A Lucknow athlete is ending her university career on a high note.
Julie-Anne Staehli was named Female Varsity Athlete of the year at Queen's.
Staehli finished her cross country career at Queen's with an unprecedented fifth straight All-Canadian honour.
The long distance runner also had a chance to compete for Canada at the World University Games in Uganda.
"It was a last minute decision," said Staehli. "I knew that I was eligible but only the top six women go. I was bumped up and a spot became open so I took that opportunity, can't say no."
And then at the banquet last week, there was no hint that she was going to be recognized for her accomplishments.
"It's been a whirlwind between then and now. We knew a fellow teammate was going to receive the outstanding performance of the year. And then we won team of the year and I thought it doesn't get much better than this," said Staehli.
That's when they announced her name while recognizing the top athletes in the school.
Looking forward Staehli will return to Queen's as an assistant coach with the track and field team next season. And she is looking to pursue more international opportunities with Canada's senior team.
"The focus is on distance in both cross country and track. For cross country the 8 km and 10 km. For track and field the focus will be more on the 5 km."
