JOHNSON, Vt.-The Northern Vermont University-Johnson women's triathlon team and head coach Kim Loeffler have earned their first commitment for the 2019 triathlon season. 

Jacqueline McCullough comes to NVU-Johnson from Platteview, Nebraska. McCullough will make an immediate impact for the Badgers and brings a wealth of running and swimming experience to the women's triathlon program. Throughout her high school career competing for Platteview High School, McCullough competed in the Nebraska state cross country meet in 2015, 2016, and 2018. Being named to the all-conference team in 2015.

On the track, McCullough was the Class B Track State Runner up in 2019 and competed in states throughout her four-year high school career. McCullough earned top honors in the 4x1 and won the Class B State Championship. "Jacqueline is an accomplished swimmer and runner and will be a tremendous asset to our team", said Loeffler.  "I look forward to developing her triathlon skills as we raise the bar in 2019."

McCullough was a priority for Loeffler and the Badgers after an impressive inaugural season and Northern Vermont University-Johnson was a perfect fit. "I chose NVU for many reasons. First, everyone was very welcoming and friendly. Second, willing to go above and beyond to help make it happen for me. I also wanted to explore something new like moving far away and trying triathlon. I loved running and swimming in high school and having it all in one sport seems even more challenging and fun". 

When McCullough isn't training or competing she is making an impact in her community. She was a Springfield Fire Department Cadet for the past three years.

When McCullough arrives to NVU-Johnson this fall she will pursue a degree in either Sport Psychology or Outdoor Education. Throughout her high school career, she was named to Honor Roll in 2015, Merit Roll in 2016 and was a member of the Spanish Club from 2016-2018.

McCullough plans to come in ready to learn and compete at a high level. "I'm very excited and feel honored to be able to have the opportunity to be coached by Kim Loeffler", said McCullough. "Knowing that she has so much experience and was one of the best gives me confidence that she will bring out the best performance from me and my teammates. I'm very grateful to have the opportunity to be on the Badgers team because I know it will be a great experience. And I'm glad I am able to continue my athletics, especially at this school where everyone is so welcoming. I want to be able to make an impact here with the team".

The Northern Vermont University-Johnson women's triathlon team will announce additional commitments in the near future.