RUNNING: Flathead's Maness commits to CSU-Pueblo

One varsity season was good enough for Flathead senior Gillian Maness, who has committed to run cross country and track at Division II Colorado State-Pueblo.

After two years at Stillwater Christian, Maness transferred to Flathead before the start of her junior year but was forced by Montana High School Association rules to run junior varsity races last season. Maness’ domination of the JV circuit garnered interest from a handful of schools.

“She kind of came out of nowhere,” Bravettes coach Jesse Rumsey said of Maness’ appearance on the radars of college coaches.

“Everybody was talking about this long, blond-haired runner.”

Maness first competed on the varsity level last spring, finishing fourth in the 1,600 meter Class AA race at the state track finals. During this fall’s cross country season, Maness had top three finishes at the Flathead and Glacier Invitationals.

“She has so much potential,” Rumsey said. “I have to say, in my 14 years of coaching she’s one of the hardest-working female athletes that I have coached.”

At CSU-Pueblo, Maness will run for former Carroll College coach Matt Morris and join Flathead grad Bailey Hughes on the ThunderWolves roster.

Because of her limited experience as a varsity runner, Rumsey sees plenty of potential for Maness to grow.

“She’s had a lot of success,” Rumsey said. “And I’m really confident that she hasn’t come into her best years yet.