Christine Jeren (Slack) '96

Christine Jeren (Slack), Class of 1996, was one of Poland High School's most accomplished track and field athletes. She earned First Team All-League honors all four years and qualified for the Ohio State Track & Field Championships in each of her four seasons. She also received All-Ohio honors in multiple events throughout her high school career.

As a sophomore, Christine helped lead Poland to Mahoning County 4×100-meter and 4×200-meter relay championships. As a junior, she was named the Track Meet MVP, won conference championships in the 4×100, 4×400, 200-meter, and 400-meter events, and was selected as Student Athlete of the Week by Channel 33 Sports.

As a senior, Christine won the regional championship in the 800 meters, set school records in the 4×800 relay, 4×400 relay, 400 meters, and 800 meters, and again earned League MVP honors. She captured league titles in the 4×100 relay, 200 meters, and 400 meters, while also winning county championships and qualifying for the state meet in the 4×100 relay, 4×400 relay, and 800 meters.

She continues to hold Poland records as part of the 4×100 relay and 4×400 relay, as well as the individual 400-meter run, and also holds the MVAC Conference record in the 400 meters.

At Malone University, Christine became a four-time NAIA All-American and a College record holder in the 500 meters, while also helping set the 4×500-meter relay school record. She was a member of the NAIA National Championship team and was recognized as a National Scholar Athlete.

Beyond athletics, Christine was the recipient of the National Award for Sportsmanship, presented by the Collegiate Collegiate Athletic Association. While at Poland High School, she was also a member of the National Honor Society and served as Senior Class President.