Maria Russell of the Charger cross-country team has been named the Hilton Garden Inn Sioux City Riverfront Briar Cliff Athlete of the Week after an impressive performance at the Augustana Twilight.

Russell kicked off the Chargers' season in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, at the Yankton Trail Park, running a personal-best time in the women's 5K. The senior standout crossed the finish line in 20:07.92, shattering her previous best of 20:044.56, setting a promising tone for the season ahead.

The Chargers will return to competition Sept. 20 in Ankeny, Iowa, for the Viking Invite.