Janice Timmerman | Staff Writer

Freshman from Laurens, IA took on her first year at Buena Vista University (BVU) with determination. She is a Psychology major who balances her school work while staying active in the BVU volleyball program as well as the track and field program.

So far in Runneberg’s track career here at BV, she has been very successful at her first few indoor meets. She is in her first year high jumping for the Beavers and has won two of her first three collegiate meets.

Jumps Coach Josh Wall comments on Runneberg’s hard work and dedication in practice.

“She hates to see the bar fall at any point during practice. I’ve been impressed with her commitment to put forth maximum effort every day at practice,” Wall said.

Leading a double life in Beaver Athletics isn’t always easy. Head Volleyball Coach Lori Slight and assistant coach Micah Rhodes also comment on Runneberg’s dedication to practice and her team.

“Brooke is a joy to be around and she’s a great teammate, she works incredibly hard and she is extremely coachable. She always has a smile on her face, and that positive energy is great for our team chemistry and daily vibe in the gym,” Rhodes said.

Runneberg explains in an interview that she is not passionate for track because she loves running, but because she loves being a part of a team. Runneberg comments that she is always looking forward. When stressed she focuses on taking it one thing at a time, and not worrying about what’s next until the first thing is done.

In the meantime, Runneberg wants to keep working hard and doing her best in academics, athletics, and being the best representation of BVU while she can. She is studying to become a high school counselor.
Coach Colton Slack comments on Runneberg’s future while running at BVU.

“She is never satisfied and is always striving to be the best athlete that she can be,” assistant track coach Colton Slack said. “Brooke has already had some great performances thus far in her college career and I foresee a very successful future from her.”

Runneberg and the rest of the track team will be competing in the indoor IIAC Conference Championships this Friday and Saturday, Feb. 26-27, held inside the Lamberti Recreation Center.

Photo by Kyle Wiebers