JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas –
Air Force Staff Sgt. Moneque English was recognized for her contributions to the Columbus State University (CSU) track and field and cross-country teams by being inducted into the school's athletic hall of fame during a ceremony Oct. 1, 2022.
English, a Diagnostic Imaging Instructor in the METC Radiologic Technologist program, attended a ceremony as part of the school's homecoming week on Saturday, October 1 in Columbus, Georgia. In addition to English, one other student-athlete and two championship-winning coaches were also inducted.
“It is such a blessing and wonderful honor to be induct-ed into the Athletic Hall of Fame for CSU,” said English. “It is an amazing feeling to know that my name will for-ever be a part of the place I call my second home.”
According to a CSU press release, English was one of the main contributors during one of the most dominant stretches in Peach Belt Conference women's cross country history. CSU's only four-time All-PBC runner, and one of only 11 in conference history, she helped the Lady Cou-gars to two PBC Championships (2009 & 2010), capping off a run of six straight by CSU. The CSU graduate was a two-time member of the NCAA All-Southeast Region team (2012 & 2013), including helping CSU to a region title in 2012. English was also a star on the first track & field team at Columbus State, still holding school records in the 4x800-meter relay and the 4x800-meter sprint medley relay.
English explained how running cross country prepared her for the military. “My athletic experience allowed me to become a better individual, teammate, and leader. Being an athlete has been a huge help in keeping me disciplined in my physical fit-ness. It allows me to get out of my comfort zone and when I run for my PT test, I al-ways feel like I am back out on the course again.”
“She is a great example for our students and her fellow Airmen,” said Master Sgt. Carl Doan, Air Force Senior Diagnostic Imaging Instructor. “This accomplishment speaks to her character as a dedicated, hard worker.”
English credits her coaches for helping her succeed. “I was fortunate to have amazing coaches my entire athletic career. I was lucky because every coach taught me some-thing new and different about being a runner.
“I loved representing my alma mater as an athlete,” English added. “I hope to continue to build on everything that my coaches instilled in me to inspire the next genera-tion.”
Established in 1996 to honor and memorialize those individuals who made major contributions to their individual sport and the university, the Columbus State Athletic Hall of Fame currently has 108 members.