Awet Yohannes knew absolutely nothing about Iowa Central - or Iowa weather, for that matter - when he made the decision to become a Triton.
But he is still happy he did.
Yohannes has the Iowa Central men's cross country team once again in the hunt for a national title as he continues to shine during his sophomore season for the program.
A native of Sweden, Yohannes found his way to Iowa without previously stepping foot in the state.
"I didn't know anything about Iowa Central before I came here," Yohannes said. "I was contacted by an organization called Fast U.S. Recruiters. I was interested in coming to the United States for academics and athletics. I never visited the campus before I came, so I came with hope and trust that I could succeed.
"I knew it would be more challenging, but I wanted to push myself and get more experience in running at a higher level. The organization contacted Coach Dee Brown and after several Skype calls, I decided I wanted to come to Iowa Central. I didn't know what I was getting myself into, but now I know I'm in the right place with a perfect team that makes me push myself.
"I'm glad I get to be a part of the best junior college in the country."
Yohannes placed inside the Top-35 in the nation as a freshman at cross country nationals last fall and earned an indoor NJCAA national title in the 3K. He also won gold at the Drake Relays for the Tritons in the steeplechase.
"It means a lot to me to compete for Iowa Central because I have a team that pushes me and we run for each other," he said. "I also am gaining more experience in my life because of the Iowa Central program. I really like the coaches because they are not just pushing me physically, but also making me mentally stronger."
Yohannes did admit there is a part of Iowa he could do without.
"A big challenge that I have faced is adapting to the weather," he said. "In Sweden, I've never experienced the amount of snow and wind chill that I have in Iowa."
He also noted the challenge of studying in classes like Psychology and Biology in English, but added "being pushed by my coaches, teammates and tutors has helped me stay focused. This has made the transition from Sweden easier for me because I have a second family here."
Yohannes earned NJCAA Cross Country Athlete of the Week honors after his victory at the Mustang Gallop. Iowa Central also won the team title at the meet. He added a third place finish at the Hawkeye Invitational competing against a number of Div. I runners and was sixth at the Woody Greeno/Jay Dirksen Invitational, which featured runners from Div. I, II and NAIA programs.
"I want to help this program in any way I can so we can be ready to compete for a cross country national championship," Yohannes said. "I'm focusing on taking care of my body so I can continue to compete at a high level. Although I had a successful indoor track and field season last year, I didn't reach my goals for the outdoor season. I am excited to get back on the track and help our team contend for another title this upcoming year.
"My main goal is to earn enough credits to graduate in May 2020."
Where might that take Yohannes? He is still leaving the door open for anything.
"Right now, I am just focusing on this cross country season," he said. "I have not put too much thought on my decision after Iowa Central yet. I am being recruited by some great programs, but my goal is to become a professional athlete, so I am keeping all my options open. I will start my official visits soon to see what programs have to offer."