Vanguard University

The athlete: Jewel begins her first season with the Vanguard Lions?transferred from Orange Coast College where she had a very successful two-year cross country career with the Pirates?Butler was a two-time All-Conference cross country runner in the Orange Empire League?named All-State in 2004 and All-American in 2005?OCC's Most Valuable Track runner in the spring of 2006?helped OCC win two Cross Country State Championships?was the 1500 meter JC State Champion last spring?has personal bests of 4:42 in the 1500m and 18:17 in the 5000m?5K best is 19:08?finished seventh at the 2005 California JC State Meet?prepped for OCC at Biggs High School in Biggs, California?graduated in 2004?ran track and cross country, and was a cheerleader in high school?BHS team MVP?Most Spirited?received Coach's Award?named All-Conference?attended a dance academy for four years?big pick up for the Lions?brings great experience to a young but very talented 2006 cross country roster?comes in as the most veteran runner on the team?will adjust to the new competition level with time?should see Butler competing for a spot in VU's top three.

The person: Jewel was born on January 19, 1986 in Oroville, California?parents are Don Butler, and Rachelle and Raymond Boges?has a pair of older twin sisters?will be studying in the Communications program at Vanguard?likes to eat Mexican food?sports heroes are Steve Prefontaine and Lance Armstrong?enjoys dancing, running, volunteering, and spending time at the beach?feels that for the 2006 Lions there are new friends to be made and new titles to be won?competing in athletics has taught her about dedication, discipline, respect, and sportsmanship.

Her thoughts: Jewel is happy to be with the Lions.

Coach Bryan's comments: Jewel will play a significant role in the women's quest for a third consecutive national qualifying berth. I am thrilled to have Jewel in the mix this fall. She is a tremendously gifted athlete who accomplished a lot in her career at OCC.