HARLAN -- Megan Jacobsen, a 2009 graduate of Harlan Community High School, has signed a national letter of intent to run cross country and track at NCAA Division II Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville. Above, Megan is seated next to her parents, Barry and Khristine Jacobsen of Harlan. Back row, L to R: HCHS head cross country coach Doug Renkly and assistant cross country coach Zach Klaassen.

Jacobsen was a fixture in the Cyclone girls' powerhouse cross country team the last four years while also running track for one year and playing girls soccer for three years. She ran at the State Cross Country Meet three times and was a state alternate her freshman year when the Cyclones won the 3-A state title. During her final three cross country seasons, Megan placed in the top eight at the Hawkeye 10 Conference Meet each time and helped HCHS place second, seventh and seventh, respectively, at the state meet.

Jacobsen also considered attending the University of Nebraska-Omaha or Iowa State University, but liked the entire package regarding NWMSU, where she plans to major in business management.

"I really like the campus . . . and I have some friends going there," she said. "Overall, the visit was really nice. I was impressed with everything they had to offer."

The Bearcat coaches mainly recruited Jacobsen for cross country, but later suggested she give track and field a try as well. She will likely run the mile during track season and might redshirt during cross country season this fall. "I don't know if I'll run this first year (in meets)," she added, "but (my goal) is to really get in shape." (Photo by Mike Oeffner)