Red Wolves - IU East

Shawna Smith's running trail led to Indiana University East.

Smith, a 2009 graduate of Randolph Southern High School, on March 29 signed a letter of intent to run for the Red Wolves' women's cross country team starting with the 2010 season.

Smith came to IU East this semester after attending Purdue University during the fall of 2009.

She decided to join the Red Wolves' cross country program at the urging of former Randolph Southern teammate and current IU East junior Vanessa Legg, who participates in both cross country and track and field.

"I chose IU East because it's a small school that is close to home and has a close-knit group of people," Smith said.

"I look forward to getting back into running and meeting new friends."

Smith helped Randolph Southern's girls cross country team qualify for the IHSAA regionals in 2007 and 2008.

She helped the Rebels win county championships as a junior and senior, as well as one conference championship.

"Shawna is another piece of the puzzle as we build a team that can contend for the conference championship," said IU East coach Pam Mertz.

Smith is the daughter of Marion and Bobbie Smith.

She plans to pursue a career in elementary education.

Smith is the sixth member of IU East's 2010 women's cross country recruiting class.

The influx of signees should ensure the Red Wolves will have a full team for competitions during the 2010 season. IU East had three runners during the 2009 season.