Greenville, SC - The NCCAA is pleased to announce Avery Richardson of Bethel University as the 2023 Elvin and Joyce King Award Recipient for Division I Men’s Cross Country.
 
Richardson, a senior from Mishawaka, Indiana, loves the Lord and uses his running as an avenue for loving God and others. He’s intentional about his spiritual growth and radiates joy as a result. Richardson longs for others to know Christ as he has led dorm floor Bible studies, spoken in student-led chapel, and actively participates in team devotionals. He also mentors several peers and builds authentic relationships with teammates and others on campus.
 
As a runner, Richardson has consistently been one of Bethel’s top three for the last two years. His fastest career 8k time is 25:53, which he accomplished at the 2023 NAIA Appalachian Challenge. Richardson was unable to compete in the 2022 NCCAA National Championship due to an injury, but helped the Pilots finish second as a team in 2020 and 2021. In the classroom, Richardson holds a 3.28 GPA in exercise science and has been named to the Dean’s List.

“Avery has grown tremendously during his time at Bethel,” said Head Coach Ryan Sommers. “I have no doubts he will make a huge impact on the world.”

Other Finalists
Samuel Bennett, Campbellsville University

Award Description
Elvin and Joyce King were instrumental in the development and growth of both cross country and track & field within the NCCAA. Elvin served as meet director and National Sport Chair in each sport for many years, while Joyce was the point person administratively for the championship meets. Elvin's teams won nine NCCAA Cross Country National Championships and he was named NCCAA Coach of the Year eight times. Elvin and Joyce served alongside each other for over 40 years at Cedarville and worked tirelessly to make an impact for Christ. The NCCAA is proud to present this award in recognition of Elvin and Joyce King's legacy of service.
 

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