(Atlantic) Former Atlantic track and Cross-Country standout Craig Becker is heading to Arkansas State to run for the Red Wolves, and pursue his master’s Degree in Exercise Science.
Becker received a degree in Health and Human Performance from Dordt; however, since Dordt did not offer a Master’s Program in his field, he is now heading to Arkansas State to pursue a career in Cross-Country and track.
In his first season at Dordt, Becker received multiple All-American honors. At the NAIA Indoor Nationals in Brookings, S.D., he placed 7th in the 1000 meters (2:26.43) and helped the 4×800-meter relay team to a runner-up finish (7:38.47), contributing to Dordt’s second-place team finish among 117 schools.
Becker continued his success outdoors, placing 8th in the 1500 meters (3:51.99) at the NAIA National Championships in Marion, Indiana, just 0.18 seconds off his school record.
He won two titles at the GPAC Championships, claiming the 1500 meters and anchoring the 4×800 relay with a dramatic comeback leg (58.96 final lap) to win in 7:45.85.
Last season, Craig battled a foot injury, which kept him from competing, and he is hoping to receive a redshirt, which would give him two years of eligibility at Arkansas State.
Becker says his values align with the coaching staff, which is why he chose this institution.
He says 27 newcomers are coming into the program this fall, including men and women, in a variety of events. Like Becker, nearly half of the 27 newcomers are transfers.
Beckers’ primary focus for the Red Wolves will be the mile.
Becker’s college track journey has led him to UNI, Tennessee, Dordt, and he is set to finish off his career at Jonesboro, Arkansas.
Arkansas State is in the Sun Belt Conference. The Red Wolves have won six out of the last eight Conference Indoor titles, and finished in the top two over the past five years in Cross Country.
(File Photo)
