Northwest Wayne News

Wayne State University's men's and women's cross country teams, along with the women's track and field program, have announced their 2024 calendar year award winners.

In the track and field category, Thailyia Christensen from Flushing, Michigan was named Track Athlete of the Year. She received United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) All-Region recognition in the steeplechase for having one of the top five times within the Midwest Region. Christensen also placed third at the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Outdoor Meet in the 1,500m event.

Mikayla Williams from St. Charles, Michigan was awarded Field Athlete of the Year. Williams secured first place in the triple jump at GLIACs with a season-best distance of 11.40m and achieved other notable placements in various events.

The Track Rookie of the Year honor went to Keneisha Thomas from Madison Heights, Michigan. She finished fourth in the 400m hurdles at GLIACs and contributed to her relay team's success during her redshirt freshman season.

Nicole Warren from Saline, Michigan was named Field Rookie of the Year after finishing second in the triple jump at GLIAC Outdoor Championships with a season-best mark.

For men's cross country awards, Tyler Buchanan from Fenton, Michigan received Men's Cross Country MVP honors after earning Second Team All-GLIAC accolades. Sean Pettis from Fremont, Michigan was recognized as Men's Cross Country Rookie of the Year following a strong freshman season.

Carson Nicoletti from Shelby Township, Michigan received the Warrior Award for embodying perseverance and a positive attitude throughout his career. Nicoletti also earned several academic honors during his time at Wayne State University.

On the women's side, Reagan Justice from Canton, Michigan was named Women's Cross Country MVP after being recognized as an All-American following her performance at NCAA Championships. Taylor Hopkins from Sanford, Michigan received Women's Cross Country Rookie of the Year honors after transferring to Wayne State University and making significant contributions to her team’s success.