlantic 4X800 relay team that broke the state record and finished second at nationals. The Delray Beach native comes to FAU hoping to improve his best time of 15:46 in the three miles.

Andrea Rassi and Kathryn Murnane have also signed NLIs to run for the women's team. Rassi comes to Boca Raton from Estero High School in Fort Myers, FL, while Murnane will make the trek to Florida from Rockville Centre, NY.

Rassi brings numerous awards and honors as she was named All-Conference fours years. She was active in activities other than athletics as she was Vice President of Student Government and the National Honor Society.

"I am very excited that we were able to sign such a good first recruiting class. All of the student athletes who have committed to coming to FAU next year have great potential to make an immediate impact, and contribute in a major way to our growing program. The future looks very bright for our men's and women's cross country programs," said first-year head coach Alex Smolka.

The freshmen will have a chance to make an impact as the teams begin competition in the fall.