September 12, 2006
(INDIANAPOLIS) The Indiana Invaders have added 11-time All-American and NCAA Division III steeplechase champion Julia Rudd, a graduate of UW-La Crosse and Oshkosh West High (WI), to the team's roster.

As an 11-time All-American, Rudd's top performances at the NCAA Division III Championships included national runner-up honors in Cross Country in 2005, fifth in the indoor 5000 in 2006, and eighth in the indoor 5000 in 2004. In the steeple chase Rudd won the outdoor championship in record time in 2004 and was third in 2002, 2005 and 2006.

While at UW-La Crosse, Rudd set school records in the Steeple, 3000 and 5000. She was also nominated for the 2006 NCAA Woman of the Year.

Team Director Greg Harger said, "Rudd has shown glimpses of her athletic abilities at the collegiate level. We see her potential and we're excited to add her to the team." Coach Harger added, "Her enthusiasm is contagious and she brings a very high level of energy to the training environment."

Rudd joins a team that had 16 athletes qualify for both the 2000 and the 2004 US Olympic Trials.

The Indiana Invaders, a not-for-profit organization founded in 1998, presents an innovative approach to track & field by providing a resident-based, athlete-centered support system unique to the sport in the United States.