Four Distance Runners Sign with Vanderbilt


Spring Signing Class Topped by Foot Locker Qualifier Rita Jorgenson
April 13, 2007
Rita Jorgenson

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Four standout distance runners, including a 2007 qualifier in the prestigious Foot Locker Cross Country Nationals, have signed letters-of-intent with the Vanderbilt women's track and field program, Commodore distance coach Steve Keith announced.

The class includes Rita Jorgenson of White Station High School in Memphis, Tenn.; Carolyn Bell of McKinney Christian Academy in McKinney, Texas; Haley Kolff of Holy Innocents' Episcopal School in Atlanta, Ga.; and Erin Guglielmo of Collins Hill High School in Suwanee, Ga.

The newest additions to Vanderbilt's female distance corps were announced by Keith on Friday. The commitments are part of the first Commodore signing class developed by Keith, who has enjoyed considerable successes coaching several Vanderbilt runners since accepting the distance position last summer.

"First recruiting classes are always very special and I feel that this group, the 2007 grads, will provide an excellent base for years to come," Keith said. "Everyone of these girls is a state champion and they will bring that championship mentality and expectation to our program. I can't wait to get started."

"We are trying to build a foundation for years to come and I believe that we are well on our way. These young women are great students, super competitors and truly love to run which are the qualities we need in order to run for Southeastern Conference and national titles," Keith added.

A brief bio of each commitment, along with quotes from Coach Keith follows: