CHARLOTTE, N.C- Queens University of Charlotte is pleased to announce men's cross country runner Michael Crouch has been named the November InterCon Male Student-Athlete of the Month. This is the second time Crouch has won the honor, as he was named the October InterCon Male Student-Athlete of the Month.
Crouch, a sophomore transfer student from Yucca Valley, Calif., ran to a third place finish at the NCAA Cross Country Championship in Slippery Rock, Pa., on Nov. 22. His impressive performance earned Crouch the distinction of an All-American athlete. Crouch's third place finish makes him the highest finisher for a Queens runner at the national meet, and also amongst Conference Carolinas runners.
Just weeks earlier Crouch had helped the Royals cross country team captured a second-consecutive Southeast Region title on Nov. 8, at Wingate University. In the race, finished second, behind a fellow Queens teammate, and earned a spot on All-Region First Team.
Members of the sports information office caught up with Michael to ask him a few questions. Having just answered the standard InterCon Student-Athlete of the Month questions, the questions were changed up a bit.
How does it feel to be named Student-Athlete of the month for two consecutive months?
It feels awesome! These are the reasons why I run.
Can you talk about your experience with the cross country team this season?
It was an experience like I have never had before. I really clicked with Simmons' training as well as with the guys. Each week that went by my reality of a top 5 finish at nationals became more prevalent.
What was it like competing at the National Championship?
I don't feel like nationals was any different than other races because I still hurt the same, I still have to commit to those same pains, I still think the same thoughts and I still race for the same reasons. So in that sense, nationals was just another opportunity to prove to myself and to the doubters I am worth something.
What surprised you the most about the meet? What surprised you the least?
The thing that surprised me the most was how much I have developed as a runner and how once you do well at a meet everybody wants to be your friend. I find it funny. The thing that surprised me the least was that Queens was going be a top 10 team. We have come a long way in the two years Simmons has been here. Next year, it will be Queens' turn to be stand on that podium and receive a national team title.
Had you ever run in conditions similar to those at the National Championship?
I have never raced in those type of conditions, but I have had an easy run in Utah that consisted of me fighting for my life in a blizzard. Well not seriously, but it was pretty intense.
You are an All-American, describe what that feels like.
It actually did not really hit me that I am an All-American until you stated it yourself. So now that I realize it, seriously it's like nothing I have ever experienced. I just hope there are MANY more to come.
Last month, we asked what your goals were for cross country and you said to place in the top five at nationals, now that you have done that, have your goals changed? If so, what are your new goals?
Of course my goals have changed. I wouldn't want to get third again and really the only thing to accomplish from here is the title baby! I also want the team title so the guys can experience what I experienced this year. As far as track goals, I definitely want to make myself known in the running world. If a track title comes, I will accept that.
