Top-finisher Yarello returns to lead Saint Mary’s pack
By KATIE McVOY
On the field and off, junior Genevieve Yavello is looked to for leadership, experience, strength, and support.
Yavello, one of seven returning runners from the 1998 Saint Mary’s cross country team, is one of the Belles’ top finishers.
Last season she ran a consistent 20 minutes, 30 seconds and was regularly Saint Mary’s second place runner.
During the MIAA cross country championship, she finished with a strong 33rd place finish. Her 20:24 time was right behind fellow team leader Melissa Goss.
“[Yavello] is one of the most hardworking dedicated people I know,” said teammate Melissa Miller.
“She always goes out there and gives 100 percent.”
Yavello has always been a top finisher for Saint Mary’s, and hopes to be one again this season.
However, she sets very realistic goals for herself and for her team.
“I’m very, very excited about our team this year,” said Yavello.
“There’s a lot of talent so everything is up for grabs. But I hope to help lead the team. I hope to improve my time from last year, but I realize that it is most important to do my best and have fun.”
Yavello started running her freshman year in high school, making this her seventh season as a runner.
She did not start running for glory or health but instead to be with her sister.
“I started, honestly,” said Yavello, “because my sister was on the team and she loved it. I though it would be a great experience with my sister.”
Yavello has found that running at a women’s college is a very rewarding experience. Most athletes find support from teammates.
At Saint Mary’s, Yavello finds support from students and faculty as well.
“The professors really take pride in women’s athletics,” she said.
Off the field, Yavello is counted on as a friend and supporter.
She is currently a resident advisor at McCandless. Her teammates say they can count on her for anything.
“She’s the kind of person anyone likes to see coming at them,” said Miller, “because she always has a kind word. You have to love her.”
The freshmen on the team know they can count on Yavello.
“She’s really personable,” said freshman Nicole Prezioso.
“She made me feel like I was really a part of the team. She is very supportive and positive as a teammate and as a person.”
Yavello, an education major, wants to continue to help others.
Her future plans include running as a part of a whole.
“I hope running is always a big part of my life,” said Yavello.
“My life goals are to be the best teacher I can be, to raise a good family and to be happy.”
Yavello has proven herself as an impressive runner and an important leader.
On the field and off, Yavello leads the pack.
All Sports Stories for Friday, August 27, 1999
