Naperville, IL – U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13th) today joined North Central College (NCC) leaders, faculty, and students for a special ceremony celebrating the men’s cross country team victory in the 2009 NCAA Division III Cross Country National Championships.  During the ceremony, Biggert praised the student athletes for their achievement and presented North Central College Head Coach Al Carius with a copy of House Resolution 1001, commemorating the Cardinals’ success.
 
            “These dedicated young athletes spent countless hours training and preparing for their championship season, and their achievement is a testament to the excellence of the students and staff here at North Central,” said Biggert.  “I’m very pleased to present this resolution recognizing the Cardinals’ victory and honoring North Central for providing students here in our community with the skills, tools and knowledge they need to compete on the track and in the 21st century marketplace.”
 
           H.Res. 1001, which Biggert introduced on January 12, 2010, recognizes the outstanding efforts of teammates Neal Klein, Michael Spain, Ryan Carrigan, Nathaniel Hird, Kyle Brady, Nathan Rutz, Sean Carlson, and head Coach Al Carius.  Each member of the team earned All-American status, placing them in an elite group of national athletes, while Head Coach Al Carius was named 2009 NCAA Division III National Cross Country Coach of the Year by the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Association. 
 
           "Without question, this was a great team effort," said Carius, who has coached the men’s team since 1966.  "These guys have been unified all year long, they've believed in each other, and they've run for each other.  It takes everybody. No one individual can beat a team, and no one person can make a team. These guys have believed that, and believed in their process, especially these seniors because it's been a long time coming. I'm really proud of these kids."
 
           The resolution goes on to recognize “North Central College for excellence in academics, athletics, and collegiate life.”  The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously approved the measure on January 13, 2010 by voice vote.  To read the full text of the resolution, visit Thomas.loc.gov or click here.
 
           Also in attendance at today’s ceremony were Assistant Coach Frank Gramarosso, Vice President for Institutional Advancement Rick Spencer, Director of Athletics Jim Miller, and Alumni Director Adrian Aldrich.

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