COLUMBUS – Columbus State University freshman cross country runner Anna Norton has been named the Columbus States's Athlete of the Week following her standout performance at the season-opening Valdosta State Border Clash.

In her collegiate debut, Norton clocked a time of 23:09 to lead the Lady Cougars and secure a strong individual finish against a competitive field. Her effort helped propel Columbus State to a seventh-place team finish while setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting season.

Norton also carries deep family ties to Columbus State Athletics. Both of her parents are CSU alumni and former student-athletes, and her father served the program as both an assistant and head coach of women's basketball. 

Head Coach Xavier Matthews praised Norton's impact right out of the gate. "Anna showed poise and competitiveness in her first race at this level," Matthews said.
The honor marks the first weekly award of Norton's career and underscores her potential as one of the Peach Belt's rising young stars.

Columbus State will return to action on Friday, September 12, at the University of North Georgia Cross-Country Invitational in Dahlonega, Ga.