Aaron and Drew Dickson didn't have far to look when seeking a good college cross-country running program. The UAA Seawolves fit the bill nicely.
The Dickson twins of Palmer -- actually two-thirds of a set of triplets -- signed National Letters of Intent this week to attend UAA. Aaron, the 2002 state 4A cross-country champion, and Drew, who finished fifth, were top signing priorities, said UAA coach Michael Friess.
Both brothers said they weren't pursuing many Outside colleges. Drew said he'd contacted Montana State, and both were in contact with Malone College, a Christian school in Ohio.
"I didn't write any colleges back," Aaron said. "I figured, why bother? Everything was working toward us going to UAA."
Both received full scholarships, according to Aaron.
Both said they weren't specifically trying to go to college together, it just worked out that way. Going to different schools would have been "weird," Aaron said, but not difficult.
The Dicksons join a potent group of runners that has qualified for the NCAA Division II national championships the past two years. Included in that group is Colony graduate Eric Strabel, who was winning high school track and cross-country titles when the Dicksons were freshmen.
"Racing with him again was a factor too," Aaron said. "It'll be a little different running on the same team."
Schirack signs with UAF
Wasilla girls basketball player Marsha Schirack signed a National Letter of Intent this week with UAF.
Schirack, a 6-foot forward, puts the 'T' in tenacious with her aggressive rebounding and hustle. As a junior last season, she averaged more than eight points and five rebounds and shot more than 70 percent from the free-throw line.
