The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
UAB Cross Country Signs Two
11/22/2004 12:00:00 AM | Women's Cross Country
Nov. 22, 2004
UAB cross country head coach Ray Stanfield announced the signing of Tara Gruber of Flower Mound, Texas and Katie Stepp from Allentown, Pa., for the 2005 season on Wednesday.
"When people talk about the great female distance runners in the state of Texas, Tara Gruber's name always comes up" Stanfield said. "She is an outstanding talent and a terrific young lady. Tara will contribute immediately to the success we are having."
Gruber attends Flower Mound Marcus High School. She won the state title in the 1600-meters with a time of 4:54.46, her personal best. Gruber is a four-time state qualifier in cross country. She has recorded personal bests of 10:55.06 in the 3200-meters and 10:57.20 in the two-mile.
"Katie is a great early signing for our program," said Stanfield. "She brings the attitude that I look for, that of being on a championship team. Katie will be a tremendous addition to the distance team we are assembling here at UAB."
Stepp recently finished 39th in the Pennsylvania State Cross Country meet, helping Parkland High finish second. She is captain of the Parkland team. Stepp was voted a League All-Star by area coaches for three years. In addition, she is a member of the National Honor Society and has been on the High Honor Roll for four years. Parkland was ranked fifth in the Northeast earlier this year.
Players Mentioned
