University of Denver Spring/Summer 2023

The Powerful Pioneers

In any given year, the Pioneers’ many women’s varsity teams offer fans plenty to cheer about. The teams frequently win conference titles and often advance to regional and national tournaments. Just as important, they excel in the classroom, where they prepare for careers of purpose and distinction.

2 GYMNASTICS The gymnastics team ended its season ranked No. 8 in the country, having finished eighth overall at the NCAA national championships. In her first career appearance at the championships, Jessica Hutchinson, shown above, tied for fourth with teammate Lynnzee Brown on the floor exercise. 4 SKIING At the 2023 NCAA championships in Lake Placid, New York, alpine skier Sara Rask, a first-year student from Sweden, finished second in the women’s giant slalom. The Pioneers ski team finished in third place.

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All photos courtesy of NCAA Photos/DU Athletics

3 TRIATHLON In fall 2022, the Pioneers triathlon team finished third at the national championships. Clara Normand, shown at left, was one of four athletes to finish in the top 20 at the event. First-year student Elizabeth Harita, shown at right, just missed the top 20, finishing at 22. LACROSSE As of press time, the undefeated women’s lacrosse team was ranked No. 3 in the nation. Shown here: draw specialist Abby Jenkins, who, in 2022, set the school record for the most draw controls (109) in a single season.

30 | UNIVERSITY of DENVER MAGAZINE • SPRING/SUMMER 2023