Emma Doughman, a junior exercise science major with a minor in nutrition, has reached many milestones as a runner.

Most recently, Doughman ran the second-fastest 5K time in Marywood University Women’s Cross Country history. At the James Earley Invitational at Westfield State College in Westfield, Mass., the cross country team managed to place 14th out of 44 teams with Doughman leading the Pacers.

In 2014 alone, Doughman has accrued a multitude of titles. Through the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC), she has earned Individual Champion, First Team All-CSAC, and runner of the week honors for Sept. 7, Sept. 21, Sept. 28, Oct. 12, and Oct. 19.

Doughman has been running since seventh grade and credits her family for getting her involved in the competitive sport.

“My mom is a big runner and my aunt is a big runner, they both got me into [running],” said Doughman. “…My mom runs the Steamtown marathon every year so I run with her.”

In high school, Doughman was a promising runner. In 2012 she was named best track athlete and the Cross Country MVP in 2011 at Conrad Weiser High School, in Robesonia, Pa. Because of her accomplishments, Doughman was recruited by assistant women’s cross country coach, Kevin Borelli, who was the head coach until the 2013-14 season.

Since attending Marywood University, Doughman has placed in every single invitational she has participated in.
“It’s different from high school, not as many races but a lot more intense, harder workouts and much bigger levels of competition.
The races are bigger and have a different atmosphere, but I like it a lot,” she said.

With nationals approaching in the coming weeks, Doughman hopes to be ready to compete at a higher level. Current head coach for the women’s cross country, Scott Hutchinson, said he believes Doughman is both mentally and physically prepared for the upcoming event.

“She’s having a great year. She’s performing at a championship caliber. She’s strong mentally and she’s a smart racer,” said Hutchinson.

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