Small but mighty Cyclones push through unique 2020 season

The 2020 Cyclone women’s cross country team had a season like no other, yet was full of determined and hard-working runners who were able to compete during a pandemic.

For a time, the Cyclones weren’t sure if they could compete this season. While other colleges canceled races or postponed their seasons, the Cyclones were still hoping to get in some competitive runs. And they did.

“I'm thankful that we were able to have a season this year even if it wasn't in the way we are used to. The year 2020 will be remembered as the year of change, and despite the limitations that were put on us, I'd call it a successful season,” said Head Coach Dimitri Dimizas, who ended his fifth season leading the program. He was joined this season by Assistant Coach Aaron Roe.

Although the roster dwindled to four, this group raced in three competitions in Illinois. Having only four runners meant the Cyclones were unable to score at meets, which was a first for Dimizas.

Jaime Funk (Sandburg) was the lone returner from last season’s conference championship team. She battled through some injuries, but guided the three newcomers to the ropes of running at the collegiate level.

Olivia Wrobel (Richards) was the fastest runner on the team, securing All-Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference honors for finishing 10th at the conference championship race hosted on Moraine Valley’s campus Oct. 24. That was also the final meet of the season. Jasmeene Guido (Eisenhower) and Stephanie Tuscher (Sandburg) rounded out the small but mighty Cyclone crew. They also combated injuries throughout the short season yet still managed to run their fastest times at the conference meet.

“Jaime was our only returner from a team that won the conference title last year, and I'm thankful I got to coach her for two seasons. Her positive attitude will be missed, but I know that it will help her accomplish great things in the future,” Dimizas said. “Olivia, Jasmeene and Stephanie had an injury-plagued season, which was frustrating for everyone, but I hope they will use that as motivation to put in the right amount of work going into next year so they can have the type of season they deserve. Those three will be relied on to lead the team in 2021, and I'm looking forward to seeing what they do with the opportunity.”