Cleveland State Men's Cross Country continued to build their bolstered 2019 roster with another strong signing.
Diego Guzman, from Southeast Whitfield High School in Dalton, Ga., had an incredible year for the Raiders, capping off his season with a Region Championship win with a personal best time of 16:51 on a very tough course at Edwards Park in Dalton. His first place finished qualified the runner for the State Championship, where he finished 25th overall. Guzman also earned multiple awards, as he was named All-Region 1st team and All-Area.
Guzman, who started running cross country as a sophomore, qualified for the State Championship all three years of his high school career. He also found success on the track, breaking the Southeast record for the two mile run at the State Championship meet with a time of 10:03.
Cleveland State head coach David Kyle showcased excitement for signing the talented young runner. "I have watched Diego run the last few years," he said. "He has been a top runner in the area meets throughout his career. Diego is a great young man and has been a very good runner since he started running cross country and track. He has been coached well and I am very glad he chose to run here at Cleveland State. I think he will excel at this level."
Guzman expressed gratitude at the opportunity to run for collegiately for the Cougars, "I am really thankful for this opportunity. I will not let this chance slip away. I plan to give 100% on everything while here at Cleveland State."
Guzman was coached at Southeast Whitfield by Men's Head Cross Country Coach Carrie Bishop. Coach Bishop also had nothing but positive words to say of the Raider runner. "Diego is a phenomenally talented runner with tremendous work ethic," she said. "He is always smiling, even when he is exhausted. I know Diego is going to have so much success at the next level. And, though I hate to see him leave, I can't wait to see what the future holds for him."
Stay tuned to cscougars.com for updates on the 2019 Men's and Women's Cross Country Season.
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