Miller-Ross capped her senior campaign with another strong showing on the national stage. Her appearance at nationals followed a dominant postseason in which she was crowned the GLVC Women’s Cross Country Individual Champion and named the league’s Runner of the Year.
“I couldn’t be more proud of Maddie and the season she had this year,” said head coach Emmons King. “Thinking back four years ago, this was a dream she had, and to make it here today is just amazing. We are so proud of her!”
Her performance in Kenosha punctuates a season defined by consistency, competitive maturity, and breakthrough results-hallmarks that have elevated the UIS women’s cross country program and set a new standard for future Prairie Stars.
Miller-Ross shared a reflection on her journey:
“Today I crossed the finish line of my final collegiate cross country race. I wanted to honor the younger version of myself that chose to pursue this sport with courage, passion, and grit. She would be thrilled if she knew that she made it to the big stage. My heart is full knowing that I made that little girl proud.
I was hoping for a higher finish, but this sport is unpredictable. Cross country is brutal, grueling, and unforgiving. My race today was all of those things. However, it has taught me strength, humility, and resilience.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lace up my spikes and race on grass one last time, alongside the best women in the country.
To my husband, family, coaches, teammates, friends, hometown community, and university-thank you for supporting me through and through.”
With cross country complete, Miller-Ross now shifts her focus to the track, as UIS opens its indoor track and field season in mid-January.
