Becky Bessinger '09 has the sixth fastest time for the Pioneers (23:37), and Freeman says that she has been one of the biggest surprises for the squad throughout this season.

"Last year she struggled and wasn't a top scorer for us," Freeman added. "She wasn't healthy and had to battle through a difficult year of training and competing. With a solid summer of training behind her, she has responded this year by becoming one of our top runners."

The Pioneers will look for their first individual champion since Holly Killmer '97 won the crown back in 1995. Two-time defending champion Erin Kelley of Carroll will look to become the first woman in MWC history to make it three-straight titles this weekend.

Having several individuals that can compete for the individual crown is something Freeman adds as being one of the key factors to the team's success.

"We are a very deep team," said Freeman. "There isn't one person on this team that is without a training partner or a group to run with each day. Their commitment to training, whether it was over the summer or now, is outstanding."

Keeping the team healthy is a key factor that Freeman mentioned as her squad finishes off its final week of preparation.

This year's Championship is hosted by Carroll College in Waukesha, Wis. The men's race is scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, with the women scheduled for noon.