Central runner commits

Stanfield said she chose Missouri Valley in Marshall, Mo., over Brescia and Rockford (Ill.) College.

“It’s very exciting,” Stanfield said. “I’m nervous and I don’t know why. I want to make sure I made the right choice, but I really like the school. I’m really excited that I’m able to sign. I’ll be able to run and get an education too.”

The size of the campus was a big factor in her decision.

“It’s a small town,” Stanfield said. “I grew up in a small town and I like the feel of it. Everything is within running and biking distance. I just love running so much I’d rather run and bike instead of driving a car.”

Stanfield was a three-time all-district selection, finishing 18th in the Class 3A Region 2 meet. She had four top-five finishes in her senior season of cross-country, including a third-place finish in Franklin Simpson’s Wildcat Wilderness Invitational.

“It’s a lot easier because now I know exactly where I’m going,” Stanfield said. “I know my path now.”