HELENA, Mont. – The Frontier Conference has announced that Madalen Shipman, a standout student-athlete from Carroll College, has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the Frontier Conference Grit Award for Women's Cross Country. The award, sponsored by the Montana Army National Guard, recognizes student-athletes who demonstrate extraordinary perseverance, mental toughness, and integrity both on and off the field.

Shipman, a fifth-year senior from Dillon, Montana, majoring in Business Management & Marketing, embodies the resilience and dedication the award celebrates. Her journey is a testament to overcoming significant adversity throughout her career.

A Story of Resilience and Determination

After suffering multiple injuries during her freshman and sophomore years that sidelined her, Shipman demonstrated a relentless commitment to her growth. By working closely with athletic trainers, focusing on nutrition and sleep, and fully committing to her coaches' guidance, she returned stronger than ever.

Her perseverance paid off in her junior year, culminating in a conference championship victory in the 400m on the track. In her senior year, she transitioned her work ethic to cross country, jumping into the team's Top 5, setting personal records, and developing new strategies for mental fortitude during tough races. That spring, she earned two All-American selections, finishing 3rd in the 600m indoor and 5th in the 800m outdoor at Nationals.

Leadership and Team Impact

Rather than ending her career on a high note, Shipman chose to return for a fifth year, driven by a commitment to the team's collective goal. She exhibited great selflessness, providing strong leadership for a young group and focusing on a team bounce-back after not qualifying for Nationals in 2024. Her leadership was instrumental in guiding the women's cross-country team to a team conference championship and a 20th-place finish at the NAIA National Championships.

Her nomination narrative highlights her exemplary character, noting, "She is truly one of the most determined and caring athletes I have ever worked with... she has trusted the process, reached out for help when needed, and stayed optimistic that this will be another adversity she is capable of working through."

Madalen Shipman's story of tenacity, leadership, and unyielding spirit makes her a truly deserving inaugural recipient of the Frontier Conference Grit Award.

For more information about the Montana Army National Guard, please visit https://montanaguard.gov/