Winkel Signs With Ohio University

Shoregal Kristin Winkel has made it official: The senior has committed to running track at Ohio University next fall.

Winkel, along with three senior football players, signed a letter of intent at a signing ceremony Feb. 1 at

She earned kudos from football coach Dave Dlugosz at the ceremony, who said he didn’t want her overshadowed by his significantly larger players.

“I’ve admired her work ethic, not just at track but in the classroom and she’s one heck of a dancer too,” Dlugosz said. He told all four students,  “Stay proud of what you’ve done, but remain humble and thankful for the people who put you there. You have even greater things coming in the future.”

Winkel also earned praise from her track coach, Yvonne Craigo.

“Kristin came from Texas in her sophomore season and improved dramatically,” Craigo said. “Every time she steps on the track she’s a little faster. She amazes with her quicknesss, strength and big attitude.”

Craigo also called Winkel, a team leader and a “great teacher with younger athletes.”

Winkel was a state qualifier last May after suffering through a season of injuries. She  placed third in regional hurdles action with a time of 15.10, eventually placing 11^th at states. 

She first qualified for a state tournament in Texas as a freshman.

Winkel also won the SWC conference in the 100-meter hurdles and was selected for First-Team Lorain County. Winkel is expected to be part of the Shoregal track team that has a good chance of winning the conference again this spring.

“There’s no doubt in my mind she’ll be successful,” Craigo said. “She’s small in stature but huge in heart.”

Outside of school and track, Winkel works two jobs: as a youth sports manager at the Avon YMCA and as a food server at in Avon Lake.

She plans on majoring in secondary education at Ohio University while running track for the Bobcats.