Bethel College junior Bethany Schrag has etched her name into Thresher athletics history, becoming the first women's cross country runner to qualify for the NAIA National Cross Country Meet since Jackie Kamphaus in 2011. The NAIA National Cross Country Meet is set for Friday, November 22, at 11:30 AM at the Gans Creek Cross Country Course in Columbia, Missouri. For Schrag, this marks the pinnacle of a season defined by perseverance, growth, and team camaraderie.
Coach Julio Martinez's Persectives
Head Coach Julio Martinez, Bethel alum and former national qualifier on the men's side, called this moment a milestone for both the program and his coaching career.
"This is a coaching moment I'll remember forever—my first national qualifier at Bethel, and my first as a head coach, achieved right here where I once ran and graduated," said Martinez. "Bethany's achievement represents a major leap forward, a testament to the growth we're seeing in our program."
Martinez highlighted the dedication that has fueled Schrag's rise, noting her journey from an under-recognized high school runner to a standout collegiate athlete.
"Bethany's journey is incredibly special. She has navigated coaching changes and challenges, yet this season's stability allowed her to develop the trust, focus, and consistency needed to reach her full potential," he said. "Bethany and her teammates bring that same drive and work ethic to practice every day. Their commitment has led to multiple school records and now a national qualifier. Her success isn't just about one athlete—it's a collective achievement that sets the foundation for even more success in the future."
Schrag's Reflections
For Schrag, the opportunity to compete on the national stage is both humbling and inspiring.
"It is an honor for me to be the first Bethel women's cross country runner to qualify for nationals since 2011," said Schrag. "I love both running and Bethel, so to represent the place I love while doing the thing I love is truly a blessing."
Reflecting on her journey, Schrag expressed gratitude for her personal growth over the past two years.
"If I were to travel back to my freshman year and tell myself then that I would become a national qualifier, I wouldn't have believed it," she said. "Being able to see how far I've come is incredibly rewarding—it proves to me that I can do hard things when I put my heart and soul into them."
Schrag hopes her success will inspire others to reach for their own goals, both on and off the cross-country course.
"My hope is that this achievement helps pave the way for the Bethel (Cross Country) program to grow and continue to find success in the future," she added. "To future runners, my advice is to set your mind and heart into what you're doing. Training and schoolwork can feel overwhelming, but if you're intentional with your effort and lean on your teammates and coaches, you'll succeed."
A Bright Future for Bethel Cross Country
Schrag's accomplishment represents a turning point for Bethel cross country, a program Martinez sees as on the rise. With a culture of hard work, dedication, and support among teammates and coaches, the Threshers are looking for continued growth and success.
