BOSCOBEL - Boscobel senior cross country athlete Dakota Kauffman has been named the District 5 Runner of the Year.

This is a statewide recognition, nominated and voted on by the coaches. This award is for all divisions, including Divisions 1, 2, and 3.

Additionally, Kauffman has been named to the Academic All-State (State qualifiers with a grade point average of 3.5 and higher) and All-State Runners’ lists (the top 25 runners in all divisions).

“We can't say enough about what Dakota has done for our school and the cross country program,” said Cross Country Head Coach Skyler Reynolds. “He has dedicated himself to cross country and always put the team first. He is one of the best runners to ever compete in Division 3 high school cross country and his toughness is second to none.  Dakota has a gear that not many people have, that ability to reach back for more at the end of the race. Dakota is an incredible runner, and an even better person.”

“This award is an honor because there are so many great runners in our area who are also deserving,” said Kauffman. “It goes to show you that hard work pays off no matter if you are from a small or large school. I feel fortunate to have had so many awesome teammates throughout my four years to support and push me during the good times and bad times. It is helpful to have coaches that care as much about your success as their own and a family who is your biggest fan no matter the outcome.”

Career Stats:

• four-time Team MVP

• two-time Team Captain

• three-time Most Dedicated

• Bulldog Award

• four-time 1st Team All-SWAL

• two-time Time conference Champion

• two-time Sectional Champion/two-time Sectional Runner-Up (four-time State Qualifier)

• two-time Team State Runner-Up

• four-time (Top 5 finisher at the state meet)-two-time runner-up

• three-time All-State Runner

• four-time Academic All-State