Slattery adds two to 2017 squad

The Grand Canyon cross country team welcomes the addition of two student-athletes to its 2017 recruiting class, head coach Sara Slattery announced on Monday. The program welcomes two local student-athletes, Chris D'Angelo and Valentina Nyhart.

With the addition of Nyhart, from Flagstaff, Ariz., to the women's team and D'Angelo, from Phoenix, Ariz., to the men's team, Slattery and company are excited for the two recruits to help grow the program for the first eligible Division I season in 2017.

Valentina Nyhart
Flagstaff, Ariz. (Flagstaff HS)

Valentina Nyhart will join the Grand Canyon women's cross country team in 2017 after her senior year at Flagstaff High School. During her high school career, Nyhart placed fourth at the Junior Olympic Regionals and in the top 20 at the Junior Olympic Nationals. Her versatility will help her compete in GCU's first eligible Division I season.

Slattery on Nyhart:
"Valentina has had a solid high school career in Flagstaff. She will help bring more depth to our women's team. We are all excited to have her as part of the Lope family."

Chris D'Angelo
Phoenix, Ariz. (Desert Vista HS)

Chris D'Angelo will join the Grand Canyon men's cross country team in 2017 after competing at Desert Vista High School, locally located in Phoenix, Arizona. During his high school career, D'Angelo was part of the 2013-14 and 2015-16 AIA Cross Country DI State Championship teams. During his freshman year, he placed second in the 1500m and 3000m at the USATF Arizona Junior Olympic Championships. He also currently holds the fifth fastest XC time among all divisions for Arizona seniors in the 5K.

Slattery on D'Angelo:
"Chris comes from one of the strongest distance programs in Arizona. He was part of the State Championship winning XC team this year and has consistently been one of the top distance runners. He will strengthen our men's team this year heading into the 2017 season."

Grand Canyon University Athletics

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