Ducks Announce 2016-17 Team Awards

EUGENE, Ore. - The Oregon track and field team announced its team awards for the 2016-17 season at its annual team banquet on Sunday afternoon.

Seventeen-time NCAA champion Edward Cheserek earned the Bill Bowerman Award, given in recognition for world-class achievement and a historical collegiate career. Cheserek finishes his Oregon career as the winningest runner in NCAA history. The senior was also honored with the Bill Dellinger Cross-Country Award as the outstanding performer for the men's cross country team.

The entire women's cross country team, which won the NCAA title in the fall in thrilling fashion, was awarded the Tom Heinonen Cross-Country Award, presented for their outstanding performance.

Joe Delgado, Samantha Nadel, Sam Prakel and Blake Haney were each honored with the Coaches Award, which is presented by the coaches for athletic achievement, dedication and determination.

Ryan Hunter-Simms and Cole Walsh were both given the Dow Wilson Inspirational Award while Ashante Horsley received the Harry Ritchie's Jewelers Inspirational Award. Both awards are given to the individuals who inspire their teammates through athletic achievement and leadership.

Junior transfer Damarcus Simpson and freshmen Katie Rainsberger and Makenzie Dunmore were all honored with the Perry Holloman Newcomer of the Year Award, given to those who have demonstrated outstanding performance during their first season as a Duck.

Seniors Mitch Modin and Cody Danielson were given the Harry Ritchie's Jewelers Award for their great contributions to the men's track and field program. Deajah Stevens, Sasha Wallace and Ariana Washington were honored with the Mary Officer Award presented in recognition for their great contribution to the women's track and field program.

Seniors Marcus Chambers and Kyree King were named the George Scharpf Outstanding Athletes for their outstanding achievements on the men's team, and Raevyn Rogers and Hannah Cunliffe were honored as the outstanding performers on the women's team with the Lynne Winbigler Performer of the Year Award.

The Oregon Track & Field Hall of Fame Award presented annually to recognize outstanding service and loyalty to the track and field program was presented to alum and long-time track official Jenifer Pleus. Pleus was a track athlete at Oregon from 1975 to 1979 coached by Tom Heinonen, and has been officiating for over 32 years.